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The best way to see the canyon is on foot. A variety of trails
lead to overlooks on the canyon rim. Although most are rated
easy, remember that you are hiking at an elevation of 8,000
feet. There are no marked trails into the canyon. Descent
into the canyon is arduous and hazardous. If you plan to make
the descent, a backcountry permit is required, and it is essential
to check with a Park Ranger who can tell you which routes
to use. Sturdy, over-the-ankle boots are
also recommended on all inner canyon routes due to the steep,
dirt draws and loose rock.
Hiked
Check our personal notes for detailed descriptions of these trails:
| Cedar Point Nature Trail |
| Distance: |
.7 miles one way |
Rating: |
Easy |
| Elevation: |
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Total Ascent: |
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| Trailhead: |
Start at the Cedar Point parking area. |
| Description: |
This is an interpretive trail with excellent views of the Painted Wall. |
| Chasm View Nature Trail |
| Distance: |
.4 miles round trip |
Rating: |
Moderate |
| Elevation: |
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Total Ascent: |
N/A |
| Trailhead: |
Chasm View parking area, near the campground on the North Rim. |
| Description: |
View the narrowest part of Black Canyon from the end of this short trail. |
| Oak Flat Trail |
| Distance: |
2 mile loop |
Rating: |
Strenuous |
| Elevation: |
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Total Ascent: |
400 feet |
| Trailhead: |
At the Visitor Center. |
| Description: |
Hike through the oak shrublands, aspen, and Douglas-fir forests on the south rim. |
| Rim Rock Trail |
| Distance: |
2 miles round trip |
Rating: |
Moderate |
| Elevation: |
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Total Ascent: |
N/A |
| Trailhead: |
Near the entrance to Loop C in the south rim campground, and at the Visitor's Center. |
| Description: |
This self-guided nature trail passes along the canyon's south rim. |
| Upland Trail |
| Distance: |
1.3 miles one way |
Rating: |
Easy |
| Elevation: |
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Total Ascent: |
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| Trailhead: |
At its junction with the Rim Rock Trail or its junction with the Oak Flat Loop Trail. |
| Description: |
A good hike to view wildlife in the morning or evening. |
| Warner Point Nature Trail |
| Distance: |
1.5 miles round trip (1,373 yards one way) |
Rating: |
Moderate |
| Elevation: |
Over 8,000 feet |
Total Ascent: |
100 feet |
| Trailhead: |
At High Point. |
| Description: |
Warner Point provides a sweeping view of the Black Canyon as well as the surrounding Uncompahgre Valley and distant San Juan Mountains. Trail guides for this self-guiding nature trail are available free of charge at the trailhead. The terrain is fairly rugged, with some ascending and descending. |
Not Hiked
- Deadhorse Trail
- Inner-Canyon Routes
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