"The Oak Flat loop offers hikers the chance to see some of the most panoramic overlooks of the canyon and the Gunnison River, still tediously carving the narrow, granite and gneiss walls below," writes Katie Lyons on The Outbound.com. The route as mapped not only follows the Oak Flat Loop, but it also makes a stop at the Gunnison Point overlook. Throughout the hike, you'll have the opportunity to pause at a number of different overlooks, each one providing a slightly different perspective of the canyon.

Unlike the wide gravel paths common in many national parks, the Oak Flat Loop consists of a beautiful dirt singletrack trail that actually allows you to feel like you're having a true backcountry-style adventure, even if it's for just a couple of miles.