The route as it is mapped here begins by climbing up the Troy Built trail. Make no bones about it: Troy Built is a strenuous climb up the mountainside. For an easier ascent and a steeper descent, reverse this route by climbing Hawkeye and descending Troy Built. Pick your poison: this loop is great in either direction.

After reaching the Mack Ridge trail, the singletrack continues to climb before plateauing on top of the ridge. Here, you’ll enjoy fantastic views of Colorado National Monument, the Colorado River, and the Book Cliffs. The views from the top of the ridge are simply fantastic, and should be savored!

After hiking along Mack Ridge, enraptured by the phenomenal views, you’ll reach the descent down Hawkeye.

The singletrack descent features a trail tread that’s not too steep. The trail makes maximum use of the hillside, working back and forth and turning what would otherwise be a steep plummet into an extended, enjoyable descent. For hikers who don’t like descending extremely steep singletrack, Hawkeye will be a welcome relief.

The Hawkeye Trail runs through a variety of intriguing rock features—through clefts in the rock, over boulders, and around photo-worthy formations. The trail is interesting and entertaining, but never overly technical or difficult.

The descent down Hawkeye is over all too quickly. This loop will leave you wanting more!