Cave Spring Trail

Concise loop that’s perfect for young families, combining interesting history and fun rock scrambling.

Hiking Moderate

Distance: 965 m
Ascent: 19 m
Descent: 19 m
Duration: 0-1 hrs

Low Point: 1.5 km
High Point: 1.5 km
Gradient: 2˚

With rocks to scramble on, caves to poke into, and Western history you can see, Cave Spring is the perfect trail for families with energetic children. Anyone seeking a short but somewhat adventurous hike will enjoy it, and especially those interested in the past. You’ll find an authentic cowboy camp in one of the rock alcoves, with lots of remaining artifacts like tools, tables, and cookware. Beneath a different overhang, you can find Native American rock art that predates the cowboys.

A rock alcove along Cave Spring Trail Photo: John Fowler

Description

The loop passes these historic sites and also climbs a low sandstone mesa, using two wooden ladders. On top, you’ll walk on bare slickrock and have elevated views over the landscape, with opportunities for further scrambling and exploration. If you’d rather be efficient and see a lot of the park in a day, this trail can easily be completed in 30-45 minutes, before moving on to other destinations.

Source: https://www.nps.gov/cany/planyourvisit/hiking.htm

Difficulty

Moderate

Hiking along trails with some uneven terrain and small hills. Small rocks and roots may be present.

Medium Exposure

The trail contains some obstacles such as outcroppings and rock which could cause injury.

Remoteness

Close to help in case of emergency.

Best time to visit

Features

Similar routes nearby

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Ascent: 288 m
Descent: 288 m

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Ascent: 209 m
Descent: 209 m

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Ascent: 100 m
Descent: 100 m

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