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    Aztec Butte

    Difficulty
    This reflects the 10Adventures difficulty rating for each route. We aim to keep ratings consistent across regions.
    Moderate
    Duration
    This reflects the estimated time the majority of users will take on this trail. If you are slower, add time to the top-end figure. If you are fast, then you may complete this route faster than this time range.
    0.5-1h
    Distance
    This reflects the return distance of this route as measured by the GPS file.
    2.7 km
    Elevation
    This reflects the total elevation gained throughout this route as measured by the GPS file. This includes all ascents and descents, and is higher than what is quoted in most route guides, which simply measure the distance between the starting-point and high-point of the route.
    79 m
    User Ratings
    These ratings are completed by users who have completed this trail and not subject to reviews by 10Adventures.
    Be the first to add a review!
    Directions to Trailhead
    Aztec Butte

    The Aztec Butte Trail is a short, scrambly hike to an incredible viewpoint overlooking Canyonlands National Park. This hike is great for older kids who love to climb and play outside. Don’t forget the camera on this hike—the views from the top of Aztec Butte are absolutely breathtaking.

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    Route Description for Aztec Butte

    The Aztec Butte Trail is a short scramble up to the top of Aztec Butte in the Island in the Sky district of Canyonlands National Park. Though not technical, this trail does require scrambling, so hikers should be prepared with proper footwear and relevant experience. The last section going up (and the first section coming down) is the most treacherous, so take your time, and ask for a helping hand if you need it.

    The view from the top is totally worth the climb. Aztec Butte offers stunning views of Canyonlands National Park and the La Sal Mountains way in the distance. For an especially spectacular experience- try this hike at sunset to see the canyons below lit up in shades of gold.

    Along and around this trail, you will come across the Pueblo granaries- the Pueblo Peoples used these one and two-room structures to store grain and seeds hundreds of years ago. Although you cannot go into the granaries, these structures are incredible examples of early ingenuity.

    From the trailhead, follow the path for 0.5 km to a divide. The trail to your left loops back to another, slightly smaller butte. The trail on the right continues up to the top of Aztec Butte.

    At the top, take a rest and enjoy the 360 views of the canyons below before turning back and following the same path back to the trailhead.

    Trail Highlights

    The Granaries

    The granaries are ancient structures nestled in the alcoves of Aztec Butte that were built and used by the Pueblo Peoples to store grain and seeds collected from the canyon floor. These granaries are one and two room structures that date back to 1200-1300CE.

    Frequently Asked Questions

    How long is the Aztec Butte Trail?

    The Aztec Butte Trail is 2.7 km long.

    Insider Hints for Aztec Butte

    • The last section of this trail is steep and slippery- proper, grippy footwear is a must.
    • For a special experience, try this hike at sunset
    • This hike may be short but don’t forget to bring lots of water and a snack to enjoy at the top.

    Getting to the Aztec Butte Trailhead

    From the Island in the Sky Visitor Center, drive down Grand View Point Road for just over 9.7 km before turning right onto Upheaval Dome Road. The Aztec Butte Trailhead is 1.4 km down Upheaval Dome Road on the right hand side.

    Route Information

    • Backcountry Campground

      No

    • When to do

      Year-round

    • Pets allowed

      No

    • Family friendly

      Older Children only

    • Route Signage

      Average

    • Crowd Levels

      High

    • Route Type

      Lollipop

    Aztec Butte Elevation Graph

    Weather Forecast

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    Aztec Butte Reviews

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