Powell Plateau Trail
Powell Plateau Trail is a hiking trail in the northwestern arm of the Grand Canyon. This spot in the canyon is particularly quiet and remote, so it’s a fun one to explore. The Powell Plateau Trail is 13.2 km long and rated as moderately difficult. This route doesn’t give you the wide-open Grand Canyon views you might expect unless you continue further past its end, but it does explore a great stand of old-growth trees. Expect light traffic.
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Route Description for Powell Plateau Trail
The Powell Plateau Trail is a very quiet, less-traveled trail in the northwestern portion of the park. This route stretches to a saddle and climbs the plateau, which is dotted with old-growth trees. This hike doesn’t feature the panoramic Grand Canyon view you might expect, but it’s a nice pick if you’ve seen the canyon already and want to experience a different side of the park.
This route has steep sections and some of it can be hot if the sun is out. Bring plenty of water, consider sun protection, and dress for the unpredictable weather on the North Rim. Since this route is so quiet, we also recommend having offline navigation available.
From the trailhead at the end of the road, the route dips down into a set of steep switchbacks. Across the short saddle, it’s all uphill to get onto the plateau. The trail hugs the edge of the plateau to its endpoint, where you’ll turn around and retrace your steps.
Getting to the Powell Plateau Trail Trailhead
The trailhead for the Powell Plateau Trail is at the end of Swamp Ridge Road.
Route Information
Powell Plateau Trail Elevation Graph
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