Long Canyon Trail
Long Canyon Trail is an easy, mostly flat hike for most of the way, with a bit more effort required to reach the Indian ruins at the end of the route. It’s fascinating to see a slice of Indigenous history on this trail, and the scenery on the way there is splendid. You’ll hike from the Grassy Knolls and Mescal Mountain up beside Maroon Mountain. Expect heavy traffic on this hike, making an early start a good idea if possible.
Quick Navigation
Join our newsletter
Get a weekly dose of discounts and inspiration for adventure lovers
Route Description for Long Canyon Trail
Long Canyon is a popular hiking spot thanks to its impressive scenery and mostly easy trail. You can hike the entire route up to the Indian ruins or just do a section of this hike if you want the easiest path possible. You can also use this trail to make a detour to the Birthing Cave.
The hike begins from the side of Long Canyon Road. There isn’t much parking here, and if the lot is full, we recommend coming back another time. There isn’t any good alternative parking.
From the road, take the wide, flat trail to the northwest (Long Canyon Trail). Keep an eye out for mountain bikers. At about 1.0 km in, stay right onto the main, well-travelled trail. The hike up into the canyon is pretty easy, and you’ll be able to marvel at the sheer walls and red rock mountains that rise above you.
The route drops down to the river level and trees now line your path. Watch for cairns on your left, which lead you to the ruins. There’s a bit more of a climb required to reach them. When you’re ready, turn back and retrace your steps out of the canyon and back to the trailhead.
Getting to the Long Canyon Trail Trailhead
The trailhead for the Long Canyon Trail is off Long Canyon Road.
Route Information
Long Canyon Trail Elevation Graph
Weather Forecast
Check Area WeatherLong Canyon Trail Reviews
Add a comment
You must be logged in to post a comment.
Nearby Trails
- Chuckwagon, Mescal Mountain, and Long Canyon Loop
- Mescal and Yucca Loop
- Chuck Wagon Trail
- Devil’s Bridge from Long Canyon Road
- Mushroom/Hawkshead Ruins Hike
- Devil’s Bridge via Chuckwagon Trail
- Mescal Mountain Loop Hike
- Mescal Mountain Trail
- Gordon’s Ridge via Boynton Canyon Trail
- Deadman’s Pass Trail
- Birthing Cave Hike
- Devil’s Bridge Hike