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Difficulty
This reflects the 10Adventures difficulty rating for each route. We aim to keep ratings consistent across regions.
Easy
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.
251 m
Distance
This reflects the return distance of this route as measured by the GPS file.
11.6 km
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.
2.5-4h
User Ratings
These ratings are completed by users who have completed this trail and not subject to reviews by 10Adventures.
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Directions to Trailhead

Long Canyon Trail

Measurement:

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Table of contents

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.

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

  • Backcountry Campground:

    No

  • When to do:

    Year-round

  • Pets allowed:

    Yes - On Leash

  • Family friendly:

    Yes

  • Route Signage:

    Average

  • Crowd Levels:

    Extreme

  • Route Type:

    Out and back

Long Canyon Trail Elevation Graph

Weather Forecast

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