Short Trails

One-Way Distance

Backcountry Trails

One-Way Distance

Window Rock

Level loop trail through pinyon-juniper woodland to overlook with excellent views of monument and Wedding canyons and most of their major rock formations, including Independence Monument.

0.25 mile

Old Gordon Trail

Steadily ascending trail that follows the path of historic lumber and cattle drive road. The park’s geologic story is told almost in its entirety through the layers of rock naturally exhibited along this largely undeveloped trail route.

4 miles

Canyon Rim

Level trail following the cliff edge above colorful Wedding Canyon. Outstanding views.

0.5 mile

Black Ridge

Highest trail in the park with far-reaching views west to Utah canyonlands, east to Grand Valley, and south to the San Juan Mountains. Follows up-and-down terrain of Black Ridge. Trail crosses Bureau of Land Management Lands.

5.5 miles

Ottos Trail

Gently sloping trail that leads to overlook with dramatic view of many monoliths.

0.5 mile

Monument Canyon

Steep 600-foot descent from the plateau into Monument Canyon where many of the park’s major rock sculptures-Independence Monument, Kissing Couple, and the Coke Ovens-tower overhead. 

6 miles

Coke Ovens

Trail descends gradually to overlook above the massive rounded Coke Ovens.

0.5 mile

Ute Canyon

Rigorous descent into narrow Ute Canyon from the plateau follows a maintained trail. The route then follows streambed with seasonal stream and pools bordered by cottonwoods and willows. A few arches may be seen.

7 miles

Devils Kitchen

Gradual ascent to Devils Kitchen, a natural grotto surrounding by huge upright boulders.

0.75 mile

Liberty Cap

Trail winds across gently sloping Monument Mesa through pinyon-juniper forest and sagebrush flats for 5.5 miles to Liberty Cap rock sculpture. Ideal for horseback riding. Last 1.5 miles drops steeply to Grand Valley.

7 miles

Serpents Trail

Called “the Crookedest Road in the World,” this historic trail has more than 50 switchbacks. The trail climbs steadily from east to west. Built in the early 1900s this route was part of the main road until 1950. 

1.75 mile

Corkscrew Trail (via Corkscrew Connector Trail) Loop 

Originally built by John Otto in 1909. Follow the Liberty Cap Trail until you reach a trail junction sign at 1.0 mile. Turn left and hike 0.2 miles to the Corkscrew Trail sign and descend the steep “corkscrew” switchbacks. Enjoy spectacular views along the way. Follow the Corkscrew Connector Trail signs back to the trailhead. 

3.3 miles

Alcove Nature Trail

Self-guiding nature trail on the Kayenta bench. 

0.5 mile

No Thoroughfare Canyon

Ascent on maintained trail followed by undeveloped route through remote No Thoroughfare Canyon. Canyon walls rise more than 400 feet above floor. Steep terrain!

8.5 miles

C.C.C. Trail

Short trail connects the Monument Canyon and Black Ridge Trails.

0.75 mile