Last updated: October 16, 2026
Place
Cliff Spring Trail
NPS/M. Quinn
Quick Facts
Location:
North Rim
Significance:
Trail
Amenities
2 listed
Historical/Interpretive Information/Exhibits, Trailhead
Cliff Springs Trail is reached via the North Rim Scenic Roads.
The North Rim Scenic Roads (Cape Royal Road and Point Imperial Road) are closed from sunset October 15 through sunrise November. 3, 2026, to accommodate critical road repair and rehabilitation work.
Limited fall day-use operations are in place on the North Rim, between October 15, and November 30, 2026 - unless the North Rim is closed by a major snow storm before November 30.
- The North Rim Campground, General Store and Backcountry Information Office have closed for the 2026 season.
- DRINKING WATER and FOOD are not available on the North Rim between October 16 and November 30, 2026. We encourage everyone planning a North Rim visit to check current conditions, carry adequate food, water, fuel, and emergency supplies, and use extra caution as winter weather arrives.
Cliff Springs Trail
This short, unique trail is accessed from a pullout on the left side of a curve in Cape Royal Road, 0.3 miles (0.5 km) from Cape Royal. Just across the road, the trail heads down along a wash down into a forested ravine. Note: Post-fire hazards and weather events may result in a temporary closure of this location.
After passing a marked archaeological site, the trail descends further and cuts over to the right side of the wash. From here you wander underneath rocky outcrops until you reach a chest-high boulder resting under one of these large overhangs. The spring is on the cliff side of the boulder. The trail ends at the spring, .4 mile from the trailhead.
Do NOT drink the water.
Trail Information
Roundtrip Distance: 1.0 miles (1.6 km)
Elevation change: ~ 300 feet (~91 m)
Average Hiking Time: 1-2 hours
Hike Smart
Make a Plan
Once you have researched your hike and are confident in what to expect on the trail, leave your plan with someone who will notice if you are overdue and report it to 911.
Check the Weather
Summer temperatures in the shade routinely pass 100°F (38°C). Avoid hiking between 10 am and 4 pm, the hottest times of day.
From July to September, monsoons can build large, violent lightning storms. Seek shelter immediately.
In winter and early spring, temperatures can drop below 32°F (0°C) and upper portions of this steep trail become dangerously icy. Hard ice often conceals potentially hazardous passages. Over-the-shoe traction devices are highly recommended.
Pack Properly
It is critical to determine before your hike your needs for fluids and for snacks high in calories and salts. Consuming twice as many calories as during normal exercise is realistic for summer canyon hikes. The return hike will likely take twice as long as the hike down. Wearing sun hats and cool, wet clothing will help regulate your core body temperature during warmer hikes.
Energy Balance
Your body needs energy-balancing proper nutrition and hydration are critical to your hiking success! Eat and drink while resting-sip fluids only when thirsty.
Too little water leads to dehydration and heat stroke. Excessive hydration and insufficient salt intake causes hyponatremia -a seizure-producing electrolyte disorder. If you do not feel well: seek shade, get wet, cool off, eat, and rest. Turning around may be your best option.