Echo Canyon Grottoes

Be sure to pause and look into the grottoes

NPS

Start from the Echo Canyon Parking area. Take the Echo Canyon Trail down toward the right. When it branches, follow signs for the Echo Canyon Trail to the right. You'll pass a variety of interesting balanced rocks and pinnacle. About 1/2 mile down, on your righthand side, are the Grottoes. These tunnel-like formations are fun to explore. Look for a small sign, because you could walk right past!

If you feel energetic you can continue to the switchbacks just another 1/4 mile, around the entire loop (3.3 miles) or turn around. Notice how different the rocks look on your way back!

This trail has loose rock and includes about 200 feet of elevation decline. The trail is generally suitable for children as well as adults. A hiking stick may be helpful for those with uneven footing and during the winter.

Details

Duration

30-60 Minutes

Activity

Hiking

Pets Allowed

No

Pets are not allowed on any of the upper trails through the rocks. Narrow paths and cliffs can scare animals and humans. Sensitive flora and fauna live in this wilderness area.

Activity Fee

No

Entrance fees may apply, see Fees & Passes information.

Location

Echo Canyon Parking Lot

The trailhead has a parking area and pit toilets. No water is available. Parking area can fill up on weekends during the winter. Consider alternative hikes in the busy month of March.

Reservations

No

Season

Year Round

This trail is spectacular year-round. Summer may bring high temperatures and dangerous sun exposure OR monsoon rain and lightning. Winter may be icy for days after snow events.

Time of Day

Any Time

Always bring a flashlight or headlamp if you are hiking in the afternoon or evening. This trail can be beautiful for stargazing, but you should be prepared for uneven footing and abundant wildlife.

Accessibility Information

Not suitable for wheelchairs or strollers. This trail is steep and rocky. Some areas may be unpleasant for those with acrophobia (intense fear of heights).

Echo Canyon Trail

NPS

After walking past a tulip-shaped rock, you turn around to see it is entirely different looking the other direction.

NPS / Rossman

Explore the Echo Canyon Grottoes

NPS

Climbing into the Grottoes

NPS

Take a moment to admire how much work the Civilian Conservation Corps put into this trail in the 1930s

NPS

Turn around when you reach the switchbacks and stairs

NPS

Slot canyons on the Echo Canyon Trail

NPS

Echo Canyon Trail boasts amazing un-named rocks. What will you name them?

NPS