Echo Canyon Loop Trail

Echo Canyon Trail at Chiricahua National Monument

NPS

Echo Canyon, Hailstone, and Ed Riggs Trails form a triangular loop through some of the best rocks in the park. We recommend hiking counterclockwise (go right) for great views and because of elevation. The hike is a moderate 3.4 miles with some steep drop offs and loose, rocky, and uneven surfaces.

Echo Canyon trail descends 400 feet through spectacular rock formations. It is a wonder of engineering constructed by the Civilian Conservation Corps.

Hailstone Trail is almost level with sweeping views of the Wonderland of Rocks. Look for unusual stones that resemble hail. Desert yucca, agave, and cactus are abundant on Hailstone's sunny southern exposure.

Ed Riggs Trail climbs back up 400 feet to Echo Canyon parking or a bit further if you started from Massai Point. 

Moderately difficult. Uneven terrain throughout. 1-25% grade with cross-slope up to 50%. Tripping hazards include rocks, boulders, roots, and run off channels. Total elevation: 560 feet.

This hike can be done in 2 hours, but most people prefer to give it 3 or 4 hours.

Details

Duration

2-4 Hours

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

Trailhead for Echo Canyon Loop

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 and on holiday weeks/weekends.

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 with over 500 feet in elevation change. Some areas may be unpleasant for those with acrophobia (intense fear of heights). No pets.

Echo Canyon Trail

NPS

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

NPS

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

NPS / Rossman

Climbing into the Grottoes

NPS

Explore the Echo Canyon Grottoes

NPS

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

NPS

Slot canyons on the Echo Canyon Trail

NPS

Hiker cross challenging rock stairs in either direction

NPS

Manmade engineering blends into natural walls in Echo Canyon Trail's Wallstreet

NPS

Ed Riggs Trail climbs under impressive rock pinnacle cliffs

NPS