Hike the Rings Loop

The Rings Loop Trail is very popular with all ages. You'll walk through beautiful open valley views, where Native Americans, miners, and ranchers lived for centuries. Colorful cacti, rock art, and fascinating geologic shapes are abundant. Banshee Canyon provides exciting opportunities to explore the effects of ancient volcanic eruptions. To exit the canyon, climb up two sets of metal rings bolted into the rock walls. 

Details

Duration

1-2 Hours

Activity

Hiking

The Rings Loop is about 1.5 miles roundtrip and mostly flat until you get to the upper end of the Banshee Canyon, where It involves climbing up out of a canyon using metal rings attached to the rock. 

Pets Allowed

Yes with Restrictions

Pets must be on a six-foot leash at all times. Rings portion of trail not recommended for pets. 

Activity Fee

No

Entrance fees may apply, see Fees & Passes information.

Location

Rings Loop Trailhead

The Rings Loop Trail is located near the Hole in the Wall Visitor Center. Park in the visitor center parking lot and follow the trailhead sign (at the southwest edge of the parking lot). 

Reservations

No

Season

Year Round

Hole in the Wall sits at about 4400 feet, keeping it a little cooler than other lower areas in the Preserve. Summer days can still be too hot, so plan accordingly. Snow is possible in winter. 

Time of Day

Any Time

Accessibility Information

The trail is mostly narrow and passes through either soft sand or along mostly flat rock. When the trail enters Banshee Canyon, some mild climbing is required to get to the top of small piles of boulders, and it is also necessary to use rings embedded into the rocks to pull yourself up through sections of canyon. The rings can be climbed like a ladder. One rings section is about 10 feet tall and one is about 6 feet.