Island in Time Trail

Island in Time Trail

NPS Photo / J. Bolton

This 1.3 mi (2.1 km) trail follows the canyon floor and ascends 200 ft (60 m) in elevation through blue-green badlands. Exhibits and fossil replicas along the trail tell the story of the fossil landscape. 

Dog owners please note: There are over a dozen metal bridges on this trail. All have rough footplates that many dogs refused to cross. You may need to carry your dogs across the bridges.

No collecting is allowed and off-trail hiking is strictly prohibited. Please stay on trail.

Details

Duration

20-60 Minutes

Activity

Front-Country Hiking

Pets Allowed

Yes

Dog owners please note: There are over a dozen metal bridges on this trail. All have rough footplates that many dogs refuse to cross. You may need to carry your dogs across the bridges.

Activity Fee

No

Entrance fees may apply, see Fees & Passes information.

Location

Sheep Rock Unit

Drive 4 miles north on HWY 19 from the HWY 19 / HWY 26 junction and the parking lot will be on the right-hand side. The Island in Time trailhead starts at the parking lot and directs you towards the right.

Reservations

No

Season

Year Round

Time of Day

Any Time

Accessibility Information

This 1.3 mi. (2.1 km) roundtrip gravel and claystone trail has 13 bridges with metal grates. The trail has an average width of 57 inches with a minimum width of 18 inches. After 600 feet, there is a large rock in the center of the trail. There are benches along the trail with minimum shade.

Potential hazards: Muddy after rain and snow, rocks, metal bridges