canyon trail

dshimm52

This trail branches off from the Cave Loop trail at about its midpoint. It goes through steep canyons, past the hoodoos and other rock formations that characterize this National Monument. The play of sunlight and shadow as we walked through the rock formations was spectacular.For the most part it is not a difficult trail, and where steep, there are generally hand holds. Because I was in a four-point sling following a recent shoulder surgery I was not able to make it past a waist high step up that would have required an all-fours scramble about 100-200 yards from the summit, but judging from the number of children we passed on the trail, it is easily negotiable by hikers who have full use of their hands.

Mcaltom

Well worth it for the views. You have to get in a ways to truly see the great rock formations. Once you get in, you will not regret it one bit. This was a fun, and somewhat easy hike, except for the ending, where you have to push yourself to get up the hill. Do it, worth the views!

Neel3110

Loved the whole experience of going through the slot canyon and reaching the top from where you see the view of tent rocks, valley around the monument and distant snow clad mountain peaks!

TexasTravelerGoGo

This hike is in Kasha-Katuwe Tent Rocks National Monument. It comes off of the Cave Loop Trail and is an out and back trail. If you do the whole trail, which you will want to combine with the Canyon Loop Trail, it will be a little under 5 miles total. The first section of the trail is relatively easy and takes you into some amazing slot canyons. The only difficult section of the trail is at the very end. This section will not be difficult if you are in reasonably good shape and do not have an overwhelming fear of heights. The hike is best to do in the morning when the lighting in the canyons is amazing. You will want to bring a camera.

jmesh

The slot portion is one of nicest slots i have hiked,,,the climb is a little rough but well worth it.

RonN89

every few minutes new vistas opened up each stunning in their own way. The hike is not too difficult and if one cannot handle heights or hiking uphill, at least hike through the slot canyon parts. If you can go to the top. The way back is also fun as you experience the views from another perspective. One of my all time favorite short hikes.

Billwho46

Very strenuous, not for the average hiker or flat lander....take water, go early in the am and bring a camera....breathtaking.

NatureLoverMass

My comments about this trail are included in my review of the Kasha-Katuwe Monument as a whole. This trail is not to be missed. Note, however, that it is NOT for those who are not sure-footed.

241jeanb

Well maintained trail, wide variety of terrain, spectacular views, interesting rock formations, a very special place.

MarkR327

Easy hike with HUGE "bang for the buck", in terms of both the entry fee and the overall experience. Highly photogenic, with tons of variety, photography could be the focus of an entire day here. Slot canyons, overview points, unique geology: an amazing amount for a 3-mile total, out-and-back hike. Highly recommended

817kathye

You don't need to go to the top to enjoy this. Take this trail, no matter what your abilities as far as you can. The slot canyon is so amazing. I chose not to go to the top because of my bad knees, but my husband enjoyed it very much.

620ChrisL

This trail is well worth the effort. First you make your way through some canyon slots and then start the climb to the top of the canyon. On your way up you get some awesome views of the rock formations. Once on the summit, the vista views open up before you; Jemez Mountain range, the mountains of Santa Fe and the Sandias are all visible.

chelseyd2013

If you want the best views, this is the trail for you! Be prepared, however, it is the more difficult of the two. Wear good shoes- tennis or hiking shoes and bring water! Also, for this trail hike, plan to be there for a couple hours; you'll want to take a lot of time to take in the scenery when you finally reach the top! Breathtaking!

NancyK617

Beautiful scenery and rock formations. This was a real surprise. Great place for pictures. Amazingly scenic. Bring lots of water and sunscreen and be prepared for the last little climb to the top.

paulas3

it involves some steep climb, narrow slot passing, but offers great fun. the views are forever changing from slots to tent rock panaroma views. the slots are like waves park. and the views at the top are unforgettable.