Hidden Canyon

Dogs No Dogs

Features Birding · Cave · Views · Wildlife

This is a run for the adventure-seeker who isn't too terribly afraid of heights. Although this is a fairly short route, it is strenuous (nearly 1,000' of elevation gain) and has a rather high risk factor, hence the difficulty rating.

Take your time along the way, especially at the narrowest, most exposed section. Leave your pacing expectations behind on this run, as you'll need to slow when passing other trail users and while traversing sketchy drop-offs.

From the East Rim trailhead, follow the East Rim Trail through seven switchbacks to a junction with Hidden Canyon Trail. Turn onto Hidden Canyon Trail, which follows along a cliff face to the mouth of a narrow canyon.

This section of trail is moderately strenuous due to the steep grades and tight switchbacks. As you ascend, the steepness of the trail lessens, but the difficulty remains high due to the extreme exposure. Utilize the chains that are bolted to the cliff in order to stabilize your body and, hopefully, reassure your mind.

Keep following the trail to the mouth of the canyon and its terminus. From here, one can run and scramble further into the hanging canyon, but the official trail ends.