Length: 11 miles
Trailhead(s): Elephant Hill Trailhead
Elevation Gain: 1,656’
Trail Type: Loop
Dogs: No
Difficulty: Moderate to Strenuous
Permit Required? No
Considerations: Road to Trailhead is Narrow and Winding, Desert Hike
Season: February to November
Overview
Canyonlands National Park does not get as much attention as its nearby sister, Arches National Park, but Canyonlands offers some fantastic hiking. The Chesler Park Loop in the Needles District of Canyonlands is just such a hike. It offers outstanding desert hiking over slickrock, smooth trail, and in and out of some adventure inspiring slot canyons.
The Loop, which is really more of a lollipop, is made by combining the Chesler Park Trail with the Joint Trail. To be sure, you will definitely feel your legs and feet at the end of this hike, particularly if you are part of the over forty crowd, but every ache is worth it. It is a beautiful hike filled with amazing scenery. Just make sure to bring a generous supply of water and salty snacks (this is a desert hike, after all). Now be safe and go out and enjoy!
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Additional Information