Theodore Roosevelt National Park hiking guide
Painted Canyon Nature Trail
A 0.8-mile loop with 260 ft of climbing in South Unit, rated moderate.
Key facts
- Length
- 0.8 mi (1.3 km)
- Elevation gain
- 260 ft (80 m)
- Route type
- Loop
- Difficulty
- Moderate
- Area
- South Unit
- Highest point
- 2,784 ft
- Lowest point
- 2,527 ft
About Painted Canyon Nature Trail
The loop drops down into the canyon, where vivid rock layers give the place its name. Juniper and wildflowers line the way, which crosses dry washes and shows how erosion is still reshaping the land. Expect uneven footing, log steps and steep slopes, and take care after rain, when the path can be very slippery. The Painted Canyon Visitor Center is a short walk away.
Route map
This route was checked by Parka editors.
