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This short trail offers highlights of all that the park has to offer, views, wildlife, and a new perspective.


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Map Key

0.5

Miles

0.8

KM

Loop

7,765' 2,367 m

High

7,709' 2,350 m

Low

61' 19 m

Up

61' 19 m

Down

5%

Avg Grade (3°)

13%

Max Grade (7°)

Dogs Leashed

Features Birding · Views · Wildlife

Family Friendly So long as everyone keeps well away from the edge, this short trail has many of the park's highlights.

Description

Visitors staying at the North Rim Campground, and even those just passing through, will enjoy stopping for the short jaunt around this trail. Reaching the rim of the Black Canyon of the Gunnison, this trail may not be ideal for those who dislike heights. For those admiring the canyon, the 1,800 ft. drop to the water will provide a scenic thrill. To add to the excitement of this particular trail, visitors will be able to see their fellow park goers across the canyon at the Chasm View Overlook. Keep in mind that your counterparts are only 1,100 feet away!

While the stunning views make visiting this trail a must, there are many highlights along the way. Two overlooks highlight Serpent Point and Painted Wall, and raptors, swifts, and swallows all populate the area. Keep an eye out for these birds as they dive and swoop into the canyon.

Flora & Fauna

A pinyon and juniper forest dominates the landscape here, providing a fragrant experience, especially in the summer months.

Contacts

Shared By:

Mikhaila Redovian with improvements by Michelle Kinsey Bruns

Trail Ratings

  4.5 from 11 votes

#3

in North Rim

#6948

Overall
  4.5 from 11 votes
5 Star
45%
4 Star
55%
3 Star
0%
2 Star
0%
1 Star
0%
Trail Rankings

#3

in North Rim

#486

in Colorado

#6,948

Overall
3 Views Last Month
360 Since Dec 15, 2016
Easy/Intermediate Easy/Intermediate

56%
11%
33%
0%
0%
0%

Photos

View of Painted wall from North Rim
Mar 26, 2020 near Olathe, CO
Painted Wall
Mar 26, 2020 near Olathe, CO
While the sun hides behind the cliff, the precambrian rocks shine.
Dec 16, 2016 near Olathe, CO
Behind the dead branches, Chasm Views open up.
Feb 18, 2016 near Olathe, CO
Chasm View overlook
Feb 18, 2016 near Olathe, CO

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Check-Ins

Oct 18, 2023
Kristie Reynolds
Aug 29, 2022
Rosie Betenbaugh
0.5mi — 5h 08m
Aug 21, 2022
Rosie Betenbaugh
0.5mi — 5h 08m
Oct 22, 2021
Arianna Shay
Jun 1, 2020
Kelsey Fautsch
Sep 15, 2019
Mike Nugent
18h 00m
Jun 13, 2018
Derek Struck
Jun 3, 2018
Natalie Weisner
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