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Aztec Butte Trail, Canyonlands National Park


Highlights:

Steep slickrock scramble, ancient granaries, caves, mini-arches
Near:Moab, UT
Scenery:
Distance:2 miles round trip
Elevation Gain:229 ft
Hike Time:1.5 hours
Difficulty:Moderate
Trail Condition:Poorly maintained trail
HikeType:Out and Back


Summary: This is a short hike but it has its moments of being quite difficult. The hike to Aztec Butte is flat and well marked. The climb up the Butte turns steep, and can be difficult to find. Rock cairns mark the trail but they are sparse in areas, and hard to differentiate from the plain ole rock piles. Once you scramble to the top, explore the area for signs of previous inhabitants. There is a prominent rock wall outline of an old building right off of the trail.

After descending Aztec Butte, follow a short spur trail to the smaller butte on the return trip. This trail takes you to a series of mini-arches just under the crown of the butte. You will also find 2 ancient granaries still is great condition. Be careful not to disturb any of these ancient jewels.

Retrace your steps to the trailhead.

Trailhead: The trailhead is located in the Islands district of Canyonlands National Park. From the Visitor Center, continue south on the main park road until the first major intersection. Turn right toward Upheaval Dome. Drive 3/4 mile past the Willow Flat Campground, to the parking area for Aztec Butte Trail.
(Lat:38.39482 Lon:-109.88343)

Trail Guides for Aztec Butte Trail, Canyonlands National Park:
Utahs National Parks
by Ron Adkison (Wilderness Press)

Best Seasons: Fall, Spring,
User Groups: Hikers,
Ranger Contact: National Park Service - (435) 259-4712
Localhikes Reporter: This hike was submitted by Ron Long, who has posted  22 other hikes on this site
Trail Reviews  Submit your own review
Reviewed by Karen on 5/4/2006
Nice hike. Saw only one other hiker the entire trail.


Notice: Traveling in the backcountry can be hazardous. You are responsible for informing yourself about these hazards and taking necessary precautions. Information on this web site comes from volunteer reporters and may contain errors or omissions. A current guidebook and proper equipment are essential for safe enjoyment of the hikes posted on this site.
Keys: Utah Hiking, Utah Trails, Utah Hikes, Grand County Hiking, Grand County Trails, Grand County Hikes

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