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 Reporter |
Summary: Even though this is a strenuous hike due to the steep switchbacks and elevation gain, it is a beautiful trail from the very beginning. The fall colors are magnificent, but this is a great way to escape the summer heat because you are under trees the entire time. Aspens, cottonwoods and pines fill the avalanchute chute at eye level, while brilliantly colored wildflowers and lush green grasses cover the soil. Look for the large cave in the cliffs on your L as you cross back and forth across the side canyon, up the steep stone steps (do NOT take the gravel road to the L), and up the E side of the avalanchute chute, climbing rapidly towards Echo Cliffs. The slopes are generously covered with more flowers (lots of dark purples & brilliant red paintbrush), and you'll soon hear/see the water flowing down the falls/ledges back in the canyon toward the knob below Griffith Peak. The overlook is a great place to stop, relax, lunch, etc. but be very careful near the edge. Trailhead: Follow the directions for Cathedral Rock trail -- no matter where you park, the trailhead for the South Loop Trail (NOT the Cathedral Rock trail) is accessed from the paved road in the picnic area (no fee to walk in). This first portion of the S. Loop trail is excellent for horses, but be sure they are "legged up" before climbing this steep trail. Bicycles are not allowed on the South Loop trail, but it is fairly heavily traveled on weekends by hikers; although only those conditioned to the altitude and climb. Continue on S. Loop trail past Echo Overlook another mile to the Western Overlook for a better view of the peaks & ridges; but this is a rocky portion of the trail and may be tough for green horses/riders. Retrace your steps or continue on the S. Loop trail to the Meadows/saddle/ridge (adds 4 miles RT to the Echo Overlook distance). Park horse trailers in lower MJ Falls parking area & ride on trail alongside paved road to trailhead. (Lat:36.25798 Lon:-115.65008) Trail Guides for Echo Overlook: Hiking Around Las Vegas by Jim Boone (Jim L. Boone) USFS free trail guide handout for Spring Mtns (pickup at visitor center Kyle Canyon) by Spring Mountains Natl Rec Area (USFS and USFWS) 120 Best Hikes in Southern Nevada and Beyond (CD) by Branch Whitney (Branch Whitney) Best Seasons: Fall, Spring, Summer, User Groups: Hikers, Dogs, Horses, Ranger Contact: USFS - Humboldt-Toiyabe NF, Springs Mtns NRA (702) 515-5400 emerg (702) 872-5306 Localhikes Reporter: This hike was submitted by Kat Green, who has posted 86 other hikes on this site Trail Reviews Submit your own review 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: Nevada Hiking, Nevada Trails, Nevada Hikes, Clark County Hiking, Clark County Trails, Clark County Hikes | |||||||||||||||||||||||||||
