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United States
Colorado
Mesa County

Clifton

The best walks and hikes around Clifton

5.0

(3)

79

hikers

5

hikes

Hiking around Clifton offers a rugged, wilderness experience characterized by diverse landscapes. The region features trails through canyons, along rims, and into mountainous terrain, providing varied elevation changes. Hikers can explore areas with significant geological features and expansive views. The trails often traverse arid environments, showcasing the natural beauty of the area.

Best hiking trails around Clifton

  • The most popular hiking route is Mount Garfield Trail, a 3.5 miles (5.7 km) trail that takes 2 hours 25 minutes to…

Last updated: October 13, 2026

#1.

Eagle Rim Trail

950m

00:14

0m

0m

Easy hike. Great for any fitness level. Easily-accessible paths. Suitable for all skill levels.

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Easy

5.0

(1)

51

hikers

5.67km

02:25

510m

510m

Moderate hike. Good fitness required. Easily-accessible paths. Suitable for all skill levels.

Moderate
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Moderate hike. Good fitness required. Mostly accessible paths. Sure-footedness required.

Moderate

Easy hike. Great for any fitness level. Easily-accessible paths. Suitable for all skill levels.

Easy

Moderate hike. Good fitness required. Mostly accessible paths. Sure-footedness required.

Moderate

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Tips from the Community

Christopher
November 25, 2023, Connected Lakes Trail

Connected Lakes Trail offers a flat path that almost anyone can enjoy. It's nice to be surrounded by water and have tree covered trails to partially escape the sun.

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The Mount Garfield Trailhead is fun even if you don't plan on hiking. There are old mining remnants scattered and you can walk inbewteen the rocks at the base. It's hard to fully grasp how large the Bookcliffs are until you are at the base.

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This plateau/flat spot mid way up Mount Garfield offers a great place to rest and would be an amazing place to camp. You can often spot wild horses grazing on the grass here.

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The top of Mount Garfield offers amazing views of the Palisade fruit farms, National Monument, and contrasting desert surroundings.

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Miramonte Rim Trail is a moderately easy trail with little elevation gain. It circles a small canyon and you get panoramic views.

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Connected Lakes Trail offers a flat hike that almost anyone can enjoy. It's nice to be surrounded by water and have tree covered trails to partially escape the sun.

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Frequently Asked Questions

How many hiking trails are there in Clifton?

Clifton offers a diverse range of hiking experiences. On komoot, you'll find over 5 routes to explore, catering to various skill levels. These include easy strolls and more challenging moderate hikes.

What do other hikers enjoy the most about hiking in Clifton?

The komoot community highly rates the hiking experiences in Clifton, with an average score of 5.0 stars from 3 reviews. Hikers often praise the varied landscapes, from the serene nature preserves of Clifton Park, NY, to the rugged wilderness of Clifton, AZ, and the unique geological formations of Clifton Gorge, OH.

Are there any easy hiking trails suitable for beginners?

Yes, Clifton has several easy trails perfect for beginners or those looking for a relaxed walk. For instance, the Eagle Rim Trail is a short, easy option. In Clifton Park, NY, the Zim Smith Trail and Vischer Ferry Nature & Historic Preserve offer relatively flat, accessible paths. In Clifton, NJ, the Mills Reservation Loop and Red Trail are popular easy choices.

Are there any circular walks around Clifton?

Yes, you can find several circular routes. For example, the Miramonte Rim Trail loop from White Cap offers a moderate circular hike. In Clifton, NJ, the Cedar Grove Park Loop is a 1.4-mile circular trail. Clifton Gorge State Nature Preserve in Ohio also features several loop trails like the Gorge Trail and Rim Trail, perfect for exploring its unique geology.

Are the trails in Clifton dog-friendly?

Many outdoor areas around Clifton are dog-friendly, but it's always best to check specific preserve or park regulations before you go. Generally, trails in state forests and nature preserves, such as Ushers Road State Forest in NY or Webb Nature Sanctuary in VA, welcome leashed dogs. Always remember to clean up after your pet.

Are there family-friendly hiking options in Clifton?

Absolutely! Many trails are suitable for families. In Clifton Park, NY, the Zim Smith Trail and the 100 Acre Wood Trail System offer easy, scenic walks. The Vischer Ferry Nature & Historic Preserve is also great for families, with flat trails and opportunities for birdwatching. In Clifton, VA, parks like Harriet and William Harris Park provide accessible green spaces for walks.

What kind of landscapes can I expect to see while hiking in Clifton?

Clifton's hiking landscapes are incredibly diverse depending on the specific location. You could experience the multi-use paved and natural paths of Clifton Park, NY, the urban parks and marshlands of Clifton, NJ, the wooded preserves of Clifton, VA, or the rugged, canyon-filled wilderness near Clifton, AZ. Clifton Gorge, OH, offers a unique experience with its deep dolomite and limestone gorge.

Are there any notable natural features or landmarks to look out for?

Yes, there are many interesting features. In Clifton Park, NY, the Vischer Ferry Nature & Historic Preserve is a Bird Conservation Area. Near Clifton, AZ, you can find petroglyphs on Painted Bluff along Eagle Creek. Clifton Gorge State Nature Preserve in Ohio is renowned for its spectacular dolomite and limestone gorge and unique plant species like snow trillium. For a different kind of landmark, the Las Colonias Park is a popular spot near Clifton.

Where can I find trails with waterfalls or unique geological features?

For unique geological features, Clifton Gorge State Nature Preserve in Ohio is a must-visit. It features a spectacular dolomite and limestone gorge with the Little Miami River flowing through deep, narrow channels, and impressive cliff overhangs. While not explicitly waterfalls, the dramatic rock formations and river flow create a stunning natural spectacle.

What kind of wildlife might I encounter on the trails?

Wildlife sightings vary by region. In Clifton Park, NY, the Vischer Ferry Nature & Historic Preserve is excellent for birdwatching, with orioles, great blue herons, and various hawk species, including bald eagles. The Dwaas Kill Nature Preserve also hosts largely undisturbed habitats. In more rugged areas like Clifton, AZ, you might encounter desert wildlife, while forested areas in Virginia and New Jersey offer chances to see local woodland creatures.

What are the parking options for trailheads in Clifton?

Parking availability varies by location. Most state parks, nature preserves, and trailheads in areas like Clifton Park, NY (e.g., Zim Smith Trail, Vischer Ferry), and Clifton Gorge, OH, typically offer designated parking lots. For trails in more urban or residential areas, street parking might be an option, but it's always advisable to check local signage and regulations before your visit.

Can I reach hiking trails in Clifton using public transport?

Public transport options for reaching trailheads depend heavily on the specific Clifton location. In more urbanized areas like Clifton, NJ, some parks might be accessible via local bus routes. However, for many nature preserves and state forests, particularly in Clifton Park, NY, or the more remote areas of Clifton, AZ, public transport access may be limited, and driving is often the most practical way to reach trailheads.

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