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Rim Trail

Hiking trails & Routes

United States

Arizona

Coconino County

Rim Trail

Easy

3.2

(9)

hikers

Rim Trail

Q: How long does it take to hike this trail?

The Rim Trail is a short and easy hike, typically taking around 20 minutes to complete. It's perfect for a quick stroll to enjoy the views.

Q: Is the trail suitable for beginners or families?

Yes, this trail is considered easy and is very suitable for beginners and families. Its short distance and minimal elevation gain make it an accessible option for most visitors.

Q: Where does the trail start and is there parking available?

The trail is located within the Walnut Canyon National Monument. You can access the trailhead from the visitor center area, where ample parking is available. The monument is about 10 miles east of Flagstaff, Arizona.

Q: Do I need a permit or pay an entrance fee to access the trail?

Yes, the Rim Trail is located within the Walnut Canyon National Monument, which requires an entrance fee. This fee grants you access to the monument and all its trails, including the Rim Trail. For current fee information, please check the official National Park Service website.

Q: What is the terrain like on the Rim Trail?

The Rim Trail is generally a well-maintained path, offering a mostly level walk along the canyon rim. While specific paving details aren't provided, its 'easy' difficulty suggests a comfortable walking surface suitable for many.

Q: What can I see along the route?

Along the Rim Trail, you'll be treated to spectacular views into Walnut Canyon. Key points of interest include the Walnut Canyon National Monument itself, the Walnut Canyon Oxbow Overlook , and a Second overlook on the Rim Trail , all offering diverse perspectives of the canyon's unique geological features and ancient cliff dwellings.

Q: Is this trail dog-friendly?

While some national park trails allow leashed pets, specific regulations vary by monument. It's best to check the official Walnut Canyon National Monument website or contact the visitor center directly for their current pet policy regarding the Rim Trail.

Q: What is the best time of year to visit this trail?

The Rim Trail can be enjoyed year-round. Spring and fall offer pleasant temperatures, while summer can be hot, making early mornings or late afternoons ideal. Winter visits might offer unique snowy vistas, but always check monument conditions before you go.

Q: Does the trail intersect other well-known paths?

Yes, the route primarily follows the 'Rim Trail' for its entire length. It also passes through sections of the 'Rim Trail' (92%) and the 'Island Trail' (73%).

Q: What should I bring for a hike on this trail?

Given its short length and easy difficulty, you'll primarily need comfortable walking shoes, water, and sun protection (hat, sunscreen) as the canyon can be exposed. Binoculars are great for spotting details in the canyon below.

00:20

1.21km

30m

Hiking

An easy 0.8-mile hike along the Rim Trail in Walnut Canyon National Monument, offering scenic views from overlooks.

Last updated: February 26, 2026

Waypoints

Start point

Parking

Get Directions

88 m

Walnut Canyon National Monument

Highlight • Natural Monument

Walnut Canyon stretches along the southeast of Flagstaff. This is the National Monument, where you can visit some old structures like cliff dwellings of the Anasazi. If you own an …

Tip by

211 m

Walnut Canyon Oxbow Overlook

Highlight • Viewpoint

This overlook views the oxbow in the canyon below. There is another viewpoint further town the Rim Trail that peers further down the canyon.

Tip by

587 m

Second overlook on the Rim Trail

Highlight • Viewpoint

Of the two trails at Walnut Canyon National Monument, the Rim Trail is the easier of the two trails. This overlook peers down Walnut Canyon and features some benches and informational signs.

Tip by

1.21 km

End point

Parking

Way Types & Surfaces

Way Types

1.08 km

123 m

Surfaces

675 m

514 m

< 100 m

Elevation

Nothing selected – click and drag below to see the stats for a specific part of the route.

Weather

Today

Sunday 5 July

31°C

13°C

3 %

Additional weather tips

Max wind speed: 18.0 km/h

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Frequently Asked Questions

How long does it take to hike this trail?

The Rim Trail is a short and easy hike, typically taking around 20 minutes to complete. It's perfect for a quick stroll to enjoy the views.

Is the trail suitable for beginners or families?

Yes, this trail is considered easy and is very suitable for beginners and families. Its short distance and minimal elevation gain make it an accessible option for most visitors.

Where does the trail start and is there parking available?

The trail is located within the Walnut Canyon National Monument. You can access the trailhead from the visitor center area, where ample parking is available. The monument is about 10 miles east of Flagstaff, Arizona.

Do I need a permit or pay an entrance fee to access the trail?

Yes, the Rim Trail is located within the Walnut Canyon National Monument, which requires an entrance fee. This fee grants you access to the monument and all its trails, including the Rim Trail. For current fee information, please check the official National Park Service website.

What is the terrain like on the Rim Trail?

The Rim Trail is generally a well-maintained path, offering a mostly level walk along the canyon rim. While specific paving details aren't provided, its 'easy' difficulty suggests a comfortable walking surface suitable for many.

What can I see along the route?

Along the Rim Trail, you'll be treated to spectacular views into Walnut Canyon. Key points of interest include the Walnut Canyon National Monument itself, the Walnut Canyon Oxbow Overlook, and a Second overlook on the Rim Trail, all offering diverse perspectives of the canyon's unique geological features and ancient cliff dwellings.

Is this trail dog-friendly?

While some national park trails allow leashed pets, specific regulations vary by monument. It's best to check the official Walnut Canyon National Monument website or contact the visitor center directly for their current pet policy regarding the Rim Trail.

What is the best time of year to visit this trail?

The Rim Trail can be enjoyed year-round. Spring and fall offer pleasant temperatures, while summer can be hot, making early mornings or late afternoons ideal. Winter visits might offer unique snowy vistas, but always check monument conditions before you go.

Does the trail intersect other well-known paths?

Yes, the route primarily follows the 'Rim Trail' for its entire length. It also passes through sections of the 'Rim Trail' (92%) and the 'Island Trail' (73%).

What should I bring for a hike on this trail?

Given its short length and easy difficulty, you'll primarily need comfortable walking shoes, water, and sun protection (hat, sunscreen) as the canyon can be exposed. Binoculars are great for spotting details in the canyon below.

Are there any facilities or water available along the trail?

As a short trail, there are no facilities directly on the Rim Trail itself. However, restrooms and water are available at the Walnut Canyon National Monument Visitor Center, located at the trailhead.