Overview: After the first half-mile, the Hidden Canyon trail leaves the pavement and turns into dirt. From this point on, the trail intrigues hikers along cliff edges with chains and ledges, similar to Angel’s Landing. The last 1/8 ml (.2 km) is not difficult, ending at the mouth of Hidden Canyon. Continuing hikers find some neat surprises, such as a beautiful arch in the base of the canyon. You can hike 1.75ml (2.8km) through the drainage, which is usually dry.

Trailhead: Exit shuttle at Weeping Rock and follow the trail to Observation Point, the East Rim, and Hidden Canyon.

Mileage: 2 miles (3.2 km)

Elevation Gain: 850 feet (259 meters)

Approximate Hike Time: 3 hours, round-trip

Difficulty: Moderate

Best Times of Day: Hidden Canyon is a great hike any time of year. Summer hikers especially appreciate the cool, shaded shelter and slow watery trickles the canyon provides on sweltering days.

Best Times of Year: Summer and autumn allow the driest access to the upper reaches of the canyon; winter rains and spring snowmelt often make for a wet slog past the canyon mouth.

Crowds: Traffic thins out significantly when the trail splits off from the Observation Point/East Rim trail. The further into Hidden Canyon you delve, the fewer hikers you encounter.

Don’t Miss: The upper portion of Hidden Canyon is a fun opportunity to explore off the beaten path. Negotiate easy to difficult obstacles as you problem-solve your way up-canyon.

Special Notes:
- A short section of the trail bends over slick rock, exposing you to long drop-offs. If you are afraid of heights or have small children, you may take time to discuss the potential risks of the trail before proceeding.

- Traveling up canyon requires climbing over boulders and logs. The farther you go up canyon the more interesting your decisions become - but the climbing gets pretty hairy. Over the years, the Park has carried out a few live bodies with broken legs, and a few not so lively ones. Know your limits and be conservative in your up-canyon quest.