Chinle Trail

The Chinle Trail is best hiked in the fall, winter, or spring. Summers can be brutally hot due to the trail's exposed nature and lack of shade. Be aware that it can also be muddy after rain or snow during cooler months.

The terrain is largely sandy, with rolling hills and some steeper sections. It crosses several washes, including Huber, Scoggins, and Coalpits Washes. While generally easy to follow, some sections after Scoggins Wash can be faint. The trail is very exposed with little shade.

The trailhead is located outside the main Zion National Park gates, in a residential development called Anasazi Plateau, southwest of Springdale. You'll need to walk a short distance through the community to reach the park boundary. Parking is typically available near the trailhead within the Anasazi Plateau area.

Generally, dogs are not permitted on most trails within Zion National Park, including the Chinle Trail, to protect wildlife and natural resources. Always check the official Zion National Park website for the most current pet regulations before planning your visit.

While a specific permit for the Chinle Trail itself is not usually required, it is located within Zion National Park, so standard park entrance fees apply. You can find detailed information on fees and passes on the official NPS website for Zion National Park.

This trail offers sweeping views of prominent geological formations like Mount Kinesava, the West Temple, Towers of the Virgin, Sundial, and Eagle Crags. You'll also encounter a significant petrified forest about four miles into the hike, with colorful pieces of fossilized wood scattered along the path. Remember that collecting these pieces is illegal. The desert environment also features fragile cryptobiotic soil and, in spring, fragrant wildflowers.

The Chinle Trail is primarily an out-and-back route. It extends approximately 7 to 8.1 miles one-way to Coalpits Wash, making for a round trip of about 15.4 to 16.2 miles.

The desert environment of the Chinle Trail allows for sightings of various wildlife, including lizards and rabbits. While less common, larger desert animals may also be present. Always observe wildlife from a distance and do not disturb them.

Yes, the route primarily follows the Chinle Trail but also passes through sections of the Scoggins Wash Trail, Coalpits Wash Trail, and Huber Wash Trail.

Due to its length (over 15 miles round trip) and exposure to the elements, the Chinle Trail is generally considered difficult and more suitable for experienced hikers. It is not typically recommended for beginners or young children, especially during hot weather. The trail's difficulty is primarily due to its distance rather than extreme elevation changes.

The Chinle Trail offers a unique experience by traversing Zion's open desert lowland habitat, providing a distinct contrast to the park's more famous canyon trails. It's known for its solitude, allowing hikers to escape the crowds often found elsewhere in the park. It also features a notable petrified forest and expansive views of geological formations from a different perspective.