Devil's Chasm Trail

This trail is considered difficult to strenuous. It features steep inclines, rocky sections, and unmaintained paths. Expect to navigate waterfalls, loose terrain, and areas requiring scrambling or rock climbing. The final quarter-mile to the cliff dwellings is particularly challenging.

While the roundtrip distance is approximately 3 miles (4.7 km), the significant elevation gain of around 1960 feet (597 meters) and challenging terrain mean it will take longer than typical hikes of this length. Plan for a substantial portion of your day, likely 4-6 hours or more, depending on your pace and time spent at the dwellings.

The trail is located in the Sierra Ancha Wilderness. To reach the trailhead, you'll likely need to navigate Cherry Creek Road (Forest Road 203). A high-clearance, four-wheel-drive vehicle is often necessary to access the trailhead, especially after rougher sections of the road. Parking is typically primitive at the trailhead.

Given the trail's strenuous nature, including climbing waterfalls, scrambling over rocks, and steep, loose sections, it is generally not recommended for dogs. The terrain would be very difficult and potentially dangerous for most canine companions.

The best times to hike are during spring and fall. Summers can be extremely hot with rattlesnake activity, while winters are cold. An early start is always advised, regardless of the season, to avoid the midday heat and allow ample time for the challenging route.

As of current information, there are no specific permits or entrance fees required to hike the Devil's Chasm Trail within the Sierra Ancha Wilderness. However, always check with the local Forest Service office for any updated regulations before your trip.

The primary highlight of this trail is reaching the remarkably well-preserved Salado Indian cliff dwellings, located within Devil's Chasm itself. Along the way, you'll experience dramatic canyon scenery, towering cliffs, and forested areas, especially beautiful in the fall.

Due to the trail's difficulty and remote nature, you should bring plenty of water, sturdy hiking boots with good ankle support, and trekking poles for stability on steep and loose sections. Gloves can be helpful for scrambling. A map and compass or GPS device are essential as cell service is unlikely, and the path can be indistinct. Be prepared for self-rescue.

No, this trail is not suitable for beginners or young children. Its difficult and strenuous nature, involving significant elevation gain, scrambling, and climbing up waterfalls, requires experienced hikers with good physical fitness and navigational skills.

The Devil's Chasm Trail is primarily an out-and-back route leading to the cliff dwellings. There are no well-defined alternative loop options for this specific trail. The path can be indistinct and braided in sections, requiring careful route-finding, often staying high on the left side of the creek bed.

The cliff dwellings are exceptionally well-preserved Salado Indian ruins, dating from 1280 to 1350 AD. Their remote and inaccessible location has protected them, allowing visitors to see details like hardened handprints and smoke-stained beams. They offer a unique glimpse into ancient architectural ingenuity and history.