About

Easy • 0.7-0.8 miles • Loop • 30-45 minutes

A scenic 0.7- to 0.8-mile paved loop along the rim at Walnut Canyon National Monument, with canyon views and access to pueblo and pithouse ruins. Elevation gain is only about 39 feet, so most families finish in 30 to 45 minutes — an easier alternative if the Island Trail feels like too much. The first 150 feet is ADA accessible, which means strollers and wheelchairs work at least for the start; the rest of the rim path is still a short, easy walk for babies through tweens. Dogs are welcome on a leash. Shade is partial. Restrooms, water fountains, and picnic tables are on site, with parking at the Visitor Center. The entrance fee is $25 per vehicle, not per person, and it's free with an America the Beautiful pass or the Every Kid pass if you've got a fourth grader. Don't cut it close in the afternoon: rangers close the Rim Trail entrance at 4:30 pm. Open dawn to dusk year-round.