Rinconada Canyon Trail – Rinconada Canyon Trailhead loop from Saint Pius X High School
Rinconada Canyon Trail – Rinconada Canyon Trailhead loop from Saint Pius X High School
2.6
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hikers
Rinconada Canyon Trail – Rinconada Canyon Trailhead loop from Saint Pius X High School
02:00
7.71km
50m
Hiking
Moderate hike. Good fitness required. Easily-accessible paths. Suitable for all skill levels. The starting point of the route is right next to a parking lot.
Last updated: May 27, 2026
Waypoints
Start point
Parking
Get Directions
2.77 km
Rinconada Canyon Trail
Highlight (Segment) • Trail
Tip by
3.96 km
Grazing sheep
Highlight • Natural
3.98 km
Petroglyphs at Rinconada Canyon Trail
Highlight • Historical Site
Tip by
5.67 km
Rinconada Canyon Trailhead
Highlight • Parking
Translated by Google •
Tip by
7.71 km
End point
Parking
Way Types & Surfaces
Way Types
5.18 km
2.04 km
460 m
< 100 m
Surfaces
4.96 km
1.83 km
658 m
220 m
< 100 m
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Elevation
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Weather
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Thursday 16 July
33°C
17°C
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Our route recommendations are based on thousands of hikes, rides, and runs completed by other people on komoot.
Description
If you're looking for a unique blend of natural beauty and ancient history, the Rinconada Canyon Trail – Rinconada Canyon Trailhead loop from Saint Pius X High School is a fantastic choice. This moderate hiking route covers 4.8 miles (7.7 km) with a gentle 157 feet (48 metres) of elevation gain, typically taking about 2 hours to complete. It's an ideal outing for families and history enthusiasts who want an accessible desert experience with a rich cultural payoff.
What to expect on Rinconada Canyon Trail – Rinconada Canyon Trailhead loop from Saint Pius X High School
This route takes you through the fascinating landscape of Petroglyph National Monument, where the sounds of the city quickly fade into the natural ambiance of the desert. You'll traverse sandy paths alongside the northern escarpment, where ancient volcanic basalt flows cap softer sandstone. As you walk, keep an eye out for the hundreds of petroglyphs carved into the volcanic boulders that have tumbled down the slopes. While generally easy, some sections feature deeper sand, which can make walking a bit more challenging. This trail is perfect for those who appreciate geological history and ancient art, offering a rewarding journey without overly strenuous effort.
Planning your visit
While this Komoot route begins near Saint Pius X High School, the primary access point for the petroglyph loop itself is typically the Rinconada Canyon Trailhead, located at the intersection of Unser Blvd NW and St. Joseph Ave. Regardless of your starting point, it's crucial to carry plenty of water, especially during warmer months, as no water sources are available on the trail. The desert heat can be intense, so consider hiking in the early morning or late afternoon to avoid the midday sun. Binoculars can enhance your viewing of some of the more distant petroglyphs.
Trail details
- Distance: 4.8 miles (7.7 km)
- Elevation gain: 157 feet (48 metres)
- Difficulty: moderate
- Estimated time: 2 hours
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