Oak Flat Loop Trail

This idyllic trial is perfect for a morning or evening hike through the Colorado wilderness. The Oak Flat Loop Trail is incredibly easy to navigate and is well maintained. There are a few steep segments of the path, but they are easy to maneuver by the trail’s switchbacks.

Embark on your adventure from the South Rim Visitors Centre. From the visitor’s centre, head southwest on the Oak Flat Loop Trail. Continue along the trail until you meet a bridge. At this junction you can complete the trail from either direction, but we recommend going counterclockwise. Veer right as the trail diverts you into the aspen woods. Follow this path as it begins to descend. Maneuver the switchbacks and you will arrive at another intersection. At this point, stay left. The trail will curve you back west as you walk along an exposed ridge.

Bask in the sights of the inner Black Canyon as you walk along the path. The trail will begin to wind you southward as you traverse a shrub field and begin ascending back up to the woods. Continue along the trail, navigating the switchbacks and the trail will curve east. Hike the path and you will meet back once again at the bridge, retrace your steps from here back to the parking lot.