Gooseberry Trail

The Gooseberry hike is a short but steep route for moderately experienced hikers. Proper hiking boots are an absolute must on this trail, and we highly recommend hiking poles to aid in the descent in and the ascent back out. Bring more water than you think you need on this hike, and save this one for a cooler day if you can; dehydration and heat exhaustion are serious risks when hiking in the desert. The effort you put into this hike is totally worth it, though—and if the hike doesn’t do it for you, the views from this trail will leave you breathless. For an especially spectacular experience, try this hike at sunrise.

From the trailhead, take the path on your left to head northeast down the steep set of switchbacks. The path on your right leads to the White Rim Overlook: this is another great trail that is less strenuous but still offers incredible views. Follow the Gooseberry Trail for 2.4mi to meet up with White Rim Road; this junction marks the end of the Gooseberry Trail.

You can peek over into Gooseberry Canyon at the end of the trail or even spend a night camping under the stars at the Gooseberry campsites. The route back to the trailhead traces the same path you took in, and if you are looking to extend your time in the area, consider checking out the White Rim Overlook trail or even the Grand View Trail just down the road.