Length (round trip)5.6 mi
ShapeOut-and-Back
DifficultyModerate
Elevation gain900 ft up
Typical time45 min
TrailheadChaparral parking area, west side
SurfaceChaparral hillside track
Best seasonSpring and autumn. Summer regularly exceeds 100F with no shade; spring wildflowers peak in March and April.
DogsNot allowed
AccessibilityDifficulty: Easy to Moderate Distance: Approx. 1.2 miles one-way Trail width: Approx. 2.5 - 4 feet Maximum grade: 560 feet Surface Composition: dirt Exposure: Limited shade *Service animals permitted
What you'll see
🌄 Big views🌼 Wildflowers
Head northwest from the Prewett Point Trail and descend into the Jawbone Parking Area, where the trail connects to the Chaparral Parking Area (0.3 miles), trailhead for Balconies Cliffs - Balconies Cave Loop, Juniper Canyon Loop, and High Peaks - Balconies Cave Loop. Recreate Responsibly. Check park webpage alerts and weather forecast . Hiking, caving, and climbing can be fun but remember-if you get injured, you are a long way from medical help. Cell phones may not work in this remote park. Don't let your guard down when it comes to safety. Be prepared. Let someone know your plan before you go. Most of the trails are exposed. Bring a map and use the best judgement of your abilities. Drinking water is only available in developed areas-there is no water along any of the trails. Carry at least a liter of water for every hour of hiking. In winter, wear warm clothes and waterproof clothing. In summer, do not hike during the hottest parts of the day (10AM-4PM) especially on strenuous trails. Heat and dehydration can be fatal. Hiking steep trails requires more energy and results in greater water loss through sweating. Wear lightweight, light-colored, loose-fitting clothing. Wear sunscreen, a hat, and sunglasses. Wear sturdy, non-slip shoes or boots with ankle support due to rocky, uneven terrain and slick and sometimes slippery rocks. In all seasons, carry plenty of water and salty snacks (ex. pretzels, crackers, chips). Stay hydrated with plain water and an electrolyte drink replacement. Stay cool in summer and warm in winter and take rest breaks. Know your limits and turn back if needed. Stay on established trails to help prevent erosion. Wildflowers, pine cones, rocks, and other natural and cultural features are beautiful, but please do not remove or destroy them;leave them for the enjoyment of other visitors. All plants, animals, rocks, and structures in the park are protected by federal law. Be careful where you sit, step, and place your hands: poison oak, stinging nettle, and rattlesnakes are found here. Feeding, approaching, or hunting wildlife is prohibited. Using remotely piloted aircrafts like drones is prohibited. Plan ahead and prepare. Take only pictures and leave only footprints, leaving objects as you find them. Observe wildlife from a distance and avoid loud voices or noises to be considerate of others.
Tips
March and April turn these hillsides into a flower display. No shade at any other time of year.