About
Length15 mi
ShapePoint-to-Point
DifficultyStrenuous
Elevation gain3,000 ft up
Typical time10 hr
TrailheadMcKittrick Canyon to Dog Canyon
SurfaceCanyon floor then ridge and plateau
Best seasonSpring and autumn. Late October and early November for McKittrick Canyon fall colour - the busiest fortnight of the year.
DogsNot allowed
AccessibilityTrail surfaces are loose rock or hardened rock surfaces. Hiking or trekking poles are highly recommended. Trail widths vary from two to six feet depending on the trail. Parking All trailhead areas have accessible parking available. Service animals Only service animals that have been individually trained to perform specific tasks for the benefit of persons with disabilities are allowed in the park and on trails.
What you'll see ⛰️ Summit🌄 Big views🌲 Old growth🎒 Backpacking

This is an extremely rewarding trail, offering both the variety of McKittrick Canyon and the grandeur of the high ridges that surround it. The floor of McKittrick Canyon provides a panoramic experience through the unique environments of the canyon; to protect this special habitat, visitors are asked to stay on the trail and stay out of the water. The McKittrick Canyon Trail follows the floor of South McKittrick Canyon for four miles before climbing steeply to gain the ridge on the north side of the canyon. This is an arduous climb of 2,380 feet in about two miles and provides spectacular views into the canyon and to the ridges that border it. The trail continues along the ridge above South McKittrick Canyon, ascending to a high point of 7,916 feet and gradually descending to a junction with the Tejas Trail. The route passes the saddle at Lost Peak. No trail leads to the summit itself. Descending from the area of Lost Peak the trail passes through the grassy areas that define the northern portion of the park. Overnight backpacking is recommended at the McKittrick Ridge Wilderness Campground. Distance: 15.0 miles (24.1 km) one way. For more detailed information on trails, check our trail descriptions page. Time Estimate: 8-12 hours Difficulty: Strenuous Duration: Minimum of one night, two days. Trailheads: McKittrick Canyon and Dog Canyon Trailheads. The drive between the trailheads is two hours. No shuttle service runs between the two trailheads.

Tips
Four easy canyon miles then a steep climb to the ridge. A shuttle is essential. Usually walked as an overnight.
Location

McKittrick Canyon to Dog Canyon

Other Hikers
No one has logged this trail yet.
Your Hikes

🔒 Login or create an account to record the trails you've done, rate them, and tie them to a trip.