spruce canyon trail

This was the only trail open when we went, and it was quite nice. Several reviewers are calling this an 'easy' trail and 'nice and flat'. Your mileage may vary, but I always worry about calling something with 500-foot elevation changes 'easy'. I was hiking with three people who live at sea level, and though they are all in-shape, it was a bit of a challenge for them just because of the altitude. Not overly taxing, but I wouldn't suggest that people with mobility issues try this trail - it is NOT what I would call 'easy', only because I reserve 'easy' for trails that just about anybody could handle. It is, however, very simple to follow and takes you through some gorgeous scenery. The bottom of the canyon, in particular, is spectacular - peaceful, quiet. We were the only people around. The park is home to feral horses, elk, deer, and other wild animals, and you have a chance to see some of them along this trail - we did not, but I saw a lot of tracks, and the rangers at the museum informed me that it is not rare to spot wildlife as you wander in this area.

Drove n from Moab, so this was a nice walk to get the legs stretched out. Has some decent views, but only real hike we took on this trip

A nice smooth well marked trail with 3 observation points in the end loop. A nice view of Balcony if you are unable to do the ladders or crawl through the tunnel.

This is a sweet little 2.4 mile hike that offers some cool elevation change (see NPS website for trail profile.) The views and tranquility are lovely. Be sure to give yourself enough time once you start because the gates behind you get locked at a certain hour which you can check at the trailhead entrance after Spruce Tree House. There are some switchbacks, descent, ascent, beautiful rock formations, and of course, wildlife as evidenced by scat. Take lots of water, more than you think you will need, and remember you are at elevation. This is hike is fine in running shoes, in fact makes for a great run.

Yes definitely do this good for smaller family members as all paths are easily accessible. Great museum at top as well.

This hike takes you down to the bottom of the canyon and back up. The path is well marked. there are great views of the canyon. You are warned that this hike has a large elevation change- some thing like 500 feet elevation change. Take plenty of water.

The rangers provided neat information and the kiva was an experience not to be missed. We did not make it to the petrogylphs due to the heat. I recommend an early start

I had wanted to combine the Petroglyph Point Loop and the Spruce Canyon Loop into one hike, because they share an access trail that branches off to the right about half way down the Spruce Tree House Trail. However, after a few hundred feet they split into separate directions: the SCL continues straight and the PPL moves left up some steps. That's when I changed my mind, opted to hike the Petroglyph Point Loop first, then have lunch and hike the Spruce Canyon Loop later. The SCL is a 2.4 mile loop beginning at an elevation of about 6,800 feet. It switchbacks about 350 feet down to the canyon floor in less than half a mile, follows the canyon floor at an imperceptible incline for about half a mile, then moves steeply upward to top out at about 7,000 feet elevation. The last ¾ mile or so pass through the picnic area and follow the road before returning to the museum. Throughout, it's a well-maintained dirt trail, mostly 2 to 3 feet wide. The uphill section has some rocks to scramble across, but nothing of any difficulty. For me, it was a pleasant, serene hike. Other than meeting one couple at the PPL/SCL junction I was alone the entire time. I did, however, find some fresh scat on the trail at the canyon floor and when I asked the rangers about it later was told that wild horses come into the canyon occasionally. Unfortunately, I didn't see any.You're required to register for the hike, either at the museum, or on a sign-in sheet at the trailhead. You should also report your return, so it might be easier to sign in at the museum. Be sure to wear good footwear. If you have hiking poles, use them. Remember to take water, and a snack.

We opted to do this hike instead of fighting the crowds at Spruce Tree House and were very glad we did. Be sure to take lots if water if it's hot.

I like to begin this hike in the picnic area (where most people end it). Pick up a booklet from the Chapin Mesa Museum or ask a ranger. Otherwise you can pick it up off the Spruce Tree House trail and end in the picnic area. Moderately difficult (due to elevation) so take a snack and water with you. Nice hike. Beautiful views.

This was a 2 hour afternoon walk. Most of it down from the trailhead and along the bottom of a canyon. Well-worn trail, pretty, no strain. At the end, however, you have to hike up out of the canyon on a steep trail with loose rocks. Take and drink water. We passed one young man who had collapsed by the side of the trail and sent his girl friend off to get a soda. It's mostly young men who get in trouble in the National Parks.

An easy trail, with few people and a tranquil setting. There are some switchbacks on the way down and a gradual ascent on the way up.

the vegetation in mid-May was very beautiful. Yucca were blooming, as was gilia and some other flowers. It was a nice time to visit because it wasn't exceptionally hot.

A bit of a uphill walk back but worth it....short and very safe trail no ladders!

Absolutely beautiful!Great trail,easy and empty.great views of some of the cliff dwellings and surrounding area. I went with a friend,a non-hiker and she was arable to finish hike and enjoy it. You may want to do it the second day in the area so you can acclimate to altitude.The entire Mesa Verde Park is incredible.