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A trail that highlights the spectacular splendor of the Needles District on its way to meadows surrounded by rock spires


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Map Key

2.1

Miles

3.4

KM

87%

Runnable

5,854' 1,784 m

High

5,215' 1,590 m

Low

689' 210 m

Up

269' 82 m

Down

8%

Avg Grade (5°)

65%

Max Grade (33°)

Dogs No Dogs

Features Commonly Backpacked · Views

Camping requires a permit.

Description

Chesler Park Trail begins about two miles out from the Elephant Hill parking area or about three miles from the Squaw Flat parking area at Elephant Canyon. EC1 Campground is to the north of this intersection, while the Chesler Park Trail heads south into Elephant Canyon.

Elephant Canyon is one of the most defined ancient canyons in this district, with red and white rocks towering above you. Continue south along the canyon bottom for about 4/5 of a mile until you come to another intersection with the Big Spring Canyon Trail. Continue south. In about a third of a mile, you'll come to an intersection with Druid Arch Trail. Make a right to head west.

This next part of the trail involves climbing up and out of Elephant Canyon. Some scrambling is required, but it is more fun than difficult! Once you finish climbing out of the canyon, you'll be rewarded with views of Chesler Park - a flat area filled with desert grasses and walled in with towering red and white rock spires. Multiple campsites are also available to permit holders wishing to spend the night.

Contacts

Shared By:

Karl W

Trail Ratings

  4.8 from 24 votes

#1

in The Needles

#141

Overall
  4.8 from 24 votes
5 Star
83%
4 Star
17%
3 Star
0%
2 Star
0%
1 Star
0%
Trail Rankings

#1

in The Needles

#18

in Utah

#141

Overall
14 Views Last Month
2,811 Since Feb 19, 2016
Intermediate Intermediate

0%
5%
76%
10%
10%
0%

Photos

Chesler Park is surrounded by awesome red and white rock spires
Apr 7, 2018 near Monticello, UT
Cairns show the way.
Oct 6, 2017 near Monticello, UT
Enjoying the beautiful views in Elephant Canyon
Sep 15, 2017 near Monticello, UT

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All Clear 30 days ago
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