Riggs Spring Loop Trail

The Bristlecone Loop, accessible from Rainbow Point at the southern end of the park, meanders through the forest atop this highest portion of the park, reaching elevations over 9,100 feet (2778 m). Here you will pass by bristlecone pines up to 1,800-years-old and experience vistas reaching into the Four Corners area.

Trailhead: Rainbow Point or Yovimpa Point

Parking: At trailhead (check when parking lots are busiest ). Oversized vehicles permitted.

Distance: 1.0 mile (1.6 km)

Approximate Time: 1 hour

Elevation Gain: 200 feet (61 meters)

Difficulty: Easy (elevation gain of 200 feet or less, shorter length)

Services: Accessible restrooms available (seasonally).

Shuttle Service: None. Private options may be available.

This trail may be inaccessible during mid-winter due to snow depths ranging from 2-15 ft. (.7-5 m)

Pets are not allowed on this trail . Service animals are allowed in national parks. What is a service animal?

This forest is dominated by Blue Spruce, Douglas Fir, and White Fir, making this good habitat for grouse, woodpeckers, owls, and a variety of squirrels and chipmunks. Here you are also sure to see Ravens and Steller's Jays.

The Riggs Spring Loop is a backcountry trail that begins and ends at Yovimpa Point. This trail travels through spruce, fir, and bristlecone forests offering beautiful views of distant cliffs. The western section of the trail is steeper and more heavily forested. Permits are not required to hike this trail, but all overnight stays require a permit .

Trailhead: Yovimpa Point

Parking: At trailhead; oversized vehicles permitted

Distance: 8.6 miles (13.9 km)

Approximate Time: 5 hours

Elevation Gain: 2200 feet (671 meters)

Difficulty: Strenuous

Services: Accessible restrooms available at Yovimpa Point (year-round). No water-fill stations.

Shuttle Service: None. Private options may be available.

This trail may be inaccessible during mid-winter due to snow depths ranging from 2-15 ft. (.7-5 m)

Pets are not allowed on this trail. Service animals are allowed in national parks. What is a service animal?

Backcountry camping is permitted only in designated backcountry campsites and all overnight backcountry stays require a permit.

Typically this loop is hiked in a counter-clockwise direction with a single overnight. Some backcountry hikers will combine this loop with additional nights along the Under-the-Rim Trail . For more information and reservation information visit our Backcountry Information page .