Kachina Trail
Hike to Kachina Bridge the Park Service's write-up
1-2 Hours · no dogs · season <p><strong>Spring and Fall:</strong> Suggested visiting time is spring and fall.</p> <p><strong>Summer:</strong> Summer temperatures often reach 100°F (38°C).</p> <p><strong>Winter:</strong> In winter months, this trail may be muddy, icy, and slick. The short ladder may become frost-covered and slippery, and the steep switchbacks can be difficult to traverse after snowfall. If snow and/or ice are present, snow cleats, crampons, and/or hiking poles are highly recommended. Always <a href="https://www.nps.gov/nabr/planyourvisit/conditions.htm">check conditions</a> before hiking in winter.</p>
Start Kachina Bridge Parking Area
Kachina Bridge has the widest girth in the park at a whopping 44-foot width. The bridge is visible from a viewpoint , but hiking to the base of Kachina brings new perspectives. As you stand beneath this massive sandstone structure, it becomes clear why the Paiute referred to natural bridges as “under the horse’s belly.”
Length Roundtrip: 1.4 miles (2.25 kilometers)
Elevation Change One-way (from Rim to Base): 462 feet (140 meters) loss, 32 feet (9.7 meters) gain
Accessibility Service dogs are allowed on this trail. There is one accessible parking spot in the parking lot. This is a primitive trail. This trail is not wheelchair accessible. Audio recordings of the posted signage are not available. There is uncertain footing in places. Stay away from the canyon edge - although it is not sheer, it can be steep. Much of the trail is in the shade for much of the day. The trail declines 462 feet (140 meters) to the base of the bridge. That elevation change is experienced using one wooden ladder, wood stairs, rock stairs, and switchbacks. The total trail length (roundtrip) is 1.4 miles (2.25 kilometers). This trail is strenuous. This trail may be difficult for individuals with mobility impairments. The nearest restroom is a pit toilet located at the Kachina Bridge parking area. There are flush toilets outside the visitor center. The nearest water is available at the visitor center.
Walk to the Kachina Bridge Viewpoint the Park Service's write-up
10 Minutes · dogs allowed · season <p>Suggested visiting time is spring and fall. Summer temperatures often reach 100°F (38°C), and the trail provides no shade. Winter snow and ice may make the viewpoint inaccessible. If snow and/or ice are present, snow cleats, crampons, and/or poles are recommended.</p>
Start Kachina Bridge Parking Area
Kachina Bridge has the widest girth in the park at a whopping 44-foot width. From the viewpoint, you get a bird's eye view of this massive sandstone structure and the canyons below. Along the way, check out some of the park's plants and geological features.
Length Roundtrip: 0.26 miles (0.42 kilometers)
Elevation Change One-way (from Parking Lot to Viewpoint): 45 feet (14 meters) loss, 6 feet (2 meters) gain
Accessibility Service animals are allowed on this trail. There is one accessible parking space at the trailhead. The Kachina Bridge Viewpoint trail is paved sidewalk. Total trail length (round trip) is 0.26 miles (a quarter mile), or about 460 yards (0.42 kilometers). The trail elevation declines 45 feet (14 meters) to the overlook. This steep grade may make it difficult for visitors with mobility impairments. There is a bench 380 feet (116 meters) down the trail. There is no shade. Audio recordings of the posted signage are not available. There is a pit toilet located at the trailhead, next to the parking area. There are flush toilets located outside the visitor center. The nearest water is available at the visitor center.