North Canyon

Managing agency

Rio Grande NF — Conejos Peak RD

North Canyon is a 3.4-mile out-and-back trail located in Colorado with 1,039 feet of elevation gain. The trail offers a moderate hiking experience suitable for those seeking a half-day adventure with steady climbing. The out-and-back format allows hikers to turn around at any point, making it flexible for different fitness levels and time constraints. The elevation gain is distributed across the 1.7-mile approach to the turnaround point, providing consistent incline throughout the hike. This steady gradient makes it a good option for building endurance without extreme steep sections. The trail is managed by the local wilderness area authority, ensuring maintained conditions and adherence to established guidelines. North Canyon's relatively short distance combined with moderate elevation gain makes it accessible for a wide range of hikers, from those looking to build fitness to experienced trekkers seeking a shorter outing. The canyon setting suggests scenic rock formations and potentially varied vegetation zones as elevation increases. Plan for 2-3 hours round trip depending on pace and rest stops.