Yucca Canyon Trail
A very long, remote ascent from Yucca Canyon to the escarpment and plateau, ending at views into Big Canyon.
Route overview
Yucca Canyon Trail in New Mexico.
The route climbs quickly from a side canyon to the top of the escarpment, crosses the plateau and reaches a sheer overlook into Big Canyon. Pine woodland appears along one of the park’s few routes where ponderosa and other pines may be encountered. NPS estimates 8.5 hours for the official 12.4 km one-way trail.
Trail facts
- Country
- United States
- Region
- New Mexico
- Distance
- 12.4 km one way
- Typical duration
- 8.5 hours one way
- Difficulty
- Hard
- Elevation gain
- 464 m change
- Best season
- Check current official seasonal access and conditions
Safety context
The dirt-road approach begins near the park boundary on the Slaughter Canyon road; high clearance or four-wheel drive is recommended. Verify road and trail conditions before committing. Carry full navigation redundancy, emergency shelter, food and substantial water. Do not approach sheer drops or seek shelter in caves or alcoves during lightning. Check current official conditions, closures, weather and access rules before departure.
The dirt-road approach begins near the park boundary on the Slaughter Canyon road; high clearance or four-wheel drive is recommended. Verify road and trail conditions before committing. Carry full navigation redundancy, emergency shelter, food and substantial water. Do not approach sheer drops or seek shelter in caves or alcoves during lightning.
Highlights
Yucca Canyon, remote hike, high-clearance access, Chihuahuan Desert, Carlsbad Caverns, advanced hiking
Why find a buddy
Reserve for highly experienced, self-sufficient pairs or groups with remote-desert route planning and suitable vehicle access. Align on driving risk, heat limits, turnaround time, water checkpoints and overnight-permit status.
Primary source
Explore and prepare
Discover hikes by intent, read the hiking guides, review hiking safety, prepare a BuddyPack, or browse hiking plans.
Route conditions, access, services and transport can change. Verify time-sensitive information before departure.