Painted Desert Rim Trail
An unpaved rim walk between Tawa Point and Kachina Point with expansive Painted Desert views.
Route overview
Painted Desert Rim Trail in Arizona.
The trail follows pinyon-juniper rim woodland between two official overlooks, opening repeatedly toward red badlands and the broad northern desert.
Trail facts
- Country
- United States
- Region
- Arizona
- Distance
- 1.6 km
- Difficulty
- Moderate
- Elevation gain
- Not published by official source
- Best season
- Check current official seasonal access and conditions
- Trail type
- out-and-back
Safety context
Stay back from unstable rim edges and use the signed tread rather than cliffside shortcuts. Waterbars, loose gravel and grades up to 25.6% make the route unsuitable for many mobility devices and slippery after rain or snow. Check current official conditions, closures, weather and access rules before departure.
Stay back from unstable rim edges and use the signed tread rather than cliffside shortcuts. Waterbars, loose gravel and grades up to 25.6% make the route unsuitable for many mobility devices and slippery after rain or snow.
Highlights
Painted Desert Rim Trail, Petrified Forest National Park, Arizona hiking, Painted Desert, NPS trail
Why find a buddy
Good for companions who want scenery without a long hike. Agree on turnaround point, edge discipline and whether to walk the full round trip or use two vehicles.
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.