Aztec Butte

Route Description for Aztec Butte

The Aztec Butte Trail is a short scramble up to the top of Aztec Butte in the Island in the Sky district of Canyonlands National Park. Though not technical, this trail does require scrambling, so hikers should be prepared with proper footwear and relevant experience. The last section going up (and the first section coming down) is the most treacherous, so take your time, and ask for a helping hand if you need it.

The view from the top is totally worth the climb. Aztec Butte offers stunning views of Canyonlands National Park and the La Sal Mountains way in the distance. For an especially spectacular experience- try this hike at sunset to see the canyons below lit up in shades of gold.

Along and around this trail, you will come across the Pueblo granaries- the Pueblo Peoples used these one and two-room structures to store grain and seeds hundreds of years ago. Although you cannot go into the granaries, these structures are incredible examples of early ingenuity.

From the trailhead, follow the path for 0.5 km to a divide. The trail to your left loops back to another, slightly smaller butte. The trail on the right continues up to the top of Aztec Butte.

At the top, take a rest and enjoy the 360 views of the canyons below before turning back and following the same path back to the trailhead.

Trail Highlights

The Granaries

The granaries are ancient structures nestled in the alcoves of Aztec Butte that were built and used by the Pueblo Peoples to store grain and seeds collected from the canyon floor. These granaries are one and two room structures that date back to 1200-1300CE.

Frequently Asked Questions

How long is the Aztec Butte Trail?

The Aztec Butte Trail is 2.7 km long.