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Difficulty
This reflects the 10Adventures difficulty rating for each route. We aim to keep ratings consistent across regions.
Moderate
Elevation
This reflects the total elevation gained throughout this route as measured by the GPS file. This includes all ascents and descents, and is higher than what is quoted in most route guides, which simply measure the distance between the starting-point and high-point of the route.
222 m
Distance
This reflects the return distance of this route as measured by the GPS file.
10.3 km
Duration
This reflects the estimated time the majority of users will take on this trail. If you are slower, add time to the top-end figure. If you are fast, then you may complete this route faster than this time range.
2.5-3.5h
User Ratings
These ratings are completed by users who have completed this trail and not subject to reviews by 10Adventures.
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Directions to Trailhead

Elephant Hill Trail

Elephant Hill Trail
Measurement:

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Table of contents

The Elephant Hill Trail is a beautiful route along a 4x4 route that affords hikers fantastic views of the Needles formation. This trail is shared by hikers, mountain bikers, and OHV/ATV drivers. We recommend heading out early in the morning to enjoy some peace and quiet along this route before it gets busy (and hot!) later in the day.

Route Description for Elephant Hill Trail

The Elephant Hill trail is an easy-to-moderate, out-and-back hike with incredible views of Canyonlands National Park. This route, shared by hikers and OHV drivers, gets hot and sunny in the afternoon; we recommend heading out early in the morning to beat the heat and the crowds. No matter when you go, don’t forget to bring good sun protection and lots of water. You may also want to pack the camera for this one- this hike offers incredible views of the Needles Formation - a series of colourful cedar mesa sandstone spires that tower above the desert landscape.

From the trailhead, follow the 4 x 4 trail west for 2.3 km to a divide. Take a left to follow the path as it curves southward. The trail continues on for another 2.9 km to end at the Devil’s Kitchen Campground.

If you are staying the night, set up your tent at the campground and enjoy a peaceful night under the desert stars. If you are not looking to camp, simply follow the same route back up to the trailhead.

Getting to the Elephant Hill Trail Trailhead

From the Needles Visitor Center, follow Needles Main Park Road for 2.8mi before taking a left onto Elephant Hill Road. Continue on Elephant Hill Road for 3.3mi to the Elephant Hill Trailhead.

Route Information

  • Backcountry Campground:

    Devil’s Kitchen Campground

  • When to do:

    Year-round

  • Pets allowed:

    No

  • Family friendly:

    Older Children only

  • Route Signage:

    Average

  • Crowd Levels:

    Moderate

  • Route Type:

    Out and back

Elephant Hill Trail Elevation Graph

Weather Forecast

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