ChuckwallaHiking Difficulty
Easy
Length
1.00 mi
Trail Traffic
Light
Route Type
Out and Back
Highlights
Trail Surface
Native
Accessibility
Bathrooms Available
Suitability
Dogs
Recommended Use
Hiking
Directions
Chuckwalla is accessible year round and is very easy to find. Just head north on Bluff Street, also known as Highway 18 and turn off Snow Canyon Parkway. The gravel Chuckwalla Climbing Area parking lot, does has restrooms facilities on location. There are maps kiosks provided to view which route might work best.
Description
Named after the desert lizard native to the southwest, Chuckwalla is a beautiful and calming desert trail you and the family will be sure to enjoy. One of the most trafficked trails in the Red Cliffs Desert Reserve, and part of the Paradise Canyon Network of trails, there’s plenty to do and see here for kids, adults, and even dogs.
Starting out on the red clay and dirt trail, you’ll immediately see the Chuckwalla climbing wall, suitable for all climbing and rappelling abilities. Afterward, the trail connects with Paradise Point, the Turtle Wall Hill Trail, Paradise Rim, Halfway Wash, and Beck Hill trails. The trail also includes spots of slickrock, which for bikers can sometimes get pretty technical, especially on the descent.
And let’s not forget the great views throughout the traill! You’ll bask in the full expanse of Santa Clara. Also, keep an eye out for beautiful red rock arches and interesting rock formations, as well as animals like cottontail rabbits, lizards, hawks, eagles, and sometimes tortoises or even the gila monster.
Whether on a bike or just taking a hike, Chuckwalla is a great connector trail, opening up your experience for several different loop or out-and-back options.
As always, be sure to bring plenty of water and be wary of too much sun exposure.
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