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Cave Spring Trail was one of my favorite trails in Canyonlands National Park. It’s located in the Needles district and is a relatively easy 0.6 mile loop.
Cowboy Camp
Shortly after starting the trail, there’s an old wooden fence and then what’s left of a cowboy camp. Cowboys who would move cattle through the area lived in the small alcove when they passed through.
Ranching took place starting in the 1890s, well before the area became a national park in 1964. It was discontinued by park authorities in 1975.
Cave Spring
Just past the cowboy camp is another alcove containing Cave Spring. The spring provided water to Native Americans for several centuries, and later to the cowboys. There are a few pictographs on the walls above the spring.
Views
From the spring, the trail continues under the shade until you reach two ladders. Climbing the ladders takes you up to the top of a rock where there are spectacular views of the landscape.
While I enjoyed the human element of the trail, the views at the top stole the show. I was able to get 360° views and even see some of the pinnacles in the distance that give the Needles district its name.
Cairns at the top of the rock lead you along the trail where you can look down on some of the alcoves below. After heading down from the rock, I walked under the shade again until I came back to the trailhead.
