Last updated: April 5, 2024
Thing to Do
Eagle Nest Point Trail
NPS photo
The hike to Eagle Nest Point goes along a ridge to an overlook amid limber pine and Douglas fir. The overlook provides a great vantage point to view the cayons and ridges in the distance. The unmaintained trail is along an old dirt road and is very uneven in places. The hike is two miles out and back with minimal elevation gain. The trail is overgrown in many places and it may be hard to follow. Speak to a ranger at the visitor center before attempting this hike.
Please be cautious hiking at Fossil Butte National Monument. The trail is at an elevation of approximately 7800 ft (2390 m) in a desert; you will get sunburned and dehydrated more easily than at lower elevations. The air is also much thinner than at lower elevations and can put more strain on you. There is no shade at the beginning of the trail and conditions can get very hot. Be sure to pack sunscreen, a hat, bug spray, and plenty of water. Avoid hiking during thunderstorms.
Collecting fossils or other natural or cultural items is prohibited by federal law 36 CFR 2.1.
Please be cautious hiking at Fossil Butte National Monument. The trail is at an elevation of approximately 7800 ft (2390 m) in a desert; you will get sunburned and dehydrated more easily than at lower elevations. The air is also much thinner than at lower elevations and can put more strain on you. There is no shade at the beginning of the trail and conditions can get very hot. Be sure to pack sunscreen, a hat, bug spray, and plenty of water. Avoid hiking during thunderstorms.
Collecting fossils or other natural or cultural items is prohibited by federal law 36 CFR 2.1.
Details
Duration
1-2 Hours
This trail is 2 miles round trip where you gain minimal elevation. As the trail is located at approximately 7800 feet, the hike is mild to moderate depending on how acclimated one is to the altitude. Generally the hike takes between one and two hours.
Activity
Hiking
A 2 mile (3.2 km) round-trip hike with minimal elevation gain beginning at an elevation of 7800 ft (2390 m).
Pets Allowed
No
Activity Fee
No
Entrance fees may apply, see Fees & Passes information.
Location
Parking lot for Eagle Nest Point Trail
To access the Eagle Nest Point hike, take the Scenic Drive past the Nature Trail and Picnic Area. The Scenic Drive continues 4 miles up a steep incline on gravel road. If you are driving a RV or pulling a trailer behind your vehicle, we do not suggest continuing up this road. It is very narrow and there may not be any area large enough to turn your vehicle around. You are welcome to unhitch a trailer and leave it in the Visitor Center parking area.
Eagle Nest Point and Cundick Ridge are accessed from the first gate on your right side as you drive up the Scenic Drive. Park in the small parking lot and walk past the gate onto the dirt road. When the road forks, take the left fork to hike to Eagle Nest Point. The right fork heads to Cundick Ridge overlook.
Eagle Nest Point and Cundick Ridge are accessed from the first gate on your right side as you drive up the Scenic Drive. Park in the small parking lot and walk past the gate onto the dirt road. When the road forks, take the left fork to hike to Eagle Nest Point. The right fork heads to Cundick Ridge overlook.
Reservations
No
Season
Summer
The Scenic Drive usually opens sometime in May and closes in October after the first snow storm. Please contact the visitor center to see if the scenic drive is open.
Time of Day
Day
The park is open sunrise to sunset.
Accessibility Information
This trail is 2 miles round trip where you gain minimal elevation. The trail is located at approximately 7800 ft (2390 m) elevation. The trail is unmaintained and along an old road; as such the trail is rough and uneven. The trail is overgrown in many places and hard to follow. Service animals are allowed.