Hike the Harpers Corner Trail

A hiker enjoys the view of the Yampa River Canyon from the end of the Harpers Corner Trail.

NPS Photo

Distance: 2 miles (3.2 km) round trip
Elevation Change: Approximately 100 feet (30.4 meters)
Level of Difficulty: Moderate
Type of Trail: Out and back, not a loop
Trailhead: End of the Harpers Corner Road, 31 miles (33.7 km) north of the Canyon Visitor Center.

The Harpers Corner Trail runs along a narrow ridge to a spectacular viewpoint. Along the way, hikers can gaze across the remote canyon country. The Green River flows through Whirlpool Canyon over 2,500 feet (762 meters) below the trail. The pinyon pine and juniper trees provide shade on hot days and are frequented by a variety of birds. The end of the trail features and overlook with sweeping views of the river canyons.

Hiking brochures are available at the Visitor Centers. A more detailed guide book for this trail is available at the park bookstore.

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Rules and Regulations

• Pets and animals who provide only comfort or emotional support are prohibited on this trail.
• Carry out all trash.
• Collecting artifacts, fossils, plants, antlers, rocks, or other objects is prohibited.
• Do not feed or approach wildlife.
• Biking on trails is not permitted in Dinosaur National Monument.

Your Safety

• There is no shade on this trail.
• Lighting strikes are more common at high elevations. Don't attempt this trail in a thunderstorm.
• Be prepared for desert hiking. Wear a hat and sunscreen. Take water. A minimum of 1 gallon (3.8 liters) of water per person is recommended in summer.
• Temperatures can exceed 100°F (38°C) in summer. To avoid the heat, hike in the morning or evening. Carry a headlamp if hiking near nightfall.
• Let someone know where you are going and when you are due back.
  Wear comfortable, sturdy shoes, such as hiking boots or athletic shoes. Open-toed shoes or sandals are not recommended.
• Watch for wildlife. This is bear and mountain lion country. Keep small children close.
• All natural areas pose risks. Your safety depends on your own good judgment.

Details

Duration

1-2 Hours

Activity

Front-Country Hiking

Pets Allowed

No

Pets and animals who provide only comfort or emotional support are prohibited on this trail. Per the Americans with Disabilities Act, working service dogs may go wherever their handlers go.

Activity Fee

No

Visitors must pay the park entrance fee or show a valid pass at the Entrance Station or Quarry Visitor Center. There is no separate or additional fee for this activity.

Location

Harpers Corner Road

Harpers Corner Trail is located at the very end of Harpers Corner Road, about 31 miles (50 km) north of the Canyon Visitor Center near Dinosaur, Colorado.

Reservations

No

Season

Spring, Summer, Fall

The Harpers Corner Road leading to this trail is typically impassable due to seasonal snow and ice. If you are visiting when snow is on the ground, contact the Information Desk at [phone] to find out if the Harpers Corner Trail is open.

Time of Day

Any Time

Accessibility Information

The trail is primarily a narrow footpath approximately 2 feet (0.6 meters) wide. The surface is a mixture of dirt and rock. There are some steep grades. While the trail is rugged and may be difficult to traverse for some individuals with mobility disabilities, the terrain would not preclude those who are willing to take on the challenge. The trail is not wheelchair accessible. 

Harpers Corner Trail

Map of Harpers Corner Trail in Dinosaur National Monument. Trailhead is at the end of the Harpers Corner Road.