Hike the Square Tower Group Loop Trail

Explore the Square Tower Group's many structures.

NPS photo

This two mile loop trail starts at the visitor center and circles around the Square Tower Group structures / Little Ruin Canyon. The trail starts as sidewalk down to the overlook, then veers off in either direction (and loops back around) to circle the canyon. A portion of this trail crosses the canyon, with 80 feet of elevation gain and loss on stairs. The primitive trail is lined with rocks and passes within 5-10 feet of most of the structures, allowing visitors an uninterrupted and natural view of these architectural wonders. A trail guide gives historical information and insight into the towers, but we encourage you to ponder the day-to-day life of the ancestral Pueblo people who lived here. 

The Square Tower Group is Hovenweep’s largest and most convenient collection of standing structures. Ten buildings perch on the rim of Little Ruin Canyon; the remains of several more are crumbled down the canyon walls. Some of the most popular and unique structures in the Four Corners region are in this canyon: Hovenweep Castle, Twin Towers, and Square Tower, for which the group is named. 

You don’t have to walk the entire loop to see and enjoy the Square Tower Group. Several out-and-back hikes give plenty of options to do as little or as much as you can or want. 

Visiting Respectfully 

These structures may seem long-abandoned, but they are ancestral homes for the modern Pueblo peoples, many of whom believe their ancestors inhabit them still. Hovenweep National Monument was established to protect these places. Help us protect these dwellings by remaining on trail, not touching or entering any structure, and leaving any artifact in place. Thank you for doing your part and visiting respectfully! 

Details

Activity

Front-Country Hiking

Age(s)

All ages

Pets Allowed

Yes

Yes – pets must be on leash (6 feet or shorter) and under control at all times 

Activity Fee

No

Entrance fees may apply, see Fees & Passes information.

Location

Square Tower Group

Park at the visitor center and follow the sidewalk through the visitor center breezeway. The sidewalk leads to the overlook and the unpaved trail continues from there. 

Reservations

No

Season

Year Round

Trails may icy and slippery in the winter. This trail has little shade. 

Time of Day

Day

Trails are closed after sunset to sunrise (times change throughout year).

Accessibility Information

The first 300 yards from the visitor center to the canyon overlook are paved. At the overlook, the trail turns to primitive slickrock, dirt, and gravel. Most of the trail is on top of the canyon with very little elevation change and a few steps up or down onto rock. However, part of the trail crosses the canyon, descending 80 feet into the canyon and ascending 80 feet to reach the other side. There are also 4 benches placed along the trail in the shade. This trail is not wheelchair accessible.