Hiking the Headland Trail

Take the Headland Trail to see Atsinna Pueblo and a birds-eye view of the El Morro valley.

NPS Photo

This 2-mile trail includes the Inscription Loop and takes you to the top of the El Morro bluff. It is a moderately strenuous trail with a gain of 224 ft of elevation. Hikers can choose to ascend via switchbacks or 132 stairs. At the top of the bluff, there are two ancestral Puebloan dwellings, one of which is partially excavated. Much of the upper section of the trail is on uneven sandstone so sturdy footwear is recommended.  

This trail opens when the visitor center opens at 9:00 am Mountain Time. Hikers must begin their hike no later than 3:00 pm and return to the visitor center no later than 4:45 pm. At certain times of the year, inclement weather may close part or all of the trail. The trails at El Morro National Monument are accessible only when the visitor center is open.

Details

Duration

60-150 Minutes

The average time to complete the Headland Trail is two hours. It may take more or less time, depending on personal fitness levels, number and length of stops, and if the Inscription Loop in included. 

Activity

Hiking

The trail is rated as moderately strenuous. Water, snacks, and sturdy shoes are recommended. 

Pets Allowed

Yes

Dogs are allowed on the trail as long as they are on leash, under the control of the owner, and all waste is bagged and removed on the trail. 

Activity Fee

No

Entrance fees may apply, see Fees & Passes information.

Location

El Morro National Monument

All trails begin and end at the Visitor Center.

Reservations

No

Season

Year Round

Portions of the trail may be closed in the winter months due to inclement weather.

Time of Day

Day

Accessibility Information

This trail is not wheelchair accessible. The Headland Trail includes climbing 132 stairs or moderately steep switchbacks and crosses the mesa top on an unpaved and uneven trail across bumpy sandstone.

The Headland Trail is marked on the map by the dashed line.