Near Ottos Bathtub
A dry river runs through it
Near Ottos Bathtub
Without spoiling the surprise of the Bathtub, here is the view into Monument Canyon from the location. Just make your way, carefully to the edge to see a piece of history.
Near Ottos Bathtub
Ottos's bathtub.

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Driving Directions
Classic Hike Route

Ottos Bathtub

4.3 (3 Ratings)
A nice hike down from Rim Rock Drive to explore a less traveled part of the monument.
8.1
mi
Distance
655
ft
Gain
moderate
Difficulty
Regional Classic
A must do route for the area handpicked by local experts.
Geologically SignificantViews

Route Details

Flatter
Steeper
8.12mi
Distance
655ft
Elevation Gain
655ft
Elevation Loss
25%
Max Grade
6,550ft
High Point
6,083ft
Low Point
Path Type
There and Back
Description
Park at the Upper Liberty Cap trailhead parking lot and follow Upper Liberty Cap Trail along the plateau for a couple of miles. The views are great, and the trail (an old road grade) is very mellow. As you approach the descent, there are a few steeper spots, and given the soil, it's best not to hike this one when it's been raining as it will become muddy and slick. Around 3.3 miles into the hike, there is a cairn marking a lighter traveled trail off to the left (north). This is the turn-off for Otto's Bathtub. This feature is a geologic feature that John Otto later added a dam along to collect water. There are even old chopped steps heading down, though it's not recommended to take those as they've eroded quite a lot, and you may not get back up. This is a great spot to have a nice picnic and when you're finished, simply turn around and head back the way you came.

Route Conditions

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Contributors
Liz