Near Red Reef Trail
Red Reef Trail
Near Red Reef Trail
Red Reef Trail
Near Red Reef Trail
View from the trail
Near Red Reef Trail
View from the trail
Near Red Reef Trail
Red Reef Trail

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Hike Trail

Red Reef Trail

4.6 (8 Ratings)
A popular trail to a nearby swimming hole or a backcountry trek connecting Quail Creek with Cottonwood Canyon.
5.9
mi
Distance
697
ft
Gain
strenuous
Difficulty
River/CreekWaterfall

Route Details

Flatter
Steeper
5.93mi
Distance
697ft
Elevation Gain
639ft
Elevation Loss
45%
Max Grade
3,765ft
High Point
3,194ft
Low Point
Path Type
Point to Point
Description
The first section of the trail is very popular. Nice weather brings visitors to the narrow canyon seeking the waterfalls and pools from Quail Creek. The trail also has a few sections requiring the use of moki steps and other scrambling techniques. There is usually a hand rope to help traverse the wall at the destination pools and waterfall. From there the canyon continues up stream through a long slot and multiple dry falls, often filled with water during wet season or after rains. The creek flows constantly during the spring season but often shuts down later in the year. Hikers will get wet unless they choose somewhat difficult climbs above the drainage to circumvent the deepest pools.

Route Conditions

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Anasazi Trail to Red Reef East Loop

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Red Reef Trail

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Red Cliffs Canyon Loop

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Little Purgatory Trail

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Views
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Contributors
hdjohnson