Trail Overview

This trail drops down from the Gould Pass Pueblito trail and loosely encircles Crow Canyon, with multiple spurs leading to the different points that overlook the canyon. This trail ends on the south side of Crow Canyon overlooking where it meets with Cottonwood Canyon. The beginning of the trail is fairly rough as it drops down the hillside to the open grasslands across the top of the mesa. The trail is fairly sandy in most places, but don't be fooled;it often covers ledges and rocks that protrude through the clay and dirt base underneath. There are several pueblitos in this area, all of which require at least a little hiking to view but several of which are quite impressive. You will find cell phone coverage is spotty if available at all, and the wind whips over the top of the mesa, so bring a jacket. At the end of the trail, it's a short hike/walk out to the rocks and ledges that overlook Crow and Cottonwood Canyons for a stunning view.

Photos of Crow Canyon Overlook/Road 550

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Difficulty

This rating is due almost exclusively to the initial trail down to the grasslands along the top of the mesa. It is fairly steep and has some pitch and unevenly cleared rocks and ledges.

History

The Dinetah Pueblitos were constructed starting in the early 18th century, in defensive locations overlooking canyons and valleys in a time period when clashes between the Navajo, Ute, other Puebloan tribes and Spaniards were quite common.

Technical Rating