Chesler Park Viewpoint

The trail crosses slickrock benches and sandy washes before climbing over a rough, rocky pass. Expect uneven footing and some scrambling. The listed 533 feet is the route's overall elevation change; the cumulative climbing is much greater, so don't treat that number as the whole effort. The full Chesler Park Loop and Joint Trail continues beyond the viewpoint for a 10.7-mile, five-to-seven-hour outing, including a narrow passage through deep rock fractures.

At the top, a slickrock platform looks out over desert grasses and shrubs surrounded by sandstone towers. Give the view a few minutes: the spires are not one wall but a broken ring around the open basin. For a photo, use the dark rock gap as a frame and leave some pale slickrock in the foreground; it helps the cluster of towers read clearly.

The tall, thin formations are Cedar Mesa Sandstone, the colorful spires that gave this district its name. Water erosion carved them over time, leaving the narrow towers and the broad stretches of slickrock you cross on the way in.

The trail begins at Elephant Hill Trailhead, reached by an unpaved park road. The separate technical 4WD road starts in the same area; this viewpoint route is a hike from the trailhead. There is parking, a vault toilet, and picnic tables at the start, but no dependable water along the trail. Carry all you need; the park recommends one liter per person per hour. Dogs are not allowed on the trail, and the route is not wheelchair-accessible. Winter can bring snow or ice to the rocky sections.