Window Loop Trail

Window Loop is a remote backcountry hike with a circuit through the granite hills north of Park Boulevard. From Maze Loop Trailhead, allow about 5.5 miles and three to four hours: follow Maze Loop about 1.5 miles to the Window branch, make a roughly 2.6-mile circuit through the rock country, then retrace the approach. The often quoted 1.8-mile figure describes the Window segment itself; the road approach and the shared Maze Loop leg that closes the circuit add about 3.7 miles. This is a half-day outing, not a quick roadside stop.

The first stretch follows Maze Loop through the backcountry, then the Window path bends away across sandy washes and rocky ground toward the namesake granite opening. A short shared section of Maze Loop joins the two ends of the Window segment and completes the circuit; after that, follow your approach back to the trailhead. The opening is small against the ridge, so it can be easier to pick out from a little distance. From one angle the outline resembles a bird; frame the ridge with a few foreground boulders to show the scale.

Expect sandy washes, rocky ridgetops and uneven footing. This is backcountry, and open desert junctions take attention; carry an offline map and keep track of your position as you move between the named trails. Bring all the water and food you need and tell someone your route and expected return time. In summer, start early to avoid the hottest part of the day.

Start at Maze Loop Trailhead beside Park Boulevard. The Window circuit begins about 1.5 miles along Maze Loop, so count that access walk in both directions. There are no supplies on the route. Pets are prohibited on park trails and in the backcountry.