Painted Desert Wilderness Access Trail

What this hike is

This is the park’s official gateway from the Painted Desert Inn down into the Painted Desert Wilderness. The signed access drops steeply off the rim via switchbacks, then turns you loose in a maze of colorful badlands. The designated access itself is short—about 1.0 mile round-trip total—but most hikers use it as a springboard for a bigger off-trail loop in the wilderness.

The experience

From the Painted Desert Inn, you’ll descend quickly to the flats below, trading crowds for quiet. The views open to rolling red, pink, and gray hills—classic Chinle Formation badlands—and scattered petrified wood. Past the initial descent there is no maintained path: navigation is on you. Many hikers stitch together a 7–9 mile wilderness loop from here, using washes, ridgelines, and landmarks; expect to backtrack and re-route often.

Why go (and why you might not)

If you want solitude and a taste of true backcountry right off the main scenic drive, this is your move. The access is short but steep, and the real payoff comes if you continue exploring the wilderness beyond. If you prefer well-marked trails or aren’t up for route-finding, you’ll likely be happier staying on the rim paths.

What you’ll see

Look for vividly banded hills of bentonite clay and fossilized logs dating back roughly 210 million years. The wider wilderness includes famed areas like the Black Forest and features such as the historic Onyx Bridge—both reachable only with solid navigation and extra mileage.

Tips and logistics

• Length: 1.0 mile round-trip for the access only. Many extend it into a 7–9 mile off-trail loop from the bottom.
• Navigation: Pick up the wilderness route handout with GPS points and photos at a visitor center. Don’t expect signs once you leave the switchbacks.
• Bring more water than you think you need; there are no sources. Sun protection is mandatory; shade is basically zero.
• Overnight trips require a free wilderness permit from a visitor center. Day use does not.

Best time to hike

Spring and fall offer the most comfortable temps. Summer brings intense heat and full exposure, which can be dangerous. Winter can be cold and windy. Avoid wet days—the bentonite clay gets slick and treacherous after rain.