Cave Spring Trail Guide
Cowboys, Cultures, and Canyons: Hike the Cave Spring Trail Guide
The Cave Spring Trail in Canyonlands National Park (Needles District) offers a fascinating glimpse into the lives of both ancient Native Americans and more recent cowboy culture. This short, easy loop trail features rock art panels, historic cowboy camps, and stunning views of the surrounding canyon landscape. It's a perfect choice for families and those looking for a relatively easy hike with a rich historical and cultural component. The Cave Spring area has a history spanning thousands of years. Prehistoric Native Americans, including the Ancestral Puebloans, inhabited the area and left behind rock art panels depicting animals, humans, and geometric designs. Later, in the late 19th and early 20th centuries, cowboys used the area as a base for cattle ranching. They built corrals, a line camp, and left behind other artifacts that provide a glimpse into their hardscrabble lives. The Cave Spring Trail offers a variety of activities. Visitors can admire the well-preserved rock art panels, explore the historic cowboy camp, and enjoy the scenic views of the surrounding canyons. The trail is a loop, making it easy to navigate. Ladders are present to access some areas, adding a bit of adventure. Remember to bring water, wear sunscreen, and be respectful of the fragile desert environment. While there are no specific culinary traditions directly associated with the Cave Spring Trail, the nearby town of Moab offers a variety of dining options.
Transportation
The Cave Spring Trail is located in the Needles District of Canyonlands National Park. From Moab, take US-191 south for approximately 40 miles. Turn west onto UT-211 and follow it for about 35 miles to the Needles District Visitor Center. From the visitor center, continue on the main park road to the Cave Spring Trailhead. A park entrance fee is required. There is no public transportation to the Needles District.