Mt. McConnel Summit Trail Loop

This 4.3-mile round trip hike gains 1300 feet of elevation before reaching the Mt. McConnel summit. The primitive trail is rated as difficult and has an ascent of many switchbacks, leading up to a wild flower-covered summit. The trail winds along the ridge line around 8,000 feet, offering panoramic views of the entire canyon. The route down from the summit is where things get a bit more intense...watch for trail markers as the trail gets rocky in areas and you can lose the path quite easily at the top. Lower on the descent, there are a few narrow spots with steep sides, so watch your step! Overall, this is a great trail that does not see much traffic and provides a great workout and lovely views in a relatively short hike. Dogs are welcome on this trail as well! 

The trailhead itself shares a parking lot with the Mountain Park Campground, which is right on the river and beautifully maintained. Additionally, the less strenuous lower Kreutzer Loop trail can be accessed from the same trailhead.