Cave Spring
What to Expect
Safety Advisory
The cryptobiotic soil crust (those dark, bumpy patches of biological soil) is everywhere along this trail. One footprint destroys decades of growth, so stay on slickrock and the marked path — no shortcuts.
The ladder rungs can be slick after rain or morning frost. Test your grip before committing your weight, especially if you're carrying a child in a pack.
Trail Details
Pro Tips
Hike the loop counterclockwise — you'll hit the cowboy camp and rock art first while your legs are fresh, then tackle the ladders on the back half when you're warmed up and the route feels like a reward rather than a chore.
The two metal ladders are sturdy but narrow, so if you're hiking with kids, let faster groups pass rather than creating a bottleneck. Gloves help on cold mornings when the rungs feel like grabbing an ice rail.
The rock art panel is easy to walk right past — look for the pictographs on the ceiling of the alcove above the cowboy camp, not at eye level. Morning light illuminates them best, while afternoon sun washes them out entirely.