Bowl Trail
What to Expect
Safety Advisory
The trail gains serious elevation in a short distance and sits above 7,000 feet — visitors coming from sea level will feel the altitude, especially on the uphill push to Hunter Peak.
Lightning is a real threat on the exposed summit and ridgeline sections, particularly during summer monsoon season from July through September. If clouds are building, skip the Hunter Peak spur and stay in the trees.
Trail Details
Pro Tips
Start early morning to catch the Hunter Peak summit before afternoon winds pick up — the exposed ridgeline can turn a pleasant hike into a battle above tree line.
There is no water anywhere on this trail, and the desert air will dehydrate you faster than you expect at elevation. Carry at least two liters even for this short loop.
Take the loop counterclockwise to get the steepest climbing done in morning shade, and save the ridgeline views for when the light hits the desert floor at its most dramatic.