Foothills Loop
What to Expect
Safety Advisory
This loop is fully exposed with zero shade for the entire route. From June through September, ground temperatures can exceed what the air temperature suggests by a wide margin — start at dawn or skip it entirely on triple-digit days.
Water sources are nonexistent on the trail. Carry at least two liters per person, more in warm months. The nearest refill is back at the trailhead.
Trail Details
Pro Tips
Hike it clockwise — take the Frijole Trail first to knock out the steeper section while your legs are fresh, then cruise the more gradual Foothills Trail back with El Capitan views ahead of you instead of behind.
Starting from Frijole Ranch instead of Pine Springs shaves a full mile off the loop and puts you right next to the historic ranch buildings, worth a quick look before or after your hike.
The stretch facing Bear Canyon catches golden light beautifully in the hour after sunrise — if you start by 7 AM in spring or fall, you'll hit that section with the canyon walls glowing amber and have the trail almost entirely to yourself.
Photos
NPS Photograph
