Knife Edge Trail
What to Expect
Safety Advisory
The trail follows the mesa rim with unguarded drop-offs in places — keep children close and stay on the established path, especially near the escarpment edge where the ground can be loose.
No water sources or shade along the route; the mesa top is fully exposed, so afternoon sun in summer can be deceptively intense even on a short walk.
Trail Details
- 1
Time your walk to arrive at the northwest-facing overlooks about 45 minutes before sunset — the Montezuma Valley light show is the whole point of this trail, and you'll have it mostly to yourself while everyone else is at the cliff dwelling viewpoints.
- 2
Start from the trailhead near Morefield Campground and bring a light layer; the mesa's 8,000-foot elevation means even summer evenings cool off fast once the sun drops behind the La Sal Mountains.
- 3
Walk the full out-and-back rather than turning around early — the best unobstructed viewpoints are toward the far end where the old road curves closest to the escarpment edge.