Chimneys Trail

4.8-mile moderate hike to the chimneys, one of the park's iconic structures complete with Native American rock art.

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Chimneys Trail Details

Chimneys Trail begins on mile 13 of the Ross Maxwell Scenic Drive and is a 4.8-mile round trip hike. At the trailhead, you can see the chimneys in the distance and the hike is only labeled as moderate because of the distance. With a 475-foot elevation gain, it is a hike with high reward when you reach the chimneys. Kids will find the chimneys fun to climb and the solitude of the hike gives a real appreciation for the area. The Native American rock art at the base of one of the chimneys is spectacular as well as the small arch that can be found in a chimney. Be sure to bring plenty of water and hydrate regularly as you make your way through the desert to these impressive geological structures.

Difficulty

Moderate

Distance

4.8 miles

Estimated time

1.5 hours

Region

N/A

Nearby Parks Around Chimneys Trail

Compare nearby parks around Chimneys Trail when deciding whether to expand the route after this stop.

15.6 mi away

Big Bend

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203.5 mi away

Guadalupe Mountains

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214.0 mi away

Carlsbad Caverns

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295.7 mi away

White Sands

National Park · NM

480.5 mi away

Saguaro

National Park · AZ

549.6 mi away

Petrified Forest

National Park · AZ

Nearby Points of Interest Around Chimneys Trail

Use nearby POIs to quickly expand your options beyond Chimneys Trail while the map context is still fresh.

2.2 mi away

Lower Burro Mesa Pouroff

A 1.5 mile drive and 0.5 mile hike lead to a dry waterfall and amazing rock formations off this underrated side road.

2.8 mi away

Mule Ears Spring

The Smoky Creek Trail is a moderate 7.6 mile out and back trail and the Mule Ears Spring is located at mile 2 of the trail.

2.8 mi away

Mule Ears Viewpoint

A crystal clear view of famous rock formations, the Mule Ears Peaks!

2.9 mi away

Sotol Vista

Sotol Vista is the best place to watch the sunset over the Chisos Mountains.

2.9 mi away

Sotol Vista Overlook

This stunning vista offers a view of the entire western side of the park from its high position above the desert.