A 1.0-mile steep, paved loop leads from the top of the mesa down into the blue badlands, a colorful area of cone-shaped hills in Chinle Shale.
The hills are composed of bentonite, a soft, porous clay, which is very susceptible to erosion. The bands of color represent different layers that were deposited under water. Manganese and iron oxides are responsible for the colors.
Details
Length:
1 mile loop
Difficulty:
Easy Steep in places
Season:
Year round
Additional Details:
The top portion of this trail may be negotiated by strollers and wheelchairs with assistance. But where the trail begins to drop very steeply to its lower portion, strollers and wheelchairs should be turned around.
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ArizonaStart planning your Arizona vacation with the Official State Visitor's guide - available in print, electronically, or both. Fill out the form to request your free travel packet, which includes an Arizona Official State Visitor's Guide and an Arizona state highway map. The Arizona Office of Tourism ships domestically as well as the following countries only: United Kingdom, Germany, France, Japan, Canada and Mexico. Request this Free Visitor GuideRequested!You're all set! Request a few more Visitor Guides, or complete the form below to receive your guides by mail.
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