Riggs Spring Loop

Riggs Spring Loop is a backcountry circuit through the park's southern end, starting and ending at Yovimpa Point and dropping through spruce, fir, and bristlecone forest with views toward distant cliff lines. The western half is the harder half - steeper grades and denser tree cover - which is worth planning for if you're doing this as a long day hike rather than an overnight.

Good to know

• 8.6 miles round-trip with about 2,200 feet of elevation gain, typically 5 hours
• Rated strenuous; doable as a day hike but commonly done as an overnight backpack
• No permit needed for day use; a backcountry permit is required for any overnight stay, available at the visitor center
• Bear-resistant canisters are recommended for overnight trips and available free to borrow at the visitor center
• Restrooms at Yovimpa Point year-round, but no water sources on the loop itself - carry what you need