The best walks and hikes around White Cliffs
5.0
(1)
22
hikers
5
hikes
Hiking around White Cliffs features a network of trails primarily characterized by rocky formations and varied terrain. The region offers routes that traverse areas with distinct geological features, providing diverse hiking experiences. These trails are suitable for exploring the natural landscape and offer opportunities for both shorter walks and more extended excursions.
Best hiking trails around White Cliffs
- The most popular hiking route is Pyramid Rock β Red Rock Park, a 4.6 miles (7.4 km) trail that takes 2β¦
Last updated: May 14, 2026
1
hikers
2.33km
00:37
20m
40m
Easy hike. Great for any fitness level. Easily-accessible paths. Suitable for all skill levels.
12
hikers
7.37km
02:09
200m
200m
Moderate hike. Good fitness required. Easily-accessible paths. Suitable for all skill levels.
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1
hikers
4.77km
01:19
80m
80m
Easy hike. Great for any fitness level. Easily-accessible paths. Suitable for all skill levels.
2
hikers
3.29km
00:58
90m
90m
Easy hike. Great for any fitness level. Easily-accessible paths. Suitable for all skill levels.
5.0
(1)
7
hikers
7.93km
02:20
220m
220m
Moderate hike. Good fitness required. Easily-accessible paths. Suitable for all skill levels.
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Tips from the Community
The North Hogback Trail is well marked with signs and cairns. The dirt path features some switchbacks near the trailhead, but then becomes easier. The beautiful view from the top is well worth the hike.
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North Hogback Trailhead has some parking on a dirt pull off from the dirt road, which is popular with ATVs. There are also signs showing the trails here.
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Church Rock Loop is a trail best taken in a clockwise direction, as indicated by the signs. This trail has hikers walking on a larger rock rather than a traditional path at some points. If you're not comfortable placing your foot in small cutouts and climbing a staircase-like feature, it is best to avoid the Church Rock Loop, but the Church Rock Stem is still a great, traditional trail to enjoy. There are four sections with gains of a few hundred feet in elevation, with steps carved into the rocks. At the top, the trail flattens out more, and hikers can follow cairns the rest of the way.
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The Church Rock Stem Trail leads to Church Rock Loop, winding through red rock formations and desert scrub. This area witnessed the largest uranium spill in U.S. history in 1979, releasing more radioactivity than the Three Mile Island accident just four months earlier.
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Red Rock Park is Gallupβs most popular parks and recreation system, nestled among red cliffs created over 200 million years ago. The park has a convention center, rodeo grounds with horse stalls, a museum, and campgrounds.
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Pyramid Rock, part of the Navajo Nation, can be reached by a Pyramid Rock Trail that leads to the summit of the peak, providing stunning views. At the top, a sign indicates the distance to cities like LA, Miami, New York, Seattle, and Albuquerque.
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The Pyramid Rock Trail offers a steep climb with stunning views. The well-marked path leads hikers through wild sagebrush, sandstone rocks, and trees like juniper and pine. Plenty of parking is available near the southern base of Red Rocks Park.
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Frequently Asked Questions
What kind of terrain can I expect when hiking around White Cliffs?
Hiking around White Cliffs primarily features rocky formations and varied terrain. The routes traverse areas with distinct geological features, offering diverse experiences. You'll encounter open vistas and landscapes shaped by these unique rock structures.
How many hiking trails are available in the White Cliffs area?
There are over 4 hiking trails available in the White Cliffs area, catering to various skill levels. You'll find a mix of easy walks and moderate hikes to explore the region's distinctive landscapes.
Are there any easy hikes suitable for beginners or families in White Cliffs?
Yes, there are easy hikes available. For instance, the Church Rock Loop β Red Rock Park is an easy 4.8 km path that provides a pleasant walk around distinctive rock structures. Another easy option is the Jagged Edge & North Hogback Loop β Rehoboth, a 3.3 km trail.
What do other hikers enjoy most about the trails in White Cliffs?
The area is highly rated by the komoot community, with an average score of 5.0 stars. Hikers often praise the distinct geological formations, rocky landscapes, and the open vistas that define the region's trails.
Are there any notable landmarks or attractions to see near the hiking trails?
Yes, the area offers interesting natural and historical attractions. You can visit Red Rock Park, Church Rock Trail, which is a natural monument, or explore the Pyramid Rock Trail itself. For a historical touch, the El Rancho Hotel & Motel in Gallup is also nearby.
What is a good moderate hike to experience the unique rock formations?
For a moderate experience showcasing the unique rock formations, consider the Pyramid Rock β Red Rock Park route. This 7.4 km trail takes approximately 2 hours and 9 minutes to complete and features notable rock formations with scenic views.
Are there any circular walks available in the White Cliffs area?
Yes, several trails in the White Cliffs area are designed as loops. For example, the Church Rock Loop β Red Rock Park and the Jagged Edge & North Hogback Loop β Rehoboth are both circular routes, offering convenient starting and ending points.
What is the typical duration for hikes in White Cliffs?
The duration of hikes in White Cliffs varies depending on the trail. Easy routes like the Jagged Edge & North Hogback Loop β Rehoboth can be completed in under an hour, while moderate trails such as Pyramid Rock β Red Rock Park typically take around 2 hours.
What are the elevation changes like on the trails in White Cliffs?
The trails in White Cliffs feature varying elevation changes. For instance, the moderate Pyramid Rock β Red Rock Park route has an elevation gain of about 200 meters. Easier trails like the Church Rock Loop β Red Rock Park have more gentle ascents, around 80 meters.
Is there a trail that connects different points of interest?
Yes, the Pyramid Rock Trail β Pyramid Rock loop from Church Rock is a longer moderate route that allows you to explore the area, starting from Church Rock and looping around Pyramid Rock, offering a comprehensive experience of the local landscape.
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