Horseshoe Mesa Loop

The Horseshoe Mesa Loop is an 11-mile lollipop-style loop trail located in Grand Canyon National Park. On this route, you'll find a singletrack trail with incredible views of the Colorado River and Grand Canyon. Due to its lack of shade, this trail is best attempted in the spring or fall when the temperatures are mild. The trail is rated as difficult and is suitable for hikers, runners, and backpackers. 

If you want to experience the trails of the Grand Canyon without the major crowds found closer to the Grand Canyon Village, this would be a wonderful adventure for you.

DIRECTIONS
 

• Starting from the Grandview Trailhead the trail descends along the Grandview Trail for 2.5 miles. 

• Stay to the left on the Grandview Trail at the first junction. 

• The trail levels out and at mile 3.6 take the .4 side trail to a scenic canyon overlook.

• Return back to the Grandview Trail and continue to descend for about another mile.

• At the next junction turn right and take the Tonto Trail for the next 2.75 miles. The trail is fairly flat throughout this section.

• Take the Tonto Trail to the Hance Creek Trail and begin a climb.

• Continue to climb via Hance Creek Trail, turn left at the Grandview Trail and follow uphill back to the start.
   

LOOKING FOR A LONGER VERSION?
The route described here can be extended in either direction via the Tonto Trail.

PARKING
Parking is available at the Grandview Trailhead. Vehicles are subject to the National Park fee upon entrance, for more information please visit: https://www.nps.gov/grca/planyourvisit/fees.htm 

CAMPING
If you are interested in camping in the Grand Canyon, or anywhere along the loop, a backcountry permit is required. For more information please visit:  https://www.nps.gov/places/000/backcountry-information-center.htm