Park Avenue Trail

 

The Park Avenue Trail is only one mile or two miles as an out and back. If parking at the first trail head, the trail descends into a wide canyon and down Courthouse wash with huge sandstone fins and walls on either side. It is an easy hike with impressive scenery. Along the hike you will see rock formations known as The Organ, The Tower of Babel, The Three Gossips, and Sheep Rock. All are part of the Courthouse Towers. This by far is one of the most enjoyable hikes in the park. Many people suggest hiking this trail in the late afternoon for the best photo opportunities. However, any time of day will provide great opportunities, just from different positions and perspective. I enjoyed hiking this in the early morning. Late in the day the opposite side of the canyon will be lit up. Take your pick.

Side Trail – When hiking down from the first trail head for Park Avenue Trail (on left when going into the park), there is a side canyon on the left just before you reach the slick rock wash. You will see a large Butte and Argon Tower directly in front. Watch for the shallow wash on the left (see photo). There may be cairns at the mouth but a few yards in and you will find a social trail to explore this canyon. Travel as far as you have time and water for. Interesting formations along the way and very quiet. This is not an official trail and probably not monitored by the park service. So don’t venture too far outside the wash. Do not enter if rain is forecast.