Cold Spring Cave Trail

The Cold Spring Cave Trail is approximately 2.1 miles round trip and typically takes around 1 hour and 45 minutes to complete, depending on your pace and how much time you spend exploring the archaeological sites.

This trail is generally rated as easy to moderate. While it's not overly long, some sections of Butler Wash can be brush-choked, and the path includes an initial old jeep road before leading into a side canyon. The elevation gain is about 120 feet.

The trail crosses Butler Wash and follows a narrow canyon that penetrates Comb Ridge. You'll encounter an old jeep road initially, then smooth sandstone surfaces, and potentially brush-choked sections in the wash. Comb Ridge itself is a striking sandstone monocline.

The primary attractions are the well-preserved Anasazi (Ancestral Pueblo) cliff dwellings, including the remains of a kiva and other structures. You'll also see varied rock art, such as petroglyphs and hand pictographs. A notable feature is a perennial spring at the back of the cave, and an inscription from 1892 that gave the site its name. The views across the amphitheater are also scenic.

Information regarding specific dog regulations for this trail within Bears Ears National Monument is not explicitly provided. It's always best to check the official Bears Ears National Monument website or contact the local ranger station for the most current rules on pets, especially concerning archaeological sites.

While not explicitly stated, desert trails like this one are often best enjoyed in the spring and fall when temperatures are milder. Summer can be very hot, and winter might bring cold conditions, though snow is less common at lower elevations. Always check weather conditions before you go.

The Cold Spring Cave Trail is located within Bears Ears National Monument. While there isn't typically an entrance fee for the monument itself, specific permits might be required for certain activities or areas, especially for overnight stays or larger groups. It's advisable to check the official Bureau of Land Management (BLM) website for Bears Ears National Monument for any current regulations or permit requirements before your visit.

The trail is located in Utah, within the Bears Ears National Monument. The road to the trailhead can sometimes be in poor condition, potentially requiring you to park earlier and walk a short distance to the official start. Specific parking details are best confirmed with local land management offices.

Yes, the trail is generally rated as easy to moderate, making it suitable for beginners with a reasonable level of fitness. The main challenges might be navigating brushy sections or the potentially rough road to the trailhead.

This trail is particularly notable for its rich cultural history, offering access to significant Ancestral Puebloan ruins and rock art, including a kiva and various structures. The presence of a perennial spring within the cave is also a distinctive feature in this desert environment.

As with any desert hike, bring plenty of water, wear appropriate sun protection, and inform someone of your plans. Be mindful of the potentially rough road to the trailhead. When exploring the archaeological sites, remember to respect the cultural heritage by not touching or disturbing any structures or rock art.