The Notch Trail is the walk most visitors remember. The National Park Service gives it as about 1.25 miles round trip, taking one and a half to two hours, and rates it moderate to strenuous. The route starts in a dry canyon, follows the floor of the gully, climbs a ladder set against a steep wall and then follows a ledge that leads to a notch in the rock. At the end, the ground simply stops and the view opens across the White River Valley, with distant formations and prairie unfolding below. The ladder and ledge are the main challenges; the park cautions that the route is not recommended for those with a fear of heights, and warns of drop-offs and loose gravel. It is also treacherous during and after rain, when the clay turns slippery. Done in good conditions with sturdy shoes, it is a short, memorable adventure that does not require a full day or technical skills.
Start early. The trail begins near the Door and Window trailheads, and parking there fills as the day warms up. Morning also gives you shadow in the canyon, cooler air on the ledge and fewer people waiting at the ladder. Allow the full time the park suggests, even though the distance is short, because the ladder and the ledge slow every group, and the view at the end deserves a pause. Bring water, a hat and sun protection, and avoid carrying more than you need, since you will want both hands free on the ladder.
Footwear matters. Shoes with a good grip handle the gravel and clay better than casual sneakers, and a light pack is preferable to a handbag or a camera hung loosely around the neck. Children who are comfortable climbing can manage the trail with supervision, but it is not a good choice for toddlers, anyone who needs a handrail the whole way or visitors who are uneasy at height.
If you are unsure, walk the first stretch of the canyon and decide at the ladder; the ladder is the true test, and turning back there is perfectly sensible.
Check the weather and the ground. After rain or thunderstorms, the National Park Service advises caution on the Notch Trail, and a closed or slippery route is a good reason to substitute the Door and Window boardwalks. In extreme heat, early starts and plenty of water are essential, and storms can develop quickly on summer afternoons. Remember the usual rules for the park: stay on the marked route, keep a safe distance from wildlife, do not collect fossils or rocks, and take your litter with you.
What to expect
The experience
A 1.25-mile round-trip canyon hike with a ladder and a ledge, ending at a view over the White River Valley. Park entry applies; the trail is free.
Best time
Early morning in summer and midday in cooler months. Avoid it after rain or storms.
How long
One and a half to two hours, including the ladder and time at the viewpoint.
Tips
Wear shoes with grip and keep both hands free for the ladder. The route is not recommended if you fear heights, and it is slippery after rain.
Quick picks
- Best for
- Fit visitors who want the best short adventure in the park.
- Families
- Only for children who are confident climbers and well supervised; not for toddlers.
- Couples
- A shared mini-adventure with a spectacular reward at the end.
- Pair with
- The Door, Window and Fossil Exhibit boardwalks, which are nearby and far easier.
- Time needed
- Two hours.
Good questions
How hard is the Notch Trail?+
The National Park Service rates it moderate to strenuous. It is short, at about 1.25 miles round trip, but includes a ladder and a ledge with drop-offs and loose gravel.
Is it safe for children?+
It depends on the child. Confident, supervised climbers manage it, but the ladder and ledge are not suitable for toddlers or anyone who cannot climb unassisted. Turn back at the ladder if you have doubts.
Can I hike it after rain?+
The park describes the trail as treacherous during and after rain. If the clay is wet, choose a boardwalk trail instead and try again when it is dry.
How long does it take?+
Plan for one and a half to two hours, which allows for the ladder, the ledge and time at the viewpoint. Early starts help you avoid waiting at the ladder.
What should I wear?+
Shoes with a good grip, a hat, sunglasses and sunscreen, and carry water. A small backpack keeps your hands free for the climb.
