Angel Rocks Trail

The feel

The trailhead is at a riverside picnic area. The trail follows the North Fork of the Chena River through mixed spruce and birch and crosses a boggy area on a boardwalk. It then turns sharply uphill to Overlook Rock, the first tor, and climbs moderately steeply past many more tors to the ridge top.

It is the most hiked trail in the recreation area, and it suits families. Plant life is interesting, especially in July: broomrape and witches-broom near the start, violets along the stream, and sage, poppies, arnica and dogbone on the steep south-facing slopes.

What to expect

Route and terrain

Loop, 3.5 to 3.7 miles, with 900 to 1750 ft of gain. Boardwalk, forest and a moderately steep ascent past many tors to the ridge top.

Time

2 to 4 hours.

Crowds and best time

It is the most hiked trail in the recreation area. July is when the plants are most interesting.

Parking

The trailhead is at milepost 48.9 of Chena Hot Springs Road. Turn right just before the bridge and follow the trail upstream from the parking lot.

Fees and passes

A fee or an annual pass is required at designated parking areas.

Dogs

Pets must be on leashes at developed facilities such as campgrounds and picnic areas. Trapping occurs within the park boundaries.

Kids

Rated kid-friendly and great for families.

Hazards

Portions are steep and rocky and can be treacherous. Weather can hamper visibility and make it hard to find trail markers.

Season and access

Mountain bikes and other vehicles are prohibited.

Mingo says

Come in July if you care about plants along the trail. Go on a clear day, because poor visibility makes trail markers hard to find.

Before you go

• Portions of the trail are steep and rocky and can be treacherous.
• Park at the trailhead lot at milepost 48.9 and carry a parking pass if you have an annual one.
• Choose your route at the ridge top: return the same way, take the steep Angel Rocks Loop Trail down, or continue toward Chena Hot Springs.
• Leave the mountain bike at home.

Written October 2026. Sources are listed at the end of this page.