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This trail consists of a steep series of switchbacking steps to a fantastic view of amazing geology.


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Map Key

1.9

Miles

3.1

KM

Point to Point

4,659' 1,420 m

High

3,134' 955 m

Low

1,586' 483 m

Up

64' 19 m

Down

16%

Avg Grade (9°)

36%

Max Grade (20°)

Dogs No Dogs

Features Views

Description

This challenging and rugged trail has views that only improve the higher you go. The distance is short, but the trail gains elevation quickly through tricky rock and scree, making this a more strenuous undertaking than it might appear initially.

After passing the historical buildings of Lees Fort and the nearby mining debris, follow the wide dirt road over flat terrain upriver. Keep an eye out for the sunken wreck of a paddle boat and more mining relics. The exposed and shadeless Spencer Trail branches off to the left (northeast) leaving the river and starting to ascend through the hills. Alternately traverse exposed cliffs, thread through boulders and climb sandy stone steps to gain precious elevation. After another set of steeper, sustained switchbacks, you reach the plateau. Spend some time exploring at the top to experience all the following views: Page, Paria River, Lake Powell, Glen Canyon, Echo Peaks, Vermilion Cliffs, Navajo Mountian, Lee's Ferry.

Historical notes: this trail was named after Charles Spencer who was in charge of the gold mining operations here. He built the Spencer Trail to transport coal to the mine from Utah.

Flora & Fauna

Lizards, cactus.

Contacts

Shared By:

Megan W

Trail Ratings

  4.7 from 6 votes

#6963

Overall
  4.7 from 6 votes
5 Star
67%
4 Star
33%
3 Star
0%
2 Star
0%
1 Star
0%
Trail Rankings

#173

in Arizona

#6,963

Overall
28 Views Last Month
1,954 Since Jul 2, 2015
Difficult Difficult

0%
0%
0%
33%
67%
0%

Photos

From the top of Spencer Trail overlooking Lee's Ferry with Navajo Bridge and the Vermillion Cliffs in the background.
Jan 20, 2021 near LeChee, AZ
View from Spencer Trail
Jan 7, 2023 near LeChee, AZ
View from the trail switchbacks.
Jan 7, 2023 near LeChee, AZ
Cairn and post at the summit. It was a helpful marker to find the trail again after hiking around on top.
Jan 20, 2021 near LeChee, AZ
View from the trail.
Jan 7, 2023 near LeChee, AZ
View from the trail
Jan 7, 2023 near LeChee, AZ

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Weather


Current Trail Conditions

All Clear 85 days ago
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