Quick Facts:

Location: Glen Canyon National Recreation Area near Page, Arizona

Coordinates: 36.87702125205, -111.50389094699781

Length: 4.5 Miles

Difficulty: Moderate

Elevation Gain: 700 Feet

Dog Friendly: Yes

Introduction:

Nine Mile Draw Trail, located in the Glen Canyon National Recreation Area near Page, Arizona, is a hidden gem that offers a peaceful escape into the stunning desert landscape. This lesser-known trail provides hikers with an opportunity to explore the rugged beauty of the Southwest without the crowds. Whether you’re looking for solitude, scenic vistas, or a bit of adventure, Nine Mile Draw Trail is a must-visit for those who appreciate the quiet beauty of the desert.

How to Get There:

Getting to Nine Mile Draw Trail is easy and straightforward. From Page, Arizona, head south on US-89 for about 5 miles. You’ll see a clearly marked turnoff on the right for the Horseshoe Bend parking area. The trailhead is located right off the highway, making it accessible for visitors coming from all directions. The drive is short and scenic, offering views of the high desert and distant rock formations that set the stage for the main attraction.

Parking Information:

The parking lot is shared for visitors of Horseshoe bend and is convenient, with a large, well-maintained lot available for visitors. However, due to the site’s popularity, the lot can fill up quickly, especially during peak hours. A $15 fee is required for parking, which helps maintain the facilities and the trail, however the America the Beautiful pass works here too.. To avoid the crowds and ensure a parking spot, it’s recommended to visit early in the morning or later in the afternoon.

Description of the Landscape:

The landscape along Nine Mile Draw Trail is quintessentially Southwestern, with vast expanses of desert, rugged rock formations, and stunning views of the surrounding mesas and canyons. The trail takes you through a series of dry washes and sandy stretches, winding its way through a landscape dotted with sagebrush, juniper, and occasional patches of wildflowers in the spring. As you hike, you’ll be treated to sweeping vistas of the surrounding cliffs and the distant Vermilion Cliffs. The trail’s remote location offers a sense of solitude and tranquility, making it a perfect escape for those looking to connect with nature.

Trail Difficulty and Length:

Nine Mile Draw Trail is a moderately challenging hike, primarily due to the sandy terrain and the occasional need to navigate through dry washes. The trail is approximately 4.5 miles round trip, making it a manageable distance for most hikers. The elevation gain is minimal, so while the trail isn’t particularly steep, the sandy footing can make it a bit more strenuous. Most hikers can complete the trail in 2 to 3 hours, depending on their pace and how much time they spend enjoying the views along the way.

Dog-Friendly Information:

Nine Mile Draw Trail is dog-friendly, so feel free to bring your four-legged friend along for the adventure. Dogs must be kept on a leash at all times to ensure their safety and to protect the local wildlife. The trail’s remote location and low foot traffic make it a great place for dogs to explore, but be sure to bring plenty of water, as the desert environment can be hot and dry, with little shade along the way.

Local Regulations:

When hiking Nine Mile Draw Trail, it’s important to follow local regulations to help preserve the pristine environment. Stay on the established trail to minimize your impact on the fragile desert ecosystem, and always carry out all trash. The Glen Canyon National Recreation Area is home to a variety of wildlife, so be respectful of the animals and observe them from a distance. As always, practice “Leave No Trace” principles to keep the area beautiful and enjoyable for future visitors.

Other Trails Nearby:

If you’re eager to explore more of the Glen Canyon area after hiking Nine Mile Draw, there are several other trails nearby that offer a variety of experiences. The Cathedral Wash Trail is a more challenging hike that takes you through a narrow slot canyon to the Colorado River. For a shorter, easier hike with stunning views, the Glen Canyon Dam Overlook Trail is a great option, offering panoramic vistas of the dam and the Colorado River. The Horseshoe Bend Trail is also nearby, providing one of the most iconic views in the region.

Non-Hiking Attractions Nearby:

In addition to hiking, Glen Canyon National Recreation Area offers a wealth of attractions that cater to a wide range of interests. Lake Powell is a short drive from Nine Mile Draw and is a popular destination for boating, kayaking, and fishing. The Glen Canyon Dam Visitor Center is another must-see, offering guided tours and informative exhibits about the dam and its impact on the region. If you’re interested in exploring more of the area’s unique geology, a guided tour of Antelope Canyon provides an unforgettable experience with its famous slot canyons and dramatic light beams.

Best Time to Visit:

The best time to hike Nine Mile Draw Trail is during the spring and fall when temperatures are mild and the desert landscape is at its most vibrant. Springtime often brings blooming wildflowers and pleasant hiking conditions. Summer hikes are possible but can be challenging due to the heat, so it’s best to go early in the morning or later in the afternoon. Winter visits offer cooler temperatures and fewer crowds, but be prepared for potentially chilly conditions, especially in the morning and evening.