Hiking the Spencer Trail - Lee's Ferry, Arizona

Hiking the Spencer Trail - Lee's Ferry, Arizona

We've driven past Lee's Ferry plenty of times. But there's more to do there than access the Colorado. On a recent trip, we decided to check out Cathedral Wash and then the nearby Spencer Trail. They are two completely different hikes. While Cathedral Wash goes down into a canyon to the Colorado, the Spencer Trail is all about gaining elevation. It's steep and relentless, climbing over 1,600 feet in under two miles. It's an out and back with some exposure to get your adrenaline going.

The entire hike gives great views of the Colorado and Lee's Ferry. There is a very interesting area that looks somewhat like Artist's Palette in Death Valley. (Need to go back and check that out sometime.) You also look down on the Paria....Another hike that's on my list.

But the real treat is when you reach the top. The views are absolutely incredible. You can see all the way from Page, Arizona to the south rim of the Grand Canyon. Marble Canyon is also on display.

Overall, it's a great experience to link together and day hike Spencer Trail and Cathedral Wash. Both unique, both amazing, you really can't go wrong.