Lost Mine Trail

The Lost Mine Trail is one of the most popular in the park. Most hikers in good shape can do the round trip in 3 to 4 hours. For those without the time to hike to the South Rim, this trail is an excellent substitute. People with even less time or energy may elect to hike only the relatively easy first mile of the trail; on clear days this provides beautiful views of Juniper Canyon and south into Mexico. After the saddle, the trail climbs more steeply up a few switchbacks then flattens out temporarily on an open hillside of stipa grass, pinyon pine, and juniper. The trail quickly begins climbing steeply again. Views of Juniper Canyon continue. The trail then narrows and woods of pinyon pine and oak close in. More switchbacks rapidly add elevation, and good views resume to the south and west. In the midst of the switchbacks you can look west and see the Chisos Basin Campground and the Window.