Park ranger that works there here! So the summit... It's 0.8 of a mile, so not very long buuut... I actually just hiked it for the first time today, was afraid because I have bad knees/asthma/post covid loveliness, and I would say if they have trouble with long distances then it's probably not a good idea. The last bit before the top of the summit is *very* steep as well. Like climbing 40/45 flights of stairs. We do have an interpretive loop with park facts posted along the trail, it's our shortest trail! We also have the loop trail, it's 4.6 miles but there's a neat scenic view trail offshoot about a mile out from the campgrounds, a bit of incline but not like the summit. Cool mushroom formations and boulders on the way as well. Oh! And none of the trails are paved, idk if that helps but thought I'd mention it. Hope you have a fabulous evening :)
The park has a few different trails. Climbing the rock specifically can be easy if you take breaks and go in a zigzag way. If you are not physically fit, consider 1 to 2h to reach the top. I would avoid hot weather if that's the case.
The summit trail is a bit difficult, BUT if you pace yourself, there's nothing dangerous about it. I saw people of all ages and fitness levels along the way. Just have a plan, have water, have first aid. Good luck and enjoy!
If you walk around the bottom there are some boulders and rocks and rocky steps, but it isn't too intense. If you go straight up it does get really steep and smooth at the top. Definitely wear shoes with good grip if you go that way. And the "false tops" description above is very accurate.
it's quite steep, there is a couple of "false tops" where you think you're getting there but it's not really the top. take water, dress lightly, and make sure your calves can take some exercise.
Depends on what trails you want to hike. If you try to climb up the top of the granite hills, like summit trail. They are not very long but they are steep and strenuous. They do have other trails that are more even but can be longer in distance. The best thing would be to look at the trail systems and do smaller partial hikes of the trails depending on what your party is able to do that day. Even near the parking lot theres some nice scenic areas you can see.
They offer different levels of difficulty. I just did the very basic and was still able to see beautiful sights.
Not everyone might make it up to the top but it is nice to be out in the outdoors and there are walking trails too around the rock. Worth going to as a family.
I'm scared of heights too but I made it with my sister's :) I saw older people (70s +) all I gotta say is wear tennis shoes with good grip. My Nikes were old and I felt I was slipping.
I feel it isn't too safe for the elderly. I am 49 and physically I could have climbed it all but apparently I'm scared of heights. I froze and got pale. Husband was able to make it. I think it was almost 4 miles in total.
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