Pinery Trail

Two people walk a paved path through a bright desert landscape

A beginner-friendly paved stroll to 1858 Butterfield Stage Stop ruins. In just 0.75 miles and 20-30 minutes, you'll reach the historic Pinery Station—a preserved outpost on the Old Butterfield Overland Stage Route. The walk is flat, fully accessible, and perfect for families. The payoff is genuine frontier history and desert views with minimal physical demand.

Quick facts

Distance Miles: 0.75
Route Type: Out-and-back
Difficulty Level: Easy
Elevation Gain Feet: 40

Trail profile

Distance Miles: 0.75
Route Type: Out-and-back
Difficulty Level: Easy
Elevation Gain Feet: 40
Estimated Time: 20-30 minutes
Trail Surface: Paved
Trail Features: Historic Pinery Station ruins (1858)
Desert landscape
Westward Expansion history
Fully paved accessible path
Trail Highlights: Walk into 1858 history at the preserved Pinery Station, a key stop on the Butterfield Overland Stage Route and a window into Old West transportation.

Trailhead & access

Trailhead Location: Visitor Center Trailhead or Butterfield pull-off on Highway 62/180
Shuttle Required: 0
Shuttle Details: None required.

Permits & conditions

Permit Details: None required.
Fees: $10 per person (16 years and older). Entrance fee required for all adult visitors.
Trail Status: Open
Seasonal Closures: None listed.

Facilities & rules

Restrooms At Trailhead: 1
Water Sources: Carry all water. Dry trail with no natural water sources. The paved surface amplifies thirst.
Accessibility: Fully paved and accessible from the Visitor Center. All parking areas have dedicated accessible spaces. Service animals trained to perform specific tasks for persons with disabilities are permitted.

Safety & strategy

Hazards: Desert heat
Intense sun exposure
Dehydration on paved surface
Hazard Details: Desert heat is intense even on a short trail. Midday temperatures exceed 90°F in summer; paved surfaces reflect and amplify UV radiation. Dehydration risk is real despite the short distance. Winter is mild but still requires sun protection.
Cell Service: Check with park before relying on it; remote desert location means service may be unreliable.
Crowd Level: Moderate to busy; this is the most accessible trail and popular with families and visitor center crowds.
Peak Crowd Times: Afternoons and weekends, especially spring and fall.
Best Season: Year-round
Best Time To Visit: Spring and fall offer ideal temperatures. Visit early morning (before 9 AM) to avoid midday desert heat even on the paved surface. Summer heat is intense; winter is mild but crowded with park visitors.
Tips Advice: Bring at least 1L of water even for this short walk—desert sun is relentless on paved surfaces.
Wear sunscreen and a hat; limited shade on the approach.
Start early to beat afternoon heat and crowds.
Supportive footwear recommended; paved surface is firm and can be slippery if wet.

More details

Park Area: Pine Springs
Trail Markers: Well-marked paved trail with clear signage and directional markers.
Dogs Allowed: Leashed pets allowed on this trail. Pet opportunities are very limited in the park overall.
Shade Level: Full sun exposure on approach. Paved surface reflects solar radiation and intensifies heat.
Emergency Contacts: Contact park headquarters at the Visitor Center; ranger stations nearby. Emergency services available through the park.
Map Recommended: 0
Snow Dates: Rare; occasional dusting in winter months. Trail remains passable year-round.
Mud Season: After heavy rain; paved surface drains quickly.
Wildflower Peak: Spring (March-April)
Fall Colors Peak: Limited; desert vegetation. October-November.
Bug Season: Mosquitoes possible near any water; generally low. Late spring through early fall is peak season.
Insider Tips: The Pinery Station is the destination—don't cut it short.
Park near the Visitor Center entrance for the shortest walk; the Butterfield pull-off option adds distance.
Early morning visits beat afternoon heat and crowds.
Stand at the station facing the desert for the historical photo.
Recent Updates: None listed.
Family Friendly Notes: Safe for all ages and abilities. Flat paved path perfect for strollers, wheelchairs, and young children. Keep children close near edges. No scrambling or exposure.
Nearby Facilities: Visitor Center at trailhead with restrooms and water. Park has additional services including campgrounds at Pine Springs.
Review Summary: This is the park's most accessible trail and a reliable choice for families, mobility-limited visitors, and first-time hikers. Most people complete it in 20-30 minutes. The preserved 1858 ruins reward the easy stroll with genuine historical character and context on Westward Expansion.