Point Moriah via Sterling's Canyon

The hike to Point Moriah follows a generally straight out-and-back path hugging a ridge above Sterling's Canyon within the Royal Gorge trail network. At 5.1 total miles, the hike rewards those who make it to the end with epic views and the option to take it all in while swinging from a tree perched atop the slope.

During the winter season, Royal Gorge maintains these trails for cross country skiing and requires those visiting to purchase a pass, however during the summer months hikers have access to the vast network of trails above the Soda Springs area at no cost. This hike begins on a short section of gravel road before veering down and crossing a streambed, from which point the trail heads in a near direct route toward Point Moriah.

Along the way are a few benches with views across the Palisades Creek area and to Mt. Judah and other peaks in the area. As the trails often see snow lasting late into the warm season, it may be possible to see an abundance of wild flowers along this hike well into July or August. Several smaller trails veer from the main path, however continuing in a direct route will eventually lead to Point Moriah, an elevated area with the mountains and gorge stretched out on three sides around you. The trail tends to be constant climbing and dropping, and while there is only a 130' elevation difference between the trailhead and the endpoint, there is nearly 600' of total climbing over the course of the hike.

A small bench awaits those making it this far, along with a homemade swing suspended from a tree for a picturesque view.

From Point Moriah, hikers can retrace their route or opt to explore other trails within the Royal Gorge network that fork with the path. There is no cel service, and alternative paths may become confusing, so hikers are encouraged to prepate themselves with a trail map.

Roadside parking is available on the dirt road at the intersection of Serene Rd and Soda Springs Rd. Make sure to park completely off of the gravel road. Roadside parking is not permitted from November 1st through May 1st.