Pets allowed
Allowed
Elevation Gain
581.00 ft (177.09 m)
Trail type
There-and-back
Distance
3.20 mi (5.15 km)
Please respect the outdoors by practicing Leave No Trace. Learn more about how to apply the principles of Leave No Trace on your next outdoor adventure here.

The Left Fork Maple Canyon Trail is a nice hike that leads from the mouth of the canyon up to Whiting Campground. While it is possible to drive to the campground, the walk is much more enjoyable! From the campground the hike can be extended by following either the Left Fork or Right Fork Maple Canyon Trail.

Begin at the small parking area and trailhead off Maple Canyon Road. From here the trail begins to gain elevation as it climbs up the canyon, but it does so very gently.

You’ll be hiking underneath tree cover most of the time, so views are limited but the trail remains nice and shady.

The trail is popular not only with hikers, but also with equestrian users and mountain bikers. Keep an eye open and yield accordingly.

You’ll follow near a stream for most of the hike, crossing it a couple times. To cross you may need to get your feet wet depending on water levels.

As you get close to the campground you’ll cross the road and then walk near the camp boundary, passing close to some campsites. You’ll then come out to the upper trailhead where this section ends. From here you can continue upward and onward if desired, where the trail soon splits into the Right Fork and Left Fork Trails.

Otherwise, return the way you came back down the canyon.

Logistics + Planning

Preferable season(s)

Spring
Summer
Fall

Congestion

Moderate

Parking Pass

Not Required

Open Year-round

Yes

Pros

Nice hike. Follows stream. Shaded.

Trailhead Elevation

5,051.00 ft (1,539.54 m)

Highest point

5,593.00 ft (1,704.75 m)

Features

Family friendly
Bird watching

Typically multi-day

No

Suitable for

Biking
Horseback

Permit required

No

Location

Comments

Have updates, photos, alerts, or just want to leave a comment?
Sign In and share them.