Watchman Peak Trail

The trail is just under one mile long, providing access for park visitors and rangers from the Watchman overlook parking lot (7600 feet above sea level) to the Watchman Observation Station at the summit (8013 feet above sea level). The trail follows its historic route that begins at the base of Watchman Peak, follows the original alignment of the old Rim Road for approximately 300 yards, then climbs a series of switchbacks up the steep slope of the peak to the observation station at the top. The width of the historic corridor along the switchback portion of trail is 5 feet from the centerline of the trail in either direction. The trail is moderately steep, a 15 percent grade, and ascends through the sub alpine vegetation zone, which is dominated by Whitebark pines and penstemon. Today, the Watchman Trail and Watchman Observation Station continue to exemplify the NPS rustic and naturalistic landscape architectural styles of construction. The features also are recognized for their association with early master park planning during the period of significance (1916-1933), when the landscape was planned and established. The Watchman is an outstanding example of park design efforts to blend a trail and structure seamlessly into their surroundings.