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Introduction
Trail 2 is about a 3 mile meandering trek up through the rocky stream bed of Big Clifty Creek (and back). It is very rugged throughout, less so at its south end with its smaller rocks, but increasingly so with larger more massive boulders as you approach the confluence of Big and Little Clifty Creeks at the north end.
The two maps next show the north and south halves of the trail. This is a dangerous trail for hikers and for emergency responders! As well, it is impossible to use after heavy rains. Even some "not so heavy rains" may block off some sections.
Visitors often ask what is the best way to see the creek and Trail 2. First, understand that are three access points for Trail 2 - all involve steep climbs or descents:
from at the crow’s foot junction of 1, 2, and 3 (point A)
from Trail 5 – descend from Oak Grove Shelter and go down the steps, then left on board walk and footbridges to the 5-2 connector (point B)
from Trail 8 – start from its trailhead at the north end, then follow the trail to the 8-2 connector (point C)
Keep in mind that there is no access at the northern most end of the Trail 2 above the Trail 8-2 connector – you will have to turn back to one of the access points listed. As well, remember that (1) the areas above and below all falls (point D) are off-limits and (2) at the south end, be sure to heed the sign and stay in bounds (point E).
The Park property map classes Trail 2 as ~ 3.0 mile very rugged trail. The complete one-way route described here in red is about 2 miles, but meanders can make it longer.
a carousel of images of the Big Clifty Creek channel
north end of Trail 2
south end of Trail 2
the crow's foot junction
entry to the descent to Trail 2 from Trail 5
entry to the descent to Trail 2 from Trail 8
stay on the trail - do not hike to or below falls
warning sign at south end of Trail 2
Along the Way
The views of Big Clifty Creek, its tributaries, and some hillside waterfalls (seen from the trail) are notable features of the trail. The largest waterfall is Wallace Falls where a small creek passes over the edge of the west rim and cascades down into the Big Clifty channel. On Trail 8, you walk on a footbridge over the creek, but from down below (best access from the Trail 5-2 connector) you can see it best after heavier rains.
Wallace Falls, a west side waterfall (see https://www.friendsofclifty.org/about-the-park/the-falls for more on all the falls with video of high flows at Wallace and others)
Most notable along the trail, especially at the lower end, are the fossils. Water has cut through the land and exposed, at the bottom, many types of fossils. Coral, sponges, brachiopods, and others can be easily seen. Please note that all are protected and collection is not allowed.
some fossils
Few fish inhabit the stream since most of the habitat is limestone ledges and cobble to boulder sized rocks. The creek is also mostly runoff-fed and can have longer periods of low flow. Some fish have been collected in the creek, including the Central Stoneroller, Striped Shiner, Northern Hog Sucker, Orangethroat Darter, and Western Blacknose Dace. As you walk the creek bed, stop and look for "minnows" in the pools.
Invertebrates are also seen in the creek, including insects like water striders and various aquatic snails. Look for dragonflies or damselflies in the area.
some fish and invertebrates
Using Trail 2
If you want to experience the grand expanse of the canyon, start at the Nature Center, take Trail 1 to the junction of 1, 2, and 3 and take 2 down hill to the creek and hike its length. Plot a suitable return trip reversing your steps or taking one of the connecting points (8-2 or 5-2 connectors) to get back to the Nature Center.
You can enjoy the canyon with much less effort than hiking the entire length! Consider these ways of "taking a quick dip" into the canyon bottom.
The easiest way is to take Trail 1 from the Nature Center to the crow's foot junction with Trails 2 and 3, and take 2 down to the creek. Explore that area but do not travel downstream past the warning sign. Many fossils can be seen there and you can travel upstream a bit to get a sense of the canyon in this part of the Park.
A second way is to start at the Oak Grove Shelter parking lot and head down the steps and go left on Trail 5 until you see the steps heading down to Trail 2. This puts you into the vicinity of Wallace Falls at a sharp curve in the creek. Short walks upstream and down give you a nice sense of the valley in this middle range. (Our favorite)
Trail 2 is also part of these interesting hikes described at our Hiking the Trails page:
Upper Canyon Loop Hike - There is minimal Trail 2 here, but it does get you to some of the upper canyon area.
Rim-to-Rim Hike (Trails 1-8) - There is minimal Trail 2 here as well, and it is the longest and most rugged hike in the Park.
If you do head up past the 8-2 connector, remember you have to turn back! Follow the signage and avoid accidents! Also, remember the Park rules - no under or atop the falls.
Start at the Oak Grove Shelter parking lot and head down the steps and go left on Trail 5 until you see the steps heading down to Trail 2. You could start at Tunnel Falls.
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Take Trail 1 from the Nature Center to the crow's foot junction with Trails 2 and 3, and take 2 down to the creek.
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