Last updated: July 20, 2024
Thing to Do
Hike Jawbone Trail
![A view of a dirt trail leading through a grove of blue oaks drapped in moss](/common/uploads/cropped_image/primary/673F97C9-DE01-BE8C-6CA61CF18773A8C2.jpg?width=1300&quality=90&mode=crop)
NPS Photo/Emily Novack
Head northwest from the Prewett Point Trail and descend into the Jawbone Parking Area, where the trail connects to the Chaparral Parking Area (0.3 miles), trailhead for Balconies Cliffs - Balconies Cave Loop, Juniper Canyon Loop, and High Peaks - Balconies Cave Loop.
Recreate Responsibly. Check park webpage alerts and weather forecast. Most of the trails are exposed. Bring a map and use the best judgement of your abilities. In winter, wear warm clothes and waterproof clothing. In summer, do not hike during the hottest parts of the day (10AM-4PM). Wear lightweight, light-colored, loose-fitting clothing. Wear sunscreen, a hat, and sunglasses. Always wear proper footwear due to rocky, uneven terrain and slick and sometimes slippery rocks. In all seasons, carry plenty of water and salty snacks (ex. pretzels, crackers, chips). Stay hydrated with plain water and an electrolyte drink replacement. Stay cool in summer and warm in winter and take rest breaks. Know your limits and turn back if needed. Let someone know your plan before you go.
Plan ahead and prepare. Take only pictures and leave only footprints, leaving objects as you find them. Observe wildlife from a distance and avoid loud voices or noises to be considerate of others.
Recreate Responsibly. Check park webpage alerts and weather forecast. Most of the trails are exposed. Bring a map and use the best judgement of your abilities. In winter, wear warm clothes and waterproof clothing. In summer, do not hike during the hottest parts of the day (10AM-4PM). Wear lightweight, light-colored, loose-fitting clothing. Wear sunscreen, a hat, and sunglasses. Always wear proper footwear due to rocky, uneven terrain and slick and sometimes slippery rocks. In all seasons, carry plenty of water and salty snacks (ex. pretzels, crackers, chips). Stay hydrated with plain water and an electrolyte drink replacement. Stay cool in summer and warm in winter and take rest breaks. Know your limits and turn back if needed. Let someone know your plan before you go.
Plan ahead and prepare. Take only pictures and leave only footprints, leaving objects as you find them. Observe wildlife from a distance and avoid loud voices or noises to be considerate of others.
Details
Duration
30-60 Minutes
Activity
Hiking
Age(s)
All ages, but minors must be with an adult parent or guardian.
Pets Allowed
No
Activity Fee
No
No additional fee to hike but there is a park entrance fee. Learn more about Fees and Passes.
Location
Jawbone Trailhead
Enter through the West side of the park via Metz Road or Highway 101 to Hwy 146/Chaparral Road. Trailhead starts off of Prewett Point Trail from the West Visitor Contact Station parking area.
Reservations
No
Season
Year Round
Time of Day
Any Time
Accessibility Information
Difficulty: Easy to Moderate
Distance: Approx. 1.2 miles one-way
Trail width: Approx. 2.5 - 4 feet
Maximum grade: 560 feet
Surface Composition: dirt
Exposure: Limited shade
*Service animals permitted
Distance: Approx. 1.2 miles one-way
Trail width: Approx. 2.5 - 4 feet
Maximum grade: 560 feet
Surface Composition: dirt
Exposure: Limited shade
*Service animals permitted