Indian Trail

The trail follows the creek on the east side, but no crossing is required. In season, there are a wide variety of wildflowers. There are a few primitive camping sites along the creek, including the remains of a Forest Service campground and a Civilian Conservation Corp camp. Camping and campfires are allowed on National Forest System lands in Coldwater Canyon but you must camp at least 100' from the trail. Also, along the trail are obscure ruins of an old mining operation. Hikers will enjoy the rock stairs, narrow trail and low overhangs found on the trail. The trail was built using the approximate location of a prehistoric route developed by Native Americans as the primary route up Ogden Canyon to Ogden's Hole (Ogden Valley). It winds high above the canyon on a steep and sometimes narrow ridge and passes through Warmwater Canyon before dropping down to meet Coldwater Canyon. In Coldwater Canyon, the Civilian Conservation Corp of the 1930's had a camp where the men lived while building the rock wall along the Ogden River. In addition, limestone was brought down Coldwater Canyon Trail to be smelted at the kiln. Coldwater Canyon had abundant limestone on the face of the mountain. Stone was blasted off the north face leaving scars legible to this day. The Coldwater Canyon was also an important source of water for early settlers. A cement box built at the mouth of the canyon split the major stream into two streams. One ran south and the other north to irrigate farms on the east and west of Mountain Road. There are abundant birds, squirrels and lizards along the trail, not to mention rattlesnakes. It is a good idea to wear sturdy boots and long pants. Along the trail are spectacular vistas of Ogden Canyon and City. You also have a good sampling of plant and animal ecosystems found locally. The trail crosses both Forest Service and private property. Please respect the landowners as it is only with their permission that we have this hiking opportunity.