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This is not a pyramid scheme by DixieFlyer Overview
Pyramid Rock (elevation of 7,487 feet) is located just north of Gallup, New Mexico. The rock formation is aptly named since it is shaped like something that you'd see in ancient Egypt. Pyramid Rock is part of Red Rock Park, which was established as a state park in 1972 but is now managed by the city of Gallup. The park features red sandstone spires, hoodoos, and cliffs and will remind you of Sedona, Arizona.
From the trailhead, follow the Pyramid Rock Trail all the way to the summit. The trail is easy to follow in some places, but in other places, it goes across slick rock. There are park-provided rock cairns and signage in the slick rock sections which helps with route finding. Most of the hike is class 1, but there are a few rocky sections of the trail that are best described as class 1+. The trek from the trailhead to the summit gains almost 800 feet in elevation over 1.75 miles, so most people will get a decent workout along the way. Scenery is great on the hike, so don't be afraid to stop occasionally and enjoy the views. Return to the trailhead the way that you came. Spring and fall are the best times to do this hike. It can be done in the summer, but it gets hot in Gallup so it is best to go early for a summertime hike. Hiking in winter could be dicey if there is snow or ice on the trail. Geology Pyramid Rock, as well as nearby Church Rock, is composed of the Morrison Formation. Pyramid Rock also contains a layer of Dakota Sandstone. In descending order, this stratum overlays Zuni Sandstone, Bluff Sandstone, the Summerville Formation, and the Entrada Formation. Source: New Mexico Bureau of Geology and Mineral Resources Synopsis This is a hike that is well worth doing if you are ever in Gallup with a little time on your hands. The scenery and rock formations are very impressive on this relatively short hike that is just a few minutes off of I-40.
Check out the Official Route and Triplogs. Leave No Trace and +Add a Triplog after your hike to support this local community. | |||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||
