Ottos Bathtub

About

Otto's Bathtub is an 8.5-mile out-and-back hike located in Colorado National Monument near Grand Junction. The route begins at the Upper Liberty Cap trailhead on Rimrock Drive and follows an old road grade along the plateau before descending to a geologic feature in the Entrada sandstone cliffs. The trail is generally considered moderate difficulty, with an elevation gain of approximately 1,994 feet. The total distance includes the trek to the turnoff and the short spur to the bathtub itself. The turnoff occurs around 3.3 miles from the trailhead, marked by a cairn on the north side. The feature itself is a basin where John Otto reportedly added a dam to collect water. Hikers can access the basin via eroded chopped steps or the surrounding slickrock. The trail is accessible year-round, though the soil can become muddy and slick after rain. Parking is available at the trailhead. Dogs are not permitted on this trail.