The first segment of the Canyon Rim Trail is ready for use. Over the last year, a variety of crews have developed a asphalt-surfaced 7,600-foot trail south of New Mexico Highway 502 between the guard tower and the East Road Fire Station.

A parking area at the east trailhead accomodates 10 vehicles. Reach the trailhead by traveling east on East Road (NM Highway 502) about 1.8 miles from downtown Los Alamos. The trailhead is on the south (right) side of the road about 200 yards before you reach the entrance to the Pajarito Cliffs Site, Entrada, and the Holiday Inn Express.

Trail users can also park at East Park near the west end of the trail. Cross to the south side of the highway at a pedestrian cut in the median, turn left, and travel the sidewalk to the fire station. Continue east on the wide shoulder in front of the fire station about 75 yards to the trailhead.