Difficulty: Easy, fire road, single track, slick rock
If you can get over the fact that you’re hiking alongside the 15 freeway (within sight and sound), this area still delivers big rewards. Whether you hike or mt. bike it, the panoramic views are stunning in every direction from Pine Valley Mt. to Zion. This area seems to capture the best golden light for spectacular sunsets. There’s more than meets the eye, here, at first it seems like just open landscape, but, there ae many nooks and crannies to explore—washes, mini slots, etc…The cluster of mammoth red, temple like, “Church Rocks” is a fun to explore. Watch for the hawks and swallows that have made this area their home.
Getting there: exit 13 from I-15 N, turn left onto Washington Pkwy and park in the parking spots. Red Cliffs Recreation area: You can access the Church Rocks Trail from the Grapevine Trail, Dino Cliffs Trail or to the south and Prospector to the north.
Note: The 100% exposed so be prepared with adequate water, hat, and sunscreen.
Imagine a walk “on the beach” surrounded by colossal slot canyon walls, the play of shadows and light on their vermillion faces, cool water on your feet, and top it all off with cowboys🤠 on horses 🐎for quintessential Wild West photo ops.This is as close as it comes to a”walk on the beach” hike in Utah. You can stroll up the river any distance your heart desires, or you can make it an overnighter, or a multiday adventure to/from Lee’s Ferry 38 miles away.
For my second visit here, I hiked up to the Paria/Buckskin Gulch Confluence (14 miles RT) with my friend. We had it almost entirely to ourselves except for the 4 cowboys on horses who kept me “on pace” chasing their equines and photo ops.
Truth is advertising, you will encounter sand, mud, quicksand, and little to no shade (until you reach the slot canyon ~5+ miles). If you’re prepared for those caveats, you’ll likely find it quite pleasant to meander up the at-times dry, muddy, wet riverbed as you take in the play of light and shadows on the colossal canyon walls and wonder at the strange sandstone formations. Unless there’s been a recent heavy rain, the water won’t reach your ankles so either tevas or an old pair of running shoes that you don’t mind getting wet will work best.
I explored Buskin Gultch, the longest slot canyon n the world, on another day. Note, Buskin is always be crowded so brace yourself.
Notes: FLASH FLOOD AREA. Be sure to check the weather! Day use permits are required – $6 per person & per dog. Use your smartphone to scan a QR Code at the trailhead or stop at the Paria Contact Station. Limited number of backcountry overnight permits available (20 per day). Plan ahead a of couple of months and reserve online. I couldn’t find the direct link, but here’s the BLM phone number & email for answers to permit questions : 435-688-3200 or email us.You can also camp near alongside the river at White House Campground. First-come, first-served basis – no reservations. Individual sites $12 per night. Interagency Senior and Access Pass Holders get 50% off. Amenities include restrooms, fire rings, and picnic tables Pay fees by cash or check at the campground fee station. Not for vehicles or trailers longer than 25 feet. Pets allowed, but must be leashed. Best time of year fall or spring – otherwise, be prepared for ice in the winter and extreme heat in the summer.
Getting there:
From the Kanab Visitor Center (BLM) in Kanab, UT travel 42.5 miles east on Highway 89 to the White House Road/BLM751. Turn right and drive two miles to the campground.
Yep, that’s all the clues you’re getting. It’s getting so hard to find that splendid solitude out there, so I’ve decided not to be part of the “problem.” Even though I have zilch for a following —it’s the principle of it. I’ll keep posting the mainstream hikes, but you’re going to have a work a little harder to find these “secret”, less traveled spots. I’m also available for adventure consulting should you desire a personalized “best of” Utah itinerary for your adventures here.
I’m spoilt, I’ve been to many slot canyons in UT, including the world’s longest, the world’s most renown, and perhaps the shortest and wetest(?). Located in the San Rafeal Swell area (another clue), this one had a colorful allure of it’s own. Options there include a loop hike or out and back. The oak trees at the beginning of the hike are quite dramatic.
A short stroll from the parking area across Highway 89, the manmade Moki Cavern can be seen from the road. While I’m not usually one for manmade attractions, the Moqui Cavern has a certain appeal (cool views inside and out) with great photo-ops. Definitely worth a quick stop if you’re driving by. These sandstone caves date back to the ’70’s and are the result of sand mining for glass production. If you can look beyond the eyesore of all the recent graffiti, you may find yourself fascinated by the subtle colors and patterns in the sandstone and rewarded by the cave-framed vistas. Go early or late for a chance to have the experience to yourself.
Distance: .A Half Mile RT
Difficulty: Easy, but highly advisable to wear shoes with good traction for the short slip rock traverse where there’s some exposure.
Getting there: From Kanab, the caverns are located 5.7 miles north on Highway 89.
Difficulty: Easy, mostly flat, soft surface, and obvious trail with soem stream crossings.
Length: 5.8 Miles RT
Elevation gain: ~700ft
This lovely, woodsy hike in Kolob Canyon features a creek, 2 historical cabins, and a double, closed “arch”, and a seasonal micro slot waterfall. (For an open arch hike head up the road to the Kolob Arch Trail.)
The first cabin you’ll encounter on this hike is the Larson Cabin, the second is the Fife Cabin—both were built by homesteaders around 1930.
Especially enchanting in the Fall, this hike is a treat any time of year.
Notes: This is mountain lion territory. You may see tracks. Hike aware and keep small children near you. Since this is an easy, beautiful hike, it’s quite popular. Go early to enjoy more solitude.
Getting there: Exit 40 on I-15. This is the Kolob side of Zion National Park, so you’ll need to check in at the office with your National Park Pass or pay the entrance fee. Follow the scenic drive to the Taylor Creek parking area on the left.
On the Loose Live 