There's A Slot Canyon In Utah That Looks Like Antelope Canyon, But Hardly Anyone Knows It Exists
By Courtnie Erickson|Published December 28, 2022
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Courtnie Erickson
Author
From Southern Utah to the Panhandle in Idaho, Courtnie Erickson has lived in what she believes are the best (and the most beautiful!) areas in the country. She graduated with a journalism degree from Utah State University and has more than 15 years of professional writing experience. You’ll likely see her with a Dr. Pepper in her hand and a pair of running shoes on her feet. Courtnie is a writer and editor at OnlyInYourState.
Antelope Canyon is one of the most well-known and photographed slot canyons in the entire country. Located just across the Utah and Arizona state line, this is one out-of-state destination that most Utahns are familiar with and many have even explored. But, what if we told you there was a slot canyon in Utah that has many similarities? It’s true! Willis Creek Narrows in Grand Staircase-Escalante National Monument is one incredible slot canyon in Utah and many people don’t even know it exists.
The Willis Creek Narrows is one of the best slot canyons in Utah. The hike is fairly easy and you do not need any technical skills to complete your journey. Plus, the views are absolutely incredible.
To access the trailhead, you will take Kodachrome Road from Cannonville to Cottonwood Canyon Road. From there, turn onto Skutumpah road. You will then drive approximately six miles until you reach the parking lot. Be aware that Skutumpah Road is a dirt road and a 4-wheel-drive vehicle is highly recommended.
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Once you reach the trailhead, get ready for an unforgettable adventure. This trail is just under five miles in its entirety but if you choose to turn back after the slot canyon, it is approximately 2.5 miles long.
This trail is lesser-known and tucked away. Typically, you will encounter very few crowds like in other Utah slot canyons. Plus, you do not need to pay any fees or acquire special permits to explore it.
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You will follow Willis Creek throughout most of the trail, and while this creek is usually only a few inches deep, be prepared to get a little wet.
As with all slot canyons, you must pay close attention to the weather before venturing into the canyon. Flash floods can occur at any time and place you in a dangerous and life-threatening situation.
Once you reach Willis Creek Narrows, you’ll notice that the canyon walls are quite wide — approximately eight feet wide and 25 feet tall. But, as you venture further in, they grow more narrow and tall.
Pay attention to the details and the texture of the canyon walls as you hike. The smooth, yet curved rocks have been formed by thousands of years of flash floods.
After approximately 1.5 miles in, the unique canyon starts to disappear. This is an excellent time to turn around or you may choose to continue on the trail — the end of the adventure is up to you.
Have you ever hiked Willis Creek Narrows in southern Utah? If so, do you think this slot canyon is a good substitute for Antelope Canyon? We’d love to hear your thoughts in the comments!
If you are looking for another Utah slot canyon that is beautiful and more popular than Willis Creek Narrows, check out Buckskin Gulch near Kanab.
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