Writer, editor and researcher with a passion for exploring new places. Catherine loves local bookstores, independent films, and spending time with her family, including Gus the golden retriever, who is a very good boy.
If you love hiking, the entire Beehive State is paradise. Southern Utah offers some of the state’s most iconic beauty, from its arches to its slot canyons, and the little town of Escalante is surrounded by all of it. Here are just five of the many hiking trails you’ll find fairly close to town.
The tiny town of Escalante has fewer than 800 residents, but people come here from all over the world for the incredible hiking trails nearby.
This popular trail is rated as moderate, mostly because you'll spend some time slogging through some ankle-deep sand (a fabulous lower body workout but kind of a killer). The 5.5-mile-long trail is located just 15 miles east of Escalante, off Highway 12. Park at the Calf Creek Campground.
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2. Zebra Slot Canyon earns its name with its beautiful stripes.
If you're looking for one of Utah's most interesting slot canyons, this might be it. The trail is 5.3 miles long, out and back, and it's rated moderate. There's often water in the canyon, so be prepared to do some wading, and make sure to check the weather forecast to avoid flash floods (the BLM office in Escalante can also give you info about the water level in the slot canyon). Continue on to Tunnel Slots while you're there. The trailhead is located about eight miles down Hole-In-The-Rock Road.
You'll find the Petrified Forest Nature Trail at Petrified Forest State Park in Escalante. The loop trail is 1.9 miles long, and it's rated as moderate due to its 492-foot elevation change. Along the way, you'll see remnants of the petrified forest, and some enchanting views. Extend your hike by .75 miles on the Rainbow Loop, and you'll see even more petrified wood. Stop at the visitor center for an informational pamphlet and guide. The state park is just a half mile from downtown. Its address is 710 North Reservoir, Escalante, UT 84726.
4. The Cosmic Ashtray to Volcano trail features the most unique geologic wonder you've ever seen.
If you think the potholes around the Salt Lake Valley are huge, you should see the Cosmic Ashtray! The trail is 8.3 miles long, and while it's sandy for the first bit, it quickly turns to slickrock, making the hiking much easier. However, many hikers report that the trail isn't very well-marked, and suggest having GPS available to avoid getting lost. Don't attempt this one unless you're confident of your navigation skills. Take Highway 12 to Spencer Flat Road to find the trailhead.
5. Cedar Wash Arch is a rare white arch that's surrounded by stunning views.
Cedar Wash Arch is an easy trail that's suitable for most hikers, including kids. It's just 2.2 miles out and back and features a cool arch and some spectacular views. The trail starts out with an easy dirt path, which turns into slickrock. To reach the trailhead, take Cedar Wash Road for about 10 miles.
One final word about hiking near Escalante. This area is vast and contains some tough terrain. Search and Rescue is often called to save unprepared and lost hikers out here. Make sure that you’re fully prepared to hike this region. Bring plenty of water, check with the BLM in Escalante to get information about possible flash floods, and don’t attempt a hike that you’re not skilled enough to navigate. Finally, practice the hiker’s code of ethics: take only photographs and leave only footprints so that hikers after you will enjoy the same stunning scenery.
Do you have a favorite hiking trail near Escalante?
Did you know that Escalante’s Petrified Wood State Park has an eerie legend surrounding it? Read this article before you even consider taking a tiny bit of petrified wood home with you!
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