Hiking The Toadstool Hoodoos Trail In Utah Is Like Exploring Another Planet
By Courtnie Erickson|Published April 10, 2023
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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.
Grand Staircase-Escalante National Monument is one of the best places to explore in Utah. Here, you will find stunning natural arches and waterfalls that are magical. But, also located in this national monument is one hiking trail that will make you feel like you are exploring another planet. The Toadstool Hoodoos Trail is one hiking trail in southern Utah that you need to explore at least once. It’s short, family-friendly, and unique — perfect for an afternoon outdoors.
The Toadstool Hoodoos Trail is approximately 1.5 miles. It is an out-and-back trail that has very little elevation gain and is quite easy, making it perfect for the entire family.
Plus, the trailhead is extremely easy to access. You’ll find it just off Highway 89 and approximately 45 miles east of Kanab.
As you begin your journey, you will walk along a wash and toward a small canyon. Be aware that this trail is sandy and can become extremely muddy and slick after rain.
This is a heavily-trafficked trail, making it fairly simple to follow. However, you may want to download a map of this trail and keep an eye out for rock cairns to ensure you can focus more on the scenery and less on which direction to go.
Eventually, you will reach a canyon. Along the canyon floor are small hoodoos that look like toadstools and create a scene straight out of a sci-fi movie.
The toadstool hoodoos are fragile and you should not climb on them. They are unique rock formations created by two types of sandstone. They were carved into their unique shapes by weather and erosion throughout the years.
As you walk around and explore this unique landscape, not only will the hoodoo views capture your attention but so will the canyon views. Take your time as you explore and admire the otherworldly scenery — it really is quite incredible.
The Toadstool Hoodoos Trail in Grand Staircase-Escalante National Monument is open year round. There are no fees to access this trail and you can bring along your favorite furry friend — as long as he is kept on a leash.
Also, if you plan to visit during the summer, early mornings or evenings are best for exploring. There is no shade along this trail and the summer sun in southern Utah is brutal.
Have you ever hiked the Toadstool Hoodoos Trail in southern Utah? What did you enjoy most about this trail? Let us know in the comments. And, if you have another favorite trail in southern Utah, we’d love to check it out! Fill out this form and tell us why you love it. We can’t wait to hear from you.
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