Time Stands Still At This Majestic, Remote Utah Canyon
By Catherine Armstrong|Published October 12, 2017
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Catherine Armstrong
Author
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.
The beauty of the Beehive State is often easily accessible to every Utahn. Take a stroll down Riverside Walk in Zion National Park, or make your way around the ADA-accessible trail that circles Silver Lake in Big Cottonwood Canyon. These are just two of many spots that most people can enjoy, but not every place in Utah is accessible. Some of our most majestic natural wonders are so remote that very few people ever see them in person. Reflection Canyon, in the Glen Canyon Recreation Area, is one such place.
Reflection Canyon is one of the many side canyons in Lake Powell. While it's accessible by boat, it's in a pretty remote part of the lake.
National Geographic photographer Michael Melford wrote an article in 2006 titled, "Glen Canyon Revealed." The article included a photo of Reflection Canyon, and the word got out in the photography and backpacking communities. Reflection Canyon became a little more well-known.
You'll need four-wheel drive to travel along Hole in the Rock Road. It's a 50-mile journey to the small parking area where the trailhead is located.
Make sure your gas tank is full, your spare tire is ready to go, and you have plenty of water. You're about to head into a very remote part of Utah. If the forecast calls for rain, postpone your trip — flash flooding and washouts are common here.
You'll need GPS or the ability to read a topographical map since the trail is not marked. There's no water along the way, so you'll need to pack it in with you... and you'll need plenty since it's sun-exposed and generally hot. If you attempt this hike in one day, plan on 10-12 hours of hiking; otherwise, backpack overnight. Stop at the ranger station in Escalante to pick up a free backpacking permit.
You can see why this canyon is named "Reflection Canyon." Its rock formations and still waters make for some truly remarkable reflections.
There's no way to access Lake Powell from here — the cliffs tower high above the water. If you're up for this adventure, you'll find plenty of peace and quiet. You may not see another human while you're here, and your cell phone will probably not have service.
Check out this video posted on YouTube by Tina Knighton. It shows several places in the area, including Reflection Canyon:
For a good guide (and some tips), take a look at this article by Outdoor Project.com. If you hike this area, make sure to use Leave No Trace practices. Pack out everything you pack in, and leave this area pristine for those who come along after you.
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