Utah has thousands of unique rock formations, from the eye-catching hoodoos at Bryce Canyon National Park to the stunning arches at Arches National Park. The Grand Staircase-Escalante National Monument is home to some quirky formations known as The Toadstools, and once you get a look at ’em, you’ll know how they got their name!

The Grand Staircase-Escalante National Monument covers a million acres in southern Utah, and it's home to all kinds of fascinating slot canyons and rock formations.
Sarah Lorcheim/Alltrails
The landscape here really is other-worldly, isn't it?
Some of the quirkiest formations are found 45 miles east of Kanab. They're called The Toadstools, and you can take a short, easy trail to see them.
Joelle Gryniewicz/Alltrails
Find the trailhead just past the Paria Contact Station. You'll see signs for The Toadstools trailhead, and there's a parking lot on the north side of the road.
Kul_exploring_pnw/Alltrails
The trail is very easy, with an elevation gain of just over 100 feet. You'll walk a total of 1.6 miles, out and back.
thomas savickas/Alltrails
The best time to explore this region is in the spring and fall when the weather is warm but mild. You'll want to make sure to bring some water along, and wear a hat and sunscreen.

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The toadstools are made up of Dakota sandstone and Entrada sandstone.
Jennifer Kumar/Alltrails
Erosion created these fascinating formations over thousands of years. The soft Entrada sandstone eroded away over time, but the Dakota sandstone on top is much harder, so it formed a cap. The result is a rock formation that resembles a mushroom.
Throughout this area, you can easily witness the different layers of sandstone. Much like the rings of trees, you can literally see millions of years of history right before your eyes.
Carissa Frisbie
The toadstools situated on the wide-open expanse of desert landscape is stunning. For some really beautiful photos, visit at sunrise or sunset.
Jennifer Kumar/Alltrails
When you visit this wild, beautiful place, make sure to leave it the way you found it. Please don't climb on the rock formations and toadstools! Pack out anything you pack in. Let's keep this place pristine for future generations.
Jennifer Kumar/Alltrails
There's no fee to visit this area, and you're welcome to bring your dog along on this hike.

Have you seen The Toadstools up close and in person? We’d love to hear about your trip to Grand Staircase National Monument!

 

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Toadstool Hoodoos Trailhead, Kanab, UT 84741, USA