This Underappreciated Utah Canyon Is Just Begging To Be Explored
By Catherine Armstrong|Published July 28, 2018
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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.
Utah’s slot canyons are unique place to hike and explore, but many of them are located in remote parts of the state, and some are suitable only for those with advanced, technical skills. Here’s a canyon that’s perfect for just about any hiker, and it’s located near Bryce National Park.
Willis Creek Slot Canyon is a great side trip when you're visiting Bryce Canyon National Park or Kodachrome Basin State Park. It's located in the Grand Staircase-Escalante National Monument, right between the two parks.
Before you set off on your adventure, stop in at the BLM Visitor Center in Cannonville to check the weather and road conditions. As with any slot canyon hike, flash flood is a hazard that can be deadly. You'll also want to make sure that you're carrying plenty of water.
To reach the trail, you'll start from Cannonville, then travel on Kodachrome Road until you're almost at Kodachrome Basin State Park. You'll see signs for Skutumpah Road, which will take you right to the parking lot for the trailhead. The road is usually fine for most cars, but when it's wet it's impassable.
The trail is easy for hikers of every age and ability; you won't find any tricky boulder scrambling or rope ladders here. It's fun to walk and splash through the creek, just make sure you're wearing hiking sandals or shoes that you can get wet.
