Negro Bill Canyon Trail Moab
Hike through a scenic canyon with multiple creek crossings to reach the stunning Morning Glory Arch.

Highlights
Must-see attractions

Social
From TikTok & Reddit
Best Time
Fewer crowds, cooler temps
Negro Bill Canyon Trail Moab
Best Time
Fewer crowds, cooler temps

Highlights
Must-see attractions
Hike through a scenic canyon with multiple creek crossings to reach the stunning Morning Glory Arch.
"A must-do hike with fun creek crossings and a rewarding arch at the end!"
🥾 Wear Water Shoes
Multiple creek crossings! Water shoes are a game-changer for comfort and grip.
🐾 Protect Your Dog's Paws
Sand gets hot! Bring booties or be ready to carry your pup. Check water for algae too.
Highlights
Discover the most iconic attractions and experiences

Morning Glory Arch
End of the trail
A stunning, massive sandstone arch that's worth the trek. Perfect for photos and a rewarding break.

Scenic Creek Walk
Along the trail
Follows a picturesque stream with lush vegetation, offering a refreshing contrast to the desert landscape.

Poison Ivy Awareness
Near the arch
Be vigilant for poison ivy, especially as you approach the arch. Recognizing the three-leaf pattern is key to avoiding irritation.
Plans like a pro.
Thinks like you
Planning Your Visit
Prepare for Creek Crossings
Dog-Friendly but Watch Their Paws
Best Times
Insider Tips
from TikTok, Instagram & Reddit
🥾 Wear Water Shoes
Multiple creek crossings! Water shoes are a game-changer for comfort and grip.
🐾 Protect Your Dog's Paws
Sand gets hot! Bring booties or be ready to carry your pup. Check water for algae too.
Visiting Moab for first time mid September. Any advice for maximizing my 5 days in the area at Arches & Canyonlands? I’m an early riser so I should manage to get on a trail at least once per day even if it’s busy. Thank you:)
I have 4 days in Moab, what are the must see/do hikes in Arches and the Cayonlands with this amount of time?
🌿 Watch for Poison Ivy
It's common near the arch. Learn to identify it to avoid a rash.
♻️ Pack Out All Trash
Leave no trace. Keep this beautiful canyon pristine for everyone.
Tips
from all over the internet
🥾 Wear Water Shoes
Multiple creek crossings! Water shoes are a game-changer for comfort and grip.
🐾 Protect Your Dog's Paws
Sand gets hot! Bring booties or be ready to carry your pup. Check water for algae too.
🌿 Watch for Poison Ivy
It's common near the arch. Learn to identify it to avoid a rash.
♻️ Pack Out All Trash
Leave no trace. Keep this beautiful canyon pristine for everyone.
💧 Check Water Levels
Creek crossings can be trickier after rain or during high flow.
What Travellers Say
Reviews Summary
The Negro Bill Canyon Trail offers a rewarding hike to the impressive Morning Glory Arch, with its multiple creek crossings being a highlight for many. Visitors appreciate its dog-friendly nature and the scenic beauty of the canyon. However, the trail can get crowded, and awareness of poison ivy and hot sand is necessary for a comfortable experience.
"The Grandstaff Trail to Morning Glory Arch is a must do but don't underestimate it. We went not long after some flooding on the creek and much of the trail was wiped out and it required some route finding. The rock scrambling towards the end is not for everyone. There are also about 10 creek crossings so prepare for wet feet."
Scott Wilcox
"A nice hike! Dog friendly, but the sand gets really hot. So, if you bring your pup, I would have some booties for their feet or be prepared to carry them if their feet burn (like we did😂).
Ours loved playing in the gorgeous river that you’ll cross several times to get to the end (don’t need to take shoes off but water shoes are beneficial), but be sure to check alerts online to be certain it’s safe to drink, as some algae can be toxic and kill dogs.
There is LOTS of poison ivy, but it’s easy to avoid if you recognize it and they have signs showing you at the start. It grows usually in the shade close to the river (three dark green leaves pointing downwards).
The end is worth it, but again watch out for the giant poison ivy tunnel right before the arch.
PS. Stay on the path / river! If you see *HARD crusty sand, don’t touch it!!! It is key to keeping the ecosystem alive and well, but people often step on it and cause it to erode, killing plants."
Callie Fauntleroy
"Great intermediate hike with a few creek crossings. It was super crowded though but we went on a Saturday morning. I’m sure it’s less crowded during the week. Watch out for poison ivy toward the end of the hike. Please pack out all your trash."
Marry Stewart
What People Like
What People Dislike
Frequently Asked Questions
🚇 🗺️ Getting There
Negro Bill Canyon Trail, also known as Grandstaff Trail, is located just a few miles east of Moab on Highway 128. The trailhead is well-marked and easily accessible by car. It's a popular spot, so parking can fill up, especially on weekends.
Yes, there is a parking area at the trailhead. However, it can get very crowded, particularly on Saturdays. Arriving early or visiting on a weekday is advised for easier parking.
Public transportation options directly to the trailhead are limited. Most visitors drive their own vehicles or use ride-sharing services. Renting a car is the most convenient way to access the trail.
The trail follows the creek bed and can be sandy in places. Keep an eye on the path, especially after recent weather, as sections can be washed out. Following the creek is generally the easiest way to stay on track.
The access road and parking lot are generally suitable for most vehicles, including RVs. However, be mindful of other vehicles and potential tight spots during peak times.
🎫 🎫 Tickets & Entry
No, Negro Bill Canyon Trail is a free public access trail. There are no entrance fees or tickets required to hike the trail or see Morning Glory Arch.
The trail is open year-round from dawn to dusk. There are no specific operating hours, allowing for flexible visiting times. However, hiking in the dark is not recommended for safety.
Currently, there is no reservation system required for Negro Bill Canyon Trail. It's a first-come, first-served access point.
No permits are required for day hiking on the Negro Bill Canyon Trail. It's a straightforward hike accessible to all.
To avoid crowds, aim for weekday mornings or late afternoons. Weekends, especially Saturdays, tend to be the busiest times.
🎫 🏞️ Onsite Experience
The Negro Bill Canyon Trail to Morning Glory Arch is approximately 2.2 miles roundtrip. It's considered an easy to moderate hike, taking about 1-2 hours to complete.
The trail is a mix of sandy washes, rocky sections, and multiple creek crossings. You'll be walking alongside and in a stream for much of the hike.
There are no restrooms directly at the trailhead or along the trail. It's advisable to use facilities before you arrive or plan accordingly.
Yes, Negro Bill Canyon Trail is very dog-friendly! Dogs are allowed off-leash in many areas, and they often enjoy playing in the creek. However, be mindful of hot sand and potential algae in the water.
Wear comfortable hiking shoes, preferably water shoes or quick-drying footwear due to creek crossings. Bring sun protection (hat, sunscreen) and plenty of water.
📸 📸 Photography
Morning Glory Arch itself is the main photographic draw. The creek crossings and the lush canyon walls also offer beautiful, contrasting shots. The late afternoon light can be particularly stunning.
Morning Glory Arch is quite accessible once you reach it. The main challenge might be capturing it without other hikers in the frame, especially during peak times.
Late afternoon offers beautiful golden hour light that illuminates the sandstone and creates nice shadows. Early mornings can also be good before the crowds arrive.
Drone usage is generally restricted in national parks and sensitive natural areas. While Negro Bill Canyon is not a national park, it's always best to check local regulations before flying a drone.
A wide-angle lens is great for capturing the grandeur of Morning Glory Arch and the canyon. A polarizing filter can help manage reflections on the water and enhance the colors of the rock.
For Different Travelers
Tailored advice for your travel style
👨👩👧 Families with Kids
Be aware of the poison ivy near the arch and keep a close eye on children to ensure they don't touch it. If you have a dog, this trail is a great choice, but be prepared for the hot sand and potential algae in the water. Overall, it's a rewarding and accessible hike for families looking for a taste of Moab's natural beauty.
🐾 Dog Owners
Always check the water for potential algae blooms, as some types can be toxic to dogs. Carrying extra water for your pet is also a good idea. With a little preparation, your furry friend will have an amazing time exploring Negro Bill Canyon.
Deep Dives
In-depth insights and expert knowledge
Navigating the Creek Crossings
While the creek is a highlight, it's also important to be aware of potential hazards. Flash floods can occur rapidly in desert canyons, so always be mindful of weather forecasts. Additionally, the water can sometimes contain algae that is toxic to dogs, so it's crucial to monitor your pet's intake and consult local advisories if available. Despite these considerations, the creek crossings add an element of adventure and fun to the hike, making it a memorable experience for many.
Understanding the Ecosystem and Trail Etiquette
Beyond soil preservation, general trail etiquette applies. This includes packing out all trash, not feeding wildlife, and being considerate of other hikers. The trail is popular, especially on weekends, so maintaining a friendly and respectful atmosphere enhances the experience for everyone. Recognizing and avoiding poison ivy, which is common near the arch, is also part of being prepared and informed.
Social
from TikTok, Instagram & Reddit