Upper Muley Twist Canyon
Explore a stunning slot canyon and dramatic red rock formations in Capitol Reef National Park, offering solitude and breathtaking desert vistas.
Highlights
Must-see attractions
Social
From TikTok & Reddit
Best Time
Avoid midday heat
Upper Muley Twist Canyon
Best Time
Avoid midday heat
Highlights
Must-see attractions
Explore a stunning slot canyon and dramatic red rock formations in Capitol Reef National Park, offering solitude and breathtaking desert vistas.
"A superb trail through sublime land, offering immense solitude and incredible views."
💧 Carry Plenty of Water
Essential for this rugged hike. Bring more than you think you'll need, especially during warmer months.
👀 Watch for Cairns
Cairns mark the trail, particularly on the rim. Some are subtle, so stay vigilant to avoid getting lost.
Highlights
Discover the most iconic attractions and experiences
The Slot Canyon Experience
Main canyon
Wander through a narrow, winding slot canyon with towering walls and hidden treasures around every bend.
Arches and Rock Formations
Throughout the trail
Discover unique arches and dramatic red and white cragged rock formations against a brilliant blue sky.
Strike Valley Overlook
Detour from main trail
A worthwhile detour offering breathtaking views of the vast Strike Valley, especially under the intense desert sun.
Plans like a pro.
Thinks like you
Planning Your Visit
Prepare for Solitude and Sun
Navigating the Trail
Best Times
Insider Tips
from TikTok, Instagram & Reddit
💧 Carry Plenty of Water
Essential for this rugged hike. Bring more than you think you'll need, especially during warmer months.
👀 Watch for Cairns
Cairns mark the trail, particularly on the rim. Some are subtle, so stay vigilant to avoid getting lost.
🥾 Sturdy Hiking Boots
The trail is long, strenuous, and rugged. Good footwear is crucial for comfort and safety.
☀️ Sun Protection is Key
The desert sun is intense. Wear a hat, sunglasses, and sunscreen.
Tips
from all over the internet
💧 Carry Plenty of Water
Essential for this rugged hike. Bring more than you think you'll need, especially during warmer months.
👀 Watch for Cairns
Cairns mark the trail, particularly on the rim. Some are subtle, so stay vigilant to avoid getting lost.
🥾 Sturdy Hiking Boots
The trail is long, strenuous, and rugged. Good footwear is crucial for comfort and safety.
☀️ Sun Protection is Key
The desert sun is intense. Wear a hat, sunglasses, and sunscreen.
🚗 Road to Trailhead
The road is generally manageable, but be prepared for a rugged journey.
What Travellers Say
Reviews Summary
Visitors rave about the sublime, solitary beauty of Upper Muley Twist Canyon, highlighting its stunning red rock formations and the unique slot canyon experience. The hike is described as strenuous but incredibly rewarding, offering immense solitude. Some caution is advised regarding trail navigation and the intensity of the desert sun.
"Great spur trail with some beautiful scenery along the way. You can stop and climb on rocks, hunt arches and just explore!
Take the journey, the road is not too bad."
Jesse Chappell
"The major thing I'll add to the other reviews is that you really need to be on the lookout for the cairns while on the rim part of the loop hike. In many places they are close and easy to see. In some places, they are not so obvious."
Robert Cox
"A superb trail through sublime land. A red and white cragged landscape all sheathed beneath incredible blue sky, stunning heat, and immense solitude.
As mentioned by other reviewers, you must bring ample water when coming out here as well as food, other supplies, etc.
And while here, make the commitment to journey to the Strike Valley Overlook, too. But of course heed the sun. Out here, there is no more persuasive negotiator."
Brooks Lindberg
What People Like
What People Dislike
Frequently Asked Questions
🚇 🗺️ Getting There
Upper Muley Twist Canyon is located in Capitol Reef National Park, Utah. Access typically involves driving on unpaved roads, which can be rough but are generally manageable for most vehicles. Always check current road conditions with park rangers before heading out.
While many visitors manage with standard vehicles, the road can be rough and uneven. High-clearance vehicles are recommended, especially after rain or snow.
The trail is marked by cairns (piles of rocks). Pay close attention to these markers, especially on the rim sections where they can be less obvious.
Specific directions can vary depending on your starting point within Capitol Reef. It's best to consult a park map or GPS coordinates for the trailhead. The journey is part of the adventure!
The closest services are typically found in Torrey, Utah, which is a gateway town to Capitol Reef National Park. Plan to bring all necessary supplies with you.
🎫 🎫 Tickets & Entry
Upper Muley Twist Canyon is located within Capitol Reef National Park. A park entrance fee is required. You can purchase passes at the park's visitor center or online.
Capitol Reef National Park is generally open year-round, but specific trail access can be affected by weather. It's always a good idea to check the official park website for any alerts or closures.
The park entrance fee covers access to all trails within Capitol Reef National Park, including Upper Muley Twist Canyon. There are no separate trail fees.
While official guided tours might be limited, local outfitters may offer guided hikes. However, many visitors prefer to explore independently, following the marked trail.
Ensure you have your park pass, plenty of water, snacks, sun protection, and sturdy hiking shoes. Inform someone of your hiking plans before you go.
🎫 🏞️ Onsite Experience
The hike is considered strenuous and rugged, involving a loop that can be long. It requires good physical condition and preparedness.
The loop hike can take several hours, depending on your pace and how much time you spend exploring. Plan for a significant portion of your day.
The primary concerns are dehydration due to intense sun and heat, and getting lost if you stray from the marked trail. Always check weather forecasts, especially for flash flood potential.
Expect a dramatic red and white cragged landscape, a beautiful slot canyon, and stunning views of the surrounding desert.
Due to the strenuous and rugged nature of the hike, it may not be suitable for very young children. Older children who are accustomed to hiking might enjoy it, but parental supervision is essential.
🎫 💧 Essential Supplies
Pack plenty of water, high-energy snacks, a first-aid kit, sun protection (hat, sunglasses, sunscreen), sturdy hiking boots, and a map.
No, there is no water available along the trail. You must carry all the water you will need for the entire hike.
Sturdy hiking boots with good ankle support are highly recommended due to the rugged and uneven terrain.
Yes, a map of Capitol Reef National Park and the Upper Muley Twist Canyon trail is advisable. While cairns mark the path, a map can help with orientation.
Bring high-energy snacks and food that is easy to eat on the go. Consider items like trail mix, energy bars, and sandwiches.
For Different Travelers
Tailored advice for your travel style
👨👩👧 Families with Kids
Key considerations for families: Ensure everyone has sturdy hiking boots and ample water. Keep a close eye on children, especially near the canyon edges and while navigating the trail markers. The hike can be long, so pack plenty of snacks to keep energy levels up. Consider a shorter exploration within the canyon rather than completing the full loop if younger children are present.
🚶 Solo Adventurers
Tips for solo hikers: Always inform someone of your hiking plans, including your expected return time. Carry a reliable map and navigation tools, and be extra vigilant about following the cairns. Ensure you have sufficient water and supplies, as you may not encounter other hikers for extended periods. Embrace the peace and the opportunity for a truly immersive wilderness experience.
🚗 Overlanders and Road Trippers
Recommendations for road trippers: Ensure your vehicle is equipped for unpaved and potentially uneven roads. Pack all necessary supplies, as services are limited. The hike itself offers a fantastic break from driving, allowing you to stretch your legs and explore a unique geological wonder. Consider combining this with other nearby attractions like the Burr Trail or Monument Valley for a comprehensive Utah exploration.
Deep Dives
In-depth insights and expert knowledge
The Allure of Slot Canyons
+1Exploring a slot canyon is a unique adventure. The cool, shaded interiors offer a respite from the desert sun, while the smooth, undulating rock formations invite touch and admiration. The feeling of being enveloped by the earth is profound, and many find it to be a deeply meditative experience.
It's crucial to remember that slot canyons can be dangerous during periods of rain due to flash flood risks. Always check weather conditions and heed any warnings from park authorities before entering. Respecting these natural environments ensures their preservation for future explorers.
Navigating the Upper Muley Twist Trail
The hike itself is where the real adventure begins. It's described as long, strenuous, and rugged, demanding good physical condition and preparedness. A key aspect of navigating this trail is paying close attention to the cairns. These rock piles are essential markers, especially on the more exposed rim sections where the path might not be immediately obvious. Missing a cairn could lead to disorientation, so vigilance is paramount.
Many visitors recommend making the commitment to walk the entire trail, emphasizing that it's worth every step. The journey offers a chance to truly immerse yourself in the sublime desert environment, far from the usual tourist crowds.
Beyond the Hike: Strike Valley Overlook
The overlook provides panoramic views of the Strike Valley, a dramatic expanse of desert terrain. It's a place where the sheer scale of the landscape can be truly appreciated. However, as with all desert excursions, heed the sun's power; it's a 'persuasive negotiator' out here, meaning sun protection and hydration are non-negotiable.
Combining the hike through Upper Muley Twist Canyon with a visit to the Strike Valley Overlook creates a more complete and unforgettable experience of Capitol Reef's rugged beauty. It’s a testament to the raw, untamed nature of the Utah desert.
Social
from TikTok, Instagram & Reddit