Wildhorse Canyon, UT

The San Rafael Swell was first referred to as a reef by early pioneers. The earth juts up here like a reef in the ocean. The question was how to navigate it. There are natural passageways. Wildhorse is one of those natural canyon passageways thru the reef. Not to be confused with Little Wildhorse Canyon, another hike in the area.


This is a nontechnical canyon but there are three sets of short slots to play around in. Each of the San Rafael Canyons has its own appeal, character and features and this one is not short on fun.

From the marked trailhead it's about a mile to the entrance to the canyon. Fallen boulders litter the wash, each subjected to the various forces of nature. The canyon narrows down and the hiking is easy with steady but gentle downgrade. Shortly you will come to a bend left, straight ahead of you lies Clasp Arch. Above and to the left is Wildhorse Natural Bridge. They are both a little difficult to photograph. A short time later you will come to a slotted section that is easily bypassed left or right. The canyon is somewhat open compared to others but at times has sheer walls lining the right side of the canyon. The canyon meanders left and right and comes to the next slotted section again easily bypassed. Be observant and you just may find some pictograms located high up on the cliffs. You'll arrive at the fun final slotted area where the canyon ends and empties into Temple Wash. This description is for an out and back but if you knew where to locate a second vehicle this could be done as a shuttle. Admire the views and return the way you came.

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2018-05-07 AZLOT69