The best walks and hikes in Little Wild Horse Canyon Wilderness
4.9
(42)
395
hikers
7
hikes
Hiking in Little Wild Horse Canyon Wilderness offers exploration of distinctive slot canyons within Utah's Emery County. The region is characterized by towering sandstone walls, narrow passages, and sculpted rock formations. These geological features, formed by water and wind erosion, display a range of red, orange, and yellow hues. The desert environment provides a unique backdrop for trails that navigate through these tight canyons.
Best hiking trails in Little Wild Horse Canyon Wilderness
- The most popular hiking route is Little…
Last updated: July 2, 2026
4.9
(17)
160
hikers
13.0km
03:41
290m
290m
Moderate hike. Good fitness required. Mostly accessible paths. Sure-footedness required.
4.8
(5)
33
hikers
9.62km
02:44
220m
220m
Moderate hike. Good fitness required. Easily-accessible paths. Suitable for all skill levels.
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4.6
(10)
92
hikers
3.95km
01:20
60m
60m
Moderate hike. Great for any fitness level. Mostly accessible paths. Sure-footedness required.
5.0
(8)
84
hikers
Moderate hike. Good fitness required. Mostly accessible paths. Sure-footedness required.
10
hikers
7.50km
02:18
100m
100m
Moderate hike. Good fitness required. Mostly accessible paths. Sure-footedness required.
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Tips from the Community
From now on, we can see the sky again, and the sun if it's there. This is an easy section of the canyon, and also beautiful.
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It's a living corridor, a ribbon of winding sandstone, a succession of walls that meander and undulate. The sandstone, polished by wind and tide, has almost human curves, hips, waves, draperies, and folds of fabric frozen in the colors of the surroundings. At this point, we exchanged our water shoes for our hiking boots. After that, the paths remained dry.
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You feel like you are on another planet, Mother Nature often looks beautiful.
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Seen from the parking lot. When we were here (November 21, 2025), the water was about 20cm deep. Afterward, we encountered several wading areas that you have to wade through; there's no other option. We brought water shoes, which are easy to pick up.
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Little Wild Horse and Bell Slot Canyons, unfortunately the unfinished ones for us 😥🙁😥 Today the Little Wild Horse Canyon and possibly the Bell Canyon should be visited. The two canyons can be explored in an approximately 13 km long circular tour. Here you can find my planned complete tour: komoot.de/tour/822561321 We left Goblin Campground very early because it was the weekend and all hell is supposed to break loose in the canyons on the weekend. The road to the trailhead is now paved, so it wasn't a problem even for our motorhome. When we arrived at the trailhead we were the very first ones 😃 So much for my phobia the previous days: we're pretty sure we won't get a parking space 😱 After a good breakfast we went to the Little wild horse canyon. At the beginning you go up the common wash to the junction and turn right there to Little Wild Horse Canyon. A signpost shows the way. My recommendation: Be sure to go through Little wild horse Canyon first, as most people do that. Because at the bottlenecks there is no way to get past each other in oncoming traffic!!! Now it became wonderfully nice to fight your way through the sometimes narrow and then wider places. However, after about a kilometer we were forced to make a decision in a narrow area with a boulder. Either climb over the boulder and not know whether we can overcome it again on the way back or continue walking the entire 13 km circular route or turn back here. We decided to turn back, especially since I had also pre-booked a slot canyon “Cardiac Canyon” with Page. In 2012 I was nearby in the world-famous Lower Antelope Canyon: flickr.com/photos/pharoahsax/albums/72157641505310913 On the way back we wanted to walk at least a little bit into Bell Canyon. But unfortunately a smooth rock barrier blocked the way for us old men, so we surrendered here too and ended the tour. In conclusion: Despite the cancellation, it was worth going on this tour😊 For younger people it is certainly no problem to overcome the rock and complete the circular tour, especially since you come from above at the rock barrier and you can always get down 😉
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Ding Canyon is a spectacular slot canyon, but significantly less traveled than its neighbors Little Wild Horse and Bell Canyon. There are a few down climbs in the Ding/Dang loop, while nothing is very technical it is not recommended for dogs.
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Little Wild Horse is a classic Utah slot canyon with a long stretch of "narrows", or tight, high canyon walls. It is a great introduction to exploring slot canyons.
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Bell Canyon is in the heart of San Rafael Swell and goes from the Little Wild Horse Trailhead to the Behind the Reef Road. While not quite as narrow as its neighbor Little Wild Horse, it's still worth checking out.
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Frequently Asked Questions
What kind of terrain can I expect when hiking in Little Wild Horse Canyon Wilderness?
The terrain in Little Wild Horse Canyon Wilderness is primarily characterized by distinctive slot canyons with towering sandstone walls. You'll navigate narrow passages, often requiring you to turn sideways, and encounter beautifully sculpted rock formations. Hikers should be prepared for some scrambling over rocks and boulders, and potentially wading through ankle-deep water during spring or after summer storms. The narrow sections offer cool, shaded air, a welcome relief from the desert heat.
Is Little Wild Horse Canyon Wilderness suitable for families with children?
Yes, Little Wild Horse Canyon is considered an excellent introduction to slot canyon exploration for families and beginners. While some sections involve minor obstacles like dry falls (around 6 feet high) and boulders, these are generally manageable for most skill levels, including children, making it a family-friendly adventure.
What is the best time of year to hike in Little Wild Horse Canyon Wilderness?
The slot canyons offer cool, shaded air, making them an ideal destination even during warmer months. However, it's crucial to check weather conditions, especially for flash flood warnings, as the canyons can hold pools of water after rain. Spring and fall generally offer the most pleasant temperatures for hiking.
Are dogs allowed on the trails in Little Wild Horse Canyon Wilderness?
While the provided information doesn't explicitly state the dog policy for Little Wild Horse Canyon Wilderness, it's generally advisable to check with the Bureau of Land Management (BLM) for specific regulations regarding pets in wilderness areas. You can find more information on their website: blm.gov.
Are there any loop trails available in Little Wild Horse Canyon Wilderness?
Yes, there are several loop options. A popular choice is the 8.1-mile (13.0 km) Little Wild Horse and Bell Canyon Loop, which combines two prominent slot canyons. Another option is the Little Wild Horse Canyon loop from Little Wild Horse Canyon, a shorter 2.5-mile (3.9 km) trail.
What kind of geological formations can I see in Little Wild Horse Canyon?
The wilderness is renowned for its captivating geological formations. You'll encounter classic slot canyons with incredibly narrow passages, towering sandstone walls sculpted over millions of years by water and wind, and beautifully textured rock walls displaying a vibrant array of red, orange, and yellow hues. The 'Narrows' are a significant feature, where canyon walls are often only a few feet apart.
Do I need a permit to hike in Little Wild Horse Canyon Wilderness?
The provided information does not indicate that permits are required for general hiking in Little Wild Horse Canyon Wilderness. However, it's always good practice to verify current regulations with the Bureau of Land Management (BLM) before your visit. You can check their official site for updates: blm.gov.
What are the parking options at Little Wild Horse Canyon Wilderness?
There is a designated trailhead for Little Wild Horse Canyon. For specific details on parking availability and any associated fees, it is recommended to consult the Bureau of Land Management's official website: blm.gov.
What other attractions are near Little Wild Horse Canyon Wilderness?
Little Wild Horse Canyon Wilderness is located near Goblin Valley State Park, which is another popular attraction offering unique geological formations and additional exploration opportunities in the vicinity. The area is also part of the Crack Canyon Wilderness Study Area.
What do other hikers enjoy most about hiking in Little Wild Horse Canyon Wilderness?
The area is highly rated by the komoot community, with an average score of 4.9 stars from over 40 reviews. Reviewers often praise the unique experience of navigating the tight slot canyons, the stunning sculpted rock walls, and the accessibility for various skill levels, including families.
Is public transport available to reach Little Wild Horse Canyon Wilderness?
Little Wild Horse Canyon Wilderness is located in a remote area of Utah. Public transport options are generally not available for direct access to the trailhead. Visitors typically reach the area by private vehicle.
What kind of wildlife might I encounter in Little Wild Horse Canyon Wilderness?
The Little Wild Horse Canyon area, within the Crack Canyon Wilderness Study Area, is known for wildlife such as pronghorn and bighorn sheep. The region is also historically associated with wild mustangs, which have roamed the San Rafael Swell for centuries.
Are there any amenities or accommodation options near Little Wild Horse Canyon Wilderness?
The wilderness area itself is undeveloped. For amenities, cafes, restaurants, and accommodation, you would need to look at nearby towns such as Hanksville or Green River, or consider options near Goblin Valley State Park, which is in close proximity.
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