The best family-friendly hikes and walks in Grand Staircase–Escalante National Monument

Grand Staircase–Escalante National Monument offers a wide variety of hiking experiences suitable for families, with nearly 120 routes available. Over 80 of these are rated as easy, making them perfect for outings with children.

For families with young children, several easy and relatively short trails offer engaging experiences. Consider the The 100 Hands Pictographs trail, which is just over 1 km long and features ancient rock art. The Devils Garden Trail is another excellent choice, at about 1.3 km, where kids can explore unique hoodoo rock formations. Both are easy and offer minimal elevation gain.

Absolutely! The region is famous for its geological wonders. The Lower Calf Creek Falls is a prominent attraction, featuring an 87-foot waterfall with cool pools at its base, accessible via a moderately easy trail. For unique rock formations, the Toadstool Hoodoos Trail is a fantastic option, leading to distinctive mushroom-shaped rock pillars. You can also explore the Toadstool Hoodoos highlight directly.

The area is highly rated by the komoot community, with an average score of 4.7 stars from over 3,500 reviews. Hikers often praise the unique geological features, the sense of remote wilderness, and the accessibility of many trails for families. The diverse landscapes, from slot canyons to hoodoos, provide memorable experiences for all ages.

Yes, some slot canyons are more accessible for families. The Willis Creek Narrows Trail is known for its accessibility and pleasant creek, making it a good introduction to slot canyons for families. While some slot canyons like Peek-a-Boo and Spooky Gulch can be challenging, Willis Creek offers a more gentle experience. You can also explore highlights like Zebra Slot Canyon and Dry Fork Slot Canyon for their unique beauty.

Spring (April-May) and Fall (September-October) are generally the best seasons for family hiking in Grand Staircase–Escalante National Monument. Temperatures are milder, making for more comfortable conditions. Summer can be very hot, and the monsoon season (July-September) brings a risk of flash floods in slot canyons, which should be avoided. Winter can be cold, but offers unique solitude, though some roads may be impassable.

Regulations regarding dogs can vary within the monument. Generally, dogs are permitted on leash on many trails, but it's crucial to check specific trail regulations before you go, especially for sensitive areas like slot canyons or designated wilderness. Always practice Leave No Trace principles and pack out all waste.

Grand Staircase–Escalante is home to diverse wildlife. On family hikes, you might spot various bird species, lizards, and small mammals like rabbits or ground squirrels. Keep an eye out for mule deer, and if you're lucky, you might even see bighorn sheep in certain areas. Remember to observe wildlife from a distance and never feed animals.

While many trails in the monument are out-and-back, some offer loop options or can be combined for a circular experience. For instance, the Devils Garden Trail is a short loop that allows for exploration of the hoodoos. When planning, look for routes described as loops or consider combining shorter segments to create a circular walk suitable for your family's endurance.

The towns surrounding Grand Staircase–Escalante National Monument, such as Escalante, Boulder, and Cannonville, offer various amenities. You'll find cafes, restaurants, and small shops where you can grab a meal, coffee, or snacks before or after your family hike. It's always a good idea to check opening hours, especially during off-peak seasons, as options can be limited in these smaller communities.

When hiking with family in this region, essential items include plenty of water (there are limited water sources on trails), sun protection (hats, sunscreen, sunglasses), sturdy closed-toe shoes, snacks, and a first-aid kit. Layers of clothing are recommended due to temperature fluctuations. For slot canyon hikes, consider shoes that can get wet and a small backpack for essentials.