Paria, a town established in 1869, had to face frequent flooding and droughts in the 1920s, which eventually led to its abandonment. However, Paria’s story didn’t end there. Its historic structures and beautiful desert scenery made it a popular location for Western films, including Clint Eastwood’s The Outlaw Josey Wales. Despite the unfortunate destruction of the movie set due to fire, today, Paria boasts picturesque scenery that visitors can enjoy for recreational purposes. Whether you’re into photography, hiking, or just looking for a peaceful picnic spot by the river, Paria is a destination that won’t disappoint.
Directions to Old Paria
The old Paria Townsite is located between Kanab, UT, and Page, AZ. The turn-off is just off Hwy 89. There is a large plaque and parking area. The dirt road is accessible as long as it’s dry.
FROM KANAB, UT: Drive east (toward Page, AZ) on US-89 for about 34 miles. You should see a sign for Paria Townsite on the left before the turn-off. This is about a 1/5 of a mile past mile marker 31. Once you turn left, drive past the big parking space and continue through the cattle gate onto a dirt road.
FROM PAGE, AZ: Drive west (toward Kanab, UT) on US-89 for about 39 miles. There should be a sign for the turn-off on the right, past mile marker 30. Once you turn left, drive past the big parking space and continue through the cattle gate onto a dirt road.
Check out this handy, printable map courtesy of the Kane County Office of Tourism before you go.
Take A Scenic Drive to Old Paria
The scenic drive to the townsite is 6 miles long and absolutely gorgeous. The road passes multi-colored mountains with alternating red, white, purple, and grey-blue tones. There is a place to park and look closer at the bottom of the road. If you continue down the road, you will pass the old Paria Cemetery, a cool piece of history. The original Pahrea (as it was originally spelled) townsite was located across the river, but very little remains.
Hiking in Old Paria
There aren’t any trailheads near, but there is a lot of great hiking. There is an unmarked trail hiking the mountain’s perimeter on the side of the road. This trail is beautiful but steep in some areas.
Hike to the Old Cabin
You can also hike to the remains of the old cabin. Again, there is no official trial; you must walk toward the cabin. This hike is relatively short and straightforward.
Hike to the Base of the Colorful Paria Mountains
Another simple hike is just walking around the base of the large, colorful mountain you see from the road. You don’t want actually to climb on the hill because the soil is fragile, and stepping on the structure damages its beauty. This is an excellent place for photography!
Kitchen Canyon, Kitchen Falls, and Starlight Narrows
The more serious hiker should consider Kitchen Canyon. Kitchen Canyon is a beautiful, secluded area with petroglyphs and a waterfall.
If you hike 4.5 miles up from the townsite, the colorful, striped hills turn to red rock walls, and Kitchen Canyon enters from the west. Petroglyphs are located near the canyon’s mouth on the northern side. If you continue up the canyon for about a mile, you will reach a junction on the left where Starlight Canyon enters. At this point, you will hear the waterfall that is ahead to the right. If you continue to your right, you will see Kitchen Canyon Falls. You want to avoid being near the falls if there is a potential for storms because flash flooding does occur here.
After checking out the falls, you can return or check out the Starlight Narrows. Once you enter Starlight Canyon, you only need to walk about 10 minutes before the walls close in! Once you have explored the slot canyon, turn around and head back to the Old Paria Townsite.
This hike is approximately 10.5 miles round trip, so make sure you are prepared before heading out. There is no cell phone service, and you are unlikely to see other people.
More Hikes
Looking for more to do in the Area? Check out these nearby hikes!
Alstrom Point
Alstrom Point is a breathtaking overlook on the edge of Lake Powell. It offers panoramic views of the lake, towering cliffs, and Navajo Mountain. Located near Big Water, Utah, Alstrom Point is popular with photographers, campers, and off-road enthusiasts.
Birthday Arch
Birthday Arch is a breathtaking natural sandstone arch in the remote desert near Big Water, Utah. The hike to reach it is moderate, covering about 5 miles round trip. Expect a mix of sandy trails and some rock scrambling, making it a fun and slightly challenging adventure. Once you arrive, you’ll be rewarded with stunning views and the unique beauty of the arch.
The Moon
The Moon, as locals call it, is a surreal gray desert landscape that feels like you’re walking on another planet. Located near Big Water, Utah, this otherworldly spot is perfect for exploring, ATV riding, and fossil hunting.
Wahweap Hoodoos
The Wahweap Hoodoos are a stunning collection of tall, skinny sandstone formations that rise dramatically from the desert floor. This moderately difficult hike near Big Water covers about 10 miles round trip. The strange and beautiful hoodoos offer excellent photo opportunities and a rewarding trek.
Wiregrass Trail
For those seeking a shorter hike, the Wiregrass Trail offers a scenic route through Grand Staircase-Escalante National Monument. It winds through picturesque desert terrain and leads to a natural bridge just 2 miles round trip. For the more ambitious, you can extend your hike to Lake Powell, adding extra miles and a rewarding view.
Leave It Better Than You Found It
Always do your part to keep Old Paria beautiful by packing out everything you pack in and not changing the landscape. Respect nature and follow ethical practices when engaging in outdoor activities. Always leave a place better than you found it and practice the principles of Leave No Trace. Enjoy your time exploring the trails and discovering the area’s hidden treasures!