Wiregrass Canyon, nestled within the Glen Canyon National Recreation Area, is a picturesque canyon with two natural bridges and numerous small hoodoos. While a primary trail guides you through the heart of the canyon, there are several shorter offshoots waiting to be explored.
Directions to the Wiregrass Canyon Trailhead
From Page, Arizona, drive north on Highway 89 about 12 miles (19 km) to Big Water, Utah. Between mileposts 7 and 8, turn right in the opposite direction of the Big Water Visitor Center. Turn right again in 0.3 mile (0.5 km), at a sign reading, “Glen Canyon National Recreation Area – State Highway 12.” Drive 4.6 miles (7.5 km) to the Wiregrass Canyon Backcountry Use Area and park in the pullout. If you get to the side road for Crosby Canyon, you have driven too far.
Hiking to Wiregrass Natural Bridge and Beyond
Hiking to the First Arch
- Start Along the Wash:
From the trailhead, the hike begins by following the sandy wash of Wiregrass Canyon. There is no formal trail, but the wash itself serves as the path. The first mile takes you through wide canyon walls that gradually narrow as you walk deeper into the canyon. - Navigating Pour-offs:
About 1 mile in, you’ll encounter a few pour-offs (drop-offs where water flows during flash floods). Some light scrambling may be required here, or you can follow hiker-created footpaths that take you around these obstacles. Look for cairns (small rock piles) to guide you through this part. - Reaching the First Natural Bridge (Arch):
Shortly after navigating the pour-offs, you’ll come upon the first arch—a small natural bridge created by floodwaters from a nearby canyon. This is one of the most interesting features of the hike. It’s a great spot to pause, take photos, and explore the surrounding area. From here you can decide if you want to turn around or continue hiking to Lake Powell and the second Arch.
Continuing to Lake Powell
Deeper Into the Canyon:
After enjoying the first arch, continue down the wash as the canyon widens again. The sandy wash makes for fairly easy walking, though you may encounter patches of soft sand that can slow you down. Along the way, keep an eye out for balanced rocks and small arches high up in the canyon walls.
Second Natural Bridge:
As you near Lake Powell, you’ll come across a second natural bridge. This one is larger than the first and marks your approach to the lake. The landscape becomes more open as you get closer to the water.
Reaching Lake Powell:
After approximately 3 miles, the canyon opens up near the shores of Lake Powell. The wash will guide you all the way to the lake, where you can relax and enjoy the stunning views of the water against the backdrop of canyon walls.
Nearby Hikes
Alstrom Point
Alstrom Point is a scenic overlook located on the edge of the Kaiparowits Plateau in the Glen Canyon National Recreation Area near Page, Arizona. It offers breathtaking panoramic views of Lake Powell and the surrounding desert landscape. You will pass Wiregrass Canyon when traveling to Alstrom Point.
Birthday Arch
Birthday Arch, located near Big Water, Utah, is a stunning natural sandstone arch tucked away in the remote desert landscape. The hike to Birthday Arch is considered moderate and involves navigating through sandy terrain and rock scrambling. It is approximately 5 miles round trip.
Blue Pool Wash
Blue Pool Wash is a slot canyon near Big Water, Utah, that is great for hiking and canyoneering. The hike is considered moderately challenging and typically covers 3 to 4 miles round trip.
Crosby Canyon
Crosby Canyon, located near Big Water, Utah, offers a scenic experience in the Grand Staircase-Escalante National Monument. The hike is considered moderately challenging, and most hikers typically cover 3-4 miles round trip. Crosby Canyon is located next to Wiregrass Canyon.
Skylight Arch and Stud Horse Point
Skylight Arch and Stud Horse Point are located near Big Water, Utah, within the Grand Staircase-Escalante National Monument. Stud Horse Point is a scenic overlook offering stunning panoramic views of the surrounding desert landscape. Skylight Arch is a natural sandstone arch named for the large opening in its center.
The Moon
What locals call “the Moon” is an area of gray sand and unique formations that look otherworldly. When you are on the Moon, it feels like you are on another planet! There is much to do and see in this area. Many people ride ATVs or bicycles around the area. It is also a great place to find rocks and fossils. You will pass the moon on your way to Wiregrass Canyon.
Wahweap Hoodoos
The Wahweap Hoodoos, located near Big Water, Utah, are a captivating collection of sandstone hoodoos, towers, and pinnacles rising from the desert landscape. The overall difficulty level is moderate, and the total distance covered is typically 10 miles round trip.
Leave Wiregrass Canyon Better Than You Found It
Remember to 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!
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