Within the stunning and remote Vermilion Cliffs National Monument, Sandhill Crack offers one of the most underrated and enriching hikes in northern Arizona. Whether you’re a history buff, rock art enthusiast, or a nature lover seeking solitude, this lesser-known trail has something for everyone. The trail climbs steadily uphill through a crack in the sandstone, delivering desert views, an adventurous scramble, and a jaw-dropping display of ancient petroglyphs carved by the area’s earliest inhabitants.
In this guide, we’ll dive into everything you need to know about hiking Sandhill Crack: how to get there, what to expect, trail stats, nearby hikes, Leave No Trace tips, and more.
Why Hike Sandhill Crack?
Sandhill Crack is more than just a cool name. It’s a geological feature and hiking route that takes you up through a narrow gap in the sandstone cliffs. As you climb, you’ll encounter dozens of remarkably well-preserved petroglyphs that date back hundreds, even thousands of years. These images include depictions of animals, human figures, and symbolic markings that speak to the rich cultural history of the region.
Unlike the more trafficked destinations in the Vermilion Cliffs like White Pocket or The Wave, Sandhill Crack is quiet, serene, and deeply spiritual. You may not see another soul for the entirety of your hike, giving you a true sense of connection to the land and its stories.
Trail Stats
- Trail Name: Sandhill Crack Trail
- Location: Vermilion Cliffs National Monument, Arizona
- Length: Approx. 3 to 4 miles round trip (varies slightly depending on exploration)
- Elevation Gain: 500 feet
- Difficulty: Moderate (due to incline and scrambling)
- Time Required: 2 to 3 hours round trip
- Trail Type: Out-and-back
- Dogs Allowed: No (to preserve the fragile environment and rock art)
Directions to Sand Hill Crack
- If starting in Page, AZ, head south on US-89 toward Bitter Springs and Flagstaff.
- Continue for about 30 miles until you reach the junction of US-89 and US-89A near Bitter Springs.
- Turn right onto US-89A toward Marble Canyon and the Vermilion Cliffs.
- Stay on US-89A for 33.4 miles.
- Watch for mile marker 557
- Just before the Vermilion Cliffs, look for an unsigned dirt road on your right with a closed gate. This is the access road.
- If you pass the Historic Marker sign, you’ve gone about 0.5 miles too far—turn around.
- Go through the gate (close it behind you) and follow the sandy dirt road toward the cliffs.
- High clearance is recommended.
- 4WD usually not required, depending on conditions.
- Continue on the dirt road for 1.9 miles until you reach an old stone cabin.
- This is the parking area and start of the hike.
What to Expect on the Trail
From the trailhead, you’ll make your way toward the massive wall of red Navajo sandstone. The Sandhill Crack is easy to spot once you’re close: a distinct cleft in the cliffs that beckons you upward. As you enter the crack, the trail becomes steeper but also more fascinating.
The climb isn’t technical, but it does require some mild scrambling and attention to footing. Along the way, look carefully at the rock faces on either side. That’s where you’ll find petroglyph panels etched into the sandstone. They appear at eye-level and above, some near ground level and others tucked into higher ledges.
Take your time. Photograph responsibly and avoid touching the petroglyphs, as oils from your skin can degrade the rock over time.
At the top of the crack, the views open up dramatically. You’ll be rewarded with sweeping views of the Paria Plateau and surrounding Vermilion Cliffs. This is a great place for a snack or quiet meditation before heading back down the same route.
Tips for Hiking Sandhill Crack
- Bring Plenty of Water: The desert is hot and dry year-round.
- Wear Sun Protection: Hat, sunscreen, and long sleeves are a must.
- Use a Hiking App or GPS: There is no official trail marker.
- Start Early: Avoid the heat and enjoy better lighting for photos.
- Practice Leave No Trace: Pack out all trash, stay on durable surfaces, and respect cultural sites.
Nearby Hikes to Explore
If you’re already in the area, consider checking out these additional Vermilion Cliffs adventures:
- Buckskin Gulch – One of the longest and deepest slot canyons in the world.
- Lee’s Ferry – Explore Colorado River history, old ferry sites, and scenic beaches.
- Spencer Trail – A steep, historic trail climbing above Lee’s Ferry for panoramic views.
- The Wave (Coyote Buttes North) – Requires a competitive permit lottery but worth every step.
- White Pocket – A mind-bending swirl of colorful rock formations. Permit-free, but 4WD required.
- Wire Pass Trail – A fun intro to slot canyons.
Best Time to Visit Sandhill Crack
Spring and fall are the ideal seasons for hiking Sandhill Crack. Summer can be brutally hot, while winter brings the risk of icy patches and difficult road access.
Final Thoughts: A Hidden Gem Worth the Climb
Sandhill Crack may not be the most famous hike in the Vermilion Cliffs, but it offers something truly special. The combination of geological wonder, physical challenge, cultural richness, and solitude makes this trail unforgettable. If you’re looking for an off-the-beaten-path hike that delivers both adventure and insight, Sandhill Crack should absolutely be on your Arizona hiking bucket list.
Have you hiked Sandhill Crack? Share your photos and tag @SheLikesToHike on Instagram! And remember, preserving places like this ensures that future generations can enjoy them too. Tread lightly, hike mindfully, and stay wild.
Tread lightly, hike mindfully, and stay wild!
As with all outdoor adventures, remember to follow Leave No Trace principles to help keep Sandhill Crack awesome for future visitors. Respect the land, and always leave the area better than you found it. The desert is fragile, and even small steps help preserve these amazing places for future hikers.
Share Your Sandhill Crack Hiking Experience
If you visit the Sandhill Crack, I’d love to see your adventure! Tag me on Instagram @shelikestohike.happyhiking
