Hike the the most popular route in the San Rafael Swell, the Little Wild Horse and Bell Slot Canyon loop. This 8 mile, moderately difficult route is suitable for persons with good physical ability and offers spectacular windows into the Swell’s time sculpted rock strata. This hike will take approximately 6-8 hours, be sure to bring plenty of water and provisions. Check local weather sources; if poor weather, particularly rain, appears imminent, do not enter the slot canyon!
From Green River, head west on Main Street. This trip requires approximately 3 hours of driving, so fill up on gas and provisions before leaving town. When preparations are made, head west on I-70. Drive 10.9 miles on I-70, take exit 149 for UT-24. Reset your odometer; in 24.2 miles turn right onto Temple Mountain Road. In 5.2 miles turn left onto Goblin Valley Road. After 6.1 miles turn right onto Wild Horse Road. Advance 5.4 miles to the Little Wild Horse and Bell Slot Canyon trailhead. Here you will find an information kiosk; make sure you are properly informed before attempting the hike.
On your return; for a truly bizarre and unforgettable stop, take a right at the intersection of Goblin Valley and Little Wild Horse Road, enter Goblin Valley State Park and peruse some of America’s strangest eroded rock formations.
Several locations offer the opportunity to camp in the area. Along Little Wild Horse Road lies BLM land on either side. You can find turnoffs along the road which lead to primative camp sites. These sites are visible from the road and often fill up quickly in good weather, they are ideal for tenting, though you will notice that RV’s use them as well, when capable. For more orginized camping, Goblin Valley State Park facilitates group RV and tent sites. These sites fill fast in good weather and on the weekend. Call ahead to (435)-275-4584 for further information. At the end of Little Wild Horse Road lies the Ding and Dang Slot Canyon trailhead. These canyons provide a more challenging loop slot canyon hike than the Little Wild Horse and Bell Slot Canyons.
Map: 38°30’13.67″N, 110°50’41.18″W
ACTIVITIES:
- Hike Little Wild Horse Canyon, stop for lunch and return down Bell Canyon
- View this area’s unique geology; keep your eyes open for Selenite, it resembles shards of glass.
FACILITIES:
A BLM information kiosk is located at the canyon trailhead, maps and information on the route can be obtained here. Pit toilets are also maintained at the trailhead.