Little Wild Horse Canyon

Unveiling the Hidden Wonders of Utah's Slot Canyons

by Celeste Lipford and Terry Lipford - last updated on 12/26/2024

If you hiked in through the slot canyon to the top and then crossed over onto the Bell Canyon trail, you will have walked 8 strenous miles by the time you return to the parking lot. We did not have the time (or the energy) to hike that far, so we turned back after the slot canyon. Not sure of the exact distance we hiked, but it was easily 2.5 to 3.0 mile round trip.

What makes Little Wild Horse Canyon particularly inviting is its accessibility to hikers of all skill levels. The hike can be tailored to suit your preferences, whether you're seeking a short and easy stroll or a more challenging, longer trek. The main attraction is the winding slot canyon, where hikers can squeeze through tight spaces, admire towering sandstone walls, and marvel at the play of light and shadow.

 Trailhead and Parking:

• The trail starts at the Little Wild Horse Canyon/Bell Canyon Trailhead, with a spacious parking lot equipped with restrooms.
• A round-trip hike into Little Wild Horse Canyon alone is about 4–6 miles, depending on how far you choose to explore the slot canyon before turning back. For the full Little Wild Horse-Bell Canyon Loop, it’s 8 miles.

 The Hike:

• From the parking lot, the trail begins in a dry wash with loose sand and small rocks. Follow the clearly marked trailhead signs toward Little Wild Horse Canyon.
• After about a mile, the canyon walls begin to close in, creating the narrow, winding pathways characteristic of a slot canyon.

 Canyon Features:

• Some sections are just a few feet wide, requiring hikers to squeeze through or navigate around obstacles.
• The walls of Little Wild Horse Canyon display beautiful layers of red, orange, and yellow sandstone, smoothed by years of erosion.
• Minor scrambling over rocks and boulders is required in some areas, but it’s manageable for beginners and children.
• Depending on recent rainfall, you may encounter shallow pools or mud, adding an adventurous element to the hike.

 Challenges:

• Slot canyons are prone to flash floods. Always check the weather forecast before hiking, and avoid the canyon if storms are predicted.
• Little Wild Horse Canyon is very popular, especially during weekends and holidays. Arrive early to enjoy a quieter experience.
• The trail is well-marked, but the similar-looking terrain can be disorienting. GPS or maps can help, especially if attempting the loop.

 What to Bring:

• Water and Snacks: The hike can be hot and dry, especially in summer and there are no facilities there.
• Sun Protection: A hat, sunglasses, and sunscreen are essential.
• Sturdy Shoes: Trail runners or hiking boots with good grip are recommended for navigating rocky sections.
• Weather Awareness: Always be prepared to exit quickly if there’s rain in the forecast.

Click here to read a good description of the entire hike.

The hike from the parking lot to the slot canyon is approximately a mile, offering an enjoyable and relatively easy walk. On our visit, the day was bright and sunny, with the temperature gradually warming as we made our way along the trail. Fortunately, we came prepared with plenty of water to stay hydrated and found the walk to be quite pleasant, surrounded by the stark beauty of the desert landscape.

Although the parking lot was bustling and full of vehicles, the trail itself felt surprisingly uncrowded. It seemed that visitors were dispersed across the various trail segments, providing us with a peaceful and serene hiking experience. Along the way, we appreciated the wide-open views and the anticipation of reaching the slot canyon's dramatic formations. The trail’s gentle ascent and clear markers made it accessible for hikers of varying skill levels, making it a memorable start to an unforgettable adventure.

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