Quick Facts:

Location: Grand Staircase-Escalante National Monument near Escalante, Utah 

Coordinates: 37.46565548905463, -111.21212146390255

Length: 6 Miles

Difficulty: Hard

Elevation Gain: 600 Feet

Dog Friendly: No

Introduction:

Dry Fork Narrows, Peekaboo, and Spooky Slot Canyons are some of the most popular and adventurous hikes in the Grand Staircase-Escalante National Monument near Escalante, Utah. These slot canyons, known for their tight squeezes, dramatic rock formations, and thrilling passages, offer a memorable experience for hikers eager to explore the unique landscapes of southern Utah.

Getting There:

To access Dry Fork Narrows, Peekaboo, and Spooky Slot Canyons, start in the town of Escalante, Utah. Head east on Highway 12 for about 5 miles until you reach Hole-in-the-Rock Road, a well-known dirt road in the area. Continue driving for about 26 miles until you reach the Dry Fork trailhead. The road is unpaved and can become rough, especially in wet conditions, so a high-clearance or 4WD vehicle is recommended.

Parking:

Parking at the trailhead is straightforward but can fill up quickly during peak seasons. The parking lot is an open, sandy area with space for several vehicles. There are no amenities at the trailhead, so be sure to bring plenty of water, snacks, and other necessities. The trailhead is well-marked with a sign pointing toward Dry Fork Narrows, Peekaboo, and Spooky Slot Canyons.

Description of the Landscape:

The landscape around Dry Fork Narrows, Peekaboo, and Spooky Slot Canyons epitomizes southern Utah: dramatic sandstone formations, expansive desert vistas, and narrow, winding slot canyons. Dry Fork Narrows serves as the gateway to the other two canyons and offers a gentle introduction with its wide, sandy floor and towering walls. Peekaboo Canyon is known for its arches and tight, twisting passages, while Spooky Canyon, true to its name, features extremely narrow sections that require careful maneuvering and scrambling.

Trail Difficulty and Length:

The full loop, including Dry Fork Narrows, Peekaboo, and Spooky Slot Canyons, is about 6 miles long and is rated as moderate to strenuous. This hike involves a lot of scrambling, especially in Peekaboo and Spooky Slot Canyons, where you’ll need to navigate narrow passages and climb over boulders. The narrowest parts of Spooky Canyon are particularly challenging, requiring hikers to sidestep and squeeze through tight spaces. This hike is physically demanding and best suited for those in good physical condition.

Dog-Friendly Information:

While dogs are allowed on the trail, this hike is not recommended for them, especially in Peekaboo and Spooky Slot Canyons. The narrow sections, steep climbs, and sharp rocks can be difficult and potentially dangerous for dogs. If you choose to bring your dog, make sure they are well-prepared, and bring extra water and supplies for them.

Local Regulations:

It’s important to follow Leave No Trace principles when visiting these slot canyons to help preserve the natural beauty of the area. This includes packing out all trash, staying on designated trails, and not disturbing local wildlife. Since these canyons are part of the Grand Staircase-Escalante National Monument, check for any specific regulations or trail closures before you visit. Be especially cautious of the weather, as even normally benign slot canyons can become dangerous during flash floods.

Other Nearby Trails:

For those looking to extend their adventure, consider hiking nearby Zebra and Tunnel Slot Canyons, which are also located off Hole-in-the-Rock Road. These canyons offer a different but equally thrilling slot canyon experience. Another nearby option is the hike to the Escalante Natural Bridge, a stunning rock formation that spans over the river.

Scenic Attractions in the Area:

Besides hiking, there are several other attractions in the Escalante area. Just outside of town is the Escalante Petrified Forest State Park, which features an ancient petrified forest and striking desert landscapes. The Anasazi State Park Museum in Boulder, Utah, showcases thousands of artifacts from the area’s Native American culture. A scenic drive along the Burr Trail and Highway 12 offers breathtaking views and a relaxing way to experience the natural beauty of the area.

Accommodations: 

Escalante provides a variety of accommodations, from cozy bed and breakfasts to more rustic camping options. Each offers a comfortable retreat after a day spent exploring the canyons.

Best Time to Visit:

The best time to hike Dry Fork Narrows, Peekaboo, and Spooky Slot Canyons is during the spring (April to June) and fall (September to October) when temperatures are cooler and more suitable for hiking. Summer brings intense heat, adding to the hike’s difficulty, while winter can bring cold conditions and even snowfall. Always check the weather forecast in advance, as slot canyons can become extremely dangerous during and after rain due to the risk of flash floods.