Best Hikes in Hanksville, Utah: A Guide to Top Scenic Spots

Introduction:

Hanksville, Utah, a seemingly modest town, is surrounded by some of the most awe-inspiring and diverse landscapes in the American Southwest. Whether you’re a seasoned hiker or just starting, Hanksville serves as a gateway to adventures that are as varied in their terrain as they are in their difficulty levels. Here’s your guide to the top 10 hikes in this rugged region, where the lands whisper tales of ancient times and beckon adventurers to explore further.

1. Little Wild Horse Canyon

• Location: San Rafael Swell
• Trail Description: A winding narrow canyon known for its accessible slot canyon experiences. The walls, smooth and sculpted by eons of water flow, enclose hikers in a mesmerizing natural maze.
• Difficulty and Length: Moderate; 8 miles round trip
• Dog-Friendly: No, dogs might find the narrow passages restrictive.
• Best Time to Visit: Spring and fall when the temperatures are cooler and flash flood risks are minimized.

2. The Goblin’s Lair

• Location: Goblin Valley State Park
• Trail Description: Often mistaken as just an extension of the Valley of the Goblins, this trail leads to a hidden cavern known as ‘The Goblin’s Lair,’ an amphitheater of geological wonder.
• Difficulty and Length: Moderate; 3 miles round trip
• Dog-Friendly: Yes, keep your companion leashed.
• Best Time to Visit: Early morning or late afternoon for the best light and cooler temperatures.

3. Valley of the Goblins

• Location: Goblin Valley State Park
• Trail Description: This isn’t so much a trail as a playground of sandstone goblins. The landscape is surreal, dotted with thousands of hoodoos and formations.
• Difficulty and Length: Easy; explore at your own pace
• Dog-Friendly: Yes, keep your companion leashed.
• Best Time to Visit: Spring and fall to avoid the scorching summer heat.

4. Carmel Canyon Trail

• Location: Within Goblin Valley State Park
• Trail Description: Offers a loop around the valley, providing different perspectives of the park’s unique geological features.
• Difficulty and Length: Moderate; 1.5 miles loop
• Dog-Friendly: Yes, keep your companion leashed.
• Best Time to Visit: Late afternoon for stunning sunsets.

5. Long Dong Silver

• Location: West of Goblin Valley
• Trail Description: A less traveled path known for its solitude and striking rock formations.
• Difficulty and Length: Moderate; 3 miles
• Dog-Friendly: Yes, keep your companion leashed.
• Best Time to Visit: Spring or fall for the best hiking conditions.

6. Moonscape Overlook

• Location: Near Factory Butte
• Trail Description: True to its name, this trail offers lunar-like landscapes that are stark and expansive.
• Difficulty and Length: Easy; varies as you can explore freely
• Dog-Friendly: Yes, keep your companion leashed.
• Best Time to Visit: Early morning or late afternoon for dramatic lighting.

7. Factory Butte

• Location: North of Hanksville
• Trail Description: Renowned for its rugged, otherworldly appearance, Factory Butte challenges hikers with its stark and barren landscapes.
• Difficulty and Length: Easy; varies as you can explore freely
• Dog-Friendly: Yes, keep your companion leashed.
• Best Time to Visit: Spring when the area is less exposed.

8. Bentonite Hills

• Location: Capitol Reef National Park vicinity
• Trail Description: Offers colorful views of the bentonite hills, which are rich in hues of red, purple, and green.
• Difficulty and Length: Easy; varies as you can explore freely
• Dog-Friendly: Yes, keep your companion leashed.
• Best Time to Visit: Late spring for cooler temperatures and fewer visitors.

9. Mars Research Station

• Location: Capitol Reef National Park vicinity
• Trail Description: Offers colorful views, which are rich in hues of red, purple, and green.
• Difficulty and Length: Easy; Roadside
• Dog-Friendly: Yes, keep your companion leashed.
• Best Time to Visit: Late spring for cooler temperatures and fewer visitors.

Wrapping Up

Hanksville’s array of trails offers something for every hiker, from serene walks through alien landscapes to challenging treks across rugged terrains. Each path is laced with the promise of adventure, solitude, and a deep connection with nature. So lace up your boots, pack your spirit of adventure, and head out to explore the wild, untamed beauty of Hanksville, Utah.