Quick Facts:

Location: Kodachrome Basin State Park

Coordinates: 37.522572787712306, -111.99201619638866

Length: 6.5 Miles

Difficulty: Moderate

Elevation Gain: 600’

Dog Friendly: Yes

Introduction:

If you’ve ever wondered what it’s like to hike through a landscape straight out of a dream, the Panorama Trail Long Loop in Kodachrome Basin State Park is your answer. This 6-mile journey near Cannonville, Utah, takes you through colorful desert views, quirky rock formations, and some of the park’s most breathtaking hidden gems. Whether you’re an avid hiker or just someone who loves exploring unique places, this trail is sure to win you over.

How to Get There:

From Cannonville, it’s a quick and easy 9-mile drive down Cottonwood Canyon Road. The scenery along the way sets the tone, with desert landscapes unfolding before you like a preview of the adventure ahead. If you’re cruising along Highway 12, one of Utah’s most beautiful roads, Kodachrome is just a short detour away, making it a must-stop on your journey. Entry to the park is $10 per vehicle, payable at the visitor center.

Parking Information:

Once you arrive at the park, parking is a breeze. The lot near the Panorama Trail is well-marked and easy to find. If you’re visiting during peak times in spring or fall, getting there early is a good idea to snag a spot and enjoy the morning light on the rocks.

Landscape Description:

The Panorama Trail Long Loop is like a greatest hits album of Kodachrome Basin’s beauty. As you hike, you’ll pass towering sandstone spires, colorful cliffs, and unique rock formations that seem almost too perfect to be natural. Highlights include “The Hat Shop,” where hoodoos wear stone caps like little hats, and “Secret Passage,” a shaded slot canyon that feels like a hidden treasure.

The views aren’t just up close, either. The trail’s panoramic lookouts let you take in the sprawling desert landscape, with its vivid reds, oranges, and whites stretching endlessly under a big blue sky.

Trail Difficulty and Length:

At 6.5 miles, the Panorama Trail Long Loop is a moderate hike that’s manageable for most hikers. The terrain is mostly flat with a few gentle inclines, so you won’t need to be a pro to enjoy it. Take your time to explore, soak in the views, and maybe even sit down for a quiet moment in one of the box canyons.

Can You Bring Your Dog?

Yes! The Panorama Trail is dog-friendly, so your furry friend can join you on this desert adventure. Just make sure they stay on a leash, and bring plenty of water for them (and you). Keep an eye on their paws, especially in summer, since the rocky ground can get hot.

Local Regulations:

Kodachrome Basin is a special place, and it’s up to all of us to keep it that way. Stick to the marked trails, pack out any trash, and resist the urge to climb on the delicate rock formations. Drones aren’t allowed in the park, and camping is only permitted in designated areas. Basically, treat the park like the natural treasure it is.

Other Trails to Explore

If you’ve got time and energy after the Panorama Trail, Kodachrome has plenty more to offer. Angel’s Palace Trail is a shorter hike with incredible views from above, and the Grand Parade Trail is an easy stroll through two serene box canyons.

Non-Hiking Attractions Nearby:

Kodachrome Basin isn’t just for hikers. The park is a fantastic spot for a picnic, with shaded areas where you can relax and enjoy the scenery. And when the sun goes down, the night sky puts on a show like you’ve never seen. With no city lights for miles, the stars here are jaw-dropping.

The Best Time to Visit

Spring and fall are the golden seasons for hiking the Panorama Trail Long Loop. The weather is mild, the desert colors seem to glow, and the crowds are manageable. Summer can get hot, but early morning or evening hikes are still doable with plenty of water and sunscreen. Winter offers a quieter experience, with cooler temperatures and a peaceful vibe.