Quick Facts:
Location: Bears Ears National Monument, Blanding, Utah
Coordinates: 37.537678066031376, -109.7318085001881
Length: 2 Miles
Difficulty: Easy
Elevation Gain: Less than 100’
Dog Friendly: Yes
Introduction:
Hidden deep within the red rock canyons of Bears Ears National Monument lies one of the most visually striking ancient ruins in the Southwest: House on Fire. Named for its uncanny resemblance to a burning structure when the sun hits just right, this ancient cliff dwelling is a must-see for hikers, photographers, and history buffs alike. The hike is short and relatively easy, but the reward is a mesmerizing glimpse into the past, where ancient Ancestral Puebloan structures stand frozen in time.
Getting to House on Fire:
House on Fire is located in Mule Canyon, about 30 minutes from Blanding, Utah. From Blanding, take UT-95 west for approximately 19 miles. Keep an eye out for a sign marking the Kane Gulch Ranger Station, a key landmark for finding the turnoff. Shortly after passing the ranger station, turn onto County Road 263 (also known as Mule Canyon Road). Follow the dirt road for about a mile until you reach the trailhead parking area.
The road to the trailhead is unpaved but generally passable for most vehicles in good weather. However, after heavy rain, it can get muddy and rutted, so check local conditions before heading out.
Parking Information:
Parking at the Mule Canyon trailhead is free, but there is a $5 day-use fee per vehicle. The lot is small, so arriving early is a good idea, especially during peak hiking seasons in spring and fall. There are no restrooms at the trailhead, so plan accordingly.
Landscape Description:
The trail to House on Fire is a relatively flat, 2-mile round-trip hike that follows the dry bed of Mule Canyon. The path winds through a sandy wash surrounded by juniper and piñon pine, with towering red rock cliffs framing the route.
Along the way, you’ll pass through a quiet, serene canyon with desert flora and occasional petroglyphs etched into the rocks. Keep an eye out for these ancient markings, as they provide a glimpse into the lives of the Ancestral Puebloans who once inhabited the area.
The main attraction, House on Fire, is located about a mile into the canyon on the left side of the trail. The ruins consist of a small, well-preserved Ancestral Puebloan dwelling located beneath a sandstone overhang. When the sun hits at just the right angle, typically mid-morning, the patterns in the rock above the ruins appear to glow like flames, creating a fiery effect that gives the site its name.
Trail Difficulty and Length:
The hike to House on Fire is considered easy, making it accessible for hikers of all skill levels. The 2-mile round trip is mostly flat, with minimal elevation gain and a well-defined path through the canyon wash. The sandy terrain can be a bit uneven in places, but overall, it’s a gentle walk that takes about an hour to complete, depending on how long you linger at the ruins.
While the hike is easy, the desert environment can get brutally hot in the summer months, so bring plenty of water, wear a hat, and apply sunscreen. The best light for photographing the fiery effect is between 10 AM and noon, when the sun is high enough to create the illusion of flames above the ruins.
Dog-Friendly?
Yes, the trail to House on Fire is dog-friendly, but pets must be kept on a leash at all times. The sandy wash can be rough on paws, especially during hot weather when the ground can reach scorching temperatures. Bring extra water for your pup and be prepared to pack out all waste, as there are no trash facilities along the trail.
Park Rules and Regulations:
House on Fire is located on federal land managed by the Bureau of Land Management (BLM). It’s crucial to follow Leave No Trace principles to preserve this ancient site. Avoid touching the ruins or climbing on the walls, as the structures are extremely fragile and irreplaceable.
Photography is permitted, but drones are strictly prohibited within Bears Ears National Monument. Fires and camping are not allowed along the trail or at the ruin site. Respect the area’s cultural significance by staying on marked paths and refraining from disturbing or collecting artifacts.
Other Hikes Nearby:
If you’re hungry for more hiking, Mule Canyon offers several additional ruins and rock art sites further down the canyon. The Lower Mule Canyon Trail continues beyond House on Fire, leading to more ruins tucked into the canyon walls.
For a longer, more challenging hike, head to the Under the Natural Bridges Trail. This trail offers dramatic Southwest scenery, leading hikers through White Canyon past three distinct natural bridges, Sipapu, Kachina, and Owachomo, each with unique shapes, cultural history, and breathtaking views.
Non-Hiking Attractions Nearby:
After your hike, take a short drive to the Edge of the Cedars State Park Museum in Blanding, where you can learn more about the Ancestral Puebloan culture and see artifacts recovered from the surrounding canyons. The museum also features a well-preserved kiva, allowing visitors to step inside and experience the ancient structure up close.
For a quick bite, swing by the Patio Drive-In in Blanding, a quirky, old-school spot known for its burgers and shakes. If you’re looking to unwind, consider visiting the Bears Ears Education Center to learn more about the ongoing efforts to protect this culturally significant region.
Best Time to Visit:
The best time to visit House on Fire is during the cooler months of spring and fall, when temperatures are mild and the light is ideal for photography. In spring, the canyon comes alive with wildflowers and blooming cacti, adding vibrant pops of color to the otherwise arid landscape.
Summer can be brutally hot, with temperatures soaring into the 90s and little to no shade along the trail. If you’re visiting in summer, aim to hit the trail early in the morning or late in the afternoon to avoid the heat.
Winter is typically quiet, with fewer visitors and cooler temperatures, but be prepared for occasional snow or icy patches in the canyon wash.
Still Want More?
For those who want to capture these breathtaking views and bring a piece of nature home, Unicorn Adventure offers high-quality nature photography prints. Check out their collection and find the perfect image to remind you of your hiking experience!
