Quick Facts:

Location: Glen Canyon National Recreation Area, Big Water, Utah

Coordinates: 37.090342483638565, -111.52202586838636

Length: 5 Miles

Difficulty: Easy

Elevation Gain: None

Dog Friendly: Yes

Introduction:

If you’re looking for an adrenaline-pumping off-road adventure with stunning desert views, Crosby Canyon in Glen Canyon National Recreation Area is the place to go. This remote and rugged canyon offers thrilling 4×4 trails, vibrant sandstone cliffs, and a hidden beach on the shores of Lake Powell. It’s a paradise for off-road enthusiasts, photographers, and anyone craving an unforgettable desert adventure. Ready to hit the dirt road? Here’s everything you need to know about off-roading Crosby Canyon.

How to Get There:

Crosby Canyon is located in Glen Canyon National Recreation Area, about 45 minutes from Page, Arizona. To get there, take US-89 west from Page toward Kanab. Turn onto Big Water Road and follow it north until it becomes Smoky Mountain Road. Continue on Smoky Mountain Road until you reach the turnoff for Crosby Canyon. This turn is easy to miss, so keep an eye out for a small dirt road branching off to the right.

The trailhead is unmarked, and the road quickly turns into a rugged off-road trail, so a high-clearance 4WD vehicle is recommended. The dirt road is sandy, rocky, and uneven, with deep ruts and steep inclines that require good off-road driving skills. It’s a bumpy but scenic ride, offering stunning views of the surrounding desert landscape. If you’re not comfortable driving off-road, consider joining a guided 4×4 tour from Page.

Description of the Landscape:

The landscape in Crosby Canyon is absolutely breathtaking. The trail winds through a narrow desert canyon with towering sandstone cliffs in vibrant shades of red, orange, and gold. The rugged canyon walls are beautifully sculpted by centuries of wind and water erosion, creating stunning rock formations and unique textures. As you navigate the twisting canyon, you’ll be surrounded by sweeping desert vistas, twisted juniper trees, and blooming desert wildflowers in the spring.

Trail Difficulty and Length:

The trail is about 10 miles round trip, depending on how far you explore. The rugged dirt road is narrow and winding, with deep sandy sections, rocky terrain, and steep inclines that require careful driving.

The trail is rated as easy, and it’s best suited for all off-road drivers. The deep sand and rocky ruts can be challenging, especially after heavy rain, which can make the trail muddy and slippery.

The off-road adventure is worth every bump and twist, offering a thrilling and scenic journey through one of Arizona’s most beautiful desert landscapes. The sense of exploration and discovery adds to the excitement, making it a perfect adventure for off-road enthusiasts and thrill-seekers.

Dog-Friendly Fun:

Yes, Crosby Canyon is dog-friendly! Leashed dogs are allowed on the trail, making it a fun outing for both you and your furry friend. The sandy path is easy on paws.

Local Regulations:

Glen Canyon National Recreation Area is managed by the National Park Service, and there are a few important rules to follow. Always stay on designated roads and trails to protect the fragile desert ecosystem and avoid damaging native plants. Pack out all trash, including food wrappers and dog waste, to leave no trace behind. Campfires are allowed only in designated areas, and fire restrictions may be in place during dry seasons, so check with the park office before starting a fire.

Off-road vehicles must be street legal and registered, and ATVs and UTVs are not allowed in Glen Canyon National Recreation Area. Drones are also prohibited to protect the natural beauty and tranquility of the area. Respect private property boundaries along the trail and avoid disturbing wildlife habitats. Following these guidelines helps preserve the stunning desert landscapes for future generations to enjoy.

Other Trails Nearby:

If you’re looking for more off-road adventures, Glen Canyon has plenty of other scenic trails nearby. Alstrom Point is a popular 4×4 destination offering panoramic views of Lake Powell and the surrounding desert landscape. The rugged off-road trail to Alstrom Point is challenging but rewarding, with breathtaking sunset views over the lake.

Smoky Mountain Road is another fantastic off-road trail that winds through remote desert canyons and offers sweeping views of the Kaiparowits Plateau. It’s a longer and more challenging route, perfect for experienced off-roaders looking for an all-day adventure. If you’re in the mood for more exploration, head to Hole-in-the-Rock Road, which offers scenic views and access to hidden slot canyons and historic sites. With so many trails to explore, you can easily spend a full day or weekend off-roading in Glen Canyon’s rugged desert wilderness.

Non-Driving Attractions Nearby:

Lake Powell offers boating, kayaking, and paddleboarding adventures, with rental facilities available at nearby marinas. Visit Glen Canyon Dam for stunning views of the lake. Page, Arizona, is just a short drive away and is home to the famous Antelope Canyon and Horseshoe Bend. The scenic drive along US-89 offers breathtaking desert views, with several pullouts for photos and picnicking. 

Best Time to Visit:

The best time to visit Crosby Canyon is during the cooler months – fall (October to November) and spring (March to April) – when temperatures range from 60°F to 80°F (15°C to 27°C). Summers can be extremely hot, with temperatures exceeding 100°F (38°C), so it’s best to visit early in the morning or late in the evening to avoid the heat. Winters are mild, but the mornings can be chilly, so dress in layers. Sunrise and sunset offer the most beautiful lighting for photography, with the cliffs glowing in shades of pink, orange, and gold. Always check the weather forecast before heading out, as flash floods can occur in desert canyons after heavy rain.