Little Wild Horse

Date Placed: October 15, 2009
Letterbox: Traditional
Carver: GreenJello
Planter: GreenJello
Location: Little Wild Horse Canyon Trailhead, Emery, Utah
Duration:  Allow 2-3 hours round trip to see the best parts of Little Wild Horse
Status: Active

Little Wild Horse Canyon is an amazing slot canyon, arguably one of the best in the world. Located in the San Rafael Swell in south-central Utah, it provides fantastic views and an experience you won't ever forget. If you have the time, you can do the entire 8 mile loop and come back out Bell Canyon (another wonderful slot canyon).

Directions: From I-70, head to State Route 24 and turn south. Travel on SR24 for 30 miles until you see a sign for Goblin Valley State Park; turn right. Follow this paved road for 6 miles and turn left when you see another sign pointing the way to Goblin Valley. After 6 miles, just before you get to the entrance station to Goblin Valley State Park, there is a dirt road to your right with a sign directing you to Wild Horse Mesa and Muddy Creek. Turn right on this dirt road and follow it for 5.3 miles. This road is passable for passenger cars, just be on the lookout for a few large bumps and an occasional patch of sand. There is a parking area for Little Wild Horse and Bell Canyons on the right hand side of the road.

Find the visitor registration box. Standing in front of it, facing the road, notice the amazing tree at 115 degrees. Then, walk to where the parking lot and main road meet. To the right are many large boulders. Look for the largest boulder next to the road. Behind it are two large rocks-- one with red splotches, and one made of layers. What you seek is under the layered rock. Please rehide well with smaller rocks so that it cannot be seen from the road.

Notes: This is desert country! This hike can get extremely hot during the summer months, and very cold during the winter months. Be watchful of the weather-- slot canyons are deadly in flash flood conditions. Bring adequate water, sunscreen, and wearing a hat is highly recommended in sunny conditions. Don't forget your camera!