Grandstaff Canyon National Recreation Trail Hike Profile & Guide

Q: Is it safe to hike alone?

Yes, but tell someone your plan, stay on the trail, carry water, and have a plan for weather or emergencies.

Q: Do I need special gear?

Waterproof footwear is highly recommended; trekking poles help with crossings; bring sun protection and at least 3 liters of water.

Q: Is poison ivy along the trail?

Poison ivy exists below Morning Glory Natural Bridge; avoid contact and wash exposed skin after the hike.

Q: Can kids handle this trail?

Moderate path with stream crossings; supervise children at crossings and keep to the main route to manage wet footing.

Overview

About This Trail

Grandstaff Canyon rewards steady movement with a shaded canyon and a year-round stream. The central destination is Morning Glory Natural Bridge, a 243-foot span at the canyon’s end. You’ll navigate several stream crossings and occasional slick rock from past flood activity, so keep your footing light. Watch for monsoon-season flash floods and poison ivy below the Bridge; stay hydrated and deliberate with each step.

Highlights

Difficulty Level

Moderate

Trail Highlights

Morning Glory Natural Bridge at the canyon end; a shaded oasis along the year-round stream that contrasts with surrounding desert

Insider Tips

• Wear waterproof shoes for frequent crossings. • Arrive early or late to dodge heat and crowds. • Keep kids away from slippery ledges and riparian edges. • Use trekking poles to stabilize across wet rocks.

Best Season to Hike

Spring (March-May) and Fall (September-October)

Hiking Tips

Carry at least 3 liters of water per person.
Wear waterproof footwear for stream crossings.
Bring trekking poles for stability on crossings and uneven terrain.
Start early to beat heat and crowds.
Be aware of poison ivy below Morning Glory Natural Bridge.

Family Info

Generally suitable for families due to moderate difficulty and shaded canyon; caution around poison ivy and stream crossings

Details

Trail Specifications

Distance: 4.5 miles

Elevation Gain: 100 ft

Duration: 4 hours round-trip

Difficulty: Moderate

Route Type: Out-and-back

Surface: Primarily packed dirt with several stream crossings; some sections may be slippery due to past flood damage

Getting There

Trailhead: Grandstaff Canyon Trailhead, 3 miles east of Highway 191 on Utah Scenic Byway 128, Moab, UT

Parking: Limited; parking lot at trailhead

Fills Up: Busy on peak days; expect crowded parking by mid-morning

Restrooms at trailhead

Requirements

Permit Required

No permit required for day use

Fees: No fee for day use

Shuttle Available

Not required; trailhead accessible by road

Trail Rules

Dogs: Not specified

Biking: Not specified

Trail Markers: Well-worn path; map recommended

Map/GPS recommended

View on AllTrails

Trail Features

Conditions & Safety

Water: Year-round stream; filter before drinking; carry at least 3 liters per person

Shade: Significant shade from canyon walls and riparian vegetation

Cell Service: Limited or unreliable; assume no cell service in canyon country

Hazards:

Monsoon flash floods can occur; rocks become slick when wet; poison ivy grows below the bridge; crossings demand balance and caution

Emergency: Dial 911 for emergencies; contact Arches National Park rangers or Grandstaff Canyon trailhead staff

Crowd Info

Typical Crowds: Moderate to heavy

Peak Times: Spring and Fall weekends

Accessibility & Family

Accessibility:

Not specified

Family Notes:

Generally suitable for families due to moderate difficulty and shaded canyon; caution around poison ivy and stream crossings

Nearby Facilities

Grandstaff Campground across the highway; vault toilet at trailhead; Moab facilities nearby

FAQs

Are there bears?

Black bears may be present; travel alertly and make noise to avoid surprising wildlife.

Is it safe to hike alone?

Do I need special gear?

Is poison ivy along the trail?

Can kids handle this trail?

📖 thedyrt.com 📖 moabadventurecenter.com 📖 grandcanyontrust.org 📖 visitutah.com 📖 hikingproject.com 📖 blm.gov 📖 discovermoab.com 📖 nps.gov 📖 shakaguide.com 📖 npshistory.com 📖 kuhl.com 📖 outdoorguide.com 📖 rv-pro.com 📖 sfgate.com ⭐ Google Reviews 📝 YourNPGuide Editorial

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Grandstaff Canyon National Recreation Trail