Part of Maple Canyon Arch Trail

Hopefully this will be the one and only time that we post a partial trail. Unfortunately, Costa Rica presented me with a broken ankle. My recovery has been measured and slow related to weight bearing restrictions and subsequent weakness and mobility limitations. This was my first attempt at hiking as I rehab my ankle, so we just did part of Maple Canyon Arch Trail.

Putting my feet on the dirt made my heart happy. I have missed the outdoors greatly. Although my current abilities, or lack thereof, did not permit me to finish the trail, I was thrilled to catch a glimmer of a future return to my recreation passions. 

The really cool geology of Maple Canyon is the highlight of this trail. The canyon is a river bed that is millions and millions of years old. It is unique conglomerate rock, which is formed from rounded quartzite cobbles, pebbles, and boulders cemented in a sand matrix. Even with all of our travels across Utah, we have not come across a place like this. Further erosion of this cobblestone conglomerate has created towers and canyons, which you will be surrounded by on this trail.

The trail winds up the canyon, where you can marvel at the impressive rock architecture. We hiked late afternoon and the light illuminated the rock and it looked like it was glowing. The aspens and maples were lovely as well. For someone deprived of their outdoor lifestyle for several months, this was just what my psyche needed.  Ultimately, the trail will take you to Maple Canyon Arch, which I will have to return to this path to see in the future!

Difficulty: Moderate.

Trail Stats: 1.6 miles, out and back, 570 feet elevation gain.

Trail Finding: Straight forward.

Conditions: Packed dirt, some loose rocks. 

Would I Repeat This: Yes, I need to see the arch!

Parking: Limited parking available. 

Timing: This is at a higher elevation, so winter conditions may exist in the cold months.

Downloaded Map: Not needed, but always nice to know ‘how much longer’.

Fees: Day use fee is required for parking in the trailhead area, there is a fee box near the trailhead. 

Trails: There is world class rock climbing through this entire canyon region. Check out Box Canyon as well.