Overview
Profile Image by BeauRed Canyon is located just outiside of Bryce Canyon National Park. But while all the hikers and tourists flock to the national park, all the bikers go to Red Canyon.
This canyon is virtually identical to Bryce with all the features and actitvities. The only difference is that while Bryce, being a national park, is bike-free, Red Canyon welcomes them.
Red Canyon is managed by Dixie National Forest. The forest does not collect any entrance fees of any kind so it may well be where you find the perfect ride if you're spending time in the area but short on money ($20/vehicle I believe).
The canyon, like Bryce, is situated on the Pink Cliffs, the highest elevated of the many cliffs of the Grand Staircase. Much of the rim area reaches over 8,000 feet in elevation so spend a day or so taking some easy walks before trying the more strenuous routes.
Getting There
Red Canyon is located only 6 miles from its gateway city, Panguitch. This is a place to get spare parts, supplies, ect.
From Saint George
Saint George is the major residential center for the southwest. Start off north on I-15 to Exit 95 (I believe it remains unnamed). Turn right as the road climbs up and over the towering mountains of western Utah.
The road (UT-20) slowly then descends (with a view!) into the Sevier River Valley and terminates at US-89. Turn right and south for Panguitch. Continue on though the town to UT-12 for Bryce Canyon. Continue to the left as the road begins climbing into the canyon.
From Escalante
Escalante is a small town surrounded by Grand Staircase- Escalante National Monument. It is located in the dry and sometimes hot, Utah desert.
The primary road through Escalante is UT-12. Take that route westbound over the pink cliffs. Red Canyon begins just over the highpoint.
Red Canyon Campground
Red Canyon Campground is the lone "true" campground in the canyon. It is located along UT-12 Scenic Byway and is surrounded by hoodos. The campground is well facilitated and maintained.Fees
$12.00 for single unit sites
$24.00 for multiple unit
Additional vehicles are $6.00 each
$25.00 for Group Area, 1-50 people; $50.00 for 51-100 people
info by Forest Serivce
Notable Rides
Trails crisscross the area. It's hard to do any cross country hiking without coming into one.
Cassidy Trail- This strenuous route takes you to the remote parts of the canyon regions. Plan at least a day.
Thunder Mountain- The Thunder Mountain Trail begins on the south side of UT-12. It climbs up several switchbacks and through groves of ponderosa pines. Total distance one way is almost 9 miles.
External Links
Here are some useful sites to check with first to plan your visit:NFS: Red Canyon- Official site of Red Canyon by the National Forest Service.
Red Canyon Campground- Facts about possible condition issues and closures for the campground.
Images
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