Overview
Red Canyon sits just off US-89 a few miles west of Bryce Canyon National Park's boundary, offering a dose of very similar geology, orange-red hoodoos, limestone pinnacles, narrow fins, without any park entrance fee or reservation requirement. The canyon takes its color from iron-rich Claron Formation limestone, the same formation that creates Bryce Canyon's famous hoodoos but with a distinctly deeper orange-red tone due to the local mineral composition.
The Rim Trail follows the upper edge of the canyon for 5.5 miles, providing a sustained bird's-eye view of the formations below. The trail has 700 feet of gain spread over the out-and-back distance, with most of the climbing in the first mile as the trail ascends to the rim. From the rim, the route is mostly flat to gently rolling along the plateau edge.
This is one of the best sustained moderate hikes in Dixie National Forest, combining accessible terrain with the canyon scenery that defines this part of southern Utah. The visitor center at the US-89 trailhead makes it an easy starting point for a forest visit.
The Route
Miles 0 to 1.0: Trailhead to Rim
The trail begins at the visitor center area and climbs to the rim via switchbacks through pinyon-juniper woodland. The formations come into view as the trail nears the rim. The first view into the canyon is a notable moment, the concentration of orange spires below is immediate and striking.
Miles 1.0 to 2.75: Rim Walking
The rim section provides consistent views down into the canyon. The trail follows the plateau edge with minor up-and-down variations. Numerous side viewpoints offer different angles on the formations. The red rock is most vivid in morning and late afternoon light. Pinyon pine and juniper frame the views throughout.
Mile 2.75: Standard Turnaround
The trail continues past mile 2.75 but the formations become less concentrated and the rim views less dramatic. The standard turnaround for the 5.5-mile route is here.
When to Visit
April through November. The canyon is at lower elevation than Boulder Mountain or the Pink Cliffs, giving it a longer season. Summer temperatures on the exposed rim can be warm; morning hiking is recommended from June through August. Winter is possible on this trail with appropriate footwear.
Flash flood risk is primarily relevant for canyon-bottom trails, not the rim route. Afternoon thunderstorms bring lightning exposure on the open rim in July and August. Check forecasts before heading out.
What to Bring
Many hikers carry:
- 2 liters of water (water at the visitor center; none on the rim trail)
- Sun protection for the exposed rim
- Layers for the wind, which can be steady on the plateau edge
Consider bringing:
- A polarizing filter or camera settings adjusted for high-contrast red rock photography
- Binoculars for viewing the canyon floor from the rim
Practical Details
Flush restrooms and water at the visitor center. Cell service is limited. Free parking (as of 2026). Review Leave No Trace principles. Stay on the marked trail near the rim edge, the exposed limestone drops steeply into the canyon.
For a comparison of national forest vs. national park access and rules, see national forest vs. national park. The America the Beautiful pass is available if you also plan to visit Bryce Canyon or other parks on your trip; see veteran benefits for national forests for free-pass options.
Getting There
From Panguitch on US-89, drive approximately 12 miles east (toward Bryce Canyon). Red Canyon and its visitor center are well-signed on the south side of US-89. The parking lot is paved and easily accessible to all vehicles. From Cedar City, take US-14 east to US-89 north, then continue to Red Canyon (approximately 55 miles total).