trips / utah/ moab

Hype

Icebox canyon, as it is known by the Moab locals, makes a great, short roadside attraction that is accessible to the whole family. In most seasons, the canyon provides a good example of a riparian environment typical of those doting the nooks and crannies of the desert. The seeps and springs in the canyon make this a cool and refreshing side trip even in the heat of the summer.

If you happen to be in Moab during the coldest months of the year, however, Icebox can hold a very special treasure. The seeps and springs can freeze into immense columns of ice. The contrast between the red rock canyon walls and blue ice columns is striking!

Trailhead

To reach the trailhead, travel north out of Moab on highway 191. Just outside of town is the junction with State Route 128, before the bridge over the Colorado River. Take SR128 2.7 miles. Icebox canyon is on the right side of the road as you travel up river. There is a parking spot 100 yards before the canyon, or 0.1 miles after the canyon, both spots are on the river side of the road. If you reach the Negro Bill Trailhead, you have gone too far, backtrack 0.4 miles.

Route

From the highway, simply hike up the canyon. Easy hiking brings you to a large dryfall and riparian alcove about 15 minutes or so from the road. Return the way you came.

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Maps

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