trips / utah/ north wash

Hype

Years ago I was doing a loop hike down one of Trachyte's side canyons, then up to the Trachyte bridge. 15 minutes from the bridge I was surprised to find a small, shallow gorge and falls created by Trachyte Creek crossing through a harder sandstone layer.

Since then, I've visited many, many times. The slickrock around the falls is a great place to spend a lazy afternoon in the sun, and the stream provides a place for the dog (or kids) to play. Generally not more than a few inches deep, it doesn't provide a swimming hole though... In all of my visits, I've found it flowing all but once, in full summer (July). Even if Trachyte is not flowing at the bridge, it often re-emerges just above the small falls, presumeably as it hits the harder sandstone layer underground.

Though not a destination, this is a great stop to stretch your legs or hang out at after a long day of driving or canyoneering.

Trailhead

Go south out of Hanksville on highway 95 about 26 miles to its junction with 276 to Bullfrog. Go on 276 toward Bullfrog/Ticaboo for 4.5 miles to the bridge over Trachyte Creek. There is a spur road right before the bridge on the left that provides a good parking spot.

Route

From the trailhead it is an easy 15 minute hike down stream to where the canyon makes a bend to the right and the Trachyte Falls and small gorge are. Return the way you came.

Photos (click on photo for more detail)

Maps

Comments