Little Wild Horse: One of the best family-friendly slot canyons in Utah

Utah has a plethora of slot canyons to explore, but there is one slot canyon that our family returns to year after year. It’s called Little Wild Horse Canyon. Whether you’re a Utah native or just visiting, this hike is definitely worth stopping for. Here’s all the details.

*Cool rock formations through Little Wild Horse Canyon*

As a Utah native, I’ve done my fair share of exploring the unique landscape of the Beehive State. That’s why I totally recommend hiking this awesome canyon. It’s not overrun by tourists and it is completely family-friendly. Check it out!

At a glance: Little Wild Horse Canyon

Ages: All ages welcome
Cost: FREE!
Dogs: Allowed on a leash
Duration: 3-4 hours
Location: Situated west of Goblin Valley State Park and north of Hanksville in Emery County Utah
Website: https://www.blm.gov/visit/little-wild-horse-trailhead
Nearby attractions: Goblin Valley State Park, Capital Reef National Park, Canyonlands National Park

Sign pointing in the direction of the trailhead

Need-to-know before you start hiking

This family-friendly hike works great for kids of all ages. If you have little ones, you can strap them on backpack without a problem. There are a few sections of scrambling on the rocks but nothing very high or dangerous. Dogs are also welcome on this trail. The trail parking lot can fit about 20-30 cars but you might have trouble parking a large motorhome so plan accordingly. There’s also some pit toilets at the trailhead which you might want to take advantage of since there’s not many places to go while you’re in the slot canyon.

There may be small ankle-deep puddles through the slot canyon depending on the time of year. Wear plenty of sunscreen and bring lots of water since the desert sun can be brutal in this area. Consider packing a lunch and eating on the red rock for a fun picnic.

Trail basics and what to expect

The entire hike makes an 8.1 mile loop that winds through Little Wild Horse and Bell canyons. However, most people just hike the slot canyon section which is out and back about 3 miles or so. That’s what we prefer to do as well.

*Wide section at the beginning of the hike*

This fun hike begins on a wide wash that slowly narrows into an eroded red rock canyon with amazing formations all around you. The slot canyon is divided into three sections, each section ending with a wide opening in the red rock. You can turn around and head back to the parking lot after any of these three sections.

There is a little bit of scrambling over some rocks but nothing too difficult. Most people in relatively good shape can handle this hike. Our three-year-old loved this hike and we would carry her on our shoulders randomly throughout the hike.