Hikers in Utah are spoiled; we have access to hundreds of trails, many close to our homes. But even if we have to drive several hours to reach a trail, it's often worth the effort. Here's a trail in the Grand Staircase-Escalante National Monument that leads you to the most magical rock formations.
The Toadstool Trail is a short, easy hike that takes you to somewhere magical.
To find the trailhead from Kanab, you'll drive eastbound on Highway 89 for nearly 45 miles. When you pass the Paria Contact Station, you'll see a sign for The Toadstools.
Before you set out on this trail, make sure you're prepared.
This trail is only 1.5 miles, but it's fully sun-exposed, so you'll want to bring plenty of water, sunscreen and a hat.
The trail takes you to The Toadstools, a group of hoodoos made from Entrada Sandstone and Dakota Sandstone.
The balanced rocks on these short columns almost look like jaunty hats.
It's easy to see the two different layers of sandstone here, and those layers explain how these hoodoos formed.
The reddish-colored sandstone is Entrada Sandstone, which is fairly soft. The white layer is made up of a much harder, Dakota Sandstone. After many years of exposure to wind and water, the Entrada Sandstone is worn down to columns. As the sandstone underneath it wears away, the Dakota Sandstone forms a cap, which "balances" on the top of the hoodoo column.
Just because you're in the desert, don't assume that there aren't pretty growing things here.
In May and early June, you'll see some beautiful wildflowers growing along the trail.
You'll likely see some wildlife along the way.
Watch for lizards, birds (including raptors like bald eagles and California Condors), and snakes.
This hike is suitable for just about every hiker. You'll climb a total of just 141 feet in elevation.
Have you ever hiked the Toadstools Trail? Tell us about your adventure!
For some of the most beautiful trails in northern Utah, check out these spectacular canyons with the most incredible hiking trails.
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