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Many prospective hikers have been mesmerized by breathtaking photos of Utah‘s Reflection Canyon. Due to its remote location, there is no easy way to access Reflection Canyon. Reaching the gorgeous vista that you saw pictured in National Geographic requires serious preparation and skill. A trek into the backcountry of Utah’s barren yet beautiful red rock desert isn’t for the faint of heart, but if you’re a nature lover the reward is immense.
If you don’t own a 4-wheel drive vehicle capable of handling unpaved roads, consider renting one to access the remote Glen Canyon area, where Reflection Canyon is located. Meticulous planning, a tear-proof waterproof map, a compass, and a reliable GPS that can operate without a cell phone signal, are absolutely essential navigational tools.
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There are no marked trailheads, but most hikers estimate that hiking to Reflection Canyon is generally a 20-mile trek, both ways. It is absolutely essential to check the weather prior to heading out, because flash floods and extreme summer heat can prove quite treacherous in Southern Utah’s slim slot canyons. It is important to pack sturdy hiking boots, ample food and water, and any gear that you many need along the way, as there are no amenities outside of Lake Powell and the Grand Staircase-Escalante National Monument.
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If you’re a dedicated hiker and explorer who is not afraid to plan, ask questions, and navigate a narrow slot canyon with no formal trail, a trek to Reflection Canyon will bring you untold joy. There is no peace quite like standing atop a towering desert canyon, gazing at a shimmering pool of water that looks like a mirage. If you’re searching for perfect desert solitude, a day spent hiking to Reflection Canyon is the ideal place to experience true peace and quiet.