Hunter Canyon Trail: Complete Hiking Guide
The Hunter Canyon Trail is one of my favorite quiet escapes just outside Moab. While the crowds funnel into Arches or Canyonlands, this canyon offers something different: a sandy trail winding past towering red cliffs, the rare sound of water in the desert, and a level of solitude you don’t often find so close to town.
I’ve hiked Hunter Canyon many times, and every trip reminds me why it’s worth the detour. Whether you’re visiting Moab for the first time or looking for a hike you haven’t tried yet, this guide will give you everything you need to plan it: directions, trail details, safety callouts, FAQs, and insider tips.
Quick Facts
Distance: 3.5 miles round trip (out and back)
Elevation Gain: ~300 feet
Difficulty: Easy to moderate
Time Required: 1.5–2.5 hours
Trail Type: Canyon hike with seasonal water crossings
Dog-Friendly: Yes (bring water & leash)
Kid-Friendly: Yes (creek crossings and sandy trail are a hit)
Best Seasons: Spring and fall
Getting to the Trailhead
The trailhead is only about 15 minutes from downtown Moab.
From Main Street in Moab, head south on US-191 for 7 miles.
Turn right onto Kane Creek Boulevard and follow it as it hugs the Colorado River.
The road turns to gravel but is typically fine for passenger cars. Continue for about 7 miles.
Look for the Hunter Canyon Trailhead sign and small parking pullout.
👉 GPS Coordinates: 38.4886, -109.6144
👉 Parking: Limited (10–12 vehicles max). Arrive early on weekends.
👉 Facilities: None—use restrooms in Moab before heading out.
Hiking the Hunter Canyon Trail
The hike is an out-and-back walk into a sandstone canyon with a seasonal stream running through it. Here’s what you can expect along the way:
Mile 0–0.5: The Approach
The trail starts sandy and quickly drops you into the canyon. Cottonwoods and willows appear near the creek, and depending on the season, you may be hopping across small water crossings.
Mile 0.5–1.2: Canyon Walls Close In
The canyon deepens, with red rock walls rising hundreds of feet on either side. Look for alcoves and boulder piles. Kids love exploring the sandy flats here.
Mile 1.2–1.7: Toward the End
The official trail fades near a large boulder jam about 1.7 miles in. Some hikers scramble further, but most turn around here. The views—towering cliffs, desert greenery, and the sound of water—are already worth the effort.
Best Time to Hike Hunter Canyon
Spring (March–May): Mild temps, wildflowers, and flowing water. The best season.
Summer (June–August): Very hot. Start at sunrise, bring 2–3 liters of water per person, and keep it short.
Fall (September–November): Cooler air and golden cottonwoods. My personal favorite time.
Winter (December–February): Quiet and peaceful, but expect icy patches and limited daylight.
Why Choose Hunter Canyon Over Other Hikes
Less Crowded: A quiet alternative to Moab’s headline trails.
Water in the Desert: The creek, when flowing, adds a rare dimension to a canyon hike.
Family and Dog Friendly: Great for kids and pups who like sandy trails.
Easy Logistics: No permits, no entrance fees, and a short drive from Moab.
Safety Callouts
⚠️ Flash Flood Risk: Never enter during or after storms. Even distant rain can flood the canyon.
⚠️ Heat Exposure: Shade is limited. Carry more water than you think you’ll need.
⚠️ Trail Surface: Expect sand, rocks, and creek crossings. Wear sturdy footwear or sandals you don’t mind getting wet.
⚠️ Leave No Trace: Stay on the trail, pack out trash, and protect cryptobiotic soil along the canyon floor.
Insider Tips
Start Early: You’ll have the canyon mostly to yourself and beat the heat.
Bring Sandals: Quick-dry shoes or sandals make creek crossings easier.
Look Up: Canyon wrens and peregrine falcons often nest on the cliffs.
Camp Nearby: Hunter Canyon Campground is just down the road for those who want to overnight.
Hunters Canyon Trail FAQs
How long does Hunter Canyon take?
Most hikers finish in 1.5–2.5 hours, depending on pace and time spent exploring.
Is Hunter Canyon kid-friendly?
Yes. The sandy floor and creek crossings are fun for kids, though parents should supervise near water and boulders.
Do I need a 4WD to get there?
No. The road is usually passable with a regular car, though conditions can change after rain.
Can I bring my dog?
Yes. Dogs are allowed but must be on leash. Bring plenty of water.
Is there camping at the trailhead?
Not directly, but Hunter Canyon Campground is nearby along Kane Creek Road.
Nearby Hikes & Add-Ons
If you’re already out Kane Creek Road, consider pairing Hunter Canyon with one of these:
Moonflower Canyon (Short, 0.5 miles): Petroglyphs and shady alcoves near Moab.
Kane Creek Canyon Trail (2 miles): Another scenic canyon with towering sandstone walls.
Amasa Back Trail (5+ miles): More challenging, with sweeping views over the Colorado River.
Final Thoughts
The Hunter Canyon Trail may not have the fame of Delicate Arch or the drama of Canyonlands overlooks, but that’s exactly what makes it worth hiking. It’s a quieter, gentler canyon where you can hear the desert breathe—through birdsong, the crunch of sand, or the trickle of seasonal water.
If you want to escape the crowds while still soaking up the essence of canyon country, put Hunter Canyon at the top of your Moab list.