The best walks and hikes in Box-Death Hollow Wilderness
4.5
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377
hikers
8
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Hiking in Box-Death Hollow Wilderness offers routes through a landscape of sheer Navajo sandstone canyons and high plateaus. The region is located in south-central Utah and is defined by two main canyon systems carved by tributaries of the Escalante River. Trails navigate through a mix of ponderosa pine forests in the canyons and pinyon-juniper woodlands on the plateaus above.
Best hiking trails in Box-Death Hollow Wilderness
- The most popular hiking route is Petrified Forest Trail and Sleeping Rainbow Trail loop — Escalante Petrified Forest State Park, a 2.2 mile (3.5 km) trail that takes about 1 hour 5 minutes to complete. This route features views of petrified wood within Escalante Petrified Forest State Park.
- Another top favourite among local hiking enthusiasts is Death Hollow via Boulder Main Trail — Boulder, a difficult 11.4 mile (18.3 km) path. The trail follows a section of the historic Boulder Mail Trail before descending into the canyon.
- Local hiking enthusiasts also love the Upper Calf Creek Waterfall Trail — Grand Staircase–Escalante National Monument, a 1.9 mile (3.0 km) trail leading through slickrock terrain, often completed in about 1 hour 5 minutes.
- Hiking in Box-Death Hollow Wilderness is defined by deep sandstone canyons, high-elevation plateaus, and creek-side paths. The trail network provides options for both short, accessible hikes and more strenuous, longer routes.
- The routes in Box-Death Hollow Wilderness are highly rated by the komoot community with an average score of 4.8 stars from over 25 reviews. More than 350 hikers have used komoot to explore Box-Death Hollow Wilderness's varied terrain.
Last updated: April 25, 2026
18.3km
05:09
240m
640m
Hard hike. Very good fitness required. Easily-accessible paths. Suitable for all skill levels.
47.7km
13:45
1,110m
1,410m
Hard hike. Very good fitness required. Easily-accessible paths. Suitable for all skill levels.
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218km
64:28
6,280m
6,280m
Hard hike. Very good fitness required. Easily-accessible paths. Suitable for all skill levels.
5.0
(2)
6
hikers
18.3km
05:35
600m
600m
Hard hike. Very good fitness required. Easily-accessible paths. Suitable for all skill levels.
4.6
(16)
177
hikers
3.55km
01:05
120m
120m
Easy hike. Great for any fitness level. Easily-accessible paths. Suitable for all skill levels.
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Tips from the Community
Petrified wood is a type of fossilized wood created when tree remains undergo a mineralization process, often involving replacement by stone. While individual pieces of petrified wood are common, this area features several large trunks shimmering in various colors. The hike through this area is stunning, offering many views of colorful, fossilized tree stumps, a rewarding experience.
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Escalante Petrified Forest State Park preserves a stunning collection of fossilized trees, some over 135 million years old, scattered across a high desert mesa. Here, you'll see colorful logs turned to stone and panoramic views of Wide Hollow Reservoir. There are places to camp, canoe, hike, or ride through this beautiful area, making it a great place to spend a weekend just outside of Escalante.
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The Boulder Mail Trail follows the historic mail and telegraph route between Boulder and Escalante, passing through canyons like Sand Creek, Death Hollow, and Mamie Creek. Hikers can find filterable water in Sand Creek, Death Hollow, Mamie Creek, and occasionally in pools on Antone Flat. Poison ivy is common in some areas, and summer temperatures can get high, making spring, fall, and winter the best seasons for hiking this trail, as long as there is also no snow on the ground.
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Death Hollow Creek spans over 20 miles, offering scenic canyons and expansive rock slabs. It is one of the Escalante River's longest tributaries through the Navajo sandstone canyon with pools, and small waterfalls The creek begins at 9,000 feet on Boulder Mountain's forested slopes, then descends steeply and levels out before merging with the Escalante River at 5,400 feet.
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Petrified wood is a type of fossilized wood created when tree remains undergo a mineralization process, often involving replacement by stone. While individual pieces of petrified wood are common, this area features several large trunks shimmering in various colors. The hike through this area is stunning, offering many views of colorful, fossilized tree stumps, a rewarding experience.
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The Sleeping Rainbow Trail is a more challenging hike option due to its steep terrain and summer heat. Despite the difficulty, the trail rewards those who persist with views of large fossilized tree trunks. The steep beginning gives way to a mostly level path at the top, unless you continue onto the Sleeping Rainbow loop, which descends and climbs back up. For a less demanding walk, try the nearby Petrified Wood Cove Trail.
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From the lake, the path ascends a few meters, and within a short hike, visitors can spot the first petrified trees. Petrified Forest Trail is well-marked and features a mesa where fossilized wood, including large logs, can be seen. The visitor center shows fossils, petrified wood, and dinosaur bones over 150 million years old. The park also offers an optional, steeper trail, Sleeping Rainbows, for those seeking more physical channeling.
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Hell's Backbone (and the bridge named after it) is a must-see and worthy of a pause in your ride in order to appreciate the views--and the engineering.
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Frequently Asked Questions
How many hiking trails are in the Box-Death Hollow Wilderness area?
There are over 5 curated hiking routes available in the Box-Death Hollow Wilderness on komoot, ranging from easy family-friendly walks to challenging multi-day backpacking trips through the canyons.
Are there any easy, family-friendly hikes in the region?
Yes, for a shorter, accessible hike that's great for families, consider the Petrified Wood Trail – Escalante Petrified Forest loop from Escalante. It's a relatively flat 1.7-mile (2.8 km) walk that offers a fascinating look at the area's unique geology.
What are the main safety concerns when hiking in Box-Death Hollow?
The primary safety concern is flash flooding. The narrow canyons can fill with water very quickly, even from storms that are miles away. Always check the weather forecast for Escalante and the surrounding region before you start your hike.
Additionally, be prepared for frequent stream crossings on trails like 'The Box', and ensure you have adequate water, as availability can be unreliable away from the main creeks.
Do I need a permit to hike or camp in Box-Death Hollow Wilderness?
No special permits are required for day hiking or backpacking in the Box-Death Hollow Wilderness itself. However, standard wilderness regulations apply, such as practicing Leave No Trace principles. If your route starts or ends in an adjacent area like Grand Staircase-Escalante National Monument or a State Park, different rules may apply, so it's always good to check with the local visitor center in Escalante.
What is the terrain like in this wilderness area?
The landscape is defined by dramatic, deep canyons carved from sheer Navajo sandstone cliffs. Trails often follow creek beds, leading to numerous water crossings. Higher elevations feature plateaus covered in pinyon pine and juniper, while the canyon floors support ponderosa pines. Expect a mix of sandy paths, rocky sections, and slickrock.
Are dogs allowed on the trails?
Yes, dogs are generally permitted in the Box-Death Hollow Wilderness, but they must be under your control at all times to protect wildlife and the fragile desert ecosystem. Be aware that the terrain can be challenging for dogs, with rough, rocky surfaces and potential for high water during creek crossings.
Is there a good option for a long, challenging backpacking trip?
For experienced backpackers seeking a strenuous adventure, the Mamie Creek Natural Bridge via Boulder Mail Trail offers a significant challenge. This nearly 16-mile (25.7 km) route involves substantial elevation gain and showcases the rugged, remote beauty of the region.
What do other hikers think of the trails in Box-Death Hollow Wilderness?
The area is highly rated by the komoot community, with an average score of 4.8 out of 5 stars. Hikers often praise the stunning canyon scenery, the sense of solitude, and the unique experience of hiking directly in and along the creeks.
How do I get to the trailheads in Box-Death Hollow?
Access to the trailheads, such as those for The Box or the Boulder Mail Trail, is typically via unpaved roads off of Utah Scenic Byway 12. These roads can be rough and may require a high-clearance vehicle, especially after rain. It's best to check road conditions at the Escalante Interagency Visitor Center before heading out.
Is there water available on the trails?
Water can be found in Pine Creek (in The Box) and Death Hollow Creek for most of the year, but it's not guaranteed in smaller tributaries. All water from natural sources must be filtered or treated before drinking. Always carry more water than you think you'll need, as the dry Utah climate can lead to rapid dehydration.
Are there any waterfalls in the area?
Yes, the region has some beautiful waterfalls. A popular hike just outside the wilderness boundary is the Upper Calf Creek Waterfall Trail, which leads to a lovely waterfall and swimming hole. It's a great way to cool off after a hike on the slickrock.
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