Coyote Gulch via Hurricane Wash

The trail begins off the challenging Hole-in-the-Rock Road. Accessing the trailhead typically requires a high-clearance 4WD vehicle, as the road can be sandy and difficult, especially after rain. There are no public transport options, so personal vehicle access is essential.

Yes, permits are required for both day use and overnight stays in Coyote Gulch. It's crucial to obtain these in advance, especially for backpacking, as the area is popular and permits can be limited. Check the official Glen Canyon National Recreation Area website for the most current permit requirements and application procedures.

The ideal times to hike are typically spring (March to May) and fall (September to November). During these seasons, temperatures are more moderate, making the strenuous sections more manageable. Summer can be extremely hot, and winter can bring cold temperatures and potential snow, affecting water levels and slickrock conditions.

Coyote Gulch is located within the Glen Canyon National Recreation Area. While some areas within the NRA allow dogs, specific regulations apply to wilderness areas and canyons like Coyote Gulch. It's best to check the official Glen Canyon National Recreation Area pet policy directly before planning your trip, as rules can vary and may restrict pets in certain sensitive areas.

The terrain is highly varied and challenging. It starts with a desert mesa top, including slickrock patches where route-finding can be tricky. The iconic 'Crack-in-the-Wall' requires squeezing through narrow fissures and dropping about eight feet. After that, there's a steep, sandy descent of about 700 feet into the gulch. Inside the canyon, you'll navigate numerous stream crossings, brushy sections, and slickrock. Exiting often involves Class 3 scrambling on steep, exposed slickrock pitches.

This trail is renowned for its exceptional beauty and unique geological formations. You'll encounter massive sandstone arches like Jacob Hamblin Arch, Stevens Arch, and Cliff Arch, as well as Coyote Natural Bridge. The canyon also features cascading waterfalls, lush hanging gardens, and dramatic amphitheater walls. The 'Crack-in-the-Wall' itself is a thrilling and unforgettable entry point.

No, this trail is generally rated as strenuous or difficult and is not recommended for beginners or young children. The 'Crack-in-the-Wall' entry, the steep sandy descent, numerous stream crossings, and the challenging Class 3 scramble exit require significant agility, physical fitness, and comfort with heights and exposure. Route-finding skills are also essential.

Yes, the route also passes through sections of the Coyote Gulch, Coyote Gulch - Hurricane Wash Route, Coyote Gulch - Crack-In-The-Wall Trail, and Coyote Gulch - Jacob Hamblin Arch Trail. These are all part of the larger network within the Coyote Gulch system.

Given the trail's difficulty and remote nature, essential gear includes plenty of water (as sources can be unreliable or require filtering), sturdy hiking boots suitable for wet conditions, a backpack that can be removed for the 'Crack', navigation tools (map, compass, GPS), sun protection, first-aid supplies, and appropriate layers for varying temperatures. For overnight trips, backpacking gear is necessary.

The 'Crack-in-the-Wall' is a defining feature. Be prepared to remove your backpack and carry it through separately, as the fissure is extremely narrow. You'll also need to drop about eight feet into the first crack, which requires agility. For the exit, particularly near Jacob Hamblin Arch, be aware that the 'sneaker route' involves steep slickrock scrambling with exposure, which can be a significant challenge for those uncomfortable with heights.

Yes, Coyote Gulch has a perennial stream, which is a primary water source. However, it's crucial to filter or treat all water from the stream before drinking. Water levels can vary, and while it's generally reliable, carrying sufficient water is still recommended, especially for the initial mesa top section before descending into the gulch.