Amber McDaniel
Photo Date: 
02/19/2020
Hiking through the Kayenta Wash is a low-impact and rewarding experience with stellar views of the red walls of your destination in the distance.
Amber McDaniel
Photo Date: 
02/19/2020
As you get farther along the wash, expect the terrain to get more difficult, though not technical. There are some shelves to clamber up on and possibly even some pools to navigate around, depending on recent precipitation.
Amber McDaniel
Photo Date: 
02/19/2020
One of the best things about desert hiking is feeling dwarfed by stunning red sandstone walls, like these at the mouth of Hellhole Canyon itself.
Amber McDaniel
Photo Date: 
02/19/2020
While St. George receives very little rainfall in a year, if you happen to do this hike after a rare rainfall, you'll be rewarded with beautiful little pools, a running stream, and possibly even some waterfalls.
Amber McDaniel
Photo Date: 
02/19/2020
Most of your hike is extremely exposed, though as you get closer to the mouth of the canyon, you'll start to notice more moisture and even some green shrubbery.
Amber McDaniel
Photo Date: 
02/19/2020
Once you enter Hellhole Canyon, you'll find plenty of shade and shelter from the hot desert sun. In the winter months, it can be downright chilly here, so pack a light puffy or jacket, especially if you plan on pushing yourself to go as far as possible.
Amber McDaniel
Photo Date: 
02/19/2020
Venture as far into the canyon as your dare or are able. Even for rock climbers, eventually you'll reach a fairly impassable section, at least given the slick rock conditions and puddled water from recent rains.
Amber McDaniel
Photo Date: 
02/19/2020
Once you've reached the end of the line you still have the hike back to look forward to, complete with even better views of the canyons stretching out and opening before you.
Amber McDaniel
Photo Date: 
02/19/2020
Tricks of the light illuminate these canyon walls in weird and interesting ways. One minute, they can look red and the next, they can glow almost purple.