Hayduke Trail: Grand View Alternate

The Hayduke Trail is a remote, rugged and challenging 800 mile backcountry route across Southern Utah and Northern Arizona. The route leads through varied terrain from Arches to Zion. You’ll pass through all five of Utah’s national parks, as well as the Grand Canyon. The Hayduke Trail is only for experienced backpackers. Those lacking in desert hiking experience may quickly find themselves in trouble as the off trail navigation, lack of water, long food carries, general remoteness and harsh weather can pose a daunting challenge. Anyone planning a section or thru hike of the Hayduke Trail should complete adequate research beforehand and consider purchasing the official guidebook and Skurka bundle. The brief description that follows provides an overview, but is not to be solely relied upon to successfully navigate the trail.

The Grand View Alternate can be used to avoid entering Bryce Canyon National Park. The route stays entirely within the Dixie National Forest. The primary reason for using the Grand View trail is to avoid snow if you hit Bryce Canyon early. The Grand View Trail tops out around 7,900 feet vs. the 9,000 foot high of the Under-the-Rim Trail the official Hayduke follows.

While you’ll likely encounter less snow, the Grand View Trail does have some issues including burn areas, and brushy overgrown trail.

To begin, you’ll split from the official Hayduke at Black Birch Canyon. Assuming you are taking the alternate because of heavy snowpack, there should be plenty of water flowing here and further up along the trail.

After a mellow initial walk through the forest, you’ll switchback up and gain elevation. You’ll soon enter the burn area where the trail can be difficult to follow. The trail is also quite bushy in areas, with scrub oak scraping at your legs.

The trail then contours around the hillsides for much of the remainder of its length. The second half of the Grand View Trail is easier going, more defined and less brushy. You’ll also get some fantastic Hoodoo views as you near the end.

The Grand View Alternate descends to a gravel road and small trailhead where you’ll rejoin the official Hayduke Trail route.