Surprise Canyon Trail

Surprise Canyon is located in Capitol Reef National Park. It is a short hike near the Burr Trail Switchbacks.  From Boulder, Utah direction, turn right at the bottom of the switchbacks. From Notom road, pass the turnoff for the Burr Trail Switchbacks on the right.  Trailhead parking is on the right not much further down and has room for about 4-5 vehicles.  The trail start is marked with a sign.

The highlight of Surprise Canyon is the access trail from the trailhead to the canyon entrance.  There is great views of Waterpocket Fold.  The trail drops down into a dry wash and enters the canyon.  There is a lot of brush and trees to push past in sections. The canyon has high walls so there is not many views inside the canyon.  explore as far as you can and return the way you entered back to the trailhead