Mileage: approx. 4 miles.
Elevation: Maybe like 5,400’?
Gain/Loss: Approx 1,200’
They say: Moderately strenuous (because of the quick 850’ gain at the beginning)
We say: Mellow and Marvelous.
What it is: This hike surprised me. After a day hiking the narrows, and then a beer and chip break – we decided to take a little jaunt up Hidden Canyon before dinner. I imagined it to be a brief little hike with views – I was pleasantly surprised. The gain from the start is good, and quickly you are seeing some of the most amazing views of the park. The trail winds around the side of the sandstone cliffs with amazing 2,000 foot drop-offs. The vistas are as exhilarating as they are stunning. Shortly you make your way into the canyon, greeted at the entrance by pools of dark water trapped in the sandstone cliffs. The trail signage informs you that the maintained trail ends soon, and class 3 bouldering and cross-country is required to continue farther. Although there were some class 3 moves up and down boulders in the area, they are minimal with no exposure at all. The about a half a mile after the sign you reach a free standing arch – the pièce de résistance of the whole trip.
Please DO: This hike around sunset. The views are unbearably beautiful, and it makes for a good day’s end.
Please DON’T: Do this hike with the sound of thundering clouds directly overhead, like we did.
What you need to bring: Comfortable shoes, water and a friend.
What you want to bring: a camera.
How to get there: Take the shuttle (or in winter, your car) to the TH for Weeping Rock. Start up the steep trail and follow the sign at the split to Hidden Canyon. If you have time, double back and head over to Observation Point.
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