House on Fire, Lake Powell Travel Guide

4.8 (78)

Witness the ancient Puebloan 'House on Fire' in Utah's Mule Canyon, where sunlight creates a breathtaking illusion on well-preserved cliff dwellings.

The House on Fire ruin is a remarkable example of ancient Puebloan architecture, nestled in Mule Canyon, Utah. Its name comes from a unique rock overhang that, when lit by the sun, appears to be ablaze, creating a stunning visual effect that draws visitors from afar.

A brief summary to House on Fire

Utah, US

From Eve

Know before you go

Hi, I'm Eve. Here are a few practical things to know before exploring House on Fire.

Visit mid-morning (10-11 am) on a sunny day to witness the iconic 'fire' effect on the overhanging rock.
Wear sturdy hiking shoes as the trail crosses the wash several times and involves some slickrock scrambling.
Bring plenty of water, especially during warmer months, as the trail offers little shade.
Respect the site by not entering the ruins and leaving all artifacts undisturbed.

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Explore House on Fire on the Map

A handpicked selection of must-see spots near House on Fire, mapped for you.

Getting There

Car

From Blanding, Utah, drive south on US-191 for approximately 4 miles, then turn right onto UT-95 and head west for about 19 miles. Look for a dirt road (County Road 263/Texas Flat Road) on the right, just after mile marker 102. Turn onto this road and continue for about 0.3 miles to the parking area near the trailhead. Be aware that the dirt road can be bumpy. There is a day-use fee of $2 per person or $5 per person per week, payable at the kiosk near the turnoff. Parking is free.
Hiking

From the parking area, descend into the wash and follow the well-worn trail into Mule Canyon. The trail is approximately 1 mile to the House on Fire ruin. The path crosses the wash several times, so be prepared for potentially wet feet depending on recent rainfall. After about a mile, look to the right (north) for the House on Fire ruin, which sits about 50 feet above the canyon floor. A short scramble up some slickrock is required to reach the site.

Discover more about House on Fire

Located in Mule Canyon, near Blanding, Utah, the House on Fire is a captivating glimpse into the past, showcasing the ingenuity of the Ancestral Puebloans who inhabited this region between 750 A.D. and 1300 A.D.. The site features well-preserved granaries built into the Cedar Mesa sandstone, with a distinctive overhanging rock formation that creates the illusion of flames licking the cliff face when sunlight reflects off the canyon walls at certain times of the day.The "fire" effect is best witnessed mid-morning, typically between 10:00 and 11:00 am, when the sun's angle is just right. The easy, 2.2-mile roundtrip hike to the House on Fire makes it accessible to a wide range of visitors, allowing them to follow in the footsteps of those who lived here centuries ago. The trail meanders along a wash, crossing it several times, and offers scenic views of the surrounding canyon.Beyond the House on Fire, Mule Canyon holds other archaeological treasures, with several more ruins scattered along its length. Exploring further into the canyon provides a deeper connection to the history and culture of the ancient Puebloans who once called this place home. The House on Fire stands as a testament to their architectural skill and resourcefulness, offering a unique and unforgettable experience for those who venture into this remote corner of Utah.