House on Fire: An Ancient Puebloan Marvel
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
Local tips
- 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.
Getting There
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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.
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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.
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