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South Fork Indian Canyon Trailhead: A Journey to Ancient Pictographs

Discover ancient rock art and stunning canyon views on this moderate hike near Kanab, Utah. A glimpse into the past awaits!

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The South Fork Indian Canyon Trailhead, near Kanab, Utah, leads to a remarkable display of ancient pictographs. This moderate hike offers stunning canyon views and a glimpse into the lives of early inhabitants, with a well-preserved collection of rock art protected by a fence.

A brief summary to South Fork Indian Canyon Trailhead

  • Sand Spring Rd, Kanab, Utah, 84741, US

Local tips

  • Bring plenty of water, especially during the summer months, as the desert environment can be very hot.
  • Consider using a 4WD vehicle to access the trailhead due to the sandy road conditions.
  • Visit during the spring or fall for the most comfortable hiking temperatures.
  • Respect the ancient rock art by staying on the designated trail and avoiding touching the pictographs.
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Getting There

  • Driving

    From Kanab, drive north on US-89 for approximately 7.8 miles. Turn west (left) onto Hancock Road and continue for 5.7 miles. Turn south (left) onto Sand Springs Road and proceed for 3.4 miles. Then, turn east (left) onto the 4x4 road and drive 1.7 miles to the trailhead. A 4WD vehicle is recommended due to sandy conditions. There are no fees or tolls for this route.

  • Walking

    If arriving in a 2WD vehicle, park at the junction of Sand Springs Road and the 4x4 road. From there, walk east along the 4x4 road for approximately 1.7 miles to reach the South Fork Indian Canyon Trailhead. The walk is relatively flat but can be challenging due to the sandy terrain. No costs involved.

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Discover more about South Fork Indian Canyon Trailhead

South Fork Indian Canyon Trailhead is a gateway to a unique blend of natural beauty and ancient history, located a few miles northwest of Kanab, Utah. The main attraction is the alcove along a steep cliff that showcases a remarkable display of pictographs, believed to have been painted between 452 AD and 62 BC. These ancient drawings provide a glimpse into the lives and culture of the early inhabitants of this region. The trail itself is a moderate 2-mile round trip that begins with a viewpoint overlooking the canyon. The path descends steeply, leading to a large alcove where the ancient markings can be seen. Hikers will encounter towering sandstone walls and a maze-like landscape. The pictographs, protected by a fence, feature a variety of colors and imagery, predominantly human figurines often adorned with headdresses and earrings, suggesting royalty. Families are depicted with men, women, and children, offering a unique perspective on the importance of relationships in their society. The trailhead is accessible via a sandy road that may require a 4WD vehicle. The hike is best enjoyed during the spring and fall when temperatures are mild. The trail can be icy in the winter and extremely hot in the summer. Despite the short distance, the hike involves some steep sections and light scrambling.

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