Buckskin Gulch Slot Canyon
Buckskin Gulch is labeled as the longest slot canyon in the world, 21 miles one way. It is dark and narrow with just enough obstacles to keep things interesting. Photo Credit: OakleyOriginals. Buckskin Gulch is occasionally referred to as the longest slot canyon in the world. I think that is a bit of a stretch, it is a big world, however Buckskin is likely one of the longest on the Colorado Plateau. It is stunning, with miles of absolutely incredible slot. By slot, think 10-or-so-foot-wide slot, not have-to-turn-sideways to pass slot. Over thirteen miles in length and rarely more than 20 feet wide, Buckskin Gulch beckons backpackers and hikers from around the world. But this beauty comes with a beast: Distant storms can cause flash flooding in the slot canyon, making this hike one of the top 10 most dangerous hikes in the US. So how can you prepare for such an amazing hike? Widely known as the longest slot canyon in the world, this 20.6 mile hike is one for the books. Backpacker Magazine even named it the most dangerous hike in the United States due to the extreme flash flood danger. Makes you want to hike it tomorrow, right?!
One of the truly classic hiking trails in the United States, let alone the world, Buckskin Gulch swerves through a subterranean paradise for the senses. Attempt this visually-arresting walk as a day trip, or walk the entire 20 miles over the course of four days.
Located in the Grand Staircase-Escalante National Monument (near Kanab, Utah) and Paria Canyon-Vermillion Cliffs Wilderness (Arizona), Buckskin Gulch trails takes hikers through the veritable layer cake of the Colorado Plateau's geographical wonderment. It is the longest and deepest slot canyon in the Southwest and offers obstacles like rock jams, pools, quicksand, and the potential for flash floods. Yet a day hike option via Wire Pass Trail is moderately easy, and should be a must-do tour on any hiker's list.
Slot Canyon California
Note: there are multiple trailheads that provide access to Buckskin Gulch. Wire Pass Trailhead offers the most direct access for a day hike. This is not to be confused with the Buckskin Trailhead, which follows a wash for several miles before intersecting with Wire Pass Trail and then the confluence with the Paria River.