One of my favorite family-friendly hikes in Moab is Grandstaff Canyon. The canyon was originally named Negro Bill Canyon after William Grandstaff, who was an African-American prospector and cowboy that lived there in the 1870s. In 2017, the canyon was renamed Grandstaff Canyon, as the original name was considered too offensive for our modern time.
Along with the colorful name, the canyon is also a colorful landscape. A true desert oasis, Grandstaff Canyon has a perennial stream that runs through it. Moab’s famous red rock encloses the waterway in massive cliffs, punctuated by stone towers and expansive amphitheaters. At canyon’s end, Morning Glory Bridge provides a visual climax. It’s the 6th largest natural bridge in the world, which spans over a shaded alcove (read: perfect lunch spot.)
Hiking Grandstaff Canyon
As far as family friendly hikes are concerned, Grandstaff Canyon is tough to beat, both on a scenery and trail-variety level. This out-and-back jaunt is only 4.5 miles round trip. But don’t let the lack of mileage fool you, because this canyon packs a lot of interest for young hikers. Imagine rock alcoves, scrambling, wildlife sightings, and many fun creek crossings.
The trailhead is located alongside the Colorado River, just three miles up State Route 128. The hike begins along a year-round stream that allows for a lot of green vegetation at the canyon bottom (watch out for poison ivy!) The well-worn trail is mostly level as it follows the stream. About a mile into the hike, take a short side path on the left. Here you may explore a large alcove where kids love to test their echo. This is also a good place to cool off in the shade.
A mile into the hike is where creek crossings begin. There are around 10 crossings where it’s possible to get wet. Overall, the creek is shallow. You can easily hop rocks to get across without splashing into the water and getting your boots wet. But young kids might have trouble, or may even be encouraged to have fun and just splash on through. In this case, wearing water sandals is a good idea.
Along with the creek crossings, kids will be challenged by a few steep ascents as the trail climbs atop benches along the canyon’s edge. Some of these climbs require scrambling, though there are easier walkarounds at every obstacle. Hiking-savvy kids will be able to use their “Hulk-smash legs” to get over boulders and rock shelves, and have fun doing it.
You can enjoy expansive views of the canyon just before the end of the hike, when the trail climbs onto a open space. There is little to no shade here, but this section is short as the path soon descends into the alcove that is home to Morning Glory Bridge.
Morning Glory Bridge
The main attraction in Grandstaff Canyon is Morning Glory Bridge. Some classify it as an arch (myself included), while others say it’s a natural bridge. Either way, it’s impressive. Morning Glory Bridge is 243 feet in length, making it the sixth largest natural rock span in America.
This rock span is found in a small side canyon within a deep, shady alcove. A natural spring seeps right out of the sandstone wall beside the bridge, creating a small pool on the canyon bottom. Morning Glory Bridge is only 15 feet away from the canyon’s cliff face. This gap is very popular for rappelling and you’re likely to see groups descending on ropes between the stone structures. This area is a true desert oasis where hikers can refill their water bottle in the spring, have a picnic, and absorb the tranquility of this magical place.
To return to the trailhead, simply retrace your steps back down Grandstaff Canyon. As an out-and-back hike, the return trip feels entirely different as you get a new perspective by viewing the scenery in reverse.
In Conclusion
If you’re in Moab and looking for a short but not-too-easy hike that is still good for intrepid kids, look no further than Grandstaff Canyon. The trail is straightforward. Navigation is easy. Creek crossings are fun. And the destination at trail’s end is a spectacular example of the wonders hidden within Southern Utah’s canyons and crevices.
Read about other family-friendly hikes in Utah, such as Limber Pine and Bloods Lake.