South Fork Mule Canyon Walk

Starting near San Juan County, Utah, the South Fork Mule Canyon Walk is an out-and-back trail that spans approximately 10 km (6.2 miles) with an elevation gain of around 200 meters (656 feet). This trail is rated as medium difficulty, making it suitable for moderately experienced hikers.

Getting There To reach the trailhead, you can drive or use public transport. If driving, head towards the town of Blanding, Utah. From Blanding, take US-191 North for about 3 miles (4.8 km) until you reach UT-95. Continue on UT-95 West for approximately 20 miles (32 km) until you reach the turnoff for County Road 263. Follow this road for about 3 miles (4.8 km) to reach the trailhead. Public transport options are limited, so driving is recommended.

Trail Overview The South Fork Mule Canyon Walk offers a captivating journey through a canyon rich in natural beauty and historical significance. The trail begins with a gentle descent into the canyon, where you'll be greeted by towering sandstone cliffs and a variety of desert flora, including juniper trees and sagebrush.

Significant Landmarks At around the 2 km (1.2 miles) mark, you'll encounter the first of several ancient Ancestral Puebloan ruins. These ruins, dating back to around 1200 AD, are well-preserved and offer a glimpse into the lives of the people who once inhabited this region. Look out for the distinctive cliff dwellings and kivas, which are ceremonial structures used by the Puebloans.

Continuing along the trail, you'll come across several more ruins, each with its own unique features. At approximately 4 km (2.5 miles), you'll find a particularly impressive site known as the "House on Fire." This ruin gets its name from the way the rock above it appears to be ablaze when the sunlight hits it at the right angle, usually in the late morning.

Nature and Wildlife The canyon is home to a variety of wildlife, including mule deer, coyotes, and a range of bird species such as hawks and ravens. Keep an eye out for these animals, especially in the early morning or late afternoon when they are most active. The flora is equally diverse, with cacti, yucca, and wildflowers adding splashes of color to the landscape.

Navigation and Safety Given the remote nature of the trail, it's crucial to be well-prepared. Download the trail map from HiiKER before you set out, as cell service can be unreliable in the canyon. Carry plenty of water, as there are no reliable water sources along the trail. The trail is well-marked, but it's always a good idea to have a GPS device or a compass as a backup.

Historical Significance The South Fork Mule Canyon area is part of the larger Bears Ears National Monument, a region that holds immense cultural and historical significance for several Native American tribes, including the Navajo, Hopi, and Ute. The ruins you encounter along the trail are remnants of the Ancestral Puebloan civilization, which thrived in this area for centuries before mysteriously abandoning it around 1300 AD.

Final Stretch As you approach the end of the trail, the canyon narrows, and the walls rise higher, creating a more enclosed and intimate atmosphere. The turnaround point is marked by a large boulder that blocks further passage. Take a moment to rest and enjoy the serene beauty of the canyon before retracing your steps back to the trailhead.

This hike offers a perfect blend of natural beauty, historical intrigue, and moderate physical challenge, making it a rewarding experience for those who undertake it.