The best walks and hikes in Daniels Canyon Wilderness Study Area
4.6
(9)
108
hikers
6
hikes
Hiking in Daniels Canyon Wilderness Study Area offers a primitive, cross-country experience in a rugged landscape managed by the Bureau of Land Management. The area is defined by the high, vertical walls of Daniels Canyon, with elevations ranging from 5,600 feet (1,707 m) to over 7,700 feet (2,347 m). The terrain consists of pinyon-juniper woodland and sagebrush, with no officially designated or maintained trails within the WSA itself, requiring navigation skills. Many visitors explore established routes in the adjacent Dinosaur…
Last updated: May 13, 2026
1
hikers
2.34km
00:49
120m
130m
Easy hike. Great for any fitness level. Easily-accessible paths. Suitable for all skill levels.
4
hikers
659m
00:12
20m
20m
Easy hike. Great for any fitness level. Easily-accessible paths. Suitable for all skill levels.
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3
hikers
12.6km
03:20
120m
120m
Moderate hike. Good fitness required. Easily-accessible paths. Suitable for all skill levels.
6
hikers
4.54km
01:14
70m
70m
Easy hike. Great for any fitness level. Easily-accessible paths. Suitable for all skill levels.
8
hikers
Easy hike. Great for any fitness level. Easily-accessible paths. Suitable for all skill levels.
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Tips from the Community
Island Park is located just below you. From 1883 until 1945 it was the home for the Ruple Family who built a cabin and established a cattle ranch in the canyon next to the Green River. The viewpoint is also the trailhead for the 9.2-miles roundtrip along the Ruples Point Trail that leads through sagebrush, juniper trees and pine forest to a spectacular viewpoint of the Green River and surrounding mountains.
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At the end of the Ruple Point Trail, a breathtaking view over the meandering Green River awaits you. Take a moment to enjoy the unique scenery of the remote canyonlands.
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The Green River Campground is one of two campgrounds situated along the Green River. You will find a large number of nice campsite with picnic benches and fire pit, some of them with access to the river. The River Trail at the north side of the campground connects the Green River Campground to the Split Mountain Campground further north.
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Over one mile, the River Trail connects the Green River Campground with the Split Mountain Campground further north. It leads along the shore of the majestic Green River and treats you with beautiful views of Split Mountain. If you like to go on a longer hike, you can continue along the Desert Voices Trail which itself connects to the Sound of Silence Trail.
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Split Mountain Campground is one of two established campground on the Utah side of Dinosaur National Monument. It is located at the shore of the Green River and sites are equipped with picnic benches and fire pits. At the northern side of the campground, you will find the trailhead for the Desert Voices Trail that loops into the backcountry with great views of geological features and Split Mountain.
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The Hog Canyon Trail is an easy 1.5-mile roundtrip starting at Josie's Cabin. You will pass her former chicken coop and enter an open area with wide meadows and a spring-fed creek. Enjoy stunning rock formations as you continue into the canyon. This is also a suitable hike in summer and great with kids.
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The 0.25-mile (out and back) Box Canyon Trail leads into a shady box canyon that's great for exploring with the kids, especially on hot summer days. Here you'll find great views of the rugged Weber Sandstone of Split Mountain. Josie Morris, whose cabin is located at the trailhead, used to herd her cattle in Box Canyon. Remember to stay on the trails at all times as there is poison ivy in the canyon.
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Without any plumbing, electricity, or neighbors, this cabin was Josie Morris home for over fifty years. She built the modest structure with a fire place, a chicken coop and cattle fence on her own and lived in the remoteness of the canyon between 1913 and 1964, when she died from the complications of a broken hip. Take a hike into nearby Box Canyon and Hog Canyon, where Josie planted trees and penned her livestock.
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Frequently Asked Questions
Are there established trails in Daniels Canyon Wilderness Study Area?
No, a key feature of the Daniels Canyon Wilderness Study Area is its primitive, undeveloped character. There are no officially designated or maintained trails within the WSA itself. Hiking here is a cross-country experience that requires strong navigation skills using a map and compass. For established paths, many visitors explore the adjacent Dinosaur National Monument.
What kind of navigation skills and gear are required for hiking here?
Since there are no marked trails, you must be proficient in off-trail navigation using a map and compass or a reliable GPS device. The terrain is rugged and remote. Always carry extra water, food, and layers, as there are no facilities within the WSA. It is essential to be self-sufficient.
Are there any easy hikes in the area?
While the WSA itself is for experienced off-trail hikers, there are easier options in the surrounding area. For a gentle walk, consider the River Trail – Green River Campground loop from Dinosaur. It's a relatively flat route of about 3.8 miles that follows the Green River.
Can I bring my dog to Daniels Canyon WSA?
Yes, dogs are generally permitted in Bureau of Land Management (BLM) areas like Daniels Canyon WSA, but they must be under your control at all times to protect wildlife and the natural landscape. Be mindful of the rugged terrain, lack of water, and potential wildlife encounters.
What is the best time of year to hike in Daniels Canyon?
Spring and fall are the ideal seasons for hiking in this region. They offer moderate temperatures suitable for exploring the exposed canyon landscape. Summers can be extremely hot, while winters can bring snow and cold conditions, making access and navigation more challenging.
Are there any water sources available for hikers?
Natural water sources are scarce and unreliable within the Daniels Canyon WSA. You should not depend on finding water in the canyons or from springs. It is critical to carry all the water you will need for your entire hike.
Do I need a permit to hike or camp in the WSA?
Generally, permits are not required for day hiking or dispersed camping in BLM Wilderness Study Areas. However, regulations can change, and there are rules regarding group size and length of stay. It's always best to check the latest guidelines on the official BLM Daniels Canyon page before your trip.
What is the terrain like in Daniels Canyon?
The terrain is rugged and varied. It features the high, vertical walls of Daniels Canyon, with elevations ranging from 5,600 to over 7,700 feet. The landscape is a mix of pinyon-juniper woodland, sagebrush flats, and rocky outcrops. Expect steep sections and uneven ground.
Are there any good options for a longer backpacking trip?
The WSA is well-suited for experienced backpackers looking for solitude and a challenging, self-reliant adventure. Since there are no set routes, you can plan your own multi-day trip through the canyons. For a long day hike on an established trail nearby, the Ruple Point Trail – Dinosaur National Monument is a moderate 7.8-mile option.
How do I get to Daniels Canyon Wilderness Study Area?
The WSA is located in a remote part of Uintah County, about 22 miles east of Vernal, Utah. Access is via unpaved roads that may require a high-clearance or 4WD vehicle, especially after rain. Plan your route carefully using detailed maps, as signage is minimal.
What do other hikers enjoy about this area?
The routes in and around the Daniels Canyon WSA are highly rated by the komoot community. Hikers often praise the profound sense of solitude, the spectacular views into Dinosaur National Monument, and the adventure of forging their own path in a truly wild and undeveloped landscape.
What kind of wildlife might I see?
The rugged terrain provides habitat for a variety of wildlife. With a bit of luck, you might spot mule deer, elk, or various birds of prey. The area is also home to more elusive animals like mountain lions, so it's important to be aware of your surroundings and store food properly if camping overnight.
Most popular routes in Daniels Canyon Wilderness Study Area
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