Highlight • Natural Monument
Cosmic Ashtray (The Volcano)
Hiking
5.0
(4)
Mountain biking
5.0
(1)
This Highlight is in a protected area
Please check local regulations for:
North Escalante Canyons/The Gulch Instant Study Area
Tips
June 3, 2023
Mountain biking
August 25, 2023
Hiking
In the know? Log-in to add a tip for other adventurers!
Sign up for free
Nearby routes
Best routes near Cosmic Ashtray (The Volcano)
33.9km
10:03
430m
520m
Embark on the Red Breaks and Cosmic Ashtray Loop, a difficult 21.0 miles (33.9 km) hiking route that takes you through the stunning landscapes of Utah. You will gain 1396 feet (426 metres) in elevation, requiring about 10 hours and 3 minutes to complete this challenging journey. The trail offers a diverse experience, from navigating tight slot canyons with deep red, sculpted walls to traversing wide-open slickrock benches that provide expansive views of the surrounding Navajo hills, culminating at the unique Cosmic Ashtray. This loop is a full day of adventure, showcasing incredible textures and geological formations.
Planning your visit requires good physical fitness and excellent navigation skills, as parts of the route involve off-trail sections where paths can be indistinct. It is highly recommended that you hike with a partner for safety. Always carry ample water, as the desert environment can be demanding, and be prepared for scrambling and climbing over obstacles like chockstones. Make sure to bring a reliable map and compass or a GPS device to stay on track.
This route stands out for its incredibly diverse and visually stunning adventure within the Grand Staircase-Escalante National Monument. The Red Breaks section is particularly notable for its glowing slot canyon walls, which offer gorgeous textures and formations under the sunlight. The Cosmic Ashtray itself is a unique geological marvel, a deep hole in the sandstone featuring a distinct rock island at its center, making it a memorable destination for any hiker seeking extraordinary natural wonders.
5.0
(1)
7
hikers
14.8km
04:02
220m
220m
Hike the moderate 9.2-mile Cosmic Ashtray Trail in Grand Staircase-Escalante National Monument to a unique, sand-filled geological wonder.
3.7
(6)
31
hikers
Moderate hike. Good fitness required. Easily-accessible paths. Suitable for all skill levels.
Details
Informations
Elevation 1,720 m
Weather
Powered by Foreca
Today
Wednesday 10 June
35°C
13°C
0 %
Additional weather tips
Max wind speed: 26.0 km/h
Most visited during
January
February
March
April
May
June
July
August
September
October
November
December