4.9
(7121)
16,397
hikers
00:35
1.90km
120m
Hiking
The Maple Canyon to Whiting Campground trail offers a delightful, easy hike through a lush canyon near Mapleton, Utah. You'll wander along a path often paralleling a riverbed, shaded by maple and cottonwood trees, and marvel at the unique “cobblestone” conglomerate walls that make this area famous. It's a tranquil 1.2-mile (1.9 km) journey, perfect for soaking in nature's beauty without a demanding effort.
Planning your visit is straightforward for this popular route. The trail is easily accessible, and while it's generally an easy walk, be ready for occasional loose rocks and potential stream crossings. It's a great option for a quick outdoor escape, especially in spring when wildflowers add a splash of color to the canyon.
What truly sets this trail apart is its distinctive geology; the natural cobblestone walls are a world-renowned feature for rock climbing, offering a visually unique landscape even for hikers. This 35-minute hike with 393 feet (120 metres) of elevation gain is a beloved escape for those seeking nature and a touch of geological wonder, suitable for a wide range of visitors.
Last updated: June 9, 2026
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Your route passes through a protected area
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1.90 km
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Way Types & Surfaces
Way Types
1.84 km
< 100 m
Surfaces
1.85 km
< 100 m
< 100 m
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Parking is available at the trailhead for the Left Fork Maple Canyon Trail. This trail is part of the Uinta-Wasatch-Cache National Forest, and specific parking details can sometimes be found on the USDA Forest Service website.
Yes, dogs are generally allowed on this trail. However, it's always a good practice to keep them on a leash and follow Leave No Trace principles, including packing out all waste, to ensure a pleasant experience for all users and protect the natural environment.
The trail is best enjoyed from late spring through fall. During these seasons, you'll benefit from the dense tree canopy providing ample shade, and the stream crossings will likely be manageable. Summer offers plentiful wildflowers, while fall brings vibrant maple foliage.
Generally, there are no specific permits or entrance fees required to hike the Maple Canyon to Whiting Campground trail itself. However, as it's located within the Uinta-Wasatch-Cache National Forest, it's always wise to check the Forest Service website for any updates on regulations or potential fees for specific activities or areas within the forest.
When hiking in the Uinta-Wasatch-Cache National Forest, remember to practice Leave No Trace principles: pack out everything you pack in, stay on marked trails, respect wildlife, and be prepared for changing weather conditions. Always check the official Forest Service website for any current alerts, fire restrictions, or specific regulations that might apply to your visit.
The trail primarily follows an old dirt road, offering a gentle, gradual elevation gain. You'll spend most of your time under a dense canopy of maple and cottonwood trees, providing ample shade. The path runs near a stream, requiring a couple of crossings where your feet might get wet depending on water levels.
Yes, this trail is generally considered easy to moderate, making it suitable for beginners and a great option for a quick family outing. The elevation gain is gradual, and the shaded path provides a pleasant experience.
Yes, this is a shared-use trail, accommodating hikers, mountain bikers, and equestrian users. Be prepared to encounter others and always practice trail etiquette by yielding to horses and uphill traffic.
You will encounter a couple of stream crossings along the path, so be prepared for potentially wet feet, especially during higher water levels. The geology of Maple Canyon is also notable for its conglomerate rock formations, which are smooth, cobble-sized stones cemented together, suggesting an ancient lake bed environment.
Absolutely! The trail serves as a gateway to further exploration. Beyond Whiting Campground, the route splits into the Left Fork and Right Fork trails, offering opportunities to extend your hike deeper into the canyon or towards areas like Spanish Fork Peak.
Yes, the route primarily follows the Left Fork Maple Canyon Trail. It also passes through sections of the Broken BST Trail and the Maple Mountain Face Road, offering connections to other areas within the canyon.
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