The best walks and hikes in Mount Pennell Wilderness Study Area
5.0
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39
hikers
6
hikes
Hikes in Mount Pennell Wilderness Study Area explore the remote and rugged terrain of Utah's Henry Mountains. The region is characterized by deep canyons, significant elevation changes, and a landscape that includes forests of oak, Ponderosa pine, and aspen. The trails here offer a sense of solitude within a varied and challenging environment.
Best hiking trails in Mount Pennell Wilderness Study Area
- The most popular hiking route is Upper Muley Twist – Capitol Reef National Park, a 9.4 mile (15.2 km) trail that takes around 4 hours 12 minutes to complete. This moderate hike follows a canyon route within the nearby national park.
- Another top favourite among local hiking enthusiasts is Cottonwood Tanks loop from Boulder, a difficult 15.6 mile (25.2 km) path. This longer route involves more than 1,500 feet (475 m) of elevation gain.
- Local hiking enthusiasts also love the Peak-a-boo Rock – Strike Valley Overlook loop from Boulder, a 5.5 mile (8.9 km) trail leading through the distinct Utah landscape, often completed in about 2 hours 23 minutes.
- Hiking in Mount Pennell Wilderness Study Area is defined by deep canyons, high-elevation forests, and expansive views over the surrounding canyon country. The network of routes provides options for both moderate and more difficult hikes.
- The routes in Mount Pennell Wilderness Study Area are highly rated by the komoot community with an average score of 5.0 stars from 2 reviews. More than 30 hikers have used komoot to explore Mount Pennell Wilderness Study Area's varied terrain.
Last updated: July 15, 2026
3
hikers
24.8km
08:51
470m
470m
Embark on the Lower Muley Twist Canyon and Grand Gulch Loop, a difficult 15.4-mile (24.8 km) hike that promises a truly immersive desert experience. You will navigate deep, winding canyons, marvel at towering walls of white Navajo sandstone streaked with black desert varnish, and discover impressive alcoves and undercuts. The route gains 1530 feet (466 metres) in elevation, offering a challenging yet rewarding journey that typically takes around 8 hours and 50 minutes to complete.
Planning your visit requires careful preparation, especially concerning water, as reliable sources are scarce along the trail. You should carry at least one gallon of water per person, particularly if you hike during summer when temperatures can soar above 100 degrees Fahrenheit. If you intend to stay overnight or explore Grand Gulch, remember that a free backcountry permit is required to ensure your trip is properly registered.
This loop takes you through sections so narrow they are said to have
24.0km
09:01
400m
740m
Prepare for a challenging hiking adventure on the Halls Creek Narrows Trail, a difficult 14.9 miles (24.0 km) route that typically takes around 9 hours to complete. You will descend steeply into the Halls Creek drainage, navigating sandy washes framed by the colossal walls of the Waterpocket Fold. The highlight is undoubtedly the 3-mile Narrows section, where the gulch carves deep into Navajo sandstone, creating a winding watercourse with sheer walls soaring over 650 feet. Along the way, you will gain 1297 feet (395 metres) as you explore striking red slickrock formations and deep alcoves, offering a truly remote wilderness experience.
Planning your visit requires careful preparation for this remote trek. This strenuous route is often best tackled as a multi-day backpacking trip, especially given its length and the need for good route-finding skills since it is largely unmarked. You must carry all your water, as reliable sources are scarce and seasonal along the way. If you plan an overnight stay, backpacking permits are required and can be obtained at the Capitol Reef visitor center. Be aware that reaching the trailhead often involves navigating rough dirt roads, which typically require a high-clearance, four-wheel-drive vehicle.
This trail offers a profound immersion into the unique geology of Capitol Reef National Park. The route follows the Halls Creek drainage, which cuts through the massive Waterpocket Fold, a 100-mile-long wrinkle in the Earth's crust. This geological feature exposes layers of rock, creating the dramatic canyon walls and the deep Narrows section. Exploring side canyons like Muley Twist Canyon can reveal even more of the area's intricate formations. The remote nature of this trail ensures a true wilderness experience, far from developed areas.
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5.0
(1)
15
hikers
15.2km
04:12
260m
260m
Hike the Upper Muley Twist Canyon Trail in Capitol Reef National Park for diverse terrain, natural arches, and panoramic views of the Waterp
6
hikers
24.1km
06:33
350m
350m
Hike the difficult 15.0-mile Upper Muley Twist Canyon Trail in Capitol Reef National Park, featuring arches, slickrock, and panoramic views.
5.0
(1)
15
hikers
Moderate hike. Good fitness required. Easily-accessible paths. Suitable for all skill levels.
Our route recommendations are based on thousands of hikes, rides, and runs completed by other people on komoot.
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Tips from the Community
Best in the afternoon
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An amazing viewpoint on stunning valley in a less-known part of Capitol Reef !
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The view is very impressive. Bring plenty of water, especially in the warm season, because there are very few shady sections.
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Frequently Asked Questions
How do I get to the trailheads in the Mount Pennell Wilderness Study Area?
Accessing trailheads in this remote area typically requires a high-clearance, 4x4 vehicle. Roads leading into the Henry Mountains are often unpaved, rocky, and can be impassable after rain or snow. Always check local conditions before you travel.
When is the best time of year to hike around Mount Pennell?
The best seasons for hiking are spring and fall, when temperatures are more moderate. Fall is particularly scenic, with aspen groves displaying brilliant colors. Summer can be very hot, and winter conditions can make access difficult or impossible due to snow.
Are the trails in the Mount Pennell WSA well-marked?
Many routes in the Wilderness Study Area are not formally marked or maintained. Some paths follow old 4x4 tracks, while others are primitive footpaths. Strong navigation skills and a reliable GPS or map and compass are essential for any hike in this region.
What are the regulations for hiking and camping in the Mount Pennell WSA?
As a Wilderness Study Area, the region is managed to preserve its wild character. Standard regulations include practicing Leave No Trace principles. For specific rules regarding camping, campfires, and group sizes, it's best to consult the official Bureau of Land Management (BLM) website.
Are there any family-friendly hikes in the area?
The terrain in the Mount Pennell WSA is generally rugged and challenging, making it less suitable for casual family outings. Most trails involve significant elevation gain and remote conditions. For a more accessible but still scenic option, consider the Peak-a-boo Rock – Strike Valley Overlook loop from Boulder, which is shorter and has less climbing than other routes in the region.
Can I bring my dog hiking in the Mount Pennell WSA?
Dogs are generally permitted in Bureau of Land Management (BLM) Wilderness Study Areas, but they must be under your control at all times to protect wildlife and the natural environment. The rugged terrain, lack of water, and potential for encounters with wildlife like bison or cougars mean you should carefully consider if the conditions are suitable for your dog.
Are there reliable water sources along the trails?
No, natural water sources are scarce and unreliable in the Henry Mountains. You must carry all the water you will need for your entire hike, especially during the warmer months. It is recommended to bring more than you think you will need.
What kind of wildlife might I see?
The Mount Pennell area is home to a variety of wildlife. It serves as a summer range for the famous Henry Mountain bison herd, and sightings are possible. The rugged canyons also provide habitat for cougars, mule deer, and various bird species.
Are there any good options for backpacking or multi-day hikes?
Yes, the remote and expansive nature of the area is ideal for backpacking. While there are no official backpacking loops, experienced hikers can create their own routes by linking canyons and ridges. For a long day-hike or potential overnight trip, the Upper Muley Twist Canyon Trail offers a challenging 15-mile (24 km) journey through a dramatic canyon landscape.
What makes hiking in the Mount Pennell area unique?
The primary appeal is the profound sense of solitude and wildness. The landscape is incredibly diverse, with hikers ascending through four distinct biological zones—from oak and Ponderosa pine forests to subalpine fir and spruce at higher elevations. The reward is stunning, panoramic views across Utah's canyon country.
What do other hikers say about the Mount Pennell Wilderness Study Area?
The area is highly rated by the komoot community. Hikers frequently praise the incredible solitude and the "ridiculously gorgeous views" from the higher elevations. The challenging nature of the hikes and the reward of the expansive scenery are common themes.
Are there any canyon hikes in the region?
Yes, deep canyons are a defining feature of the Henry Mountains. Many routes follow these dramatic geological formations. For a difficult but rewarding canyon experience, the Cottonwood Tanks loop from Boulder takes you through the classic rugged landscape of the region.
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