The best family-friendly hikes and walks in Muddy Creek Wilderness
4.8
(56)
519
hikers
9
hikes
Family friendly hiking trails in Muddy Creek Wilderness traverse a landscape defined by deep, twisting canyons and towering red walls of Wingate, Kayenta, and Navajo sandstone. The region features unique geological formations, including "The Chute of Muddy Creek," where the stream often serves as the trail. Hikers can explore steep mesas and plateaus, with vegetation primarily consisting of pinyon, juniper, and desert shrub. This area offers diverse hiking opportunities for families, from canyon floors to higher elevations.
Best family friendly…
Last updated: May 13, 2026
4.9
(16)
155
hikers
13.0km
03:41
290m
290m
Moderate hike. Good fitness required. Mostly accessible paths. Sure-footedness required.
4.6
(10)
83
hikers
3.95km
01:20
60m
60m
Moderate hike. Great for any fitness level. Mostly accessible paths. Sure-footedness required.
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5.0
(7)
83
hikers
Moderate hike. Good fitness required. Mostly accessible paths. Sure-footedness required.
10
hikers
7.50km
02:18
100m
100m
Moderate hike. Good fitness required. Mostly accessible paths. Sure-footedness required.
5.0
(1)
6
hikers
4.50km
01:13
60m
60m
Easy hike. Great for any fitness level. Easily-accessible paths. Suitable for all skill levels.
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Tips from the Community
From now on, we can see the sky again, and the sun if it's there. This is an easy section of the canyon, and also beautiful.
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It's a living corridor, a ribbon of winding sandstone, a succession of walls that meander and undulate. The sandstone, polished by wind and tide, has almost human curves, hips, waves, draperies, and folds of fabric frozen in the colors of the surroundings. At this point, we exchanged our water shoes for our hiking boots. After that, the paths remained dry.
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You feel like you are on another planet, Mother Nature often looks beautiful.
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Seen from the parking lot. When we were here (November 21, 2025), the water was about 20cm deep. Afterward, we encountered several wading areas that you have to wade through; there's no other option. We brought water shoes, which are easy to pick up.
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Little Wild Horse and Bell Slot Canyons, unfortunately the unfinished ones for us 😥🙁😥 Today the Little Wild Horse Canyon and possibly the Bell Canyon should be visited. The two canyons can be explored in an approximately 13 km long circular tour. Here you can find my planned complete tour: komoot.de/tour/822561321 We left Goblin Campground very early because it was the weekend and all hell is supposed to break loose in the canyons on the weekend. The road to the trailhead is now paved, so it wasn't a problem even for our motorhome. When we arrived at the trailhead we were the very first ones 😃 So much for my phobia the previous days: we're pretty sure we won't get a parking space 😱 After a good breakfast we went to the Little wild horse canyon. At the beginning you go up the common wash to the junction and turn right there to Little Wild Horse Canyon. A signpost shows the way. My recommendation: Be sure to go through Little wild horse Canyon first, as most people do that. Because at the bottlenecks there is no way to get past each other in oncoming traffic!!! Now it became wonderfully nice to fight your way through the sometimes narrow and then wider places. However, after about a kilometer we were forced to make a decision in a narrow area with a boulder. Either climb over the boulder and not know whether we can overcome it again on the way back or continue walking the entire 13 km circular route or turn back here. We decided to turn back, especially since I had also pre-booked a slot canyon “Cardiac Canyon” with Page. In 2012 I was nearby in the world-famous Lower Antelope Canyon: flickr.com/photos/pharoahsax/albums/72157641505310913 On the way back we wanted to walk at least a little bit into Bell Canyon. But unfortunately a smooth rock barrier blocked the way for us old men, so we surrendered here too and ended the tour. In conclusion: Despite the cancellation, it was worth going on this tour😊 For younger people it is certainly no problem to overcome the rock and complete the circular tour, especially since you come from above at the rock barrier and you can always get down 😉
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Trails are impossible to find since there are no markers
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The "goblins" are sandstone hoodoos, which are mushroom-shaped rock pinnacles formed by erosion. There are thousands of these goblins making it a surreal Mars-like landscape.
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Little Wild Horse is a classic Utah slot canyon with a long stretch of "narrows", or tight, high canyon walls. It is a great introduction to exploring slot canyons.
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Frequently Asked Questions
How many family-friendly hiking trails are available in Muddy Creek Wilderness?
There are 8 family-friendly hiking routes detailed in this guide for the Muddy Creek Wilderness, offering a mix of easy and moderate options suitable for various family skill levels.
What is the best time of year for families to hike in Muddy Creek Wilderness?
The best times to visit for family hiking are typically fall and early spring. During these seasons, water levels in the creek are generally more manageable for canyon hikes, and temperatures are milder, making for a more comfortable experience for children and adults alike.
Are there any easy trails suitable for families with younger children or beginners?
Yes, there are several easy options. For instance, the Goblin Valley State Park loop from Group Site is an easy 4.5 km hike, perfect for families looking for a less strenuous adventure.
What kind of unique natural features can we expect to see on family hikes?
The Muddy Creek Wilderness is famous for its dramatic landscapes. You'll encounter deep, twisting canyons, towering red sandstone walls, and unique colorful sediment layers. Many trails, like those in Little Wild Horse Canyon and Bell Canyon, offer slot canyon experiences with otherworldly rock formations and narrow passages.
Are there any circular routes that are good for families?
Absolutely! Many of the family-friendly trails are loops, which are great for keeping things interesting. The Little Wild Horse and Bell Canyon Loop is a popular moderate option, combining two stunning canyons into one memorable circular hike. Another great choice is the Little Wild Horse Canyon – Otherworldly formations loop.
What should families wear or bring when hiking in Muddy Creek Wilderness, especially in canyons?
For canyon routes, be prepared for multiple creek crossings. Getting wet is often an integral part of the experience, especially in areas like 'The Chute of Muddy Creek.' We recommend wearing sturdy, waterproof or quick-drying footwear, and bringing extra layers of clothing. Always carry plenty of water, snacks, sun protection, and a first-aid kit.
What do other hikers enjoy most about the family-friendly trails in Muddy Creek Wilderness?
The area is highly rated by the komoot community, with an average score of 4.88 stars from 47 ratings. Reviewers often praise the stunning slot canyons, the unique geological formations, and the immersive wilderness experience that feels truly remote and adventurous for all ages.
Are there any historical or cultural points of interest along the family trails?
Yes, beyond the natural beauty, the Muddy Creek Wilderness offers glimpses into the past. Hikers can discover old mining ruins, including a dilapidated bunkhouse and remnants of the Little Susan Mine. There are also pictograph panels and other cultural sites, some even showing evidence of Old Spanish Trail travelers.
Are dogs allowed on the family-friendly trails in Muddy Creek Wilderness?
While the region is generally welcoming to outdoor enthusiasts, specific regulations for dogs can vary by trail and wilderness area designation. It's always best to check the latest rules with the Bureau of Land Management (BLM) for the Muddy Creek Wilderness Study Area before bringing your dog. You can find more information on their official website: blm.gov.
What are some of the most scenic spots or viewpoints for families?
The entire Muddy Creek Wilderness is incredibly scenic. Highlights include the dramatic narrows of Little Wild Horse Canyon, where the walls twist and turn, and the impressive Wild Horse Window. The 'Narrow, twisty going, but it’s unbelievably beautiful here' section of the canyon is particularly lauded for its stunning visual impact.
Is there parking available for families accessing these trails?
Access points to trails in the Muddy Creek Wilderness typically have designated parking areas. For popular trailheads like those leading into Little Wild Horse Canyon, parking is usually available, though it can fill up during peak seasons. Always plan to arrive early, especially on weekends, to secure a spot.
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