One Of Utah's Most Unique Canyons Is A Paradise For Rock Climbers, Campers, And Hikers

Utah is renowned worldwide for incredible outdoor recreation opportunities. In addition to having world-class skiing and mountain biking, the state is home to Maple Canyon, one of the best sport-climbing destinations in the world. This one-of-a-kind location is tucked into the mountains of Central Utah less than two hours from Salt Lake City, and is a gorgeous place for camping, hiking, rock climbing, ice climbing, and other adventures. If you're taking a road trip from Salt Lake City to Las Vegas, Maple Canyon is an easy side stop to take a quick hike or spend a few days immersed in the towering cliffs of this region's unique geology.

Maple Canyon stands out amongst others in Utah due to its natural cobblestone walls, formed through millions of years of topographic change and erosion, providing a canvas of over 550 routes ranging from 5.4 to 5.14 for climbers of all abilities. Hikers who love a challenge will be rewarded with gorgeous views of the Wasatch Plateau after completing any one of Maple Canyon's three scenic loop trails. And, for a bigger challenge, the nearby Box Canyon Hiking Trail offers a natural obstacle course as you climb and maneuver around mother nature surrounded by cliffs. Although this trail is private property, hikers are still allowed to go as long as they leave no trace.

If you're looking to disconnect, the canyon has group and individual campsites that are open from May to October and can be reserved in advance. The campsites have toilets, tables, and fire rings, but no electricity, water, and low cellular coverage. Individual campsites are $10 per night and pets as well as off-road vehicles are permitted.

Maple Canyon fits in perfectly to a magical outdoor adventure whether you are heading south on a road trip to one (or all!) of Utah's five national parks or are keen to explore a spine-tingling ghost town. However, unlike some better-known tourist destinations across the state, Maple Canyon is literally off the beaten path. At the entrance to the canyon, there is a small parking area and the last couple of miles of road to the campground are an all-vehicle accessible dirt road. It's recommended not to drive RVs or trailers up the unpaved road as there are very few places to turn around.

As Maple Canyon is both unique and a recreation area loved by locals and visitors, be mindful of your environment and the natural settings. As much of the area is still pristine, please be sure to leave no trace to protect the local environment and preserve the area for future generations of visitors. This includes using only the toilets when you've got to go, cleaning up after your pooch, and packing in and out all of your garbage.

If you decide to hike the Box Canyon Trail or use it as a jumping-off point for your climb, be aware that the owner allows visitors in good faith that they will respect their private property. Leaving waste behind and destroying the environment will close off this gorgeous section of Maple Canyon as well as any goodwill from the property owner.