Willis Creek Slot Canyon in Winter: A Frozen Wonderland Near Bryce Canyon
GETTING THERE | OVERVIEW | ROUTE
4 MILE OUT & BACK | ELEVATION GAIN 200 ft | EASY | ANYTIME | FAMILY FRIENDLY
Overview
Willis Creek Slot Canyon was a secret spot in Grand Staircase-Escalante National Monument, but it's now well-known and popular for hiking. Despite the crowds, it’s still one of the easiest and family-friendly slot canyons in Utah. Its closeness to Bryce Canyon (45 minutes away) and Kodachrome Basin State Park (30 minutes away) adds to its appeal!
If you’re looking for a way to experience Willis Creek without the crowds, I highly recommend visiting in winter. I hiked the canyon in early February, and the experience was magical—the canyon floor was covered in a thick sheet of ice, transforming the trail into a frozen wonderland. Not only was it breathtaking, but only a handful of people were on the trail, making it feel like a private adventure.
If you’re planning to visit in winter, I highly recommend wearing microspikes for traction. The icy surface can be slick, and microspikes make a huge difference in stability. Another bonus? There were only a few people on the trail, making it feel even more secluded and magical.
The slot canyon a thick sheet of ice.
GETTING THERE
• Location: Near Cannonville, Utah, in Grand Staircase-Escalante National Monument.
• Directions: From Cannonville, take Skutumpah Road (BLM Road 500) for about 6 miles to the trailhead.
• Parking: A medium-sized dirt parking area with two portable toilets.
• Road Conditions: Skutumpah Road is a dirt road that can be rough, especially after rain or snow. I recommend a high-clearance vehicle to handle potential ruts and washouts.
ROUTE
The canyon is located a short distance from the parking area. Follow the trailhead signs to a path that guides you across a small stream that feeds into Willis Creek.
When you reach the slot canyon, continue down the trail to the right.
The canyon starts to take shape here, with the creek carving a winding path through the rock.
Once inside the canyon, the walls begin to grow taller the further you go.
Towering walls in the slot canyon.
The canyon eventually widens, and the slot sections become less defined. Most hikers turn back after 2 miles, though you can continue further into Sheep Creek.
Willis Creek Slot Canyon is an incredible hike that offers an easy yet rewarding slot canyon experience. Whether you’re exploring with kids or looking for an adventure, this hike is well worth the visit. If you’re already visiting Bryce Canyon or Kodachrome Basin, don’t miss the chance to add Willis Creek to your trip!
Each season offers something special, but after my February hike, I can confidently say that winter might be the most magical time to visit. If you love unique adventures and don’t mind a little ice, Willis Creek in winter is an unforgettable experience.