Pros & cons
PROS
- Large pothole arch you can scramble into for unique viewpoints
- Remote feel with big views across the Needles
CONS
- Long, hot, and exposed backcountry approach with tricky route-finding
- No facilities; 4x4 access via Horse Canyon requires a permit and is not always open
Overview
A quirky name for a striking feature, Paul Bunyan’s Potty is a big pothole-style sandstone arch tucked in the Needles District backcountry. It’s not a roadside spectacle—you earn it with a remote hike—but the payoff is a photogenic bowl-shaped opening and that you’re-little-in-a-big-landscape feeling.
What You’ll See
Expect a broad, sculpted arch formed in Cedar Mesa Sandstone, with space to carefully scramble into the opening for fun perspectives. Panoramic views sweep across Needles spires, slickrock benches, and canyons. Nearby, hikers note a second, smaller pothole arch and a small prehistoric granary tucked into the canyon wall, adding a touch of archaeology to the stop.
Getting There & Effort
There’s no designated trailhead or facilities at the arch. Most visitors reach it via a backcountry hike that uses washes and an old 4x4 track—route-finding can be subtle and signage sparse. Vehicle access in Horse Canyon (one approach) requires a permit and is only open in certain years/conditions; plan on walking unless you’ve confirmed access and paperwork. Expect full exposure, slickrock travel, and some scrambling.
Geology & Human History
This is a classic pothole arch: water pooled in a surface depression and, over time, erosion punched through to create the opening you see today. The surrounding Needles are the weathered edges of Cedar Mesa Sandstone. The nearby granary is a reminder of long human presence in these canyons—observe, photograph, and leave all cultural features undisturbed.
Wildlife
You’re likely to share the scene with lizards and ravens; with luck, you might spot small mammals, birds of prey, or even bighorn on distant walls. Early and late in the day are the quietest wildlife windows.
Best Time to Visit
- Season: Spring and fall for manageable temperatures. Summer midday can be brutally hot and exposed.
- Time of day: Early morning or late afternoon gives softer side-light on the arch and cooler hiking temps.
- Crowds: It’s never busy like the front-country; weekdays feel extra solitary.
Is It Worth It?
If you love off-the-beaten-path geology, a bit of scrambling, and big views with solitude, this is a rewarding detour. If you’re short on time or prefer paved pullouts and signs, you can skip it—this one’s for backcountry fans.
Where it is
38.1200, -109.7373Tips for Paul Bunyan’s Potty
- 01Start early for cooler temps and better side light on the arch.
- 02Carry ample water and sun protection—there’s no shade or water on the way.
- 03Use a map or GPS; the route follows washes and old roads with minimal signage.
- 04If attempting vehicle access in Horse Canyon, secure a permit and check current conditions.
- 05Budget extra time to explore inside the arch and view the nearby granary respectfully.
Amenities
Near Paul Bunyan’s Potty
All places →All trails →
0.6 mi awayKeyhole RuinsRemote cliff dwellings with keyhole openings, viewed from afar
0.6 mi awayTower RuinRemote cliff dwelling above Horse Canyon, reached via a long wash hike
2.2 mi awayPeekabooA quieter Needles hike to rock art, a window arch, and viewsTrailhead · Scenic Viewpoint
2.7 mi awayCave Spring TrailShort loop with ladders, rock art, and a shady desert springEasy · 0.6 mi · 45 min
2.7 mi awayCave SpringShort loop with ladders, cowboy camp, rock art, and a green alcoveTrailhead · Parking
3.3 mi awayRoadside Ruin TrailQuick loop to an Ancestral Puebloan granary near the visitor centerEasy · 0.3 mi · 20 min
3.9 mi awayWooden Shoe Canyon TrailClassic Needles loop of slickrock, ladders, and quiet riparian canyonChallenging · 8.7 mi · 5 hr
3.9 mi awaySquaw Canyon to Lost Canyon LoopTwo canyons, ladders, and slickrock—classic Needles sampler loop.Moderate · 6.5 mi · 4.5 hr
