Upheaval Canyon Trail

Upheaval Canyon Trail is a 7-mile round-trip out-and-back, taking about 3 to 4 hours. It follows a sandy wash between White Rim Road and the Syncline connection, then returns the same way. This is the canyon spur, separate from the 8.1-mile Syncline Loop and the 3-mile Upheaval Crater spur.

The route follows the wash bottom over primitive backcountry ground. Expect sandy footing and about 400 feet of one-way elevation change. The wash is the travel corridor, so carry a topographic map and stick to the established route rather than improvising a shortcut. The drainage can flood; stay out of canyons during storms and never cross a flooding wash.

Upheaval Dome is a roughly three-mile-wide area of disrupted rock, with a central uplift and surrounding downwarp. Its origin is still debated. Newer research supports an impact about 60 million years ago, while a salt-dome theory attributes the deformation to ancient salt rising through the rock and later erosion. This canyon spur is distinct from the dome’s overlook walks and crater-floor route.

The trail begins at White Rim Road, a remote backcountry road. Vehicles need high clearance and four-wheel drive with low range; a day-use permit is required for single-day vehicle or bicycle trips. There is no potable water along hiking trails, so bring enough for the full walk. Pets are not allowed on park trails, even if carried. Check road conditions before setting out.