Place · 0.1 mi away
Overview
Crazy Hill is a small, wildly colorful sandstone knoll that looks like someone poured paint across the rock—bands of white, yellow, orange, and even purple. It’s a short wander off the Fire Wave/Seven Wonders corridor and feels like a secret compared to the crowds at the marquee stops.
What You'll See
- Swirled, pastel sandstone with stripes and ribbons of color.
- A low summit that gives a fun, 360-degree look at the surrounding domes and pastel canyons.
- Nearby eye candy—Thunderstorm Arch, Fire Wave, and narrow slots—if you’re linking stops.
Getting There
There’s no sign or official trail. Most people reach it from the Fire Wave/Seven Wonders area near Parking Lot #3 and follow landmarks or a GPS pin. From near Thunderstorm Arch, angle east toward the rocky promontory; Crazy Hill sits slightly elevated and isn’t obvious until you’re close.
Why It’s Worth Your Time
It’s the color. The palette here is unusually vibrant even by park standards, and the payoff-to-effort ratio is high. It’s also typically quieter than Fire Wave, so you can linger and compose shots without the scrum.
Conditions, Closures, and Safety
The route is fully exposed—no shade, hot and dry. Carry plenty of water and sun protection. The Seven Wonders route (which many use to reach Crazy Hill) is closed May 15–September 30 due to heat-related safety concerns.
Photography Tips
Soft light shows the colors best—early morning, late afternoon, or even post‑sunset glow. Walk around the knoll; every side paints a different pattern.
Wildlife
Nothing unique to this spot is reported, but you may see common desert lizards and birds moving through the rocks.
Best Time to Visit
- Time of day: Early or late for softer light and better color.
- Time of year: Cooler months outside the summer closure window.
- Day of week: Weekdays are calmer; arrive early to pair it with Fire Wave before lots fill.
Facilities
None at the feature itself. Use facilities at designated parking areas or the Visitor Center before you set out.
Pros
- Vivid, multicolored sandstone swirls that photograph beautifully
- Quick detour from the Fire Wave/Seven Wonders corridor
Cons
- Unmarked and a bit tricky to find without a GPS pin
- Seasonal closure on the Seven Wonders route (May 15–Sept 30)
Tips
- Save the GPS pin—there’s no signage and the hill sits slightly elevated.
- Aim for early or late light; overcast also boosts the color contrast.
- Link it with Fire Wave and Pastel Canyon for a compact, knockout loop.
- Respect the summer closure of the Seven Wonders route (May 15–Sept 30).
- Bring extra water and sun protection—there’s zero shade on the approach.
