Finger Canyons of the Kolob

Overview

Tucked into the park’s northwest corner, the Finger Canyons of the Kolob are parallel, red‑rock box canyons carved into thick Navajo Sandstone. It’s the quieter side of the park—fewer tour buses, big views for days, and room to breathe.

Scenic Drive & Viewpoints

A five‑mile road climbs along the “fingers,” revealing 2,000‑foot walls, alcoves, and long views toward the Pine Valley Mountains. You can drive your own car here (no shuttle), stopping at overlooks and the end‑of‑road viewpoint—perfect for an easy leg‑stretcher and golden late‑day light.

Top Hikes

• Timber Creek Overlook (1.2 mi RT, ~100 ft gain): A short ridge walk at the end of the drive with panoramic canyon and mountain views. Lovely at sunset; can be muddy when wet.
• Taylor Creek – Middle Fork (5.2 mi RT, ~450 ft gain): Follows a shady stream into a narrow box canyon, passing two historic cabins and ending at Double Arch Alcove. Expect multiple creek crossings—wet in spring, icy in winter.
• La Verkin Creek to Kolob Arch (14 mi RT, ~1,037 ft gain): A long day (about 8 hours) or an overnight to one of the world’s largest natural arches. Solitude, big scenery, and reliable creek water (treat before drinking). Overnight trips require a wilderness permit.

Facilities, Rules & Permits

• Visitor Center at the entrance for fees, info, water, and restrooms. Vault toilets at several trailheads and the end‑of‑road viewpoint. No potable water elsewhere—fill up before you go.
• Group size is limited to 12 in the wilderness; larger affiliated groups may only hike Timber Creek Overlook.
• Pets aren’t allowed on these trails.

Nature & What You’ll See

Piñon‑juniper ridges, riparian corridors lined with cottonwoods along Taylor and La Verkin Creeks, and ponderosa pockets higher up near Kolob Arch. The broader park hosts abundant birdlife, and these creek canyons are prime for spotting it. Expect cooler temps than the main canyon thanks to higher elevation.

Conditions & Safety

Summer heat and exposure are real—carry plenty of water and sun protection. Monsoon storms can trigger flash floods in canyons; check the forecast and avoid narrow drainages during storms. In winter, snow and ice can close the road; traction may be needed on trails.

Best Time to Visit

• Light: Many walls face west, so afternoons deliver the richest color; Timber Creek Overlook shines at sunset.
• Crowds: It’s generally mellow year‑round, but arrive earlier on weekends and holidays to snag parking at overlooks.
• Season: March–November is the sweet spot for road access and trail conditions; winter brings beauty and possible closures.

Getting There

Enter from I‑15 Exit 40. The Lee Pass trailhead (for La Verkin Creek/Kolob Arch) sits a few miles up the scenic drive; Timber Creek Overlook starts at the road’s end.