Hop Valley Trail

Hop Valley Trail is a 13.0-mile out-and-back from Hop Valley Trailhead to La Verkin Creek junction and back. It crosses open fields, then a broad, sandy canyon floor enclosed by tall sandstone walls before climbing through forest to an overlook. This is a hard full-day walk, not a quick scenic stroll: allow 6 to 8 hours. The valley is the payoff, and you can leave the longer Kolob Arch extension for another day.

The trail starts across open country with broad red-rock views, then winds through pinyon and juniper. About 1.5 miles in, you reach a ranch gate; close it behind you. This is a public route across private ranch land, so stay on the trail and respect the fences. Around mile 3, the path drops into Hop Valley, where very sandy ground, low brush and a meandering creek sit beneath high sandstone walls. Cattle use this valley, and the trail crosses the creek several times.

Near Campsite A, the main trail leaves the creek bed and climbs on its west side. Dry channels and old animal tracks can look tempting, but they may lead to a dead end. Follow the established path. Farther north, another gate marks the end of the ranch inholdings. The designated campsites sit in trees near the boundary; overnight stays need a Zion wilderness permit and must use designated sites.

The route climbs through forest to a rounded stone outcrop with views toward Gregory Butte and the Kolob formations, then drops steeply to La Verkin Creek. Turn around at the junction for this 13-mile version. Continuing to Kolob Arch means adding La Verkin Creek Trail and the arch spur, which is a longer hike with a different distance. On the return, expect the sandy valley floor and about 1,050 feet of climbing back toward the trailhead.

Soft sand makes the miles slower than the map suggests, while the open valley has little continuous shade. Start early in warmer weather and bring your full water supply: there is no refill station at the trailhead, and cattle in the valley mean you shouldn't count on untreated creek water. Multiple crossings can vary with conditions. Dogs aren't allowed. Winter snow can linger into early spring, so check access before driving Kolob Terrace Road.

On the valley floor, include a little of the path and low brush in the foreground so the sandstone walls feel as tall as they are. From the rounded outcrop near the north end, look back down the valley for the long view between the cliffs.