Hiking Coyote Gulch, Grand Staircase Escalante, Utah

There really isn't more bang for your buck that Coyote Gulch. Three arches Jacob Hamblin Arch, Stephens Arch & Cliff Arch. One natural bridge Coyote Natural Bridge. Three waterfalls (possibly more, depending on what you consider a waterfall). Incredible grottoes. Even a set of Indian ruins.

Coyote Gulch is best experienced as a multiday backpacking trip. But that's not how I did it. But don't do what I do, do what I say. Because my judgment is questionable.

There are several ways to get into and out of Coyote Gulch: Forty Mile Ridge (aka Crack in the Wall), Water Tank (aka Jacob Hamblin Sneak Route), Red Well & Hurricane Wash. Despite this, I take a very specific route; I go in Forty Mile Ridge (Crack in the Wall) and out Water Tank (Jacob Hamblin). Why? Well, Crack in the Wall has a very, very long stretch of sand. Uphill sand. Miles of uphill sand. It would be absolutely miserable to hike up this bit, especially right at the end. Also, the route out at Jacob Hamblin is steep. Steep, regardless of your skill level. Most people prefer to take a rope (I'd say you'd need 100' or more?) because it's so steep. Personally, I prefer going up really steep routes instead of down. The last reason for this route is it takes you past all of the major features in the least amount of distance covered.

So yeah. Coyote Gulch. I've been here before and will be here again. It's absolutely incredible, and I can't recommend it enough.

Please note that I don't think I mentioned this in the video; permits are not required. You simply sign in at the trailhead.