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Utah is a hiker’s paradise, but not all trails are suitable for everyone. In fact, some of our trails are downright dangerous, and should only be attempted by those with expert skills. The Maze is exactly that kind of hike. It’s mysterious and beautiful, but it’s been named as the most dangerous hike in the U.S.  Canyonlands National Park is divided into four districts. Island in the Sky is the most visited part of the park; The Maze is the most remote and sees the fewest visitors.

To reach The Maze District, you’ll travel along a graded dirt road for 46 miles before you reach the ranger station. From there, it’s another three to six hours along a rough dirt road. A high-clearance, four-wheel-drive vehicle is necessary to traverse this road, and you’ll want to make sure you have plenty of gas, water, and a spare tire.  Before you hike into The Zaze, you must check in at the Hans Flat Ranger Station. It’s open every day from 8 a.m. to 4:30 p.m.. Rangers can give you a current trail status of the area, including an update on the trail’s few springs.

The Maze is vast, wild and dangerous. It’s not for novice hikers, and even experts sometimes run into trouble out here. It’s a difficult place to navigate, with lots of side canyons to lure you away from the main trail. Water is scarce, and help is hours (or days) away.  One of The Maze’s biggest dangers is getting lost. GPS isn’t always accurate or helpful; you’ll want to have a good map and compass, and know how to use them. Rock cairns guide the way…but they can be far apart, and are sometimes washed away.

Needless to say, The Maze is not a day hike. Most people spend at least three days out here, and a visit can take up to a week. Visitors must be prepared to be self-sufficient.  During summer months, temperatures at The Maze can reach 110 degrees. The most popular time to visit is during spring and fall months. You’re required to have a permit to hike this area, and you’ll want to get one at least four months in advance.

There’s no denying that The Maze is spectacular! To explore it, you’ll need basic climbing skills, to navigate the canyons. You’ll need a 25-foot rope to raise or lower your packs along the way, and you’ll want to travel in a group for safety.  While most of us will only see this place in photos, those who hike it find solitude, peace, and a beautiful, seemingly endless vista.

For more information, and to obtain a permit, visit the Canyonlands National Park website. Have you hiked The Maze?