Reflection Canyon is located in Glen Canyon National Recreation Area, on the side of Lake Powell, between Utah and Arizona. It became famous after its photo was used in 2012 to promote Mac Book Pro high-resolution display. This amazing place is one-of-a-kind, but it's also rather hard to reach. Reflection Canyon can be accessed either by boat or a difficult hike.
The trip to Reflection Canyon starts at Grand Escalante Staircase National Monument, from there you can enter Glenn Canyon via the Rock Road. A small parking lot marks the beginning of the trail. The challenging hike through the Glen Canyon is 20 mi (32.18 km) long. The Reflection Canyon lays southeast from the parking lot, but the trail goes southwest first.
The trail is hardly marked, there is no cell phone reception in the area, and very few hikers dare to walk in this place. So be prepared, take everything you need for this isolated hike and do it in spring or fall.
Practical info
When is the best time of year to visit Reflection Canyon and why?
Reflection Canyon receives the fewest visitors in spring (March to May) and fall (September to November) as temperatures are mild. In summer, high temperatures can make the trail crowded, whereas in winter, the canyon is closed. Therefore, the best time to visit is either in the spring or fall. Show more
Where exactly is Reflection Canyon located in Utah, and how can I get there?
Reflection Canyon is situated in Glen Canyon National Recreation Area, which spans both Arizona and Utah. Precisely, it is located by Lake Powell. To get there, experienced hikers can embark on the 20-mile hike from Grand Escalante Staircase National Monument. Another option is to use a boat to access the area. Show more
What is the difficulty level of the hike to Reflection Canyon?
Hiking to Reflection Canyon is a strenuous and challenging activity, even for experienced hikers. The 20-mile trail is difficult to navigate as it is unmarked, rocky, and requires crossing many steep inclines. Moreover, the entire journey might take anywhere between three and four days. Therefore, having a good level of fitness and knowledge of backcountry hiking is essential. Show more
Are there any safety measures I need to take while hiking to Reflection Canyon?
Safety is paramount when hiking to Reflection Canyon. To minimize risks, it's essential to carry enough water, food, and appropriate hiking equipment like boots and rain gear. And because the canyon is in an isolated area with no cell reception, having a map and compass is crucial. It's also important to monitor weather conditions as it can change rapidly in the canyon area. Show more
What are some helpful tips for planning a trip to Reflection Canyon?
Visiting Reflection Canyon requires extensive planning and preparation. To start, ensure that you are in good physical condition and that you have previous experience in backcountry hiking. Also, obtain all the necessary permits and make appropriate travel arrangements in advance. Be ready for an isolated journey with no cell phone reception. Finally, to preserve the fragile ecosystem, follow the Leave No Trace principles and ensure that you carry all trash back with you. Show more
