How to Visit the San Rafael Swell in Utah
The rugged San Rafael Swell is located in the heart of Castle Country. This scenic desert playground is one of the lesser-known travel destinations, making it a great place to enjoy the recreational opportunities and great scenery without the crowds. You can enjoy hiking through the slot canyons, riding on the numerous ATV trails, jeeping, river running and camping, all with the backdrop of stunning cliffs, mesas, buttes and canyons.
Other People Are Reading
Instructions
-
-
1
Plan your visit. The Swell is hot and dry in the summer, making it an ideal time for water lovers. The spring and fall are ideal times for hiking and traveling through the desert terrain.
-
2
Make travel arrangements. San Rafael Swell is located 25 miles south of Price, 20 miles west of Green River, and near Castle Dale. Green River is a good central location, if you are planning on hotel lodging. Because the Swell is owned by the Bureau of Land Management, camping is allowed within the Swell without a permit. If you'd like to camp in a campground, there are many offerings available. There is one located in Goblin Valley State Park, Huntington Lake Campground, Green River State Park Campground and San Rafael Bridge Campground.
-
-
3
Go for a scenic drive. Wedge Overlook Drive takes you through some of the more beautiful scenery in the Swell. At the Wedge Overlook, you can view the "Little Grand Canyon" carved by the San Rafael River. Stop at the various overlooks along the rim. For a good view of Temple Mountain, take the Temple Mountain / Goblin Valley road.
-
4
Go hiking. Little Wild Horse Canyon is a 2-mile hike through slot canyons near Goblin Valley State Park. At the Wedge Overlook, there are about three miles of hiking trails. The San Rafael Reef offers plenty of hiking opportunities and incredible views in the San Rafael Reef Wilderness Study Area.
-
5
The San Rafael Swell is known for its ATV trails. You can take your own ATVs and head off into the desert, or go on a guided tour. Some of the popular trails include Black Dragon, the Sid's Mountain trail system, and Behind the Reef Road.
-
1
Tips & Warnings
There are no services at San Rafael Swell. Bring plenty of water.
