Rough Canyon did not live up to its name! We had read several accounts of Rough Canyon being, well, rough. Slow-going, many obstacles, and not a lot of fun. We, on the other hand, found a lovely hike with a well-defined trail that was easy to follow. It has a small bit of roughness to it, but overall, we really enjoyed it.

The hike descends from the parking area to Rough Canyon, then meanders down Rough Canyon. You can either return the same way, or hike on the Tabeguache Trail Four-Wheel Drive/ATV trail back to the trailhead, making a loop. Either way is charming, and certainly those looking for a shorter hike would be well served by doing an out and back as far as time and energy dictate. I thought the best part of the hike was early on, and easy to visit in an hour or two. The trail had enough obstacles and scenery to keep our 5-year-old mostly motivated and having a good time.