Fortymile Creek and Willow Gulch Loop | Hole In The Rock Road

Hiking Fortymile Creek and Willow Gulch Loop - Hole In The Rock Road Hiking Fortymile Creek and Willow Gulch Loop

Hole In The Rock Road

Overview

RATING: Strenuous Hike

Thu

Sunny, with a high near 102. Southwest wind 2 to 15 mph.

102 | 69

Fri

Sunny, with a high near 100. Southwest wind 6 to 17 mph.

100 | 69

Sat

Sunny, with a high near 99.

99 | 68

Sun

Sunny, with a high near 98.

98 | 66

Mon

Sunny, with a high near 98.

98 | 67

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SEASON: Late Spring or Early Fall.
GEAR: Standard Hiking Gear
WATER: Filterable during the middle half of the hike. Wading to chest deep.
FLASHFLOOD: High

Thu

Sunny, with a high near 102. Southwest wind 2 to 15 mph.

102 | 69

Fri

Sunny, with a high near 100. Southwest wind 6 to 17 mph.

100 | 69

Sat

Sunny, with a high near 99.

99 | 68

Sun

Sunny, with a high near 98.

98 | 66

Mon

Sunny, with a high near 98.

98 | 67

View Full Weather Details
Broken Bow Arch in Willow Gulch

Broken Bow Arch in Willow Gulch

Hidden within the sweeping sandstone canyons of the Grand Staircase–Escalante region, Fortymile Creek and Willow Gulch are a glimpse into some of southern Utah’s most beautiful—and less crowded—narrow canyons. These remote tributaries of the Escalante River have towering Navajo Sandstone walls, tranquil pools, and a striking natural arch. Unlike the more famous canyons in the area, Fortymile and Willow Gulch see many fewer visitors, giving a sense of solitude and discovery.

Whether you’re searching for Broken Bow Arch—an enormous natural span tucked in Willow Gulch—or simply hoping to explore winding narrows and quiet oases, these canyons are an unforgettable backcountry experience. For those willing to venture off the beaten path, Fortymile Creek and Willow Gulch reward with classic Escalante scenery and the timeless beauty of carved stone and hidden water.

Difficulty Note: Be aware this hike is fairly strenuous. Expect bushwhacking, lots of wading, and some deep wading up to chest deep (on my 6'2" body). The distance and difficulty make this most appropriate for experienced desert explorers. Because of the water exposure, I would recommend fairly hot temps.
Side Trip: In 2025, with low lake levels, I wandered down Fortymile Creek from its confluence with Willow Gulch. The lower section, below the Lake Powell high water mark, is beautiful, though it is quite overgrown in sections. If you have energy and motivation, budget a bit of time to wander downstream a bit.
Morning light at Sooner Rocks.

Morning light at Sooner Rocks.

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