Little Known Utah Canyon Is Stunning For Those Who Know

Southern Utah is well known for its National Parks. It is also well known how busy these parks can get, especially Zion and Bryce National parks. Here’s a little visited canyon that will give you spectacular views without having to share it with a throng of tourists. 

Casto Canyon is outside of Panguitch in the Dixie National Forest. It is an 11-mile loop on a dirt road that will take you to formations that look a lot like those you find in Bryce Canyon. You can hike it, ride a mountain bike through it or even take it on horseback. Most people take a four-wheeler or OHV. It will take you three to four hours around the loop on an off-road vehicle. 

The ride includes pine trees and expansive views of the area. The red rocks are stunning, and you can take the scenery in at your pace. You will cross small streams so expect your shoes to get wet while hiking.  If you feel like you are ready for a deeper dive into Utah’s treasures, put Casto Canyon on your list.  

Even the drive to the trailhead is well worth the trip. This is some of the most scenic parts of Southern Utah. Make sure you have plenty of time to stop and check out the scenery. 

You can take this as a one-day trip or plan a longer trip along highway 89 and see several different trails along the area. Just don't tell the secret to the people filling up the National Parks. We don’t want to share.