The Box Trail
A moderate hike that follows Pine Creek, a tributary of the Escalante River, through a lush steep-walled canyon. The trail descends through mixed conifer and into Ponderosa pines. Many stream crossings are required.
9 miles one way
Moderate trail level by hiking and horseback. Bike and OHV not permitted.
There is water in Pine Creek along the entire hike. Bring your own water for day hikes. All water should be filtered or treated before drinking.
Visit a trail guide and map for this trail here: The Box Trail Guide and Map
Specific Trail Information
Trail Number
General Information
Creek crossings can be slippery; a hiking stick may be helpful for balance. Due to the amount of time spent walking in the water, this hike is best done during warm weather months to avoid hypothermia. Flash floods are extremely dangerous in narrow canyons, hikers must be very cautious during flash flood season. Mosquitoes and deer flies can be prevalent in spring and early summer, wear a long sleeve shirt and pants and use insect repellent. Weather can change quickly. Be prepared for cold weather year-round.
The Trailhead: Lower Box Access: From Escalante, turn north on the Hells Backbone Road (300 E). At 0.7 miles the road will fork, stay right. After 3.5 miles the road will turn to dirt and is now called Forest Road 153 (FR 153). At 7.4 miles turn right at the sign “Lower Box Access.” Drive 0.3 miles to the parking area. Follow old road to the trailhead.
Upper Box Access: From Escalante, turn north on the Hells Backbone Road. At 0.7 miles the road will fork, stay right. After 3.5 miles the road will turn to dirt and is now called Forest Road 153 (FR 153). At 7.4 miles you will pass the Lower Box Access. At 13.6 miles the road will fork, turn right following the sign to “Hells Backbone Bridge” (FR 153). At 17.9 miles there will be a sign that says “Upper Box Access.” Park on the narrow shoulder near the sign.
The Trail: From the upper box access sign, follow the trail down the grassy slope. After 0.16 miles you will come to the trailhead register. From here the trail follows the creek and crosses approximately 54 times.
There is water in Pine Creek along the entire hike. Bring your own water for day hikes. All water should be filtered or treated before drinking.
Address: 755 W Main , PO Box 246 Escalante, UT 84726
Phone: (435) 826-5499
Hours: Closed Sunday - Monday, Open Tuesday - Saturday 9 am - 4 pm. (Closed on federal holidays)
