If there were a hall of fame for backpacking, Coyote Gulch would undoubtedly steal the spotlight. Located in the vast Grand Staircase-Escalante, it’s a winding, narrow canyon that snakes its way down through incredible red rock country and joins with the Escalante River. This desert paradise seems to have come straight out of a fantasy movie. Its arches, bridges, and waterfalls nestled amidst sky-high red cliffs seem to reach for the heavens and are all embraced by the rich foliage of Cottonwood trees. Choose this all-inclusive 6-day backpacking adventure and let yourself be whisked away from the hustle and bustle into this lush oasis hidden deep within the canyons of Escalante.
What you get on this adventure:
What’s not included:
To fully immerse yourself in the Coyote Gulch backpacking adventure, it’s important to be in good cardio shape and capable of carrying 35+ lbs for four consecutive days, covering 5 to 8 miles each day on uneven terrain. While the daily mileage is moderate and the elevation change minimal, the trail does present some unique challenges. Expect numerous shallow river crossings and stretches of mandatory wading, along with sections that require mild scrambling. Good mobility is essential for navigating these aspects of the backpacking experience.
However, don’t let these challenges deter you! This guided tour is designed to cater to motivated first-time backpackers as well as more seasoned adventurers. With decades of experience in desert adventures, backcountry risk management, and expedition planning, your guide(s) will ensure your safety and enjoyment throughout the journey.
Backpacking means that you’ll have to carry everything you need on your adventure on your back. That includes clothes, food, personals and camping gear. Backpacking also means that there is at least one outdoor overnight in the plan, in this case it is 4 days and 3 overnights in the backcountry.
Here’s a list of the equipment you need to bring:
The following equipment will be provided by your guide:
Once you book the tour, your guides will provide a comprehensive gear checklist, as well as recommendations for the gear you should buy or rent for this trip. Dress comfortably and for the weather in clothes you can move in. We suggest bringing clothing appropriate for the season.
There is a safe spot to park your vehicle for the duration of the Coyote Gulch backpacking trip.
Group sizes and pricing
Backpacking in Coyote Gulch can be arranged for private and for larger groups. Contact us to make arrangements.
Min. age requirements
If your group has hikers under the age of 18, contact us prior to booking to make arrangements.
To get to Escalante, the starting point of the tour, most people fly into Salt Lake City International Airport or Las Vegas Herry Ride Airport. From there, you can rent a car or carpool with other backpackers (it’s about a 5-hour drive tio Escalante). Another option is flying into Cedar City Regional Airport, which is around 2 hours away by car.
You will meet your guide at your accommodation in Escalante in the afternoon of Day 1, followed by a trip briefing and dinner.
We highly recommend that you cover all your bases with both emergency medical and travel insurance.
With medical insurance, if you have an accident or medical emergency during your adventure, you’ll avoid paying out of pocket for costly expenses. This covers everything from hospital treatments to emergency air transportation and more. Travel insurance covers canceled flights, natural disasters and other scenarios that may interrupt your travel plans.
We also expect you to respect local regulations and take measures to protect yourselves, your guides, and the communities you’re traveling to.
If you need assistance selecting the right insurance for your group, let us know and we will be happy to help!
To secure your spot, a deposit in the amount of 30% is required at the time of booking. The remaining amount must be paid 90 calendar days prior to the trip departure. Once the trip is confirmed by the guide, the cancellation policy stated below applies. If you cancel the booking…
Please note that booking fees are non-refundable in all cases and will be deducted from the refund amount.
Early Bird booking
Want to be the first one to know when we publish new dates or secure your spot well in advance? Select a future month that suits you best and lock in your Early Bird spot in time with just a 10% deposit.
As soon as our guides publish new tour dates, you’ll be the first one to know. We’ll hold your spot for 2 weeks until you choose the date that suits you best.
More about how Early Bird bookings work below:
