USA Little Wild Horse Canyon

Little Wild Horse Canyon is one of the most popular slot canyon treks in Utah. It’s full of tight twists and turns that offer photo compositions at virtually every turn. It is a suitable hike for all ages, and is typically the first slot canyon that beginners try. Like all slot canyons, be sure to check weather conditions before entering the canyon. Flash floods are common and can be lethal. Two young girls perished in a flood there in May, 2020.

I like to use a wide to super wide angle lens in slot canyons. For beginners, I suggest shooting in aperture priority mode and auto ISO.

The trailhead is about 6 miles (9.6 km) from Goblin Valley State Park (another fun spot for photography). It’s a good idea to call the Goblin Valley Visitor Center to ask about water levels in the canyon. They seem to always be on top of conditions in Little Wild Horse. Conditions in the canyon are always changing. There often shallow pools at various places that cause the unprepared to turn around. The last couple of times we were there (both in November of different years) the canyon was bone dry.