Fantasy Canyon
Utah
Fantasy Canyon gets its name from the whimsical structures that mark the landscape. Visitors often note that it reminds them of descriptions from science fiction and fantasy novels &038;8211; some people mention seeing witches heads, diving seals, prowling coyotes or other figures in the rock.Â
Known for these intricate and peculiar stone figures, Fantasy Canyon offers a mystical landscape and opportunities for visitors to see unique rock weathering and erosion patterns. Visitors enjoy exploring this miniature canyon packed full of delicate sandstone designs. A short hike of less than a quarter mile will take you from the parking area to the back of the canyon,Â
 40 miles south of Vernal. This day use area is ready for open exploration however the features are created from sandstone. Although the sandstone is more resistant to erosion than the adjacent rock, it is actually extremely fragile. The sandstone is fine grained, porous, soft, poorly cemented, and brittle. When touched, the grains of sand break away from the rock surface. Please help us keep this fantasy alive for other visitors by not climbing the rock walls or features. Look around and see what catches your imagination!
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Directions
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From Vernal, from Vernal Ave.
East 4 miles on Highway 40
South 20 miles on UT-45
West 12.8 miles on Glen BenchÂ
East 2.4 miles on Coyote Wash Rd
Turn Right .8 miles continuing on Coyote Wash RdÂ
Turn Right .5 miles  continuing on Coyote Wash Rd
Turn Left .4 miles on Rd 032502
Turn Right and arrive at Fantasy Canyon
ÂSome roads to Fantasy Canyon are unpaved, they are generally well maintained and are accessible by most vehicles. However they may become slick or impassable when wet. Always check recent and current weather conditions before driving out to the site.
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Hours
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Fantasy Canyon is open year round, however camping at this site is not allowed.
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Explore Nearby
- Pelican Lake Recreation Area — State Park in South Dakota
- Utah Field House of Natural History State Park Museum — State Park in Utah
- Steinaker State Park Dark Sky Park — Dark Sky Site in Utah
- Dinosaur Diamond Prehistoric Highway — Scenic Byway in Colorado
- Ashley National Forest — National Forest in Utah, Wyoming
Nearby Discoveries
2 places to explore within 30 miles