Brackens loopHiking Difficulty
Moderate
Equestrian Difficulty
Easy
Length
5.40 mi
Trail Traffic
Light
Route Type
Loop
Highlights
Trail Surface
Native
Accessibility
Bathrooms Available
Suitability
Recommended Use
Equestrian
Directions
To access the trail, you can choose the Grapevine trail, Prospector, or even Coachwhip. Most choose to access Bracken’s Loop through the Grapevine trail, following the flat trail with excellent Utah views for about 1 ¾ miles before connecting with Bracken’s Loop.
Description
If you’re itching for a moderate horse ride or hike among Utah’s natural rock formations, beautiful sandstone cliffs, and amazing views, Bracken’s Loop is sure to please. Nearly 5 1/2 miles, and a 1,500 elevation gain within the renowned Red Cliffs Desert Reserve, you’ll find a mix of good hiking and nice, soft sand, easy on your horses. Bracken’s Loop is a popular place among the locals and close to town.
Once on the well-used trail, you’ll continue following a small wash, which you can take if you don’t want the soft sand on the trail itself. You’ll weave through the desert between pink sandstone mountains and a black volcanic ridge some call the “lava cliffs” and as you turn south to finish the loop, you’ll find a beautiful overlook where you can take a break and tie your horses in the red rock wall on the west side. Notice the vibrant colors of the red sand and sandstone, greys and greens of from the vegetations and the typical Southern Utah, deep blue sky! Enjoy exceptional scenic views and rock formations, including the Church Rocks formation to the east, and the Spanish Wash where you’ll find a short section of narrow slot canyon skirting the trail. Our recommendation – Bracken’s Loop is a great place to watch the sunrise!
Pictures
