Golden Cathedral via Fence Canyon

Dogs Leashed

Features Cave · Geological Significance · Wildflowers · Wildlife

A slickrock hike down into Fence Canyon with sweeping vistas of the Escalante River watershed, followed by a pleasant hike along the Escalante River to its confluence with Neon Canyon, a slot canyon that has a unique natural bridge and amphitheater called the Golden Cathedral.

Leave no trace.

Head east from the Egypt parking lot, following a trail towards Fence Canyon. Cairns lead down a band of slickrock where the horizon of the canyon is in view ahead. After this initial drop down, you'll descend more gradually through open desert on the north side of the drainage.

After about 2.5 miles from the start of the hike, you'll drop into Fence Canyon via a cairned route through sandy slopes and slickrock ledges. Then you'll follow the wash until it meets the Escalante River in just over half a mile.

There are several crossings of the Escalante River on your way downstream to Neon Canyon, which is the first major canyon entering on river left as you walk downstream. When you get there, turn and hike up this beautiful slot canyon until you encounter the cathedral. There are no major obstacles in Neon Canyon, but more water or mud crossings may be necessary.

The Golden Cathedral is a magnificent grotto where two massive holes have eroded beneath a dryfall, forming natural skylights in a dome-like natural ceiling. Get here early in the day for the best reflective light.

Return the way you came if you are doing this as an out and back day hike. If you choose to do this as a backpacking trip, you can find good campsites along the Escalante River. Please be sure to minimize your impact and pack out all waste. Permits are required for overnight trips, but they are free and easy to obtain from the visitor center in the town of Escalante.

Juniper, pinyon, prickly pear, cottonwood, willow. Desert Bighorn Sheep, Mountain Lion, Mule Deer. Many birds.