Huber Wash

4 mi RT
easy
year round (too hot in summer??)

Huber Wash is a nice day hike in the less-visited southwest desert area of Zion National Park. The highlight of this hike is the abundant petrified wood formations found along the way. There is no designated trail along this hike. The route simply follows the watercourse of Huber Wash. The route is generally easy but may be a bit muddy after storms. This hike is best completed in the cooler seasons of the year.

Trailhead

There is no official trailhead or facilities for Huber Wash. The hike begins near Route 9, about one mile west of Rockville, Utah.

From Rockville

Drive west on Route 9 for about 1.4 miles to a large gravel pull off on the north side of the road (37.165152, -113.061270). This area is not signed, but if you drive too far west, the highway crosses Huber Wash, which is signed.
Park at the gravel pull off along Route 9 or continue on a dirt road through the gate at the north end of the parking area. This two-track dirt road continues for one half mile before ending at a small parking area (37.171157, -113.060828) near the edge of Huber Wash. Most passenger cars can make the drive in dry conditions.
The Hike

From the small parking area at the end of the dirt road, Huber Wash is clearly visible below. Follow a trail down into the wash bottom and begin hiking up canyon. Soon a fence and hiker’s gate is encountered indicating the boundary of Zion National Park.

Continue hiking up canyon as the wash winds its way toward the towering cliffs of Mount Kinesava in the distance. Keep an eye out for pieces of petrified wood littered along the wash bottom but be sure to leave them where you found them. Gathering rocks or artifacts is illegal and spoils the experience for other hikers.

After about two miles, the hike ends at a large dryfall (37.186974, -113.049829). This is a great place to take a break before heading back. Not only is there usually a bit of shade here, but there is also plenty of petrified wood in this area. The most fascinating pieces are embedded into the sandstone walls above. Look closely and you will see large pieces protruding from the solid rock walls.

Those comfortable with a little climbing may extend the hike by bypassing the dryfall and continuing to the Chinle Trail on the bench above. Backtrack from the dryfall about 100 yards where it is possible to climb out of the canyon on the west side (right side looking down canyon). The climb is a bit steep and ends with a short scramble before arriving at the bench above. Once on the Chinle Trail, you may travel in either direction to explore other parts of the park. Leaving a car at the Coalpits Wash Trailhead makes for a fine point-to-point hike with a variety of great scenery.

Rules & Regulations

No pets allowed.
Do not litter.
Permits required for overnight use.
Special Considerations

This hike can be very hot during the summer and in the middle of the day. Very little shade is available. Bring plenty of water for each member of your group. Hike in the morning or evening for cooler temperatures.