Page Updated: May 05, 2023

Squaw Flat - Big Spring Canyon Loop

Canyonlands National Park: Needles

JUN 2021

7.3 miles - 709ft elev gain - moderate

Very cool trail. Almost feels like you’re on another planet. Wildflowers, slickrocks, booty-scootin’ and incredible vistas at the summit.

Hiked clockwise. Trail is mostly well marked. Hiccup on our trail app trekked us over the summit instead of around it. Tricky finding a way down and it wasn’t the safest route, but it was definitely more fun.

Started in Squaw and had nice cool shade, but didn’t start early enough. Crested the summit as the sun rose over the ridge line. It got warm quickly. We spent the back half in Big Spring taking mini-breaks in any shady spot we could find; behind rocks, under ledges… even behind trees.

The hike was fantastic, but the heat was brutal. Water is your friend.