Overview

Casto Canyon Utah is a popular area for exploring the stunning red rock formations and hoodoos along double-wide trails which are ideal for mountain biking, hiking and ATVing. The red hoodoos and colored sandstone cliffs contrast brightly against the dark green Ponderosa pines and Douglas fir.

Location/Directions

From Panguitch follow Hwy 12 east towards Red Canyon. Take the dirt road left signposted to Losee and Casto Canyon. Casto Canyon is about 9 miles west of Bryce National Park.

Information

Casto Canyon is open year-round, weather permitting.

The trail through Casto Canyon runs through a dry riverbed which may become flooded after heavy rain.

Fees

There are no fees as Casto Canyon is part of the Dixie National Forest rather than Bryce National Park.

ATV/Biking Trail: Casto Canyon Trail

The 5.5 mile trail runs east to Sanford Road. It joins the Barney Cove Trail and runs northeast for a further 2 miles. The trail is moderate/strenuous and suitable for hiking, horses, mountain bikes and OHVs. It offers great views of the stunning red rocks and has an elevation gain of 950 feet.

Wildlife Viewing

Chipmunk, mule deer, ground squirrel, bobcat, ringtail cat, fox, hawk, elk, Utah prairie dog and golden eagle can all be spotted in Casto Canyon, Utah.

Birdwatching

This area of Red Canyon has 175 different bird species including Bluebirds, Ravens, Scrub Jays, Stellers Jay, Black throated Grey Warbler, Tanagers, Olive Sided Flycatcher, Osprey and Clark's Nut Cracker.