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Editor's Notes: There are many dangers involved with this hike/swim. It's not recommended for young children or inexperienced hikers. People engaging in this activity should either be very strong swimmers or should use a life jacket. It can be technical at times and requires one to swim for long distances in very cold water. SAN JUAN COUNTY — The Black Hole of White Canyon is a two-mile slot canyon, which curves through beautiful red-rock sandstone. National Geographic named this trail one of the “World’s Best Hikes,” and deservingly so. This isn’t just an ordinary slot canyon — you have to swim through it.
Located near Hite Marina in southern Utah, the hike begins on the side of Highway 95 at mile marker 56.7. From the trailhead, it’s a short hike into the canyon. Once in the canyon, the sandy riverbed quickly turns into narrow slots filled with dark, cold water.
It’s almost surreal to swim through the maze of sandstone formations as sheer cliffs rise above you on both sides. The pools are all unique with some shallow enough to wade through and some so deep, you can slide or jump from the ledge above into the water. Each pool is so different from the last, you don’t know what to expect around the next bend. It’s the thrill of the unknown that makes this particular hike so fascinating.
The water is cold year round so a wetsuit is highly recommended, even in the middle of the hottest summer. Many hikers also recommend bringing a flotation device such as a dry bag or small swimming noodle to hold on to for when you get tired.
This hike gets its name from the deepest and longest swim. The pool is known as the “Black Hole” — a dark corridor of sandstone that ends in a 90 degree turn, making it appear that there is no way out. The darkness and chilly water are somewhat foreboding, and another obstacle complicates the swim even more: Floating driftwood.
In 2003, flash floods brought a thick layer of driftwood to the pool. In order to get through the Black Hole, you must push your way through a heavy layer of wood.
Despite the beauty and thrill of this hike, there are many dangers involved. It’s not recommended for young children or inexperienced hikers. It can be technical at times and requires one to swim for long distances in very cold water.
It’s also important to analyze the weather forecast before attempting this hike; even a small amount of rain can cause dangerous flash floods.
About 1.5 miles from the Black Hole, you will exit the canyon to the south (left). Cairns are set up to guide you back to the highway. You’ll emerge from the canyon at mile marker 54.7. Either leave a shuttle vehicle there, or hike the two miles back to the trailhead.
Conquering the “Black Hole” is truly an unforgettable adventure that shouldn’t be missed by any slot-canyon enthusiast.
Total Distance: 5 miles
Difficulty: Strenuous
Sarah Romero is a journalism and photography student at Utah State University. Contact her at sarahromero524@gmail.com.
