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MOAB — As many visitors can attest, in summer the desert areas surrounding Moab can be brutally hot. Fortunately, for those who would rather be outside than hiding in an air-conditioned building, not far from town is a fun hike that winds through a shaded canyon alongside a cool stream.
Negro Bill Canyon obviously bears a politically incorrect name. [Past efforts to change the name failed](<Petition launched to change name of 'Negro Bill Canyon'>) when officials deemed it historically significant. A more recent effort is ongoing, but regardless of the canyon’s name, it will remain a popular destination for hikers. In addition to typical red rock scenery, the trail follows a clear water stream with lush vegetation—something unique in a desert environment.
According to discovermoab.com, the canyon was named for Willam Granstaff, a black rancher who ran cattle in the area in the late 1800s. The canyon is on Bureau of Land Management land. The trailhead is off Utah Scenic Byway 128, three miles east of the junction with U.S. 191. There is parking, a restroom and informational signs at the trailhead.
The reward at the end of the trail after slightly more than two miles is Morning Glory Arch, an impressive rock span that extends almost 250 feet. Hikers should give themselves three to four hours to make it to the arch and back. For the most part it is fairly easy walking, but the shade and the water are so pleasant most hikers take it slow.
The trail crosses the stream in numerous places, so hikers should wear shoes that can get wet. Soaking one’s feet in the cool water of the stream is a nice bonus for those making the hike in hot weather. This is one of the few places in the state where poison ivy is abundant so hikers should make certain they can identify the plant and avoid it.
After about 1.75 miles, the main canyon and the trail bear sharply to the left. A few hundred yards farther there is another canyon to the right and the trail to Morning Glory Arch veers off that direction. There is a small marker where the trails separate.
At this point the trail rises sharply out of the main canyon and away from all but a trickle of water. Once hikers reach the arch there is a pool of water underneath and a small spring that runs directly out of the rock below the head of the arch. People often fill water bottles there, but caution is warranted because this is a heavily used area where dogs are permitted and many dog owners do a poor job of cleaning up after their pets.
Morning Glory Arch is somewhat camouflaged by the surrounding rock. Unless one is standing underneath and can see the narrow gap behind the stone, it can be difficult to recognize that an arch is there. The extra distance to the arch is definitely worth the effort.
Although much of the trail is shaded and the water is cool and refreshing, this is still a desert hike and those who venture there should take plenty of water—especially in the summer. Two liters per person is a bare minimum.
Flint Stephens has a master's degree in communications from Brigham Young University. He is author of "Mormon Parenting Secrets: Time-Tested Methods for Raising Exceptional Children." His blog is mormonparentingsecrets.com.
