Willis Creek Out and Back

Dogs Unknown

Features River/Creek · Waterfall

Willis Creek is a great family outing located near Bryce Canyon National Park. No real difficulties are encountered, the outing is as long or short as you want, and there are some very beautiful sections. This is a great addition to visiting Bull Valley Gorge just down the road.

Always check with the ranger to make sure there is not the possibility of a flash flood. There is a visitor center in Cannonville that has information. They can also give you directions to Willis Creek if you need them.

From the trailhead, follow the marked trail down Willis Creek. The trail follows along the rim for a short distance, then drops in. Near the trailhead, you'll encounter a short waterfall that can be downclimbed, or bypassed on either side. Depending on the route in you take, you might miss the waterfall on the way out, but if you follow the creek on the way back, you'll run into it. Below the waterfall are the most scenic sections of the trail. The canyon is narrow, but never a real slot, probably around six feet wide at its narrowest. Enjoy the yellow and black colors on the wall.

About 3/4 a mile in, a side canyon comes in from the left. This is a good turn around spot or visitors can continue down the Willis Creek Narrows Trail as far as you like. Return the way you came.