Good Water Rim Trail (The Wedge)

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Features Geological Significance · Views · Wildflowers

The Wedge is an epic destination about 3 hours southeast of Salt Lake City. Here you can hike roughly 16 miles of trail atop cliffs that resemble The Grand Canyon. This is in fact called the "Little Grand Canyon" of the San Rafael River, which you'll see flowing far below. The trail is not technically difficult, but does have some rocks and roots and gets close to the cliff at times. You'll be rewarded with endless views the entire time.

This trail is best traveled in the Spring or Fall, due to the extreme heat and lack of shade in the Summer.

The trail travels right along the rim of the canyon, providing unbelievable views the entire way. The surface is mostly smooth, with occasional rocks and sandy spots, and it weaves throughout some desert scrub and trees. There is minimal elevation gain, though the trail dips in and out of washes or climbs over small hills occasionally. At every twist and turn you'll have some new, incredible view of the huge canyon walls beneath your feet.

There are many ways to hike this route, but the most common is to park at The Wedge Overlook and start hiking from there. You can do any distance out and back, or you can park another car at any of the access points to make it a one-way. A full out-and-back hike between both ends of this trail makes roughly a 50k.

At about the 9-mile mark (if starting from Wedge Overlook), there is a primitive campground. This makes an alternative start/end point. You could leave a second vehicle here, or you could stash water/food in advance for a long hike.

There are toilets and picnic tables at The Wedge Overlook, but no other services (such as water). Bring everything you need for a big day out.

This is a high desert landscape with minimal flora and fauna.