Yant Flats to Candy Cliffs

Dogs Leashed

Features Geological Significance · Views

A short sandy hike through Juniper trees and Pinion pines takes you to swirling red and white sandstone strata laced through miles of sandstone. You can easily spend hours exploring and playing on the sandstone. There are many different view points, natural pools after rain, and no shortage of colorful rocks. Be observant of where you are going because the area has many steep cliffs and edges. This is a semi popular trail, and you'll likely see other people and families.

The drive to the trailhead is along a very long dirt road, low clearance vehicles can usually make it with no issues as long as there hasn't been recent heavy rainfall. A little bit of rain can make the natural stone bowls fill with water. This is a beautiful sight, just keep in mind that the water is not safe for drinking or swimming in.

After parking at the Yant Flat Parking and Trailhead, start hiking the sandy trail south for 1.0 mile through Juniper trees and Pinion pines.

Upon reaching the slickrock fields, you'll see swirling red and white sandstone strata laced through miles of exposed rock. At this point, follow the cairns counter clockwise around the slickrock fields. This trail hits multiple viewpoints and explores a large area.

The cairns occasionally disappear, but if you look out into the distance you can generally pick up again where you left off. Be aware of cliffs and exposed sections.

After completing the slickrock circle you'll arrive back at the sandy trail. Follow it north to return to the parking area.

Red tail hawks, turkey vultures, and lizards are seen here frequently. Coyote and mule deer also inhabit the area, but are rarely seen. Desert plants that thrive in this area include pinion pines, sage, cholla cactus, prickly pear and yucca. Avoid stepping on any cryptobiotic soil, which is the living crust that grows over exposed sand and helps keep the soil from eroding.