Gypsum Canyon Hike

Gypsum Canyon enters the Colorado River at mile 197.4, immediately downstream of Gypsum Rapid — one of the larger Class II features in lower Cataract Canyon. The hike into the lower Gypsum Canyon drainage offers a short but geologically distinctive excursion: the canyon walls here contain gypsum-bearing formations — white and cream-colored evaporite minerals deposited during Permian-era inland seas. The canyon is narrow and cool in the lower section, with the characteristic smooth walls and seasonal water pockets common to side canyon hikes in this part of the Colorado Plateau. The hike is typically 1–3 miles depending on group energy, turning around when the terrain becomes technical. It is a complementary hike for groups camping at Fiddlehead Camp downstream.

Quick stats

Distance

3 mi round trip

Elevation gain

300 ft

Time

1.5–3 hrs

Difficulty

Moderate · family-friendly

Best months

Apr, May, Sep, Oct

Know before you go

Within Canyonlands National Park.

When to go

The canyon provides good shade and cooler temperatures than the open river. Flash flood risk is real — check weather before entering.

Safety & hazards

Gypsum Canyon drains a significant area of the Canyonlands plateau. Flash floods can arrive with little warning. Monitor weather before entering. Monsoon season (July–August) is highest risk.

Wildlife & geology

The shaded, moist microhabitat in the canyon lower section supports hanging garden species not found on the open river corridor.

Wildlife you might see: canyon wren (Catherpes mexicanus), canyon treefrog (Hyla arenicolor).

Gypsum Canyon cuts through Pennsylvanian and Permian formations that contain evaporite minerals — gypsum and anhydrite — deposited when shallow evaporating seas covered this region. These white mineral bands are visible in the canyon walls and distinguish Gypsum Canyon from the Cedar Mesa sandstone walls found elsewhere in Cataract.

History

Named for the gypsum mineral deposits visible in the canyon walls.