Wire Fence Canyon Hike
An exploratory side canyon hike at Wire Fence Canyon — more complex terrain than the lower Desolation excursions.
Wire Fence Canyon Hike follows the drainage at mile 57.6 up from the Green River into the canyon complex above. The drainage is named for the remnant wire cattle fence that historically crossed this drainage — a relic of the ranching era in Desolation Canyon. The hike offers more complex terrain than the shorter cultural excursions lower in the canyon, requiring more sustained route-finding and scrambling as the canyon walls narrow. The drainage climbs into the Roan Cliffs above, offering views back to the river corridor from elevation. Most groups turn around before the route becomes technical.
Quick stats
- Distance
- 4 mi round trip
- Elevation gain
- 600 ft
- Time
- 2–4 hrs
- Difficulty
- Challenging
- Best months
- Apr, May, Sep, Oct
Safety & hazards
Side canyon drainage — flash flood risk during monsoon season and after any precipitation.
Wildlife & geology
Wildlife you might see: canyon wren (Catherpes mexicanus).
History
Named for the wire cattle fence that crossed this drainage during the ranching era.
Part of the Desolation Canyon cattle ranching network. Wire fences were strung across drainages to control stock movement.