Kanab, UT
Just a few miles east of Kanab is a nice hike to an interesting alcove containing a panel of ancient petroglyphs, called the Mansard Panel. The hike is just under five miles out and back and presents a challenging gain in elevation (more than 1,000 feet).
To get to the trailhead we drove east on US-89 for six miles (just past mile marker 59) and turned left (north) on Vista Drive Road. Looking north you can see the alcove in the distance.
View of the alcove from Vista Drive Road
A quick right turn on Grande Vermillion Ave. and then two left turns will lead you to the parking area. Sounds tricky, but the route to the trail is clearly marked on the street signs.
Nice large parking area
Mansard Trailhead
The route begins with roughly a mile slope up a steep grade before arriving at the top of the Vermilion Cliffs. Once at the top, you follow a sandy plateau to the base of the White Cliffs.
The saddle above us is the end of the steepest section of the trail
The most difficult section is an eight foot scramble up some rocks, but there are enough hand holds and steps to make this a pretty easy climb. The trail is pet friendly but dogs may have a difficult time getting up this section.
Once up at the saddle there is a great view of the White Cliffs, where the petroglyphs are located.
The next half of the hike is a more gradual gain, at times through loose sand.
As you approach the base of the cliffs the path joins a Jeep road for a short time.
A short distance down the Jeep road leads to the end of the road, with the alcove just over a sandy ridge.
A marked path leads you down along the base of the cliff to the alcove.
Approaching the alcove
This site is unusual compared to most sites we have explored. The drawings are not high up on a rock wall, but on a smooth, sloping sandstone rock at ground level. Also, there are two long slides carved into the rock that are very unusual and not found at any other site.
John and Pam standing next to their motorcycle
Lunch with a view – the saddle is left center of the photo
The nimble hiker bounds down the rock scramble
Back down the steep section below the saddle
Colorful flowers grew all along the trail, especially the lower section.
Yellow Sego Lily
We planned to depart Kanab the next day (Sunday) but heavy rain is in the forecast, so we have extended our stay here a few days to let the weather clear. There are a number of adventures we still have to do so the longer stay is not a problem.
More on those adventures later . . .
Looks like a fun hike! Did you see any snakes?
It was a great hike, Jim, and no we didn’t see any snakes. I think it may be too cold for them right now. We’ve only been in the 50’s during the day with lots of clouds and high 30’s at night.
We saw a bull snake at Big Water the other day, so keep your eyes open for them.
I believe they think it is hibernating time again since it is so cold, wet, and windy.
A bit of a challenge to reach the alcove, just makes it more rewarding. Thinking of those unique long slots … maybe that is an early version of the ‘gravity racer’ (soapbox) track … 🙂
Haha! Good one, Jeff! We love hiking with a reward at the end point.
For once this looks like a trail we can hike, thank you for the detailed direction John.
When we get there we will searched for a John and Pam in motorcycle petroglyph, who knew:)
Yes, MonaLiza, you can easily get to this trailhead. I remarked as we were hiking that you and Steve will enjoy this hike. It’s not a popular trail.
Gorgeous photos. I’m always amazed at the vastly different areas in the US- it really has everything!
Thanks! I agree that our country offers a tremendous variety. Every turn brings something new.
That trail seems to offer it all; great views, some scrambling, and petroglyphs. Great find!
Thanks, Jim! It did offer it all, but I have to thank the lady at the VC for her suggestion of this trail.
Loving your photos of blue sky and sunshine!
Thanks, Janna! Wish there were more times of blue sky and sunshine.
Great hike and adventure! It’s always amazing to me that these petroglyphs with stand the test of time and weather. These are quite unusual. I’ve never seen a yellow Sego Lily…very pretty.
Thank goodness so many petroglyphs and pictographs were done in the back of deep alcoves so they are preserved. I did research the yellow Sego to make sure it was really a Sego lily. There are several colors with white being the predominate color.
What a beautiful hike! And even better, we don’t need a Jeep to get to the trailhead, LOL! I’m loving your blue skies and red rocks. I’ll be ready for the desert next spring after this year on the east coast.
I believe that’s the first time I’ve seen a motorcycle petroglyph. 🙂
Yes, this trailhead is perfect for all type vehicles being close to town and on paved roads! Who knew we were well known so long ago!! Haha!
We are finally settled in at our housesit in Albuquerque and I’m catching up on blogs. What a nice surprise to see yours active again with all the red rock hike photos. Enjoy the rest of your trip!
Thanks, Gayle! Have a wonderful time with your house sit in Albuquerque. There will be lots to keep you busy and time to see how you enjoy the sticks and bricks again.
What wonderful area to explore love your photos.
Thanks, George! Southern Utah is beautiful.