Coyote Gulch

Overview: Coyote Gulch is a significant riparian canyon system within the Grand Staircase-Escalante National Monument, Utah. Geological Context: The canyon is characterized by massive undercut Navajo Sandstone alcoves, natural arches, and bridges—including the Jacob Hamblin Arch and Coyote Natural Bridge—carved by the erosive action of Coyote Creek. Booking & Logistics Reality: Independent backpacking requires mandated self-registration or backcountry permits from the BLM. The terrain involves sustained river-wading in shallow water and navigational challenges across trackless sandstone. Stage Breakdown: Entrance is typically achieved via Hurricane Wash or Red Well, with an optional technical exit involving a steep slickrock climb (the Sneaker Route) near the Water Tank trailhead.

This is Stage 1 of the world-famous Alpe-Adria-Trail. Starting at the dramatic high-alpine amphitheater of the Kaiser-Franz-Josefs-Höhe (2,369m), the trail drops roughly 1,000 meters of descent into the legendary mountaineering village of Heiligenblut. You traverse the moraines of the Pasterze glacier, cross the dramatic turquoise Sandersee and Margaritzen reservoirs, and follow the Briccius trail past ancient chapels. The scenery transitions from raw, glacial desolation to the lush, flower-filled meadows of the Möll valley.