Top 10
Things To Do In
Southern Utah
Hanksville is the perfect place to stay if you're looking to explore the best of what Utah has to offer. The town is surrounded by national and state parks, providing endless opportunities for outdoor recreation. Whether you're interested in hiking, biking, climbing, or canyoneering, Hanksville is an ideal basecamp for your next adventure. And when you're ready to relax after a long day of exploring, there are plenty of comfortable places to stay in town. So if you're looking for a true wilderness experience, be sure to add Hanksville to your travel plans.
10 Local Adventures
Capitol Reef
National Park
Capitol Reef National Park is a destination for all. This park is known for its rare geological formations, known as the water-pocket fold.
There are many hikes and climbs for all experience levels, as well as being rich with Fremont Indian history and Mormon pioneer settlements. It has over 3,000 fruit trees available for picking depending on the season.
Distance: 30 minutes West of Hanksville
Slot Canyons
Enjoy some of the surrounding slot canyons:
Little Wild Horse Slot Canyon
Ding and Dong Slot Canyon
Little Bull Slot Canyon
Leprechaun Slot Canyon
Be sure to research these canyons before making the trip. Emergency services are slow to respond in these remote areas.
Four wheel drive recommended to most.
Henry Mountains
The Henry Mountain range was the last to be added to the map of the 48 contiguous United States in 1872. These mountains are home to approximately 350 of the last remaining free-roaming American Bison. There are multiple maintained campgrounds and plenty of fun to be had throughout the Henry Mountains.
Distance: roughly 2 hours South of Hanksville. Rough dirt roads, 4 wheel drive recommended.
Lake Powell
Lake Powell is Glen Canyon’s recreational area. Known for boating, fishing, and beautiful geological structures like the Rainbow Bridge.
With 96 major side canyons and almost 2,000 miles of shoreline, there is plenty of fun to be had.
Distance to Bullfrog marina: 1 hour South of Hanksville.
Fee for admittance
Factory Butte
Located at the base of Factory Butte, Swingarm City is one of the top locations in the nation for Off-road vehicles. Riders from all over the world come to experience the unique thrills of Swingarm City. This location has served as the natural film set for many movies including Point Break (2015) and Nitro Circus films.
Distance: 15 minutes West of Hanksville.
Sightseeing
Built in 1921, this mill was constructed on the Henry Mountains. It served two purposes: mining for gold and cutting lumber. It was transferred to Hanksville in 1974, and was restored in 1988. There is a self guided tour inside or ask the BLM office for more information.
Distance: Located in Hanksville behind the BLM office. Free admittance
When adventure beckons, be sure to heed the call responsibly. Hanksville is an extremely remote area, and while that isolation offers incredible vistas to be explored, it also means that emergency services can take a long time to reach you in case of an emergency. Be prepared on your journey by bringing plenty of water and other necessary supplies. By being mindful and cautious, you can ensure that your time in Hanksville is nothing short of incredible.
