Peek-A-Boo & Spooky Slot Canyons
Dry Fork Slot Canyons, Near Escalante, Utah
Peek-A-Boo and Spooky are two of the most iconic slot canyons in southern Utah and a must-do hike near Escalante. Located off Hole-in-the-Rock Road, this short but adventurous route leads hikers through narrow sandstone corridors, sculpted walls, and playful obstacles that showcase classic Escalante slot canyon scenery.
Spooky Gulch is famous for its ultra-narrow passages—so tight you’ll often turn sideways—while Peek-A-Boo Slot Canyon adds a bit more height, light, and technical scrambling. Together, they form a memorable out-and-back or loop hike that’s fun, photogenic, and surprisingly immersive for its relatively short distance.
Trail Quick Facts
- Distance: 5.5-6 miles round trip
Difficulty: Moderate (some scrambling, tight sections)
Time: 3-4 hours
Type: Out & Back or Loop
Elevation Gain: ~600 feet
Trail Description
The hike begins at the Dry Fork Trailhead, accessed from Hole-in-the-Rock Road. From the parking area, follow the signed trail as it descends into Dry Fork Narrows. Upon exiting the Narrows, look for the climb into Peek-A-Boo Slot Canyon on the left side of Dry Fork Wash.
Peek-A-Boo is more open than Spooky Gulch, and requires a bit of light scrambling up sandstone ledges to enter the slot. Inside, the canyon weaves between sculpted walls, pockets of reflected light, and smooth curves carved by water. Wind your way through this beautiful canyon and upon exiting, make your way to your right (east) through the sagebrush and sand until you reach the mouth of Spooky Gulch.
Spooky Gulch is the narrower of the two canyons. There is a short down climb to lower yourself into the slot. Be cautious and use wisdom in this section, as it can be tricky to navigate, depending on conditions. Spooky wastes no time, as its walls quickly close in, forming twisting corridors that are often shoulder-width or narrower – be prepared for areas as narrow as 10” in some sections. Expect to squeeze and maneuver through a few short downclimbs and chokepoints. Packs may need to be removed in places.
After exiting Spooky Gulch, return to Dry Fork Wash and continue upstream back through Dry Fork Narrows and back to the parking area.
Most hikers complete a loop by entering Peek-A-Boo Slot Canyon, then hiking overland to the entrance of Spooky Gulch, and upon exiting Spooky Gulch, return through Dry Fork Narrows and back to the parking area.
As an alternative, hikers can simply hike Peek-A-Boo Slot Canyon out and back and return to the trailhead. Spooky Gulch is too narrow for two-way traffic, so Spooky Gulch is best accessed through Peek-A-Boo Slot Canyon first. Route-finding is straightforward but there is no signage, so pay attention to landmarks and retrace your steps carefully.
Maps are available in the office at Escalante Yurts.
Local Tips for Hiking
Best Time to Hike
Spring (March–May) and fall (September–November) offer the best conditions, with cooler temperatures and lower risk of monsoon storms. Summer hikes are possible early in the day, but heat and flash-flood danger increase significantly in the afternoon. Winter visits can be icy or impassable after snow or rain.
What to Bring
- Plenty of water (no reliable sources)
- Closed-toe shoes with good grip
- Small backpack (large packs won’t fit in Spooky)
- Sun protection (hat, sunscreen)
- Light gloves (helpful for scrambling)
- Headlamp or flashlight (useful in darker sections)
- Camera or phone for photography
Trailhead & Road Conditions
Access is via Hole-in-the-Rock Road, approximately 26 miles southeast of Escalante. The road is typically passable to most vehicles when dry, but becomes slick, rutted, and impassable when wet. Do not attempt this drive if rain is in the forecast.
From Hole-in-the-Rock Road, follow signs to the Dry Fork Trailhead. The final stretch includes washboard and sandy sections. Check with the Escalante Interagency Visitor Center for current road conditions.
Safety and Preparation
Slot canyons are beautiful but demand respect and preparation.
Be mindful of:
- Flash Flood Risk: Never enter slot canyons if rain is possible—even storms miles away can send water rushing through.
- Tight Spaces: Spooky Gulch is extremely narrow and not suitable for everyone. If you’re claustrophobic, consider turning around.
- Scrambling: Peek-A-Boo requires short climbs and descents; move carefully and assist others when needed.
- Remoteness: No cell service. Carry essentials and let someone know your plans.
Local Lodging
After a day weaving through sandstone corridors, return to the comfort of Escalante Yurts. Our yurts are conveniently located for exploring slot canyons along Hole-in-the-Rock Road, offering a warm, quiet place to relax, clean up, and plan your next adventure.
Directions from Escalante Yurts
- Head east on Highway 12 toward Boulder
- Turn south onto Hole-in-the-Rock Road
- Drive approximately 26 miles
- Follow signs to Dry Fork Trailhead and park
Allow extra time for washboard roads and changing conditions.
FAQs & Tips for Hiking Peek-A-Boo & Spooky
How narrow is Spooky Gulch?
Extremely narrow. Some sections are only 10–12 inches wide, requiring sideways movement and pack removal.
Is this hike suitable for kids?
Yes for confident, agile kids, but constant supervision is required. The narrow sections and scrambling may be challenging for younger children.
Are permits required?
No permits are required for day hiking these slot canyons.
Can I bring my dog?
Dogs are not recommended. The narrow slots and scrambling make it unsafe and stressful for pets.
Is this hike guided?
Most visitors hike independently, but guided tours are available in the Escalante area for those seeking local expertise.