The Lower Clear Creek Trail
View PhotosThe Lower Clear Creek Trail
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The Lower Clear Creek Trail, also known as the Hobbit Hole Trail, is a family-friendly out-and-back route that features a slot canyon and a small archway: affectionately known as the Hobbit Hole. This arch is large enough for a hobbit (or a child) to pass through comfortably, but requires any wizards (or adults) to hunch their way through. This trail can be a lot of fun for kids and adults alike to spend time exploring the magic of Zion.
Getting there
Park at the Lower Clear Creek Trailhead just 0.4mi east of the Zion-Mount Carmel Tunnel east of Springdale Utah.
About
Backcountry Campground | No |
When to do | year-round |
Pets allowed | No |
Family friendly | Yes |
Route Signage | Poor |
Crowd Levels | Low |
Route Type | Out and back |
The Lower Clear Creek Trail
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The Lower Clear Creek Trail Description
The Lower Clear Creek Trail (Aka the Hobbit Hole Trail) is a fun little hike for the whole family. This trail is not maintained and can be a bit tricky to find, which makes it a great trail if you want to spend some quality time exploring without constantly running into packs of hikers. The path is rocky, so wear some good hiking shoes, and don’t forget the camera.
Starting at the Lower Clear Creek Trailhead, the path actually starts on the north side of the road and loops under the highway through a little brick tunnel. This starting point can be tricky to find but it’s much easier than shimmying your way down the sandy slickrock on the south side of the road. Pass through the tunnel and continue south through the narrow slot canyon.
After approximately a quarter mile of canyon twists and turns, you will come up on a small arch on the left-hand side. This is the hobbit hole! The trail divides into two valleys after you pass under the arch, follow the left path to stay on the Lower Clear Creek Trail. The Lower Clear Creek Trail goes on for another 0.7mi or so before the trail forks. Though you are welcome to continue exploring the trails beyond, the Lower Clear Creek Trail ends here.
When you are done exploring this little, magical section of Zion, follow the wash back under the Hobbit Hole, through the slot canyon, and through the tunnel back home.
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