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    Hikes/United States/Utah/Moab and Arches National Park

    Professor Creek and Mary Jane Canyon Trail

    Difficulty
    This reflects the 10Adventures difficulty rating for each route. We aim to keep ratings consistent across regions.
    Moderate
    Duration
    This reflects the estimated time the majority of users will take on this trail. If you are slower, add time to the top-end figure. If you are fast, then you may complete this route faster than this time range.
    3-4h
    Distance
    This reflects the return distance of this route as measured by the GPS file.
    13.5 km
    Elevation
    This reflects the total elevation gained throughout this route as measured by the GPS file. This includes all ascents and descents, and is higher than what is quoted in most route guides, which simply measure the distance between the starting-point and high-point of the route.
    165 m
    User Ratings
    These ratings are completed by users who have completed this trail and not subject to reviews by 10Adventures.
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    The Professor Creek and Mary Jane Canyon Trail is a hidden gem in Arches National Park. This hike is reminiscent of the iconic Narrows hike in Zion National Park. To follow the trail through the Mary Jane slot canyon, hikers will have to get into Professor Creek and wade their way up the canyon to the 9 m waterfall that marks the trail's end.

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    Route Description for Professor Creek and Mary Jane Canyon Trail

    The Professor Creek and Mary Jane Canyon Trail is a tucked away treasure of a trail in Arches National Park. Professor Creek flows year round, so you will have to get your feet wet on this hike; wear footwear that drains well and has good grip (pro tip: hiking sandals would be perfect for this route). A set of hiking poles or a walking stick would also be useful for balance in the water-wading section of this trail. This hike sees relatively low traffic and is a stunning area to explore away from the crowds. Many hikers liken this trail to the iconic Narrows trail in Zion National Park that also works its way up a winding slot canyon. The Professor Creek and Mary Jane Canyon is truly a unique trail in Arches National Park and is well worth the visit.

    From the trailhead, follow the creek as it winds southeast through Mary Jane Canyon. There are several spur trails within the first couple of miles, but just stick to the creekbed for the best path. About 6.4 km in, you will reach the 9 m waterfall that marks the end of this trail.

    Bask in the beauty of this cascading waterfall before turning around to follow Professor Creek back to the parking area.

    Getting to the Professor Creek and Mary Jane Canyon Trail Trailhead

    The trailhead for the Professor Creek and Mary Jane Canyon trail is at the end of Professor Valley Road off of highway 128, just east of The Sorrel River Ranch Resort and Spa.

    Route Information

    • Backcountry Campground

      No

    • When to do

      Year-round

    • Pets allowed

      Yes

    • Family friendly

      Older Children only

    • Route Signage

      Poor

    • Crowd Levels

      Low

    • Route Type

      Out and back

    Professor Creek and Mary Jane Canyon Trail Elevation Graph

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    Professor Creek and Mary Jane Canyon Trail Reviews

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