We arrived in Page, Arizona expecting warmer weather, but instead, we found a chillier climate than we anticipated. This change forced us to swap our plans of kayaking the Colorado River through the iconic Horseshoe Bend for a hiking adventure. Fortunately, Page offers a variety of slot canyons, and just across the border in Utah lies Grand Staircase-Escalante National Monument, with 1.9 million acres to explore. We opted for the highly rated Toadstool Trail, a short 1.7-mile hike, and had an incredible time. Join us as we break down this fun journey to the otherworldly hoodoos.
Trailhead Location
The Toadstool Trailhead lies just over the Utah border, about 29 miles north of downtown Page, Arizona. To reach it, drive northwest on US-89 from Page. The trailhead parking lot will appear on your right. Google Maps accurately marks the parking lot, so you won’t miss the entrance. The lot is small, with only 20 spaces. During peak season, I recommend arriving early to secure a spot.
Toadstool Trail
The Toadstool Trail offers a 1.7-mile out-and-back hike with just 127 feet of elevation gain, making it accessible for hikers of all skill levels. The trail starts off relatively flat with sandy terrain, allowing for a smooth walk. However, you will encounter a few washes along the way, so keep an eye out for these unique features. For those coming from less arid areas, like us from the East Coast, the sight of rolling tumbleweeds was an amusing and unexpected experience. These tumbleweeds seem to blow across the trail constantly, adding to the trail’s desert charm.
As you continue along the path, the terrain begins to gradually rise. You’ll start crossing a few more washes, and the landscape will slowly transform. The steady elevation gain leads you toward the first toadstool formation, an exciting landmark on the hike. The appearance of these rock formations signals that you’re nearing the more dramatic section of the trail, where the terrain really begins to stand out. The gradual incline doesn’t make the hike difficult, but it does prepare you for the awe-inspiring sights ahead.
When you reach the area surrounded by hoodoos, the landscape truly feels otherworldly. These rock formations, often resembling toadstools, provide the perfect backdrop for photographs. With towering spires and unique shapes, the hoodoos create a stunning scene that’s both surreal and beautiful. The surrounding environment, with its orange, red, and tan hues, enhances the feeling of being in a place that’s almost too strange to be real.
Overall Impression
The Toadstool Trail is a must-see for anyone seeking to experience a stunning landscape. With its proximity to Page and a short 1.7-mile out-and-back route, it fits perfectly into a quick itinerary. The unique rock formations and the fun tumbleweed sighting make it a trail everyone will enjoy. Even our kids had a blast on the trail, especially when they got to chase the rolling tumbleweeds and explore the hoodoos up close. The easy-to-navigate path and the wide open space made it a fun adventure for them, too.
Here are some suggestions for your hike:
- Use a GPS trail app like AllTrails to help navigate, especially through the washes, which can get confusing on the return.
- Bring plenty of water during warmer months since there’s no shade on the trail.
- Wear high-ankle boots to avoid sand getting into your shoes, as the trail has sandy stretches.
- Dress appropriately for the weather, including gloves to keep your hands warm, especially if winds are strong.
- Plan for a 24-hour stay in Page to fully enjoy the hike and the area.
If you’re heading to Page, be sure to read our post 24 Hours in Page for tips on making the most of your visit. Also, check out our Toadstool Trail YouTube video to get an up-close look at this amazing hike.
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