Canyonlands Maze District - Horse Canyon

The Maze District is most famous for an area of canyons that create the reason for the name The Maze. In several areas, you have three or four directions to go up canyons creating a confusing labyrinth of routes. A few loop trips are possible in these canyons, although you could include Pete's Mesa Trail for half of it to stay high getting views down into canyons instead of looking up the whole time. Established routes are marked by cairns and water is best available in spring time. If names are available for all these canyons, I have not found them. My route went through the South Fork Horse Canyon and a variation of the Plug Route that started at Chimney Rock instead of at The Plug (see map). There are so many twist and turns, it doesn't help to give a description of the route. Most try to hit the highlights, like the famous Harvest Scene and at least one overlook area. I thought Plug Canyon south of the Harvest Scene was the best, but the long South Fork Horse Canyon seemed more adventurous. I'm sure there are many great towers and walls in nearly every canyon, whichever you choose. From what I have read, the most reliable water source is a natural spring just below the Maze Overlook. Water was plentiful when I was in the canyons so I didn't need to look for the spring, so I didn't mark it on the map. Be aware that getting in and out of the canyons is on slickrock that sometimes requires a bit of scrambling. For most its no big deal but a person uncomfortable with heights will not like the ledges and drops you pass by. The park recommends bringing 25 feet of rope so you can lower your backpacks (its much safer to scramble these sections without a pack on).

Horse Canyon & The Plug Route variation