On a politically correct scale of 1 to 10, Negro Bill Canyon gets a 1. It has kept its name for historical reasons and a reminder to current and future generations of the climate and insensitivity of the early 20th century here. The canyon was named for the early 19th century African American pioneer William Granstaff who grazed his cattle here.

This is a very popular trail in Moab. It follows a year round stream through a deep sandstone canyon among willows and cottonwoods and sandy trails for several miles until you reach a natural stone arch called Morning Glory Natural Bridge. The arch is 243 feet which makes it the sixth largest span for an arch in the country. However, it is only about 10 to 15 feet from the canyon wall. The hike to the arch is about 4.5 miles round trip and fairly easy. You should plan on 2 1/2 to 3 hours round trip. The elevation of the trailhead is 3,980 ft and the arch is 4,380 ft. Our dog Bubba loves this trail cause he can swim along most of the trail.

Trailhead Location: On Utah Scenic Byway 128, three miles east of junction with U.S. 191.

Length of Hike: 2 miles to Morning Glory Bridge; allow 4 hours round trip.

Type of Hike: Constructed trail with several stream crossings.  This is a hiking-only trail.

Area Attractions: Year-round stream in scenic canyon.  Morning Glory Natural Bridge, which has a span of 243 feet, is the sixth longest natural rock span in the United States.

Route Description: From the parking area next to Utah 128, follow the trail up the left side of the stream. Keep going upstream for about 1.5 miles.

Morning Glory Natural Bridge is located at the end of the second side canyon on the right. The trail forks just below this canyon. Follow the trail to the right, cross the stream, and ascend a steep slope. Morning Glory Bridge is located at the end of the trail about 0.5 miles up the canyon from the stream. Do not touch the poison ivy that grows below the pool under the bridge! Poison ivy plants have dark green, shiny leaves with serrated edges in clusters of three.

Caution: Poison Ivy
There is poison ivy in Negro Bill Canyon. Beware of shiny 3 leafed plants especially near water sources. Also, there are leeches in the stream, not harmful but check your pets or your legs if you take a dip.

Bubba swimming in Negro Bill Canyon

CamelBak Dream - Women's Hydration Pack The CamelBak Dream is an ideal women's road cycling or trail running hydration pack. Low profile, ergonomic and light, you won't even know the CamelBak Dream is on your back.

CamelBak Hellion Hydration Pack - 1404cu in Leave the lift lines behind and hit the backcountry with the CamelBak Hellion Hydration Pack.