Getting Oriented
Nine Mile Canyon is misnamed. The canyon is roughly 46 miles long, not nine. The name comes from a 19th-century survey reference, not from the canyon's length. The road runs through a deep canyon cut by Nine Mile Creek into the Tavaputs Plateau in Carbon County, Utah, between Wellington (the southern access) and Myton (the optional northern exit via Gate Canyon).
The canyon supports a notably dense concentration of rock art, mostly produced by Fremont culture peoples and later by Ute groups and 19th-century Anglo settlers. BLM manages the surface and works with private landowners (the canyon contains both public and private parcels) on access and panel protection.
Trail Overview
The drive from Wellington to the upper canyon is paved and generally suitable for any vehicle. The road climbs gradually as it follows the creek, with frequent pullouts for rock art panels and historic sites. The Cottonwood Glen picnic area, near the upper end of the paved section, has restrooms, a preserved homestead, and shaded tables — a reasonable midpoint stop.
The Gate Canyon connector to Myton, north of Cottonwood Glen, is unimproved dirt with grades that wash out after storms. Most stock high-clearance vehicles can make the connector in dry conditions; passenger cars should turn around at Cottonwood Glen.
A typical visit takes 4 to 6 hours when stopping for rock art. Allow longer to include the Gate Canyon connector or hike side canyons.
Points of Interest
- Great Hunt Panel. A Fremont-era petroglyph showing roughly 30 bighorn sheep with hunters and atlatl figures. One of the most-photographed panels in the canyon.
- Cottonwood Glen Picnic Area. Restrooms, picnic tables, and a preserved Anglo homestead. Mid-canyon stopping point.
- Daddy Canyon and Frank's Canyon. Side canyons with trailheads to additional rock art and a Fremont village site.
Where to Camp
There is no developed campground on the canyon road. BLM allows dispersed camping on public land along sections of the route, but most of the canyon floor is privately owned; respect signage and property lines. Established campgrounds are available near Price (south) and Vernal (north).
Tips for a Safe and Enjoyable Trip
- Don't touch the panels. Skin oils accelerate weathering of pigments and varnish on petroglyphs. Photograph from the road or designated trail; do not climb to or onto panels.
- Respect private land. Much of the canyon floor is privately owned. Stay on the road or at designated trailheads.
- Plan for a long day. The full canyon plus Gate Canyon loop takes six to eight hours minimum with stops.
- Check road conditions before the loop. Gate Canyon becomes impassable in wet weather. The BLM Price Field Office at (435) 636-3600 can confirm.
