Fascinating Hike In Southern Utah To Jet Crash Site

Military Jet That Crashed Near the Gorge

There are many slot canyons to explore in Southern Utah and Northern Arizona. The narrow canyons are like secret passages made by nature. Wind and water worked really hard to create these crevices.

One of the unique canyoneering experiences in the Virgin River Gorge involves tying off to the remains of a jet fighter. When you see wreckage from a plane in the middle of the desert, you have to wonder what happened?

It’s Mayday Canyon next door to Arizona. Back in 2001 an Air Force pilot was flying an A-10 Thunderbolt II, otherwise known as the Warthog, when he had to ditch the plane. The pilot survived, but the jet crashed into the Gorge. Now those who hike through use the wreckage as an anchor for their ropes. 

This isn’t a hike for novices, and you should not go in the summer as it can get really hot. There are several repels including the one off the crashed plane that drops 79 ft. You definitely want to bring someone who knows what they are doing and has the equipment.  

I have hiked through many great canyons in Southern Utah, but having Mayday Canyon decorated with jet engine parts gives it a cool theme. It’s like it was designed by an amusement park. The possibility of unexploded ordinances adds an even greater sense of danger. 

This canyon will take you most of the day to hike through, but you won’t have to schedule it with the park service or worry about running into others blocking your way. Plan for some rugged and sometimes treacherous terrain.

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Because it is so far out there, make sure you let someone know where you are headed, especially if you are planning to drop out of a plane.