Cosmic Ashtray hike in Escalante: 4-mile desert trail

Hike deep into the desert to a geologic formation few travelers reach

This 8-hour guided tour takes you by 4x4 vehicle into Grand Staircase Escalante National Monument, then on a 4-mile hike through the desert to the Cosmic Ashtray, a rare geologic formation carved by friction and sand. The tour includes vehicle transport to the trailhead, a live English-speaking guide, and some water. You'll need to bring lunch, snacks and additional water. Hikers must be in good physical condition for the distance and terrain.

Step-by-step itinerary

4x4 ride and hike to Cosmic Ashtray

• Travel by 4x4 to trailhead
• Hike 4 miles through desert
• Explore Cosmic Ashtray formation

The experience

You start with a 4x4 drive deep into the remote heart of Grand Staircase Escalante National Monument, traveling to a trailhead where the hike begins. From there, you walk 4 miles through the desert landscape to reach the Cosmic Ashtray, a strange rock formation that stands apart from the slot canyons and formations surrounding it. The guide leads the way and provides context for what you're seeing. The whole experience, including the drive and the hike, fits into the 8-hour window.

The terrain demands steady hiking and real physical fitness. This is not a casual walk. You'll be moving through open desert, and the distance and the conditions mean you need to come prepared. The tour provides some water, but you should bring your own supply along with lunch or snacks to sustain yourself over the full day. Service animals are welcome on the tour.

What’s included

• 4x4 vehicle transport to the trailhead.
• live English-speaking guide for the full 8 hours.
• some water (bring additional).
• access to the Cosmic Ashtray formation deep in the monument.

Before you book

Days and timesMonday to SaturdayDeparts at 08:00

Book up to12h before

AgesAdult (18 to 64 years) · Senior (65 and older) · Youth (12 to 17 years) · Child (3 to 11 years) · Infant (under 3)

GroupUp to 7 · max 6 per booking

Live guideEnglish

Meeting point and pickupNo hotel pickup: you go to the meeting point. Ends back at the starting point.

Cancellation and refundsFree cancellation up to 24 h before the start. After that, no refund.It may be canceled due to bad weather. If that happens, you're offered another date or a refund.

Prices and times updated yesterday

Good to know

Physically demandingPets welcomeNot recommended with heart problems

Operated by ROAM-Escalante

Is this one for you?This is a guided hike, not a self-guided walk, so you follow the guide's pace and route through the 4-mile desert stretch. Choose this tour if you're a strong hiker comfortable with a full day of sustained walking and want expert knowledge of the remote monument. It's not suited for casual walkers or anyone with cardiovascular concerns.

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Top questions

Can children come?

Yes. Ticket types: Youth (12 to 17 years); Child (3 to 11 years); Infant (under 3).

What happens if it rains?

It may be canceled due to bad weather. If that happens, you're offered another date or a refund. Free cancellation up to 24 h before the start.

How far is the hike to the Cosmic Ashtray?

The hike is 4 miles one way through the desert to reach the formation. It's a steady walk that requires good physical fitness and stamina.

What do I need to bring on this tour?

Bring lunch, snacks and additional water beyond what the tour provides. Wear sturdy hiking boots and sun protection. The desert offers little shade.

Does the 8 hours include the drive to the trailhead?

Yes, the 8-hour total includes both the 4x4 transport to the trailhead and the hike itself, so plan for the full day from pickup to return.

What makes the Cosmic Ashtray different from other rock formations in the area?

The Cosmic Ashtray is a unique geologic wonder carved through friction and sand over years. It stands out visually from the slot canyons and other formations in the monument, and few travelers reach it because of the remote location and the hike required.