Paria Rimrocks Toadstool Hoodoos

The Paria Rimrocks are an amazing collection of hoodoos, badlands, and other interesting rock formations found in the area located between the Cockscomb Fault and the southern section of Cottonwood Canyon Road just north of US 89. Like the nearby Coyote Buttes, Paria Rimrocks is a region of fantastic rock formations that was virtually unknown until a few years ago, becoming popular only by word of mouth and publication of a few photographs. The rimrocks cover a much smaller area than the buttes though they are not subject to any access restrictions and are also a lot easier to reach, being right next to US 89, a few miles east of the Paria River crossing and just within Grand Staircase-Escalante National Monument. Two small parking areas and BLM trail registers are all that identify the location, which extends between mileposts 19 and 21, on the north side of the road, shortly after it descends into a valley and curves round a small cliff (when approaching from the east).

The most easily accessible formation within Rimrocks is Toadstool Hoodoo - a spectacular mushroom shaped rock spire that is accessed from the unmarked trailhead found along the north side of US 89 between mile marker 19 and 20. A toadstool is a spire like feature with a boulder perched atop a pedestal rock, like a mushroom - they form when softer rock erodes away, leaving a column sheltered from wind and water. To see this unique collection of such formations for yourself, turn into the dirt parking area and then walk through the hikers' gate heading north into the wash - continue hiking within the meandering wash or follow the footpath that parallels the dry creek bed. The trail affords the hiker fantastic panoramic views of the surrounding scenery and on a macro level, excellent wildflower viewing including sego lily, yucca, and penstemon as it climbs through the colorful badlands.

One last climb over a low badland and you will find yourself gazing upon the first set of toadstools in the hoodoo garden - among them, the Red Toadstool. Take your time exploring the Red Toadstool, and then feel free to wander about the rim discovering the other hoodoos found hidden within recessed areas of the cliffs.