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The Huge Cave - Maple
Canyon Utah
By Utah
Outdoor Activities
Back To
Utah Hiking Trails
The sign
that marks the trail head to the Big Cave
The trailhead for the Huge Cave is located approx 1.8
miles up
Maple Canyon;
there are two areas to park at the end of the
Maple Canyon Campground.
The trailhead is located on the left hand side of the road. This
trail is not marked Huge Cave but has a sign listing the Right Fork,
Middle Fork and View Point trails. The start of the trail is
relatively flat with trails leading off; these trails lead you to
the several established climbing routes that are available up this
canyon. After you pass these arms you will reach a fork, head to
the left and continue up the trail. The trail will start to climb
and within a short distance you will be at the entrance to the Huge
Cave.
When you
come to this fork go left!
Once at the Huge Cave, off to your right you will see
a large over hanging cliff and the cave entrance will be to your
left. To enter the cave you must climb approx. 15 feet up a rock
wall, someone has left a rope to assist you. If you are not
comfortable with heights, or not sure of your ability don't attempt
this climb. A fall will land you on the rocks below and could
easily cause serious injury.
Views of
the cave entrance.
After making your climb you will enter this massive cave. Some say
that it is as big as a football field. I will say this; it was huge
with the ceiling being easily 50 feet high, and the cavity being
just as wide. Before entering this cave make sure you have a light
source, the entrance will light up the center off the cave but it is
to large to see the ends. On our visit we were able to see a few
small bats just hanging around waiting for the day to end, they were
very difficult to spot but if you shine your light at the ceiling
and watch for movement you should spot them.
Before you climb up to this cave keep in mind one thing – what goes
up must come down, and for some reason going down seemed more
challenging, mentally and physically. Be sure your know your skill
level before attempting this climb and as always, please keep this
wonderful natural resource clean.
Driving
Directions To Maple Canyon:
From Salt Lake City take I-15 South to Nephi Utah. At Nephi take
exit 225 to Manti/Ephraim. Travel on Highway 132 to Fountain Green.
Once you enter the town you will see a sign for Maple canyon. Turn
right on 400-south and travel approx 6 miles to Freedom Road. There
will be signs to assist you from this point on.
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