STATISTICS AT-A-GLANCE

• HIKE NAME: Surprise Canyon

• DISTANCE: 2.2 miles RT

• ELEVATION GAIN: 240 feet

• RESTROOMS: No

• DOG FRIENDLY: No

• PERMIT: No

• FEE: Technically yes because this is located within Capitol Reef National Park. Although not a direct fee area with a booth, I always have my America the Beautiful Pass displayed. The private vehicle fee for Capitol Reef is $20.

• VEHICLE REQUIREMENTS: 2wd, BUT this is on a dirt/gravel road known as Notom-Bullfrog. It is usually passable by any vehicle, however the washboards are awful. Would avoid if recent rain.

• TRAILHEAD COORDINATES: 37.838320, -110.988828 // approximately 34 miles down Notom-Bullfrog Road

• MAP PROVIDED IN WEBSITE: Yes, GAIA GPX

Surprise is right next to Headquarters and both are worth checking out if you’re in the area. Surprise is great for those with claustrophobia as it isn't nearly as narrow, while headquarters gives you the classic slot feeling. If you only have time for one of the two, I would personally choose Headquarters.