The trail through Professor Creek & Mary Jane Canyon isn’t much of a trail at all. Rather you’ll follow a meandering creek through a scenic red sandstone slot canyon as you make your way to a stunning waterfall that marks an abrupt end to your hike.

This is a fairly well-known trail, but because it doesn’t have the same level of popularity as some other Moab hikes, it often feels like a hidden gem. Between the access to water and the primitive views hiking through the canyon, I would consider this the most bang for your buck dog-friendly hike in Moab.

To start your hike, leave the parking lot and immediately drop into the creek bed. The trail isn’t marked or immediately obvious, but once you’re across the creek it’s easy to pick up and navigate. You’ll spend a good portion of the hike walking through the creek, but there are a few sections of trail that bisect some of the wider bends in the canyon. Please stay on existing trails to prevent new social trails.

You’ll see a few small side canyons as you make your way towards the waterfall, but you’ll need a rope and technical equipment if you want to get very far. Once you reach the waterfall you’ll be forced to turn back and hike out the way you came. Hiking Professor Creek and Mary Jane Canyon is definitely best done on a warm or hot day!

Professor Creek & Mary Jane Canyon Trail Stats

Trailhead Location: Google Maps

Bathrooms?: There is no bathroom at the trailhead.

Trailhead Parking Difficulty: Difficult. Parking is very limited at the trailhead, which also serves the Sylvester Trail. This leads to people parking along the road, however space is already very limited and this is generally not recommended. Arrive early to grab a spot!

Distance: 8.4 miles out-and-back

Elevation Gain: 540 ft.

Difficulty: Moderate (5/10)

Estimated Hike Time: 3 hours

Fee: None

Water Available?: Yes, there's water along the entire hike.

Best Seasons to Hike: Spring, summer, and early fall.

AllTrails Link