A Hike Through Wyoming’s Death Canyon Is Downright Heavenly

According to Christian theology, you have to go through the valley of the shadow of death before you reach heaven. Apparently, in Wyoming, death is heaven from the get go, especially along Death Canyon. The hike along Death Canyon is beautiful from beginning to end, so much so, you'll experience heaven throughout the whole journey.

The Death Canyon Trailhead is off Moose-Wilson Road. Drive 3 miles south on this road to the actual turn-off for the trailhead. Turn right and then drive another 2 miles.

The first mile is paved but it is recommended that you walk the last mile of rugged gravel road to the trailhead.

The hike begins in a forest filled with lodgepole pines and groves of aspens.

One mile into the hike is Phelps Lake Overlook. Be sure to take a minute and enjoy the panoramic views from here.

A short distrance from the trailhead, you will reach the Death Canyon Valley Trail Junction. If you take a left turn, this will lead you down to a sandy beach area along the lake. Proceed straight ahead if you want to head towards the Death Canyon Patrol Cabin.

The trail then descends through a brushy habitat filled with an abundance of beautiful wildflowers.

Bears are often spotted along this part of the trail so be sure to take along some bear spray.

The trail then enters the mouth of Death Canyon and begins ascending on a moderately steep grade.

At mile 4, you will reach the historic Death Canyon Patrol Cabin. This building was originally built as a barn in 1935 and is listed on the National Register of Historic Places. This is a great place to stop and eat lunch before heading back to the car.

Don't stop here though, walk a little further up the Alaska Basin Trail for another piece of heaven in the upper section of Death Canyon.