A relatively short but scenic trail in Kanab (Utah), the Mansard Trail climbs up into the Vermilion Cliffs, which form the second “step” up in the five-step Grand Staircase of the Colorado Plateau. Most of the trail is exposed to the sun, but an early morning start means the day is still very cool.
The first mile is a constant ascent, but a series of switchbacks means it is rarely very steep or overly strenuous.
As the Mansard Trail gains altitude, there are views to the south towards Arizona and over Kanab.
There’s one scramble as the trail nears the top of Vermilion Cliffs.
An enormous rock outcrop marks the top of the Vermilion Cliffs formation, which are composed of the resistant red sandstone beds of the Lower Jurassic Moenave and Kayenta Formations.
From the base of the large outcrop is a nice view over the plateaus of northern Arizona, and a glimpse of the White Cliffs, which are made of Navajo Sandstone.
The White Cliffs form the third “step” of the Grand Staircase, above the Vermilion Cliffs.
The trail now levels out as it crosses the Mansard Mesa, a sandy plateau, towards the base of the White Cliffs (our destination being to the left of of the East Mansard Peak – the large outcrop).
Mansard Benchmark, part of the White Cliffs formation, soon comes into view. The Mansard Trail is named after this peak, which has distinctive, stepped rock shape that resembles a “mansard” roof (a type of roof with flat top and sides of two differing angles, from the French architect François Mansart, 1598-1666).
The Mansard Trail swings to the west, as it heads toward the base of the White Cliffs.
Just before reaching the cliffs, the Mansard Trail meets a very sandy ATV/4WD track and ends at a large turning circle with a “Selfie frame”. An informal trail follows the base of the towering White Cliffs.
In a deep alcove beneath the cliffs is the Mansard Petroglyph Gallery, an intriguing rock art site which has deep grooves (thought to serve a ceremonial or spiritual purpose) as well as almost a hundred engraved figures on the sloping floor.
From the alcove is a sweeping view over the lower Vermilion Cliffs and the plateau below.
It’s worth visiting very early (or late) in the day; after enjoying the serenity (and views) of the alcove for nearly half an hour, I start encountering a few people heading up the Mansard Trail as I make my way back down to the car. With a bit more time, you could also extend this hike to include the top of Mansard Benchmark and East Mansard Peak.
Getting to the Mansard Trail
The signposted trailhead at the end of Cedar Ridge North Road has a large parking area. It’s a 7.7 mile / 12.3km (12min drive) from Kanab towards the east, and just a few minutes from Highway 89. The last 0.3 miles is unsealed but suitable for all vehicles.
More information
- BLM – Mansard Trail
- Stav is Lost – Hike Mansard Benchmark and East Mansard Peak – includes a route to top of nearby peaks
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