Jackass Creek

Location: Navajo Nation / Marble Canyon region, AZ
Rating: Basic Canyon Hiking 2A II
Length: 3 to 6 hours
Mileage: ~5.5 miles round trip
Longest Rappel: None
Start: Hwy 89A bridge crossing near Jackass Creek)
End: Out and back
Permits: Navajo Nation access regulations may apply. Route information references permits available through the local visitor center or ranger station. Verify current requirements before visiting.
Wet Suit: Not typically needed
Shuttle: Not Required

Overview: Jackass Creek is a short and scenic canyon route descending through Marble Canyon terrain toward the Colorado River. The route offers an accessible introduction to inner gorge hiking with polished rock, narrow canyon walls, and views into the deeper Grand Canyon landscape.

This is one of the more approachable routes to the Colorado River in the Marble Canyon area and has long been popular with hikers looking for a shorter canyon experience without the commitment of larger Grand Canyon routes.

The canyon is generally non technical, though minor scrambling and route finding may be required near boulder obstacles and lower canyon sections.

Older reports mention abandoned vehicles and painted directional markers near the canyon. Conditions and cleanup efforts may vary over time, though visitors should always practice Leave No Trace ethics and respect the canyon environment.

Approach: From Bitter Springs, follow Hwy 89A north toward Marble Canyon. Park near the bridge crossing Jackass Creek between mileposts 532 and 533. Additional pullouts and parking areas may exist nearby depending on current road conditions and maintenance.

Obtain any required Navajo Nation hiking permits before entering the canyon area. From the roadside, descend directly into the dry drainage and follow the canyon downstream toward the Colorado River.

Route Description: Follow Jackass Creek downstream through open desert drainage that gradually narrows into more scenic canyon terrain.

Expect:

• Boulder hopping and minor scrambling
• Sandy and rocky creek bed travel
• Narrow marble and limestone canyon sections
• Occasional cairns or informal route markers
• Expansive views toward Marble Canyon and the Colorado River

As the canyon deepens, polished rock walls and tighter sections begin to appear before eventually opening near the Colorado River corridor. The route is generally straightforward, though occasional scrambling around boulders may be necessary.

Water Conditions: Jackass Creek is typically dry except after storms. Water is generally found only near the Colorado River.

Exit: Return the same way upstream to the parking area along Hwy 89A.

Important Notes:

• Navajo Nation hiking permits may be required
• This is a non-technical canyon route
• Flash flooding remains a serious risk
• Summer temperatures can become extreme
• Limited shade in upper sections
• Route finding may be required in lower canyon sections
• Cell service is limited or unavailable