Professor Creek and Mary Jane Canyon (2BIII)

Location: Moab region, UT
Rating: Basic Canyon Hiking 2B III
Length: 5 - 10 hours
Mileage: ~8 to 10 miles round trip depending on turnaround point
Longest Rappel: None
Start: Professor Creek Trailhead
End: Out and back
Permits: None typically required
Wetsuit: Not usually needed, though water temperatures may be cold during spring runoff
Shuttle: No

Overview: Professor Creek and Mary Jane Canyon offer one of the more scenic non-technical canyon hikes near Moab, combining creek walking, narrow sandstone canyon sections, waterfalls, pools, arches, and lush riparian scenery within a rugged desert environment.

The route follows Professor Creek upstream before entering the narrower and more dramatic Mary Jane Canyon. As the canyon tightens, waterfalls, alcoves, hanging gardens, and flowing water become increasingly common, culminating near a scenic waterfall amphitheater deep within the canyon.

This route is extremely popular during warmer months and is well suited for hikers seeking a canyon experience without technical rope work.

Approach:From Moab, travel north on US 191 approximately 13 miles and turn east onto Utah Highway 128 toward Castle Valley. Continue approximately 14 miles along Highway 128 and locate the signed Professor Creek Trailhead near mile marker 20.

Road conditions near the trailhead may become rough after storms but are typically accessible to most vehicles in dry conditions.

Route Description: From the trailhead, follow the old jeep road and creek drainage upstream into Professor Creek. The route involves continuous creek crossings and wet travel as the canyon gradually narrows into the more scenic upper sections of Mary Jane Canyon.

As the canyon deepens, the scenery becomes increasingly lush and enclosed compared to the surrounding desert landscape. Most hikers continue to the large waterfall and amphitheater near the upper canyon before returning the same route.

Water Conditions: Water is typically present throughout much of the route, especially within Mary Jane Canyon. Expect continuous creek crossings, shallow pools, mud, and occasional deeper water depending on recent rainfall and seasonal runoff. Flash flooding remains a serious concern during storms.

Exit: Return the same way downstream to the Professor Creek Trailhead.

Professor Creek and Mary Jane Canyon are among the more accessible and rewarding canyon hikes near Moab, offering a combination of flowing water, narrow canyon scenery, and desert canyon exploration without technical canyoneering requirements.