Kodachrome Basin State Park
Kodachrome Basin State Park is one of Utah’s most colorful hidden gems—a surreal landscape of 67 monolithic sandstone spires rising from a palette of red, orange, and white rock. Named by National Geographic photographers in 1949 after Kodak’s famous color film, this “photographer’s paradise” delivers otherworldly scenery just 20 miles from Bryce Canyon. As an International Dark Sky Park, it offers some of the most spectacular stargazing in the American Southwest.
The 67 Sediment Pipes – Nowhere Else on Earth
Kodachrome Basin contains a geological formation found virtually nowhere else—67 sediment pipes (also called sand pipes or chimneys) that rise dramatically from the desert floor.
| Sediment Pipe Facts | Details |
|---|---|
| 🏔️ Total Count | 67 monolithic spires |
| 📏 Height Range | 6 to 170 feet |
| 🏆 Tallest | Chimney Rock (170 ft) |
| 📅 Age | Formed ~180 million years ago (Jurassic) |
| 🔬 Formation Theory | Ancient springs/geysers filled with sediment; surrounding rock eroded away |
| 🌎 Uniqueness | Found virtually NOWHERE else on Earth! |
🎨 Why So Colorful?
- Red & Orange: Iron oxide in the Entrada sandstone
- White & Yellow: Limestone, quartz, and gypsum layers
- The colors are most vibrant during golden hour (sunrise/sunset)
- Named “Kodachrome” after Kodak’s famous color film—perfect for photography!
Hiking Trails – 12+ Miles
The park offers diverse trails through box canyons, past towering spires, and to hidden features like caves and natural arches.
| Trail | Distance | Difficulty | Highlights |
|---|---|---|---|
| 👑 Angel’s Palace Trail | 1.5 mi | Easy-Moderate | Best views! Supreme chimney panoramas; top photo spot |
| 🎭 Shakespeare Arch Trail | 1.7 mi loop | Easy | Park’s only natural arch; views of Grand Staircase |
| 🎪 Grand Parade Trail | 1.5 mi | Easy | Two box canyons; great for birding |
| 🌄 Panorama Trail | 3-6 mi loop | Moderate | Cool Cave, Secret Passage, Hat Shop features |
| 📚 Nature Trail | 0.5 mi | Easy | Wheelchair-friendly; interpretive panels |
International Dark Sky Park
Kodachrome Basin is certified as an International Dark Sky Park—one of the best places in the country for stargazing and astrophotography.
| Dark Sky Tips | Details |
|---|---|
| 🌌 Best Time | New moon nights; summer Milky Way season (June-Sept) |
| 📷 Photography | Bring tripod; use wide aperture & long shutter |
| 🔦 Lighting | Use red headlamp to preserve night vision |
| ⛺ Overnight | Camping gives best access to dark hours |
Camping
The campground offers excellent access to trails and dark skies—reserve well in advance!
| Camping Options | Details |
|---|---|
| ⛺ Standard Sites | Tent sites with picnic tables, fire rings |
| 🚐 Full Hookup Sites | Water, electric, sewer for RVs |
| 👥 Group Sites | Large gatherings |
| 🏠 Bunkhouses | Covered sleeping (no bedding provided) |
| 📅 Reservations | Book months in advance—popular park! |
Park Information
| Detail | Information |
|---|---|
| 💵 Entry Fee | $10/vehicle (day use) |
| 🕐 Hours | 8 AM – 6 PM (year-round) |
| 📐 Size | 2,240 acres |
| 🗺️ Location | 20 miles from Bryce Canyon; surrounded by Grand Staircase-Escalante |
| 📅 Best Season | Spring (April-May) & Fall (Sept-Oct)—moderate temps |
| ⚠️ Summer Warning | Very hot; start hikes early; bring lots of water |
Frequently Asked Questions
Why is it called Kodachrome Basin?
The name originated in 1949 when National Geographic Society photographers visited the area. They were so amazed by the stunning variety of contrasting colors in the rock formations that they nicknamed it “Kodachrome Flat” after Kodak’s popular color film. The name stuck, and when Utah established the state park in 1962, they officially adopted the “Kodachrome Basin” name. The vibrant reds, oranges, whites, and yellows of the sandstone truly evoke the vivid colors of classic Kodachrome photography.
What are the sediment pipes at Kodachrome?
The 67 sediment pipes (also called sand pipes or chimneys) are towering monolithic sandstone spires ranging from 6 to 170 feet tall. They formed approximately 180 million years ago during the Jurassic period. Geologists believe ancient springs or geysers deposited sediment into vertical columns; this sediment cemented into rock harder than the surrounding Entrada sandstone. Over millions of years, the softer surrounding rock eroded away, leaving these dramatic spires standing. They’re found virtually nowhere else on Earth in this concentration.
What is the best trail at Kodachrome Basin?
The Angel’s Palace Trail is widely considered the best hike for first-time visitors. It’s a 1.5-mile easy-to-moderate trail that delivers supreme panoramic views of the colorful chimneys and surrounding landscape. Photographers especially love this trail for its elevated viewpoints overlooking the vibrant formations. For those wanting a longer adventure, the Panorama Trail (3-6 miles) passes unique features like Cool Cave, Secret Passage, and Hat Shop.
Is Kodachrome Basin worth visiting?
Absolutely! Kodachrome Basin is a “hidden gem” that many overlook in favor of nearby Bryce Canyon National Park. But its unique sediment pipes, vibrant colors, excellent hiking trails, and International Dark Sky Park status make it well worth a visit. It’s also far less crowded than Bryce Canyon. The combination of world-class photography opportunities, unique geology, and incredible stargazing make it one of Utah’s most underrated parks. Allow at least half a day—or camp overnight for the dark sky experience.
When is the best time to visit Kodachrome Basin?
The best times are spring (April-May) and fall (September-October) when temperatures are moderate for hiking. Summer can be extremely hot (90°F+) with potential thunderstorms—if visiting in summer, start hikes at dawn and bring plenty of water. Winter is possible but can bring freezing temperatures and occasional snow, potentially impacting the access road. For photography, visit during golden hour (sunrise/sunset) when the sandstone colors are most vibrant.
How far is Kodachrome Basin from Bryce Canyon?
Kodachrome Basin is approximately 20 miles southeast of Bryce Canyon National Park, about a 30-minute drive. This proximity makes it an ideal add-on to a Bryce Canyon visit—or a less crowded basecamp for exploring the region. The park is surrounded on three sides by the Grand Staircase-Escalante National Monument, offering additional adventure opportunities. Many visitors combine Bryce Canyon, Kodachrome Basin, and Grand Staircase-Escalante into a multi-day itinerary.
📸 A Photographer’s Paradise
Experience geology found nowhere else on Earth, colors that inspired the name of a legendary film, and some of the darkest night skies in America. Visit the official Kodachrome Basin State Park website for camping reservations, trail maps, and current conditions.
