If you have been searching for Long Dong Silver Utah and cannot find solid info, you are in the right place. This guide covers everything, the exact location, coordinates, driving directions, and a full hike breakdown.
I have put together clear, honest details so you can plan your trip with full confidence. No guesswork, no vague tips.
If you are a casual explorer or a photography lover, this spot along Utah Highway 24 is well worth your time.
I will show you exactly how to get there and what to expect on the trail.
Where is Long Dong Silver, Utah?
Long Dong Silver is a tall, narrow sandstone spire located near Hanksville, Utah, just off Utah Highway 24 in the remote desert of Wayne County.
There are no signs pointing to it, and most travelers drive right past. The exact GPS coordinates are approximately 38.4071° N, 110.6923° W save these before you leave since cell service out here is nearly gone.
The spire sits roughly 30 to 35 miles east of Capitol Reef National Park, making it an easy add-on if you’re already passing through. The drive from Capitol Reef takes about 30 to 40 minutes.
Long Dong Silver Utah Map & Directions
Getting here takes some planning since there are no trail signs or marked parking lots.
Long Dong Silver, Utah, Location on Google Maps
Search “Long Dong Silver Utah” directly in Google Maps. It does show up as a labeled point of interest. Pin it before you lose service. Screenshot the map too, just in case.
Driving Directions via Utah Highway 24
From Hanksville, head west on Utah Highway 24. The spire area is roughly 10 to 12 miles from town.
Watch the right side of the road closely as you drive. The spire becomes faintly visible from the highway if you know what you’re looking for.
Finding the Unmarked Pull-Off
There is no official parking sign. Look for a small dirt pull-off on the south side of Highway 24. It fits only a few cars. If you miss it, you can turn around safely further down the road.
Parking Area & Trailhead Access
The “trailhead” is simply the edge of the pull-off. There’s no kiosk, no trail marker, and no ranger station nearby. Just a wide-open desert ahead of you. From here, you walk toward the spire.
Long Dong Silver Utah Hike Guide
The hike is short but feels bigger thanks to the terrain and desert heat.
Trail Distance (Short vs Long Route)
The hike is roughly 0.5 to 1.5 miles round trip, depending on your approach. Some hikers go straight toward the base. Others loop around for a better view.
Either way, it’s not a long walk but it does demand your attention.
Time Required & Difficulty Level
Most people complete this in 30 to 60 minutes. The difficulty is moderate. The terrain is uneven and there’s a short climb near the base.
It’s manageable for most adults, but not ideal for young kids or people with mobility issues.
Terrain & Trail Conditions
The ground is a mix of hard-packed dirt, loose clay, and small rocks. There’s no formal trail. You pick your own path.
After rain, the clay turns slick and sticky. Dry conditions are much easier to handle.
Final Climb to the Spire
The last section near the base involves a short, steep scramble. It’s not technical climbing, but you’ll use your hands for balance.
The ground is loose here, so step carefully. Once you’re at the base, the spire towers above you in a way that’s hard to put into words.
What to Expect on the Long Dong Silver Utah Hike
Knowing what’s ahead helps you stay safe and enjoy the experience fully.
Desert Landscape & Scenic Views
The surrounding landscape is wide, flat, and incredibly open. You’ll see layered rock formations, soft desert colors, and big sky in every direction.
There are no trees. No buildings. Just raw Utah desert.
First View of the Spire
Your first clear look at the spire hits differently once you’re close. It’s a tall, thin column of sandstone rising straight out of the flat desert floor.
It looks almost out of place, which is exactly what makes it so memorable.
Loose Clay Terrain & Slippery Sections
As you get closer, the ground shifts to soft, crumbly clay. This is where people slip if they’re not careful. Wear shoes with good grip.
Take your time on the approach. Rushing here is how people turn ankles.
Wind, Heat & No Shade Conditions
There is zero shade on this hike. Wind can pick up fast and feel brutal in the open desert. Heat builds quickly, especially between 10 AM and 4 PM in summer.
Dress light, bring sun protection, and carry more water than you think you need.
Best Time to Visit Long Dong Silver, Utah
Timing your visit right makes a big difference in comfort and photography.
Sunrise vs Sunset for Photography
Golden hour is the best time for photos here. The soft light hits the sandstone and brings out warm reds and oranges.
Sunrise is less crowded and cooler. Sunset offers longer light but a warmer hike back.
Seasonal Weather Conditions
Spring (March to May) and fall (September to November) are the best seasons. Temperatures are mild and the desert feels alive.
Summer is manageable early in the morning but gets dangerously hot by midday. Winter can bring cold winds and frozen ground.
When to Avoid (Rain, Mud, Extreme Heat)
Avoid this spot right after rain. The clay soil becomes a sticky mess that can trap your shoes.
Also, avoid summer afternoons when temperatures can hit 100°F or higher. Check the forecast before you go.
Tips for Visiting Long Dong Silver, Utah
A little preparation goes a long way in a place with no services nearby.
- Bring at least 2 liters of water per person, sunscreen, a hat, sunglasses, and a basic first aid kit. Do not rely on your phone signal out here.
- Download offline maps and GPS coordinates before leaving home. Apps like Gaia GPS or Maps.me work well. Tell someone your plans and expected return time.
- A standard car works fine in dry conditions, but after rain the pull-off gets muddy fast. A higher clearance vehicle is safer if there’s any chance of wet weather.
- Stay on rock surfaces where possible, pack out everything you bring in, and do not climb the spire. It’s fragile and needs to stay that way.
- There are no gas stations, restaurants, or restrooms near the spire. Stock up on fuel and food in Hanksville before heading out.
- Pair your visit with the Bentonite Hills and Moonscape Overlook; both are close by and worth the stop.
- If you have extra time, add San Rafael Swell to your route for a full Highway 24 day loop.
Conclusion
I hope this guide makes your trip to Long Dong Silver, Utah, a lot easier to plan. This spot is one of those places that surprises you.
You drive through a flat desert, and then suddenly, a tall spire rises out of nowhere. It’s simple, quiet, and genuinely worth the stop.
Just plan ahead, pack water, and save your maps offline. If you’ve already been, drop a comment below and share what you thought.
And if you found this helpful, pass it along to a fellow road tripper.
Frequently Asked Questions
Is Long Dong Silver Utah easy to find without a guide?
Not really. There are no trail signs or marked parking areas. Save the GPS coordinates before you go, and use an offline map app since cell service is very limited out there.
Can you hike to the base of Long Dong Silver?
Yes, you can walk right up to the base. The hike is short, around half a mile to a mile round trip. The final stretch is slightly steep with loose ground, so wear proper footwear.
Is there a fee to visit Long Dong Silver Utah?
There is no entrance fee. The area is on public BLM land. You can visit freely, but you’re expected to follow Leave No Trace principles and respect the landscape.
What type of vehicle do I need to get there?
In dry conditions, a regular car works fine since you’re just pulling off a paved highway. After rain, the dirt pull-off gets muddy, and a vehicle with higher clearance is a smarter choice.
How far is Long Dong Silver from Hanksville, Utah?
It’s about 10 to 12 miles west of Hanksville along Utah Highway 24. The drive takes roughly 15 minutes. It’s a quick detour if you’re already passing through the area.
