
Paul Bunyan’s Woodpile is an interesting geological feature in Central Utah, that looks like a “woodpile” of logs left behind by the giant lumberjack of American & Canadian Folklore. Really the woodpile is a cluster of lava rocks formed about 30 million years ago; the logs were then formed into orderly columns.
The hike to see Paul Bunyan’s Woodpile is very easy at only 2 miles RT, and therefore is great for the whole family! Even dogs are allowed off leash. The hike itself follows Riley Canyon, before heading up a few switchbacks to reach the top of the woodpile. You will see remnants of the old aqueduct as you hike along the canyon as well. Once on top you can explore on your own to see different angles of the logs. Nothing like a good geology hike to exercise and learn at the same time!
As soon as you turn off HWY 6, you will see the brown sign. Drive to the end of the road.
Start by getting through this tight gate. Charlie was kind of scared of it, so he squeezed through the barbed wire fence instead ha! I am not a big person, but this fence was SO tight to get through – you may have to take off your pack and shuffle side to side to get through.
Now just follow the old dirt road North. It looked muddy, but it was actually so cold the mud was frozen!
The trail curves around this small hill to the left.
Then after you make the turn you should be able to clearly see the “woodpile”.
Hike up a few short switchbacks.
I wanted to climb around a lot more, but the “logs” were frozen and I was worried about slipping on ice.
It really does look like stacked wood!
Charlie sniffed out the area for a good photo op!