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Long Dong Silver is one of the coolest spots we've been to in Utah!! This place has two black spires that rise up and make you feel like you were pulled into a Lord of the Rings scene. it has no official name but is nicknamed “Long Dong Silver”, to us it looks like Mordor.
You won't find this place on any maps, so here's everything you need to know about this epic hike.
•9 mins from Hanksville.
•1 hr 49 min from Moab.
•34 min from Capitol Reef National Park.
Drive 8 miles on Route 24 to the following coordinates 38.3695667, -110.8405937 and park on the right side. Then walk 2 miles to the following coordinates: 38.3938608, -110.8322735. If you've got a 4x4 you can get closer and walk less.
Hanksville - Whispering Sand Motel
We loved our stay here. It is in a great location, rooms were clean and spacious.
•Price: $166.39 per night.
Hanksville - Stan's Burger Shak.
We didn't expect much of this place, but the menu was pretty large and the food was SO GOOD! The whole trip we were talking about how we need to go back just for their food!
This trail is unmarked and you won't find it on google maps or Alltrails.
•Length: 4.2 miles
•Duration: 2.5-3 hours.
•Difficulty: Easy.
The best time to visit is sunrise or sunsets. We went for sunrise but we heard that sunset is best because the sun sets down directly behind the spire.
To get the best shot walk to the far side of the spire up against the back butte’s wall.
•This is a very remote location so make sure you've downloaded the map before you leave.
•Bring a hat, water, and sunscreen because you'll be very exposed.
•Factory Butte
•Goblin Valley State Park
•Moonscape overlook
•Bentonite Hills
•Mars Desert Research Center.
For more details read: Hidden Gems in Hanksville