Near Hanksville, Utah, just off Highway 24, stands a truly striking geological formation officially known as Blue Valley Spire. This distinctive rock formation, a pair of tall, jagged sandstone spires, rises dramatically from a remote desert landscape, often compared to the otherworldly scenes found in Lord of the Rings or Star Wars. While its official designation is Blue Valley Spire due to its location within Blue Valley, it is also known by several other evocative names, including The Silver Spire, The Spire, The Needle, Dark Spire, Black Spire, and most popularly, Long Dong Silver. Its appearance shifts with the changing light, transforming from a brooding “Dark Spire” to a shimmering “Silver Spire.”
This remarkable landmark is a prime destination for photographers, geology enthusiasts, and adventurers seeking solitude amidst an extraordinary natural setting.
To help you plan your trip to this captivating site, here’s essential information:
Location and Access: The Silver Spire is located approximately 7-10 miles west of Hanksville, Utah, situated just north of Utah Highway 24.
Access to the trailhead involves an unmarked dirt road off Highway 24. A medium-clearance vehicle can typically navigate the initial 1.3-mile dirt road to a Bureau of Land Management (BLM) sign, which marks the end of vehicle access for standard cars. Beyond this point, a high-clearance 4WD vehicle is recommended if you wish to shorten your hike to a closer parking spot.
Hiking Information:
Best Time to Visit: Optimal visiting periods are spring (March-May) and fall (September-November), when temperatures are milder.
Important Tips for Visitors:
Unique Features: The spires, which can rise up to 80 feet, emerge from a landscape often described as a “moonscape.” The surrounding environment is characterized by soft, crumbly gray dirt and stark, surreal vistas, creating an almost alien atmosphere. The nearby Mars Desert Research Station further emphasizes the extraterrestrial feel of this region.
Nearby Attractions: Your visit to The Silver Spire can be part of a broader exploration of Utah’s Capitol Reef Country:
