Earlier this month, the National Park Service (NPS) issued an alert telling those in Glen Canyon National Recreation Area to “beware areas of quicksand.”
Glen Canyon is over 1.25 million acres spread across southern Utah and northern Arizona. NPS says the quicksand could be “near the shoreline and in drainages” of the site. Though the ground could look “dry and firm,” you could actually step into unstable territory where the quicksand underneath you is shifting or soft.
Spotting quicksand could be tricky, as NPS notes that it can take various forms. Among the signs to look out for are “wet, loose, or unusually smooth ground,” and “shifting, rippling, or vibrating soil.” Other signs of quicksand outlined by the source are “unexpected water seepage or pooling,” “depressions or saturated low spots,” “dry-looking surfaces that feel soft or spongy,” and “fine sediment mixed with water.”
According to local news source AZ Family, rangers believe the quicksand is due to lower water levels in Glen Canyon.
NPS says that Glen Canyon welcomed over 3.7 million visitors in 2025. The source also states that last year, the site was the fifth-most-visited recreational destination in its park type category.
Glen Canyon includes Lake Powell, North America’s second-largest man-made lake. Visitors come to see the Glen Canyon Dam, Rainbow Bridge, and Horseshoe Bend. Also, people enjoy camping in the great outdoors, boating, off-roading, and of course, hiking.
What Should I Do If I’m Caught In Quicksand?
Sedimentologist Darrel G. F. Long defined what quicksand actually is for Scientific American. He said, “Quicksand is a mixture of sand and water, or sand and air, that looks solid, but becomes unstable when disturbed by any additional stress.”
The first safety measure you should take before embarking on an outdoor excursion is to check for any warnings or alerts for the area. Notices may include critical information about weather, conditions, or wildlife in the area.
If you’re caught in quicksand, don’t panic or let your mind wander to situations portrayed in Hollywood. Thankfully, being caught in quicksand is rarely fatal. Moreover, scientists say it’s impossible for people to be fully submerged or sink beyond their waist.
If you’re stuck, try to recline your body. Then slowly start moving your legs up and out of the quicksand, breaking its suction from around your limbs as you do so. The NPS says to “wiggle feet slowly or rotate legs slightly.” Reclining while doing so helps distribute your body weight so it’s not creating more downward pressure, which can lead to further sinking.
“Use slow, controlled movements to move toward firmer ground. Once the legs are free, continue leaning back and use arms or a back‑floating motion to inch toward solid ground. Avoid standing upright until fully out. If available, use a sturdy object for leverage,” NPS advises.
It’s smart to hike in pairs or groups, so take at least one buddy or guide with you. Call out for assistance if you or someone you’re with becomes too fatigued to get out of the quicksand.
