This hike is suitable for families with small children.
From the trailhead, follow a worn trail across the flats to a wash which continues into the Waterpocket Fold through a narrow canyon. Eventually, walls of Navajo Sandstone tower above. Continue up the canyon until the route ends in a box canyon. Return the way you came.

Trailhead is located along Utah Hwy 24 and the Scenic Drive.

Trailhead:
Approximately 2 miles south of the Burr Trail/Notom road junction. The trailhead is marked with a sign.

Surprise Canyon is an easy hike into a deep canyon with towering sandstone walls. You will pass through or observe a number of the rock formations of the Capitol Reef: First the Entrada Sandstone, then the Carmel formation, the Navajo Sandstone, the Kayneta Sandstone, and finally the Wingate Sandstone.