I am so excited to find a community of dedicated backpackers that know so much about Utah! I am planning a 5-day backpacking trip for several friends in October. We would like to stay on the Colorado Plateau, and probably in southern Utah.
Here are some routes I've been considering.
Dark Canyon - Woodenshoe/Peavine Loop or Youngs/Lean-To Loop
Parunuweap Barracks (too short? too cold in October?)
Escalante - I'm having a tough time picking a route here. Most of the loops sound a bit shorter than what we'd like, and I'm concerned that some of the routes might be too cold in October.
Other recommendations? Thoughts? What would you do?
Our top criteria are: beautiful canyon scenery, solitude, good camping. No cows would be a huge plus. No dry camps would also be preferred. Ruins and rock art are not our highest priority, although we're certainly not opposed.
Here are some routes we have done before: Buckskin/Paria to Lee's Ferry, Escalante Route in Grand Canyon, Thunder River/Deer Creek in Grand Canyon, Salt Creek in Canyonlands, Chocolate Drops route in the Maze, Coyote Gulch, Neon/Ringtail. So, we are looking for something new.
I feel a little like goldilocks.... I want something "just right!" But honestly, 5 days on the trail is going to feel wonderful, no matter where. It's been a while!
Thanks all, and happy trails!
Rebecca
Here are some routes I've been considering.
Dark Canyon - Woodenshoe/Peavine Loop or Youngs/Lean-To Loop
Parunuweap Barracks (too short? too cold in October?)
Escalante - I'm having a tough time picking a route here. Most of the loops sound a bit shorter than what we'd like, and I'm concerned that some of the routes might be too cold in October.
Other recommendations? Thoughts? What would you do?
Our top criteria are: beautiful canyon scenery, solitude, good camping. No cows would be a huge plus. No dry camps would also be preferred. Ruins and rock art are not our highest priority, although we're certainly not opposed.
Here are some routes we have done before: Buckskin/Paria to Lee's Ferry, Escalante Route in Grand Canyon, Thunder River/Deer Creek in Grand Canyon, Salt Creek in Canyonlands, Chocolate Drops route in the Maze, Coyote Gulch, Neon/Ringtail. So, we are looking for something new.
I feel a little like goldilocks.... I want something "just right!" But honestly, 5 days on the trail is going to feel wonderful, no matter where. It's been a while!
Thanks all, and happy trails!
Rebecca