onthelooselive – Page 12 – On the Loose Live

A “Beachy” Stroll in UT: Paria River to the Buckskin Gulch Confluence

April 24, 2022November 5, 2024livevigorously

Imagine a walk “on the beach” surrounded by colossal slot canyon walls, the play of shadows and light on their vermillion faces, cool water on your feet, and top it all off with cowboys🤠 on horses 🐎for quintessential Wild West photo ops.This is as close as it comes to a”walk on the beach” hike in Utah. You can stroll up the river any distance your heart desires, or you can make it an overnighter, or a multiday adventure to/from Lee’s Ferry 38 miles away.

For my second visit here, I hiked up to the Paria/Buckskin Gulch Confluence (14 miles RT) with my friend. We had it almost entirely to ourselves except for the 4 cowboys on horses who kept me “on pace” chasing their equines and photo ops.

Truth is advertising, you will encounter sand, mud, quicksand, and little to no shade (until you reach the slot canyon ~5+ miles). If you’re prepared for those caveats, you’ll likely find it quite pleasant to meander up the at-times dry, muddy, wet riverbed as you take in the play of light and shadows on the colossal canyon walls and wonder at the strange sandstone formations. Unless there’s been a recent heavy rain, the water won’t reach your ankles so either tevas or an old pair of running shoes that you don’t mind getting wet will work best.

I explored Buskin Gultch, the longest slot canyon n the world, on another day. Note, Buskin is always be crowded so brace yourself.

Notes: FLASH FLOOD AREA. Be sure to check the weather! Day use permits are required – $6 per person & per dog. Use your smartphone to scan a QR Code at the trailhead or stop at the Paria Contact Station. Limited number of backcountry overnight permits available (20 per day). Plan ahead a of couple of months and reserve online. I couldn’t find the direct link, but here’s the BLM phone number & email for answers to permit questions : 435-688-3200 or email us. You can also camp near alongside the river at White House Campground. First-come, first-served basis – no reservations. Individual sites $12 per night. Interagency Senior and Access Pass Holders get 50% off. Amenities include restrooms, fire rings, and picnic tables Pay fees by cash or check at the campground fee station. Not for vehicles or trailers longer than 25 feet. Pets allowed, but must be leashed. Best time of year fall or spring – otherwise, be prepared for ice in the winter and extreme heat in the summer.

Getting there:

From the Kanab Visitor Center (BLM) in Kanab, UT travel 42.5 miles east on Highway 89 to the White House Road/BLM751. Turn right and drive two miles to the campground.

Exploring a “Little” Known “Wild” Slot Canyon

March 27, 2022April 1, 2022livevigorously

Yep, that’s all the clues you’re getting. It’s getting so hard to find that splendid solitude out there, so I’ve decided not to be part of the “problem.” Even though I have zilch for a following —it’s the principle of it. I’ll keep posting the mainstream hikes, but you’re going to have a work a little harder to find these “secret”, less traveled spots. I’m also available for adventure consulting should you desire a personalized “best of” Utah itinerary for your adventures here.

I’m spoilt, I’ve been to many slot canyons in UT, including the world’s longest, the world’s most renown, and perhaps the shortest and wetest(?). Located in the San Rafeal Swell area (another clue), this one had a colorful allure of it’s own. Options there include a loop hike or out and back. The oak trees at the beginning of the hike are quite dramatic.

Moqui Cavern, Kanab, UT: A Quick, Roadside Stop

December 12, 2021December 12, 2021livevigorously

A short stroll from the parking area across Highway 89, the manmade Moki Cavern can be seen from the road. While I’m not usually one for manmade attractions, the Moqui Cavern has a certain appeal (cool views inside and out) with great photo-ops. Definitely worth a quick stop if you’re driving by. These sandstone caves date back to the ’70’s and are the result of sand mining for glass production. If you can look beyond the eyesore of all the recent graffiti, you may find yourself fascinated by the subtle colors and patterns in the sandstone and rewarded by the cave-framed vistas. Go early or late for a chance to have the experience to yourself.

Distance: .A Half Mile RT

Difficulty: Easy, but highly advisable to wear shoes with good traction for the short slip rock traverse where there’s some exposure.

Getting there: From Kanab, the caverns are located 5.7 miles north on Highway 89.

Happy Trails!

Taylor Creek: Always a Treat. Kolob Canyon, Zion Wilderness

November 19, 2021October 26, 2025livevigorously

Difficulty: Easy, mostly flat, soft surface, and obvious trail with soem stream crossings.

Length: 5.8 Miles RT

Elevation gain: ~700ft

This lovely, woodsy hike in Kolob Canyon features a creek, 2 historical cabins, and a double, closed “arch”, and a seasonal micro slot waterfall. (For an open arch hike head up the road to the Kolob Arch Trail.)

The first cabin you’ll encounter on this hike is the Larson Cabin, the second is the Fife Cabin—both were built by homesteaders around 1930.

Especially enchanting in the Fall, this hike is a treat any time of year.

Notes: This is mountain lion territory. You may see tracks. Hike aware and keep small children near you. Since this is an easy, beautiful hike, it’s quite popular. Go early to enjoy more solitude.

Getting there: Exit 40 on I-15. This is the Kolob side of Zion National Park, so you’ll need to check in at the office with your National Park Pass or pay the entrance fee. Follow the scenic drive to the Taylor Creek parking area on the left.

Happy Trails!

Kolorful Kolob Arch Trail, Zion Wilderness

October 25, 2021October 8, 2024livevigorously

Distance: 15 miles RT

Elevation gain: ~2K

Difficulty: Moderate to strenuous depending on your fitness level, definitely a little longer than your standard day hike, mostly smooth, sandy terrain, great for trail running

The trail begins at the Lee Pass Trailhead off of Kolob Canyon Road / Scenic Drive. You’ll drop quickly into the canyon (770 ft in .75 mile) and traverse through the forest on a gentle, sandy path for the first 4 miles or so.

And then it gets even better. Zion vibes without the Zion crowds. After descending another 1k ft, you find yourself surrounded by dancing aspens and majestic red cliffs. This is where you’ll get your first glimpse of lovely La Verkin Creek. Oh, my—a perfect spot to pause and take in all the beauty. I’ll be back just for it. Fall is a splendid time for this hike, but I’m sure spring and early summer are delightful as well.

Continue following the trail along the creek another mile or so until you reach the junction for Kolob Arch. This trail is less distinct and a little more rugged. The distant view of the arch (possibly the largest free-standing arch in North America) is ok, but wow factor is a bit muted without a blue sky backdrop.)

You can continue up the canyon to Beartrap Canyon and Willis Canyon or head out to Holob Canyon and Kolob Terrace Road.

There are 13 camping sites along the trail. Reservations are required and can be made online, but 2 backpackers I met on the trail told me that they were able to get their pass the same day.

Notes: Sadly, toxic cyanobacteria have been detected in La Verkin Creek. No dogs are allowed in Zion Wilderness (a good thing as dogs have been known to die within minutes of exposure to the cyanobacteria). Bring plenty of water as you can not filter water with cyanobacteria.

Happy Trails!

Revisited the trail recently to see La Verkin Creek show off her Spring look. She did not disappoint.

Funny wildlife encounter story. Well, it’s not funny if you’re the frogs or me. While I was “Wim Hoffing” it in the creek (careful not to submerge my head), I sat on 2 frogs in the midst of a tryst. Unfortunately, it would be their final, though eternal, encounter. (Gives new meaning to “happy ending”, doesn’t it?) In the meantime, as I was exiting the delightful natural pool, I almost grabbed onto a snake. There’s bound to be one in paradise, right? Notes to self, look before sitting and before placing a handhold. The harmless snake was lying in wait for the plentiful frogs. Little did he know that I’d arranged a 2 for 1 for him. Back on shore, a frog eyed and ID’d me as the culprit.