We had camped the night before this hike so broke camp and headed out as the winds were building. Skies were clear and temps were cool as they had been down to about 40 degrees or lower during the night. Camp coffee is always helpful to get you going. Note: this trail is for fans of Basalt, columns in particular.
This trail is well marked in the beginning but you need to pay attention as you continue into the canyon because there are many diversions. But it’s difficult to get lost as most trails lead to the same place and you’re kind of surrounded by walls and a large creek to one side. The 2 creek crossings on our way to the end were ok to navigate stepping over logs on both. Poles, sure footing, and balance were helpful to not get wet or twist an ankle. Worst case scenario is you get your feet wet. There were brushy areas on the trail and I spotted some poison ivy so was mindful not to touch it or anything that could have touched it. Best to wear long pants through here for many risky things like ticks, poison ivy, and snakes (in my opinion).
Plan was to get to the end which was just under 3 miles and close to a wall of Basalt. I was accompanied by a “basalt hugger” who was thrilled to see this area. The trail does get difficult and brushy after this point. There were a variety of windflowers spotted mostly in areas of relative moisture, along with groves of Aspen which were a delight to see in this unique area. Also this trail is basically flat but still can feel sloggish when it gets warm as it did at the end on our way out, especially in gortex boots.
However….I was happy to have the long pants and boots after hearing (not seeing) 2 Rattlesnakes along the trail on the way out. One was about 1 mile from the beginning and the other was close to the trailhead. Both long vibrating, hissing sounds came from a pile of dried branches on the sides of the trail. Yikes! I’m sure the locals are used to this and careful. I was excited to hear them but glad to not encounter a bite.
Awesome, unique hike in nature with a ton of solitude. I would definitely go back.
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