| View previous topic :: View next topic |
| Author |
Message |
Hatchcanyon
Joined: 24 Oct 2008
Posts: 58
Location: Germany
|
| Posted: Mon Jun 22, 2009 7:30 am Post subject: San Rafael Swell: The Dike and Horizon Arch |
|
|
On the western slope of the swell and south of I 70 is an area called "The Dike". As far as I know it isnīt visited that often. But for sure its worth the trip. Great views, an unusual arch and bands of wild horses are among the main attractions.
A difficulty: as far as I know no maps are showing the trail completely. Therefore my website provides some maps but these may be not 100% correct.
Here are some pictures from a trip exploring The Dike. Itīs a wonderful area!
How to go to the place? Leave I 70 at Exit 111 on the west flank of the swell, go to the south side of the interstate towards Kimball Draw. A smaller tributary has a track leading again in a southern direction. One has to cross Cat and Dizzy Trail Canyon. At least from a point south of Dizzy Trail Canyon, teh maps provided with the story might be helpful.
Kimball Draw
Cat Canyon
A small band of wild horses
Fortress-like structures
At the brink of Poor Canyon. A sharp eye might see the light beam falling through Hondoo Arch (upper left)
Factory Butte and Henry Mountains
Horizon Arch
Archaic landscape
Looking down into Reds Canyon
Poor Canyon
Horizon Arch`s sentinel?
More pictures and maps |
|
| Back to top |
|
Richard Barron
Joined: 09 Jul 2005
Posts: 1573
Location: Byng, OK, USA
|
| Posted: Mon Jun 22, 2009 9:18 am Post subject: |
|
|
| Nice images. |
|
| Back to top |
|
Reedus
Joined: 10 Jan 2006
Posts: 707
|
| Posted: Tue Jun 23, 2009 9:46 pm Post subject: |
|
|
| This is the area where the "Gem" canyon system is located if I am not mistaken. Scott P could back me up on this. Anyhow, great pics. The Swell ceases to amaze me. |
|
| Back to top |
|
Hatchcanyon
Joined: 24 Oct 2008
Posts: 58
Location: Germany
|
| Posted: Wed Jun 24, 2009 4:08 am Post subject: |
|
|
Reedus wrote: This is the area where the "Gem" canyon system is located if I am not mistaken. Scott P could back me up on this. Anyhow, great pics. The Swell ceases to amaze me.
You`re absolutely right! |
|
| Back to top |
|
Scott P
Joined: 14 Dec 2005
Posts: 2326
Location: Craig, CO
|
| Posted: Wed Jun 24, 2009 9:09 pm Post subject: |
|
|
Quote: This is the area where the "Gem" canyon system is located if I am not mistaken. Scott P could back me up on this. Anyhow, great pics. The Swell ceases to amaze me.
Yes, correct.
The Horizon Arch trail has something for everyone. If you like to hike, there are great hikes to spectacular overlooks. There are some nice technical canyon for the canyoneers. The Horizon Arch trail makes a great 4x4 excursion and is also a great mountain bike trip.
Quote: A difficulty: as far as I know no maps are showing the trail completely.
The newer San Rafael NG/Trails Illustrated shows the trail if I remember correctly.
Quote: How to go to the place? Leave I 70 at Exit 111 on the west flank of the swell, go to the south side of the interstate towards Kimball Draw. A smaller tributary has a track leading again in a southern direction. One has to cross Cat and Dizzy Trail Canyon. At least from a point south of Dizzy Trail Canyon, teh maps provided with the story might be helpful.
If interested, I also have directions in the "Getting There" section below and Note #2:
http://www.summitpost.org/canyon/152456/little-gem-canyon-middle-fork.html |
|
| Back to top |
|
| |
