Dark Canyon Car Shuttle

[RedRoxx]

Hi everyone,
I will be in Utah backpacking over the dates of May 9th-19th. I plan on the Swell, but have toyed with doing a top to bottom of Dark Canyon. I've been in at Sundance and gone up as far as Youngs and up that; then on a different trip hiked to Scorups and around on the top.
I will be solo so if anyone is interested in helping a gal out I would be forever grateful ( pay for gas whatever) this being of course access to the mountains available ( snowmelt, mud). My vehicle will be HC 4wd.
Please pm or respond here.
If not ,no biggie, as I said I have mucho stuff to do in the Swell.

[Scott P]

My vehicle will be HC 4wd

I can't go, but if the roads are open (sometimes they're snowy/Muddy that time of year) there is a great option to see the best parts of Dark without a car shuttle-the Youngs/Lean To loop. It's a very rugged route, but sees the best of Dark and you can do it without a car shuttle.

[RedRoxx]

Thanks Scott that does look like a good loop. I am pretty much committed to the Swell for a few days then will swing back and get into Dark depending on time, etc.

[bobb169]

We (Utah) have been hammered with a lot of snow the last two weeks. I would call the Forset Service Ranger Station in Monticello, Ut to see if they know the snow conditions on top. There are bad drifts to get through if you come in along Long Ridge. Bears Ears is always interesting if wet and it gets alot of snow. Another possible way in is from near Bridges NM but I don't know if you can get to the head of Dark Canyon that way, never been on it. Another good hike is Fable Valley/Gypsum canyon to the river. Bowdie canyon to the river is great as well. Early access to these is iffy as well. AND if you keep your eyes open there are some interesting things in each canyon.