Mule Canyon - Cedar Mesa

[Iceaxe]

I want to access the upper end of Mule Canyon the easiest way possiable. I assume the route marked in red will work? Or does anyone have any other thoughts, ideas or experiance with a better short cut?

[bobb169]

Been in that way a few years ago. I think we stayed more on the nose instead of the draw going in. Really the best to see the sites, rather than hike in from the bottom. I did notice driving back a few weeks ago that you can't drive very far off the highway...posted with wilderness study signs wherever you could pull off.

You can also hop over to the other fork of Mule Canyon from the draw just above there, but not much there.

[Iceaxe]

Now that you mention it I bet the nose would be easier. Thanks

[bobb169]

What I remember it was ledgy, mostly just a scramble, you could pick you way down with no rope, but I usually pack a 50 footer just in case.

[denaliguide]

i think this is another option. could make a loop out of it this way.

[Iceaxe]

Here's the deal.... I was told the old pot hunters had a short route, off of 95, into the upper section of Mule Canyon that allowed easy access to the upper ruins. I was kinda looking for this old route.....

I was in upper Mule Canyon a couple weeks ago and looked at possible routes from the bottom. The area in question is your typical Cedar Mesa wedding cake sandstone tiers....

Anyhoo..... I'm heading back down that way in a couple of weeks and might try and find the upper access route.... I'd also like to explore the upper reaches of the canyon a little more. There is some good stuff up there.