Easy, 0.74 ft loop
82 ft elevation gain, no gain if only viewing historic sites
Hiked 12/19/23
Located in the backcountry Needles District of Canyonlands National Park, the lower portion of this short loop visits a historic cowboy camp used from the 1800s until 1975, while the upper provides views of the surrounding area. Upper area requires a ladder climb, but is otherwise relatively easy to traverse.
In May 2024], two people were filmed stealing artifacts from the cowboy camp by the park service, who request any information that may help lead to their apprehension. Shameful behavior. Not that it makes it any better, but these artifacts don’t even have monetary value.
The historical cowboy camp filled with tables, storage, containers, and a wood fire stove along with other miscellaneous items. The rock walls and ceiling near the fire stove is charred black. Site was used from the early 1800s until 1975 when ranching in the park was no longer allowed.
A view from the upper area into the cove, showing how the upper rock creates an awning that runs along the walls. Various shrub may be seen in the lower area along with some junipers.
A view of Salt Flat Butte from the upper area of the trail. Mostly a rich red color, a streak of lighter brown similar to the area I’m standing may be seen about 3/4s of the way up.