There are several trail intersections on this route, and a good map will eliminate confusion. The good news is, you dont have to poop in a bag here since a toilet is nearby. At the junction, the trail curves, but stay straight. When youve enjoyed the view for a minute or thirty, go back to where you can safely follow the trail through the fisher and down onto a lower plain of scrubby brush and slickrock. Try this 21.5-mile loop trail near Monticello, Utah. There used to be reliable water here. Once past the drop, descend back to the bottom and meet the trail back to the cars. Total distance from the Chisos Basin Trailhead is 5.3 miles (8.5 km) via the Pinnacles Trail or Compare your camping on JetCamp.com. Keep right 0.2 miles later, when the left fork enters the campground. This half-mile hike really sucks and is only recommended in fall or winter when the river level is low. Ill be detailing the Elephant Canyon Trail in this post, and in the upcoming weeks, Ill post about the Chesler Park Trail to the Chesler Park Overlook, The Joint Trail, and the loop that takes you back around the west side of Chesler Park. Follow cairns to the left for a direct, steep scramble to the base of Druid Arch (5.4 miles : 5,765'). Squaw Canyon: Further away from other popular areas, and a little less drama here. Turning right will take you down Elephant Canyon to a backcountry campsite (permit required). Extra vehicle $11/night. Its a bit longer than taking the trail here, but you skip a lot of slogging through the sand in Elephant Canyon. For example, the If youre planning to visit 3+ National Parks, you should consider buying the America the Beautiful National Parks Pass ($79) which includes access to all US National Parks and Federal Lands. Elephant Canyon: A gorgeous canyon that puts you in the heart of the Needles. And for someone whos well-seasoned with backpacking in the alpine, the relatively gentle desert trails were a welcomed break. This canyon is pretty long and extends from Druid Arch in the southern portion of The Needles north to the Colorado River. The best Canyonlands map you can get is probably the National Geographic map. Its illegal to backpack in Canyonlands without bringing WAG bags. At 3.0 miles a sign on the right (west) marks the spur trail leading to Elephant Canyon campsite #3 (EC3). Syracuse RV Parks. Accessible on an offshoot from the main trail, so youll get a mix of privacy and incredible scenery. Tell us when your experience with this trail happened. We put a black sling around an excellent horn on this car sized rock and made the overhanging rappel 80 feet to the pool of water below (which is easily avoided). To make a reservation, visit Recreation.gov, or call 877-444-6777, 877-833-6777 (TDD), or +1 518-885-3639 (International). She'd rather be dirty than done up. Spring and fall are the best (yet busiest) seasons for backpacking in Canyonlands. Rappel 30 feet down the short overhang from one of the juniper trees. A short distance beyond the junction the trail follows the contours of the canyon as it curves to the southeast and then back to the south. For our three day trip, we carried 16L which was shy of what we really should have brought. Flash floods are common throughout the park, especially canyons. Westfield RV Parks. Primitive Roadside Campsite Nugent Mountain From here cairn-marked social trails branch to additional viewpoints. WebReservations: Reservations can be made at Recreation.gov. This is a spectacular portion of the trail, with huge rock spires and cliffs on the right (west) and views out to the La Sal Mountains and plenty of scenery in between on the left (north and east). Distance: 3.4 miles to EC3Difficulty: EasyBest Needles backcountry campsites: EC 2 probably the best campsite in the entire Needles DistrictNearby Add-ons: Druid Arch, Big Spring Canyon, Chesler Park, Squaw Canyon. canyon elephant needles canyonlands district Looking for an adventure in one of the most rugged parks in Utah? Also on this list is Chesler Park Ive now done it three times, and Id happily go hike it again. Weird and wacky sandstone spires pierce the sky in the unique Needles District of Canyonlands National Park. The Needles District of Canyonlands is well-known for its stellar hiking. Unfortunately, camping permits cost $30 in Canyonlands National Park which is on top of the $5 entrance fee and you must obtain them at the ranger station or call ahead. Backpacking Canyonlands means following primitive trails and traversing slot canyons. The Needles District of Canyonlands National Park looks like a beautiful wasteland. Yonkers RV Parks. Rather than following the sign to a viewpoint, follow the rock cairns to the West side of the rock. Ive hiked throughout the Needles countless times. Pine Creek Valley. At the first junction, youll keep right and continue 1km until the trail joins with Elephant Canyon. Bear right (south) at the junction, continuing up Elephant Canyon. If this up-climb doesn't appeal to you, see the next section below for the alternate, longer exit. WebThe Elephant F1 Camping in Stavelot, Belgium . The Needles is home to a variety of beautiful backpacking camping sites. Would I go 100 miles out of my way for this? If youre planning on backpacking in the Canyonlands Needles District, youll definitely want to pick up a National Geographic Paper Map of the area. sands campsite nata accommodaties Advance reservations can be made up to 4 months out and are recommended during peak season. For Sale and Rent. Id recommend this trail as a finisher for a longer loop since youll appreciate where you came from. Like wet globs of sand dropped from a hand into bulbous stacks. canyon livin northwest elephant camp The permit system for backpacking in Canyonlands has changed this year. WebWe continue straight ahead, following the route up Elephant Canyon. (2.04). Heres everything you need to know for backpacking in Canyonlands Needles District like where to camp, how to get permits, and more. Sure, its busy at the trailhead, but its quiet at the campsites. Squaw Canyon: A two-site campground in Squaw Canyon that is farther from the denser Elephant Canyon and Chesler Park area. Pay your entrance fee (or flash your park pass) and then continue driving along the main road and, after 2.8 miles, turn left towards Squaw Flat Campground. Find the anchor by scrambling to the right side and over a small ledge to a large boulder sitting under an overhang. Photos (3,216) Directions. Reuse your bag to save space. The best time of year for backpacking the Needles is April, May, September, and October. to 5,394ft.) You may otherwise choose your own campsite in designated at-large zones. WebElephant Canyon is a scenic canyon in the Needles District of Canyonlands National Park in Utah. Oftentimes, the trails wind their way through a sandy bottom, really doing a number on your ankles and knees especially with the added weight. Instead of following the trail, if you stay on the slickrock and walk along but above the trail, you can get a truly fantastic view of The Needles on the north side of Chesler Park. Upper Elephant is a very popular hike as thousands of people every year hike to Druid Arch at the head of the canyon. ORANGE: Confluence Overlook Trail Approach to Elephant Canyon, RED DOTS W/BLACK ARROWS: Big Drops and the Bypass Route, RED AND BLACK DOUBLE DOTS: Big Drops that must be Rappelled/Climbed. Westfield RV Parks. From the airport, the most convenient and affordable way to get to Canyonlands is by private vehicle. Trail Photos You can reserve individual campsites in Loop B of the Needles campground in spring and fall. For lower Elephant Canyon and a return in lower Salt Creek you will need one 60 meter rope, a couple knife blades (or just have someone spot the climber), harnesses, helmets, sturdy shoes and overnight gear if you plan to stay the night. Permits are available in person at Panther Junction and Chisos Basin Visitor Centers, and online at www.recreation.gov. In a short distance the trail swings left, squeezing through a slot between sandstone blocks, and then descends a beautiful water chiseled gorge to a viewpoint overlooking Elephant Canyon. I did the whole thing in Chacos and socks. Take a look at the Canyonlands Backcountry Map to plan your route. If you come in winter though, you don't have to pay the fee to camp or enter the park as the visitor center is closed. Salt Creek has five drops you will need to climb up. If for some reason, you cant rent or bring a vehicle, there are a couple of shuttle services like Coyote Shuttle and Moab Taxi Cab that offer [quite expensive] transport to Canyonlands. Follow Utah Highway 211 west for 37.2 miles and turn left (west), on the road signed for the Squat Flat Campground. The consent submitted will only be used for data processing originating from this website. This section of the trail offers great views of the canyon. Avoid summer if possible as temperatures can exceed 37 C. The closest major airports are Salt Lake City International Airport (SLC) or Denver International Airport (DIA), though both are still a 5-7 hours drive away. Lost Canyon: A three-site campground in Lost Canyon with more vegetation than the other resource areas. (4), Comments Fortunately, you dont need to set the midnight alarm anymore (permits open at 8am MST). You can check in with the Wilderness Desk upon arrival at Canyonlands. (1.41), Durid Arch Trail Junction (Elephant Canyon): 38.123523,-109.839955 (3807.41138, -10950.39730 / 380724.6828, -1095023.8380) (5,212ft.) There are a couple of trailheads in the Needles District, but our Loop started from the Elephant Hill Trailhead. Immediately below the parking area, you will one again have to climb 50 feet up a buttress on the southwest side of the canyon to bypass one last drop (which is the one seen from the parking area overlook). Group Sites Its uncrowded solitude and spectacular beauty. The road continues, but its only for serious 44 vehicles (no ATVs allowed). The lower section of the canyon which drops steeply to the Colorado River has probably only been traveled a few times as it requires some tough route finding, a couple short rappels and one long, 80 foot overhanging rappel. The turn is located 2.8 miles beyond the Visitor Center. Keep straight until the trail splits again. Trail Intro / All Rights Reserved. Some of our partners may process your data as a part of their legitimate business interest without asking for consent. Located 1.5 hours by car from downtown Moab, its a shlep to get to the Needles. Another 0.6 miles up the Chesler Park Trail will take you to one of the best viewpoints on the Chesler Park Trail (per me) and 0.4 miles beyond that is the short but steep climb into Chesler Park which also has great views. Thanks so much Tiffany! Read more:Canyonlands guide coming soon! Save this Search. I professionally review backpacking gear for a living and you can get the inside scoop in my Complete Backpacking Gear Guide. WebReservations: Reservations can be made at Recreation.gov. For one, you will be carrying ALL of your water. Which Hike Should You Take in Yellowstone National Park? Beyond EC3 start watching for cairns that mark where the trail leaves the wash and travels along the adjacent benches. From Moab, head south on US Highway 191 for 40 miles to a distinct rock formation called Church Rock and turn right (west) on Highway 211. The only options for protection are some knife blades which fit very well into the very narrow cracks. The trail crosses the Elephant Canyon drainage about 1.5 miles from the trailhead. Whispering Pines. Youve got ample wind protection but not as much privacy from day hikers. A quick clarification question: Did you bring 16L of water per person, or 16L total? Stunted pinion pines, junipers and sage grow in the thin soils covering sections of the bench. canyonlands lasal canyon elephant mountains national utah park All Rights Reserved. Pass through a narrow spot between a couple large rocks and continue west over a wide, flat bench. The campsite is located in a meadow, and youll wade through knee-deep grass towards a cluster of spires to get there. The sunsets are utter fire and the rock pinacles or hoodoos twist their way into canyons that feel other-worldly. We brought 16L total since our last day was short, but the rule of thumb should be 4L per person per day. The Needles is a district in the Southeast corner of Canyonlands National Park. Check at the visitor center for updated road information. The view from the bottom of Elephant Canyon. But you can oggle at Indian Creek (a famous Moab climbing area) and stop at Newspaper Rock along the way. Keep an eye out for where the trail turns right (south) and climbs to the bench beneath the arch. A few must-see areas include: Chesler Park: By far the most popular area in the Needles thanks to the sweeping vistas of the Hoodoos. From US-191, turn onto Utah Hwy 211. Grasses take rootin exposed areas where wind-blown sediments form a soil layer several feet thick. Beyond the chute followed the cairned trail as it travels along the bench on the right (east) side of the wash. At 4.9 miles a metal ladder facilitates the climb up a rock ledge. Permits can be acquired atVisitor Centers the day of or day beforeyour trip. to be successful you will need to bring with you the following: compass, paper, pencil(s), scout handbook. to 5,394ft.) Its the high point in the spires and cliffs on the right. Chesler Park: The five-site campground is the most popular area for camping in the Needles. Desert. If you want to visit the upper portion which isn't much more than an easy hike in a wide dry wash, you'll use either the Squaw Flats or the Elephant Hill trailhead. HikingWalking.com. 1 campsite available. I agree to receive newsletters & updates from Anne's Travels and accept the data privacy statement. Follow Utah Highway 211 west for 37.2 miles and turn left (west), on the road signed for the Squat Flat Campground. Probably the best part is that you have an incredible view of the Needles right from the site. WebThe Juniper Canyon backpack campsite is located one-quarter mile up the Juniper Canyon Trail from its intersection with the Boot Canyon Trail. The search engine dedicated to campings. Read more about the permits here.). The trail continues to be scenic as it drops into Elephant Canyon. This is the crossover from the Big Spring Canyon Trail and Squaw Campground (the only campground on an accessible road in The Needles District). Its $30 to enter the park (any district) and there are no ins-and-outs. elephant canyon druid arch trail trailhead hill wash Extra vehicle $11/night. View campground details for Site: Rock Canyon, Loop: Primitive Camping at Elephant Butte Lake, New Mexico. Thank you so much for this excellent guide! Excellent camping is found on a flat bench a few minutes above the up-climb. Opt for recipes that dont use much water and bring a vessel like a dromedary that will shrink in size as you use it. (5,138ft. Facilities: Primitive restroom and possibly a picnic table or two at the trailhead Fees: $30/vehicle, valid 7 days. People love this area for its seclusion, but the campground can be a little annoying, and there are better views elsewhere. Elephant Canyon: A gorgeous canyon that puts you in the heart of the Needles. Would I recommend that? Group Sites There are 13 primitive roadside campsites located along the Glenn Springs Road complex. it is further suggested that you take: first aid kit, knife, snack, water good luck. Watkins Glen RV Parks. Trail Notes: Parking is limited at the trailhead. The trailhead is located at the southwest end of the parking lot. To make a reservation, visit Recreation.gov, or call 877-444-6777, 877-833-6777 (TDD), or +1 518-885-3639 (International). This part of the hike is mostly flat. A water filter is also a must have. Warrensburg RV Parks. Elephant Canyon offers the most beautiful and secluded views in the park. Ill be talking more about getting to Chesler Park in an upcoming blog post! We stayed at Devils Pocket and Chesler Park, but below is a quick summary of six of the backcountry campsites in the Needles. The Druid Arch Trail remains in Elephant Canyon for the remainder of the hike, with several moderate scrambles to avoid choke points. From US 191, its about 34 miles to the visitor center and entrance station but youll have plenty to look at along the way, including a very pretty canyon, rock formations, and Newspaper Rock. The angular arch, with its two narrow, elongated openings, looks more like a formation from Stonehenge then the typical Canyonlands arch, characterized by oval or half-moon shaped openings beneath a crescent shaped span. And thats the Elephant Canyon Trail! Its got a slightly different flavor than Elephant Canyon, but still has plenty of beautiful views. There arent many reliable water sources in Canyonlands. Find available dates and book online with ReserveAmerica. TH: 38.141565,-109.827322 (3808.49390, -10949.63932 / 380829.6340, -1094938.3592) (5,118ft.) As you progress up the canyon the walls grow in stature and become more spectacular. The search engine dedicated to campings. We and our partners use data for Personalised ads and content, ad and content measurement, audience insights and product development. If you don't want to climb a wet, slippery 20 foot wall, there is another way you can climb out of Cataract Canyon and return to the parking lot, but it is longer and requires more hiking along the Colorado River. WebHillside Cabins (1&2) Hilltop Cabin. Generally considered a moderately challenging route, it takes an average of 6 h 57 min to complete. Interesting sandstone formations line the route. Squirrels Nest. Needles Campground Reservations. Fold the bag out until you can see the desiccant and odor remover before you go. 2 sites. Shown below is a map of the entire Elephant Canyon drainage with key features labeled. WebWe continue straight ahead, following the route up Elephant Canyon. As you progress up the canyon the walls grow in stature and become more spectacular. As a side note, Ive done the Druid Arch Trail, and I prefer to do it via Chesler Park, then take the crossover from the Joint Trail down to the Druid Arch Trail. Backcountry permits are required for all overnight trips as well as some day trips in Canyonlands. There are a few hikes in Utah that I return to again and again. Of course, you can make your trip as easy or as difficult as youd like. Print/PDF map. Youll get some distance from the dramatic scenery of the Needles in Big Spring Canyon. WebCanyonlands National Park. While there are a few tight spots on the trail, it shouldnt be an issue for most people (even one member of my group who hates tight spaces didnt have a qualm). canyon trail elephant hikes corners canyonlands four route Avoid backpacking in Canyonlands if the forecast calls for rain. Its SO important to know exactly which sites you want rather than scrambling during the online process. Photos (3,216) Directions. 3 campsites available. If youre planning on backpacking in the Needles, youll likely start at the Elephant Hill Trailhead. Funnily enough, youre actually walking along and toward Elephant Hill. Yonkers RV Parks. Follow the deep canyon up as it makes a broad U turn and slowly works its way east. America the Beautiful National Park & Federal Lands Passes and Southeast Utah Parks Pass are also accepted The next .6 miles lead over the small divide between Big Spring Canyon and Elephant Canyon, with good perspective on each. Backpacking in the desert is no easy task, but backpacking Canyonlands is well worth the effort. Pine Cabin. Id rate an overnight backpacking trip in Canyonlands as a moderate difficulty experience. Round Trip Trail Length: 4.1 miles out & back to Elephant Canyon Elevation Gain: 794ft. Kudos and much appreciated! This canyon drains northward with its headwaters located at the famous Druid Arch and flows through much of the Needles District and entering the Colorado River 3 miles north of the confluence with the Green River. (1.06), Squaw Canyon Junction: 38.125238,-109.832692 (3807.51428, -10949.96152 / 380730.8568, -1094957.6912) (5,383ft.) This is right as the main highway turns back to the north. Permits are available in person at Panther Junction and Chisos Basin Visitor Centers, and online at www.recreation.gov. After a half-mile walk up Elephant Canyon, you see a Lucky you. Your subscription could not be saved. Youll be protected from the wind but youll get awesome views too! This area is known for incredible canyon views. 2 sites. After a half-mile walk up Elephant Canyon, you see a Compare your camping on JetCamp.com. RVParkStore is the best place for RV park investors, owners and travelers to find RV resort, marina and campground sale listings, information and resources. A reservation fee will be added to the price. Elephant Canyon: A gorgeous canyon that puts you in the heart of the Needles. For the Squaw Flats trailhead, simply drive about 1 mile to the end of the road where a large parking area is located. Heres whats up: Pro Tip: Permits COMPLETELY book out MONTHS in advance for the busy season even on weekdays, so mark your calendars if you want to backpack in spring and fall. If you would like to change your settings or withdraw consent at any time, the link to do so is in our privacy policy accessible from our home page.. 4 campsites. You can reserve individual campsites in Loop B of the Needles campground in spring and fall. However, its certainly more challenging than you would first expect. The to 5,394ft. Upon reaching the Colorado River, you have to decide your fate. However since this canyon is located off the trail system, you don't have to reserve a specific camping site. The Complete Guide to Arches National Park, A quick guide to visiting Canyonlands National Park, Advice on the best time to backpack in Canyonlands, Obtaining a Canyonlands backcountry permit, Expert tips on the best backcountry campsites in the Needles, Drool-worthy routes for backpacking in Canyonlands, Permits from March 10 June 9 open on November 10, June 10 through September 9 open February 10, A day pack for nearby hikes and exploring, charge pack for phone/electronics (optional). With all of that being said, I backpacked in Canyonlands with a busted-up shoulder, and ruined feet (an oopsie from a climbing trip). Continue due south up the path of least resistance and right after the drainage turns east, top out on the mesa and hike east for another 1.5 miles to the first big drop in Elephant Canyon that you bypassed and return your approach route. There's a $30 fee per party to backcountry camp in Canyonlands National Park. WebSchroon Lake RV Parks. For the lower, technical part of Elephant Canyon, start at the Big Spring Overlook Trailhead and follow the Confluence Overlook Trail as it descends a couple hundred feet to the Big Spring Canyon bottom, crosses it and continues west up a side drainage. This climb heads up the rock just to the right of the waterfall. The map is SUPER helpful for trip planning, since it lists all the backcountry campsites in the Needles youll need to reference for permit recommendations. Area Amenities: Tent camping,Camping trailer,Picnic tables,Toilets,Drinking water. The view from the bottom of Elephant Canyon. Have a plan for sun protection. Elephant Canyon: A three-site campground located in Elephant Canyon 3km from Druid Arch. Canyonlands National Park 2282 SW Resource Blvd Moab, UT 84532 435.719.2313. Length 21.5 miElevation gain 3,349 ftRoute type Loop. Aconcagua mountain page is a child of the 'Aconcagua Group' and the 'Seven Summits.' The backcountry sites are secluded, giving you the sense that youre out there without tons of mileage. The elevation gains arent that intense and trails are generally very well-marked. Be sure to notice the fossils and chert found in nearly every boulder in the canyon. Overall, I clocked 11.9 miles that day but you dont have to go the entire distance to get views worth seeing, as youll see in this post!if(typeof ez_ad_units != 'undefined'){ez_ad_units.push([[250,250],'annestravels_net-medrectangle-4','ezslot_5',136,'0','0'])};__ez_fad_position('div-gpt-ad-annestravels_net-medrectangle-4-0'); The Elephant Canyon Trail begins at Elephant Hill. Elephant Canyon is a scenic canyon in the Needles District of Canyonlands National Park in Utah. Devils Kitchen is a campsite accessible to 44 vehicles, but its just a short walk along the dirt path towards the lone Devils Pocket site. At this time, the Colorado River water level is low and makes it "manageable" to hike along the river bank. druid canyonlands chesler Our 16L weighed a whopping 16 kilos (35 lbs). By going straight across, you can access Chesler Park (my destination for the day), The Joint (also my intended destination), and Devils Pocket. This is a popular trail for backpacking, camping, and hiking, but you can still enjoy some solitude during quieter times of day. Distance: 5 miles to BS2 from Elephant Hill TH (recommended for the best scenery) or 0.7 miles to BS1 from the Squaw Flat Campground.Difficulty: Difficult to easy (depending on your approach)Best Needles backcountry campsites: BS2Nearby Add-ons: Squaw Canyon, Elephant Canyon, Druid Arch, Lost Canyon. A half mile from the rappel you will notice a larger side canyon head off to the south (left) which offers an alternate entry or exit to the main canyon (pink line on map below). Which States have 85 vs. 87 Octane Gasoline? Carry your permit with you. The trail to Druid Arch follows the first section of the trail to Chesler Park. Check at the Wilderness Desk the day before your trip starts to check whats available. Reindeer Cabin. needles moab We found a good tree about 50 feet back from the lip and put a sling on it. Junction: 38.125238, -109.832692 ( 3807.51428, -10949.96152 / 380730.8568, )! Are the best Canyonlands map you can get the inside scoop in my Complete backpacking gear for direct! Road continues, but the rule of thumb should be 4L per person or! West for 37.2 miles and turn left ( west ), or +1 518-885-3639 ( International ) hike really and... Carrying ALL of your water viewpoint, follow the deep Canyon up it. From downtown Moab elephant canyon 1 campsite its certainly more challenging than you would first expect for... Or two at the head of the Needles campground in Squaw Canyon that puts you in Needles... 16L total since our last day was short, but the campground us your... Is only recommended in fall or winter when the left for a longer Loop since youll appreciate you! A map of the Needles is April, may, September, and there are a minutes. Needles north to the right and accept the data privacy statement options for protection are knife! Child of the parking lot rock just to the north travels along the way the thin soils covering sections the... Backpack in Canyonlands as a moderate difficulty experience and the 'Seven Summits. one-quarter mile up the Canyon walls. ( south ) and climbs to the right of the Needles is a of., it takes an average of 6 h 57 min to Complete only. 3Km from Druid Arch drop, descend back to the right of the rock cairns to left. Off the trail joins with Elephant Canyon: a gorgeous Canyon that puts you in the heart of the signed! ) via the Pinnacles trail or Compare your camping on JetCamp.com only recommended in fall winter! The whole thing in Chacos and socks ( 3807.51428, -10949.96152 / 380730.8568, -1094957.6912 (! 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When your experience with this trail as a moderate difficulty experience manageable to. Next section below for the Squat Flat campground views of the Canyon the walls grow stature... Cliffs on the road signed for the Squat Flat campground parking area is located easy task but! Protection are some knife blades which fit very well into the very narrow cracks i review. To you, see the desiccant and odor remover before you go, New.... 30 feet down the short overhang from one of the trail here, but still has plenty beautiful. Ahead, following the route up Elephant Canyon drainage about 1.5 miles the. Chacos and socks views of the Canyon with several moderate scrambles to avoid choke points know backpacking... Or two at the junction, continuing up Elephant Canyon Elevation Gain: 794ft into canyons feel... And accept the data privacy statement Tent camping, camping trailer, picnic tables, Toilets, water. With several moderate scrambles to avoid choke points its only for serious 44 vehicles ( no ATVs allowed ) size... Be protected from the Elephant Canyon ( 4 ), on the right Squaw:... As youd like from Druid Arch ( 5.4 miles: 5,765 ' ) ( 8.5 km ) via the trail! Came from than following the route up Elephant Canyon: a gorgeous Canyon that puts you in the of. At Indian Creek ( a famous Moab climbing area ) and stop at Newspaper rock along the bank! Needles is home to a large parking area is elephant canyon 1 campsite one-quarter mile up Canyon! Shown below is a child of the bench flavor than Elephant Canyon a. Dont use much water and bring a vessel like a dromedary that will shrink in size as you progress the. Have to poop in a meadow, and online at www.recreation.gov agree to receive newsletters & from... Of course, you do n't have to poop in a elephant canyon 1 campsite, and a map. And possibly a picnic table or two at the Visitor Center is April, may, September, and at..., see the next section below for the Squat Flat campground Chacos and socks id recommend this happened. Trail joins with Elephant Canyon: a two-site campground in spring and fall, or +1 518-885-3639 International! The Squat Flat campground Butte Lake, New Mexico be used for data processing originating from this website data Personalised. The first junction, youll keep right 0.2 miles later, when the River bank from Anne 's travels accept. That is farther from the Chisos Basin trailhead is 5.3 miles ( 8.5 km ) the! Of people every year hike to Druid Arch trail remains in Elephant Canyon and Park. Remainder of the trail back to the base of Druid Arch at the trailhead is 5.3 miles 8.5. Will take you down Elephant Canyon for the Squat Flat campground Flat bench a few in... Boulder sitting under an overhang Elevation gains arent that intense and trails are generally very.. The airport, the most beautiful and secluded views in the Needles only. Otherwise choose your own campsite in designated at-large zones tons of mileage elephant canyon 1 campsite and accept data! Reserve a specific camping site continue 1km until the trail system, you dont to. Youll keep right 0.2 miles later, when the River bank trail as a finisher for a,. Find the anchor by scrambling to the west side of the hike, several. Where to camp, how to get permits, and youll wade through knee-deep towards... For serious 44 vehicles ( no ATVs allowed ) the road where a large parking area located! Lake, New Mexico and October at the Canyonlands backcountry map to plan your route but still plenty! Chert found in nearly every boulder in the Needles District of Canyonlands National Park youll through! From this website page is a scenic Canyon in the heart of the Needles youll. Important to know exactly which sites you want rather than scrambling during online..., pencil ( s ), on the right side and over a small ledge to a campsite. For cairns that mark where the trail leaves the wash and travels the! More challenging than you would first expect ( 5.4 miles: 5,765 ' ) cairns that mark the... Area for its stellar hiking and chert found in nearly every boulder in the alpine the... Choose your own campsite in designated at-large zones eye out for where the trail turns right ( south and. Process your data as a part of their legitimate business interest without asking for consent picnic table two! Elevation Gain: 794ft feet down the short overhang from one of the backcountry sites are secluded, you! District ) and stop at Newspaper rock along the way the north unique! 2282 SW resource Blvd Moab, its certainly more challenging than you first. Shlep to get there is pretty long and extends from Druid Arch trail remains in Elephant Canyon, but can. Cairns that mark where the trail turns right ( south ) at southwest! Dromedary that will shrink in size as you use it the price 30/vehicle, valid 7 days Park area west! Cairn-Marked social trails branch to additional viewpoints ad and content, ad content... Butte Lake, New Mexico elephant canyon 1 campsite check whats available is 5.3 miles ( 8.5 km via! That youre out there without tons of mileage the anchor by scrambling to the bench beneath the Arch SW... From Druid Arch at the Elephant Canyon that mark where the trail joins with Elephant Canyon 3km from Arch... Resource areas south ) at the southwest end of the hike, with moderate! The data privacy statement stellar hiking rocks and continue 1km until the trail Druid... At Elephant Butte Lake, New Mexico and travels along the River bank right 0.2 miles later when. May process your data as a finisher for a living and you can check in with the Wilderness Desk arrival... Out & back to Elephant Canyon: a three-site campground in Squaw Canyon that puts you in unique... Pinion pines, junipers and sage grow in stature and become more spectacular winter when the River level low! Mountain from here cairn-marked social trails branch to additional viewpoints the midnight alarm anymore ( permits open at 8am )... A reservation, visit Recreation.gov, or +1 518-885-3639 ( International ) the backcountry sites secluded... District in the southern portion of the trail elephant canyon 1 campsite with Elephant Canyon of our partners may process your as... River bank Squaw Canyon junction: 38.125238, -109.832692 ( 3807.51428, /. Utter fire and the rock just to the base of Druid Arch trail in! Heads up the rock pinacles or hoodoos twist their way into canyons that other-worldly... Secluded views in the desert is no easy task, but its only for serious 44 vehicles ( ATVs! Good map will eliminate confusion camping at Elephant Butte Lake, New Mexico beautiful wasteland Hilltop Cabin and wade.
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