Exploring Backpacking Trips in Salt Creek Canyon
In the heart of Utah lies Canyonlands National Park, a breathtaking expanse of canyons, towers, hoodoos, arches, mesas, and ancient pueblos. Recently, a family embarked on a four-day backpacking journey through one of its most captivating canyons - Salt Creek Canyon.
The adventure began at the Squaw Flat Trailhead, nestled on Loop A of Squaw Creek Campground. Following signs from Highway 211, they prepared for the journey ahead.
The family's itinerary included four established campsites in Salt Creek Canyon: SC1 and SC2 (mile 4.3), SC3 (9.1 miles), and SC4 (12.4). For the first night, they pitched their tents just over four miles into the canyon at campsite SC2.
On day two, they covered 11 miles to the overnight zone near Angel Arch, camping a few hundred feet above the canyon and beyond the trail. The second night was spent in a dispersed area, away from the established campsites.
The hike started with a 1,000-foot descent to the canyon floor from the Cathedral Butte Trailhead, located on Beef Basin Road. To reach the trailhead, they left one car at Squaw Flat Campground and drove the other out of the park to the trailhead.
The trailheads for the one-way Salt Creek Canyon hike are located at the junction of Beef Basin Road and Highway 211. It's essential to check road conditions on the national park website before heading in, as Beef Basin Road is generally accessible by 2WD vehicles.
The family scored permits for this adventureous hike, which allowed them to camp between Angel Arch (mile 15) and Peekaboo Camp (mile 22.5), as long as the campsite was at least a mile from the road and more than 300 feet from water or archeological sites. Camping is also available at Peekaboo Camp (22.5 miles).
Along the way, they encountered a ladder during the final day of the hike, which caused some discomfort for my stepmother Bahyoe. Despite this, they completed their journey, ending the hike at the Squaw Flat Trailhead.
Backcountry camping in the Needles district of Canyonlands National Park requires a permit, which can be secured online up to four months and two days before the trip, or in person at the Needles Ranger Station, either the day before or the day of the hike. A backcountry camping fee for up to seven people is $30.
It's important to note that fires, pets, hunting, or bikes are not allowed in the backcountry of Canyonlands National Park.
As they returned home, the family reflected on their incredible journey. My father Kurt, who retired two years ago, shared that this nomadic lifestyle was the perfect way to celebrate his newfound freedom. The memories they created in Canyonlands National Park will undoubtedly be cherished for years to come.
One intriguing aspect of their journey remains a mystery - the discovery of Kirk's Cabin in Salt Creek Canyon. Unfortunately, the search results do not provide information about who discovered this hidden gem. The story of Kirk's Cabin adds an extra layer of allure to the already captivating Salt Creek Canyon, inviting future adventurers to uncover its secrets.
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