Calico Cliffs

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Overview

hike3.5adv

This hike follows calico-colored cliffs from Salt Valley into the north end of Arches National Park. You start off climbing gradually along the base of the cliffs, alternating between jeep roads and sandy washes. Eventually you cross into Arches and reach rarely-visited Eagle Park, a meadow surrounded by distinctive sandstone fins and spires. You can either return the way you came or explore your way back to the north through the fins. Use care to avoid damaging the fragile cryptobiotic soils in the area.

Stats

9.7 mi   800 ft   4.4 hr





4,750 ft
5,000 ft
5,250 ft
5,500 ft
mi
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Map

30% loop itinerary

Features

Look forward to

colorful geology
great
views
good
cliffs
good
narrows
good
spires
good

Challenges

Be prepared for

navigation
intermediate route-finding
rough surface
rough trail
heavy sand
lots
UV exposure
lots
heat exposure
lots

Difficulty

Advanced

Difficulty

Suitable for

advanced
 
beg
int
adv
exp

Getting there

Planning your trip

open accessmar - novany vehicle

Dogs

Are dogs allowed?

Watch out for sandy spots along the dirt road just before the trailhead. If you have 2WD be sure to park before any patches of deep sand. If you do get stuck in the sand, try deflating your tires for better traction.

If you have 4WD you can shorten the hike by driving further south along the road.

The hike crosses into Arches National Park so official park rules do apply. In theory you're probably supposed to pay an entry fee but there's no obligation (or opportunity) to do so.

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