Tag: Utah

Utah, a state in the western United States, is renowned for its stunning natural landscapes and unique geological formations. It is characterized by vast deserts, towering red rock formations, and the dramatic peaks of the Rocky Mountains. Home to five national parks—Zion, Bryce Canyon, Capitol Reef, Canyonlands, and Arches—Utah attracts outdoor enthusiasts and nature lovers from around the world. Its capital, Salt Lake City, is a hub of culture, history, and outdoor recreation, famously hosting the 2002 Winter Olympics. Utah’s diverse terrain offers opportunities for skiing, hiking, mountain biking, and exploring ancient Native American petroglyphs and archaeological sites. The state’s Mormon heritage is also evident in its history, architecture, and the world-famous Salt Lake Temple.

Creek Dogwood (Cornus sericea)

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Cornus sericea, commonly known as Redosier Dogwood, Red Twig Dogwood, or American Dogwood, is a deciduous shrub native to North America. It belongs to the family Cornaceae and is known for its striking red stems, especially visible in the winter, which provide ornamental value. This report explores the botanical characteristics, habitat, ecological significance, and uses of Cornus sericea.

Creek Dogwood (Cornus sericea)
Creek Dogwood (Cornus sericea)

Botanical Characteristics

Morphology

  • Stems and Bark – The most distinctive feature of Cornus sericea is its bright red stems, which are particularly vibrant in young twigs. The bark is smooth and can be greenish-red in younger branches, turning grayish-brown with age.
  • Leaves – The leaves are opposite, simple, and ovate to lanceolate, with a length of 5-12 cm. They have a smooth margin and are characterized by prominent venation. In the fall, the leaves turn a variety of colors including red, purple, and orange.
  • Flowers – The flowers are small, creamy-white, and arranged in flat-topped clusters called cymes. Each flower has four petals and blooms from late spring to early summer.
  • Fruit – The fruit is a small, white to bluish-white drupe, typically maturing in late summer. These drupes are an important food source for various bird species.

Growth and Reproduction

Cornus sericea can grow up to 1.5-4 meters in height and spreads through both seeds and vegetative means. It readily forms thickets by sending up new shoots from its root system. The plant prefers moist, well-drained soils but can tolerate a range of soil types including wet, clay soils.

Habitat and Distribution

Geographic Range

Cornus sericea is widespread across North America, from Alaska and Newfoundland south to New Mexico and Virginia. It thrives in a variety of habitats including wetlands, stream banks, and forest edges.

Environmental Preferences

This shrub prefers full sun to partial shade and thrives in moist, well-drained soils. It is often found in riparian zones, wetlands, and along the edges of lakes and rivers. Cornus sericea is adaptable to different soil types, including clay and sandy soils, and can tolerate seasonal flooding.

Ecological Significance

Wildlife Habitat

  • Birds – The berries of Cornus sericea are a crucial food source for many bird species, including American robins, cedar waxwings, and woodpeckers. The dense thickets provide excellent cover and nesting sites for birds.
  • Mammals – Small mammals, such as rabbits and beavers, feed on the bark and stems. The plant’s dense growth offers shelter for various small animals.

    Erosion Control

    Due to its extensive root system, Cornus sericea is effective in stabilizing soil and preventing erosion, especially along riverbanks and slopes. It is often used in riparian restoration projects for this reason.

    Uses

    Ornamental Use

    Cornus sericea is widely planted as an ornamental shrub for its vibrant red stems, which provide winter interest in gardens and landscapes. It is also used in hedges, windbreaks, and as a natural screen.

    Traditional and Medicinal Uses

    Indigenous peoples of North America have historically used Cornus sericea for various purposes. The bark and stems were used in basket weaving, and the plant had medicinal applications, such as treating colds, fevers, and diarrhea.

    Conservation and Restoration

    Due to its ability to thrive in wet environments and stabilize soil, Cornus sericea is utilized in wetland restoration and conservation projects. It helps in maintaining biodiversity and improving water quality by filtering runoff.

    Conclusion

    Cornus sericea is a versatile and ecologically significant plant with wide-ranging benefits for wildlife, soil stabilization, and ornamental use. Its adaptability to different environments and its role in supporting biodiversity make it an important species in North American flora. Conservation and utilization of this shrub can contribute to sustainable environmental management and restoration efforts.

    This report provides a comprehensive overview of Cornus sericea, highlighting its importance in various ecological and practical contexts. Further research and conservation efforts can enhance our understanding and utilization of this valuable plant species.

    Resources

    Jedediah Strong Smith – Nevada State Historic Marker 84

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    Jebediah Strong Smith was an early frontiersman, hunter, trapper, author, cartographer, mountain man and explorer of the western United States and the subject of Nevada State Historic Marker number 84.

    Drawing of Jedediah Strong Smith (1799–1831), created around 1835 after his death by a friend from memory. It is the only contemporary image of Smith.
    Drawing of Jedediah Strong Smith (1799–1831), created around 1835 after his death by a friend from memory. It is the only contemporary image of Smith.

    Born in 1799 in Jericho, New York, Jedediah Strong Smith would grow up to become one of the most significant figures in the exploration of the American West during the early 19th century. His life was a testament to the indomitable spirit of discovery that characterized the era of westward expansion.

    From a young age, Jebediah Smith exhibited an insatiable curiosity and an adventurous spirit that set him apart from his peers. Raised in a family of modest means, he received only limited formal education. However, his voracious appetite for learning and his natural inclination for exploration propelled him beyond the confines of the classroom.

    Fur Trapping and the Path to the West

    At the age of 21, Smith embarked on his first western expedition as a fur trapper, a career choice that would shape the course of his life. He joined the Rocky Mountain Fur Company and ventured into the untamed wilderness of the Rocky Mountains, determined to carve his own path in uncharted territories. His experiences during this period honed his survival skills and deepened his connection to the natural world.

    The First Overland Expedition to California:

    In 1826, Smith led a pioneering expedition that would take him and his small band of explorers on an arduous journey from the Great Salt Lake to California. This remarkable feat marked the first documented overland journey from the United States into California. Smith’s exploration helped to map previously unknown regions and establish crucial trade routes.

    Mapping the West and Bridging Cultures

    Jebediah Smith’s exploration efforts were not limited to geography alone. His interactions with various Native American tribes and his ability to communicate across cultural divides showcased his adaptability and diplomacy. He valued the knowledge and insights of the indigenous peoples he encountered, contributing to a more nuanced understanding of the American West.

    Jebediah Strong Smith’s legacy is imprinted on the landscapes he traversed and the narratives he helped to shape. His meticulous journaling and mapping laid the groundwork for further expeditions, encouraging subsequent generations of explorers to continue pushing the boundaries of the known world. Smith’s untimely death at the hands of Comanche warriors in 1831, at the age of 32, underscored the risks and sacrifices inherent in his chosen path.

    Jebediah Strong Smith’s life epitomized the restless spirit of exploration that defined the era of westward expansion in the United States. His contributions to mapping the American West, fostering cross-cultural connections, and inspiring future adventurers are enduring testaments to his remarkable journey. As a trailblazer who ventured into the unknown with courage and determination, Smith’s legacy continues to inspire individuals to seek new horizons and embrace the thrill of discovery.

    Jedediah Strong Smith Nevada State Historic Marker 84 Text

    Nevada State Historical Markers identify significant places of interest in Nevada’s history. The Nevada State Legislature started the program in 1967 to bring the state’s heritage to the public’s attention with on-site markers. These roadside markers bring attention to the places, people, and events that make up Nevada’s heritage. They are as diverse as the counties they are located within and range from the typical mining boom and bust town to the largest and most accessible petroglyph sites in Northern Nevada Budget cuts to the program caused the program to become dormant in 2009. Many of the markers are lost or damaged.

    From May to June 1827, explorer and trapper Jedediah Smith found a route from California’s central valley to the Great Salt Lake Valley in Utah.  He became the first European American to completely cross what is now Nevada.

    Because Smith’s journal and map have never been found, his exact route is unknown.  Based on Smith’s own statements about his difficult trip, modern historians and geographers have pieced together the most plausible route.  Smith crossed the Sierra Nevada at Ebbetts Pass, swung southeast along or across the headwaters and middle reaches of the Walker River, and passed into central Nevada’s open spaces south of Walker Lake.

    Smith entered Smoky Valley on its southwest side in June 1827 and crossed the valley in a northeasterly direction.  He then paralleled the future Simpson survey, route of the Pony Express and Overland Stage, along modern U.S. Highway 50.

    He entered Utah at Ibapah.

    STATE HISTORICAL MARKER NO.  84
    STATE HISTORIC PRESERVATION OFFICE
    WHITE PINE PUBLIC MUSEUM, INC.

    Nevada State Historic Marker 84 Map

    Nevada State Historic Marker number 84 is located near Ely, Nevada, in White Pine County. The marker is on U.S. Highway 93, on the east side of the highway. It is found in rest area, four miles north of Ely. 

    Nevada State Historic Marker 84 Summary

    NamedJedediah Strong Smith
    LocationWhite Pine County, Nevada
    Latitude, Longitude39.2771, -114.8463
    Nevada State Historic Marker84

    References

    Sunset Campground

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    Bryce National Park is located in the south western corner of the state of Utah
    Bryce National Park is located in the south western corner of the state of Utah

    Sunset Campground, located at approximately 8,000 feet elevation in Bryce Canyon National Park, Utah, is a seasonal campground open from mid-April to mid-October, offering 100 sites: 46 tent-only sites (Loops B and C), 50 RV/tent sites (Loop A), one reservable group site, and two wheelchair-accessible sites. From January 1 to April 14, 2025, the campground is closed; from April 15 to May 16 and October 8 to mid-October, it operates on a first-come, first-served basis; and from May 17 to October 7, all sites require reservations through Recreation.gov. Set in a ponderosa pine forest near Sunset Point and the Bryce Amphitheater, it provides easy access to iconic trails like the Navajo Loop and Queen’s Garden, as well as the park’s shuttle system. The campground offers flush toilets and potable water but lacks showers and hook-ups, requiring preparation for high-altitude conditions and Dark Sky Park regulations. This review details the campground’s setting, amenities, accessibility, and overall experience, paired with a description of Bryce Canyon National Park.

    Description of Bryce Canyon National Park

    Bryce Canyon National Park, a 35,835-acre geologic wonder in southwestern Utah, is famed for its vibrant hoodoos—spires of limestone, dolomite, and siltstone sculpted by erosion into fantastical shapes of pink, orange, and white. Situated at 7,000–9,100 feet elevation along the Paunsaugunt Plateau, the park’s centerpiece is the Bryce Amphitheater, a natural bowl showcasing the densest collection of hoodoos, best viewed from Sunrise, Sunset, Inspiration, and Bryce Points. Beyond the amphitheater, the park stretches across 18 miles of scenic viewpoints like Rainbow and Yovimpa Points, connected by a scenic drive, and features 60 miles of trails, from the easy Rim Trail to the strenuous Under-the-Rim Trail (22.9 miles).

    The park’s high elevation brings cooler temperatures (50–80°F in summer, 20–40°F at night) and occasional summer thunderstorms or spring snow. Wildlife includes mule deer, Utah prairie dogs, pronghorn, mountain lions, and birds like Steller’s jays and peregrine falcons. As an International Dark Sky Park, Bryce Canyon offers exceptional stargazing, with over 7,500 stars visible on moonless nights, celebrated annually at the June Astronomy Festival and through over 100 nightly ranger-led programs, including full-moon hikes. Nearby attractions like Red Canyon, Kodachrome Basin State Park, and Grand Staircase-Escalante National Monument enhance its appeal, while Scenic Byway 12 offers jaw-dropping red rock views. Bryce Canyon’s unique geology, hiking opportunities, and starry skies make it a bucket-list destination for adventurers and photographers.

    Campground Details

    Location and Accessibility

    Sunset Campground is located 1.5 miles south of the Bryce Canyon Visitor Center, just west of Sunset Point on Highway 63. From Panguitch, Utah, travel 7 miles south on Highway 89, east on Highway 12 for 14 miles, then south on Highway 63 to the park entrance; the campground is on the right, past North Campground and the Visitor Center. Its proximity to Sunset Point (0.5-mile walk) and the Navajo Loop trailhead makes it ideal for hikers, and a shuttle stop at the campground entrance (mid-April to mid-October) connects to major viewpoints and trails.

    The campground features paved roads and spurs in Loop A (RV/tent, sites 200–249) and gravel spurs in Loops B (252–271) and C (272–310, tent-only), accommodating vehicles up to 60 feet in Loop A but 20 feet max in Loops B and C. Two wheelchair-accessible sites in Loop A offer paved surfaces and proximity to flush toilets. The hilly terrain may challenge mobility-impaired visitors, and some sites are unlevel. “Site 216 was hilly but had a great sunset view,” noted a camper (Campendium, 2025). Potable water and flush toilets are available, but no cell service or Wi-Fi exists; bring printed reservation confirmations. Check-in is at the registration kiosk, where first-come, first-served campers select sites and deposit payment ($30/night) in an envelope.

    Amenities

    Each campsite includes a picnic table, fire ring with grill, and access to bear-proof food storage (recommended, though bear activity is low). Flush toilets and potable water spigots are well-maintained, with campers praising cleanliness: “Bathrooms were warm and spotless,” said a reviewer (Tripadvisor, 2025). No showers or laundry are on-site, but coin-operated facilities are available at the General Store near North Campground (1.5 miles, seasonal). A free dump station is located at North Campground’s southern end (mid-May to mid-October). No electric, water, or sewer hook-ups are provided, and portable showers/toilets are prohibited. The General Store sells groceries, firewood, and supplies, while Bryce Canyon Lodge (1 mile) offers dining. Trash and recycling are provided with animal-proof dumpsters. Generators are allowed in Loop A only (8 AM–8 PM), ensuring quieter Loops B and C. Dark Sky Park rules prohibit extra lighting like string lights.

    Campsite Layout and Privacy

    Sunset Campground’s three loops are set in a ponderosa pine forest with rolling hills, offering a mix of sun and shade. Loop A accommodates RVs and tents, with larger, paved sites but less privacy due to proximity to the road and shuttle stop. Loops B and C, tent-only, are quieter and more secluded, with gravel spurs and more tree cover. “Loop C felt tucked away, perfect for tents,” said a camper (The Dyrt, 2025). Sites are spacious but close together, with limited ground-level privacy due to sparse undergrowth. “Sites are thin—our truck didn’t fit site 216,” noted a camper (Campendium, 2025). The group site in Loop A accommodates up to 30 people. The campground’s hilly layout and meadow views enhance its scenic appeal, though some sites (e.g., 200–210) hear road noise.

    RV and Tent Camping

    Loop A supports RVs and trailers up to 60 feet, though many sites fit 20–40 feet due to trees and slopes; Loops B and C are limited to tents and camper vans (20 feet max). “Our 30-foot trailer barely fit site 205—check site lengths,” warned a camper (Campendium, 2025). Two vehicles are allowed per site (trailers excluded), with overflow parking near site 245 in Loop A, which can be inconvenient. “Parking our truck away from site 216 was a hassle,” noted a reviewer (Campendium, 2025). Loops B and C are generator-free, ideal for tent campers seeking quiet. Sites may be unlevel, especially in Loop A, requiring leveling blocks. The forested setting, with hoodoos visible from nearby trails, creates a magical camping experience, enhanced by Dark Sky-compliant lighting for stargazing.

    Reservation and Cost

    From May 17 to October 7, 2025, all sites require reservations via Recreation.gov, bookable six months in advance (opening 7 AM MST). From April 15 to May 16 and October 8 to mid-October, sites are first-come, first-served, filling by noon in peak season. “Arrive by 8 AM for FCFS—sites were gone by 11 AM,” advised a camper (The Dyrt, 2025). RV/tent sites cost $30/night, tent-only sites $20/night, and the group site $50/night, with a 50% discount for Senior/Access Passholders. A $35 vehicle entrance fee (valid 7 days) is separate, and day-use reservations may be required in peak season. No-shows face a $20 fee and forfeit one night’s fee. A 14-day stay limit applies park-wide from May to October.

    Activities and Attractions

    Sunset Campground is a short walk from Sunset Point (0.5 miles), offering access to the Navajo Loop (1.4 miles), Queen’s Garden (1.8 miles), and combined Navajo/Queen’s Garden Loop (2.9 miles), showcasing hoodoos and slot canyons. “Hiking Navajo Loop from camp at sunrise was breathtaking,” said a camper (PerfectCamp, 2025). The Rim Trail connects to Sunrise Point (1 mile) and Bryce Canyon Lodge (1 mile). The park shuttle, stopping at the campground entrance, links to viewpoints like Inspiration Point and trailheads. Stargazing is a highlight, with ranger-led astronomy programs at the Visitor Center or campground amphitheater. The Mossy Cave Trail (8 miles) and Ebenezer Bryce Cabin (5.3 miles) are nearby, while Red Canyon and Kodachrome Basin State Park are short drives. Horseback riding, biking on paved paths, and winter snowshoeing are also available.

    Wildlife and Safety

    Wildlife includes mule deer, Utah prairie dogs, and rare mountain lions or black bears. Food should be stored in vehicles or lockers to deter animals, though bear activity is minimal. Pets are allowed on leashes (6 feet max) in campgrounds and paved areas but not on unpaved trails. The 8,000-foot elevation may cause altitude sickness, so hydrate and rest upon arrival. Weather varies from warm days (50–80°F) to cold nights (20–40°F), with summer thunderstorms and possible spring snow. “It dropped to 27°F at night—bring warm gear,” warned a camper (The Dyrt, 2025). Fire restrictions may apply, and wood gathering is prohibited; purchase firewood at the General Store. Check weather and fire alerts on NPS.gov.

    Sunset Campground Map

    Camper Feedback

    Positives

    • Location: Proximity to Sunset Point and trails is a major draw. “Walking to Navajo Loop from camp was so convenient,” said a reviewer (Tripadvisor, 2025).
    • Scenery: The pine forest and hoodoo views are stunning. “Sunset views from site 216 were unreal,” noted a camper (Campendium, 2025).
    • Clean Facilities: Flush toilets and restrooms are well-maintained. “Bathrooms were clean and heated,” shared a reviewer (The Dyrt, 2025).
    • Stargazing: Dark Sky Park status is a highlight. “The stars were incredible—best we’ve seen,” said a camper (PerfectCamp, 2025).

    Negatives

    • Limited Privacy: Sites are close together. “Little privacy in Loop A—sites felt cramped,” noted a camper (Campendium, 2025).
    • Unlevel Sites: Some sites are sloped. “Site 205 was tough to level for our RV,” complained a reviewer (The Dyrt, 2025).
    • No Showers: The lack of on-site showers is a drawback. “Walking 1.5 miles for showers was inconvenient,” said a camper (Campendium, 2024).
    • Parking Issues: Larger RVs struggle with parking. “Couldn’t fit our truck in site 216—overflow lot was far,” noted a reviewer (Campendium, 2025).

    Tips for Campers

    • Book Early: Reserve Loop A sites six months in advance on Recreation.gov for May 17–October 7. For FCFS, arrive by 8 AM, especially in summer.
    • Choose Tent Sites: Loops B or C are quieter and better for tents. “Loop C was peaceful with good shade,” said a camper (The Dyrt, 2025).
    • Bring Leveling Gear: Pack blocks for unlevel sites, especially in Loop A. Check site dimensions on Recreation.gov.
    • Weather Prep: Pack layers, a tarp, and a warm sleeping bag for cold nights and potential storms.
    • Acclimatize: Rest upon arrival to adjust to 8,000 feet elevation. Drink plenty of water to avoid altitude sickness.
    • Maximize Stargazing: Attend ranger-led astronomy programs and avoid extra lighting to comply with Dark Sky rules.

    Overall Experience

    Sunset Campground is a prime base for exploring Bryce Canyon National Park, offering a serene ponderosa pine setting and unmatched access to Sunset Point, Navajo Loop, and the park’s shuttle. Its clean facilities and stargazing opportunities are highlights, though limited privacy, unlevel sites, and no on-site showers require planning. “Camping here put us right in the heart of Bryce’s magic,” summed up a camper (The Dyrt, 2025). With early reservations or arrival, proper gear for high-altitude weather, and adherence to park rules, Sunset Campground delivers a memorable experience amid hoodoos and starry skies.

    Rating: 4/5 stars. The location, scenery, and Dark Sky appeal are exceptional, but privacy, leveling issues, and lack of showers dock a point.

    Sources: Recreation.gov, NPS.gov, The Dyrt, Tripadvisor, Campendium, PerfectCamp, DirtInMyShoes.com, VisitUtah.com

    Murphy Campground

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    Canyonlands National Park is located in the south eastern corner of the state of Utah
    Canyonlands National Park is located in the south eastern corner of the state of Utah

    Murphy Campground is a remote backcountry camping area along the White Rim Trail in Canyonlands National Park’s Island in the Sky district. It consists of three designated sites (Murphy A, B, and C), each accommodating up to three vehicles and 15 people, designed to offer privacy with sites spaced to reduce visibility and noise from one another. Located at approximately 4,800 feet elevation, the campground sits atop Murphy Hogback, a prominent ridge offering spectacular 360-degree views of the surrounding desert landscape, including red rock canyons, buttes, and the distant La Sal and Henry Mountains. The sites are primitive, with no potable water, shade, or wind protection, requiring campers to bring all supplies, including at least 1 gallon (4 liters) of water per person per day. A vault toilet is shared among the sites, though some campers note it can be odor-prone in warmer months. The terrain is rocky and hard-packed, suitable for tents but challenging for securing stakes due to the exposed, windswept conditions. Stargazing is exceptional due to the high elevation and minimal light pollution, with visitors describing the night sky as “awe-inspiring.” Access requires a high-clearance 4×4 vehicle, as the trail to Murphy, particularly the steep climb up Murphy Hogback, is rugged and unsuitable for standard vehicles or large trucks with oversized campers (e.g., Ford F-350 with large campers). Overnight permits are required, costing $36 for the reservation plus $5 per person per night, and are highly competitive, especially in spring and fall. Murphy’s dramatic location makes it a highlight for White Rim Trail adventurers seeking iconic views.

    White Rim Trail

    The White Rim Trail is a legendary 100-mile loop in Canyonlands National Park’s Island in the Sky district, renowned for its challenging terrain and stunning desert scenery. This high-clearance 4×4 route, also popular among mountain bikers, follows the “white rim” ledge between the mesa top and the Green and Colorado Rivers below, offering sweeping views of red rock canyons, towering buttes, and river valleys. Key highlights include Gooseneck Overlook, Musselman Arch, White Crack (with vistas of the Maze and Needles districts), and Murphy Hogback, where the campground is located, known for its breathtaking 360-degree panoramas. The trail features a mix of wide dirt roads, sandy stretches, and technical jeep trails with cliff exposure, particularly at Shafer Trail, Lathrop Canyon Road, Murphy Hogback, Hardscrabble Hill, and Mineral Bottom switchbacks. With an elevation gain of approximately 9,160 feet, the route is moderately difficult for vehicles and strenuous for cyclists, typically taking 2-3 days to complete, though experienced bikers may attempt it in one day. Permits are required for both day-use and overnight trips, with 20 designated campsites across 10 areas, including Murphy Campground. No potable water is available, and high water on the Green River (May-June) can flood western sections, potentially preventing a full loop. The best seasons are spring (March-May) and fall (September-November) for milder temperatures and stable weather, as summer brings extreme heat and winter may bring closures.

    Labyrinth Campground

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    Labyrinth Campground is a remote backcountry camping area along the White Rim Trail in Canyonlands National Park’s Island in the Sky district. It consists of two designated sites (Labyrinth A and B), each accommodating up to three vehicles and 15 people, designed to provide privacy with sites spaced to minimize visibility and noise from one another. Located at approximately 4,300 feet elevation near the Green River, the campground offers stunning views of the surrounding desert landscape, including red rock cliffs, canyons, and the river’s winding bends.

    The sites are primitive, with no potable water, shade, or wind protection, requiring campers to bring all supplies, including at least 1 gallon (4 liters) of water per person per day. A vault toilet is shared between the sites, though campers have noted occasional odors in warmer months. The terrain is sandy and rocky, suitable for tents but potentially challenging for securing stakes due to loose soil in some areas. Stargazing is exceptional due to the remote location and minimal light pollution, with visitors describing the night sky as “spectacularly clear.” Access requires a high-clearance 4×4 vehicle, as the trail to Labyrinth includes rugged sections and sandy washes unsuitable for standard vehicles or large trucks with oversized campers (e.g., Ford F-350 with large campers). Overnight permits are required, costing $36 for the reservation plus $5 per person per night, and are highly competitive, especially in spring and fall. Labyrinth’s proximity to the Green River and its serene, isolated setting make it a favorite for those seeking a tranquil backcountry experience.

    White Rim Trail

    The White Rim Trail is a renowned 100-mile loop in Canyonlands National Park’s Island in the Sky district, celebrated for its challenging terrain and breathtaking desert scenery. This high-clearance 4×4 route, also popular among mountain bikers, traces the “white rim” ledge between the mesa top and the Green and Colorado Rivers below, offering panoramic views of red rock canyons, towering buttes, and river valleys. Key highlights include Gooseneck Overlook, Musselman Arch, White Crack (with views of the Maze and Needles districts), and Murphy Hogback, known for its 360-degree vistas. The trail features a mix of wide dirt roads, sandy patches, and technical jeep trails with cliff exposure, particularly at Shafer Trail, Lathrop Canyon Road, Murphy Hogback, Hardscrabble Hill, and Mineral Bottom switchbacks. With an elevation gain of approximately 9,160 feet, the route is moderately difficult for vehicles and strenuous for cyclists, typically taking 2-3 days to complete, though experienced bikers may attempt it in one day. Permits are required for both day-use and overnight trips, with 20 designated campsites across 10 areas, including Labyrinth Campground. No potable water is available, and high water on the Green River (May-June) can flood western sections, potentially preventing a full loop. The best seasons are spring (March-May) and fall (September-November) for milder temperatures and stable weather, as summer brings extreme heat and winter may bring closures.