San Rafael Swell May 2021

I have been going to the “ Swell” for 40 years but always came in from Castle Dale or Buckhorn rd off Hwy 70. And always to the Wedge overlook, ( which looked like a ghettowhen we went up there this time)where we would camp for a few days and leave the area. Thanks to OTG trails guide I got to see much more off the area than I have in the past. Especially on the south side of 70. I did as much of the trails as my Sprinter would allow only turning back at the tight trail in Black Dragon canyon and the beginning of Behind the Reef Trail. Did not try Devils Racetrack. All the campsites marked on the trails were really nice with some very interesting and artistic fire pits even though I never light a fire because at my age I turn in around dark. The trails are so much fun I’m going back to do them again.

 

[Todtan]

You should try Lonesome Beaver trail in the Henry MTNs south of Hanksville. The LB campground is pretty nice and we where the only ones there over Labour Day weekend!

 

[Gvb40]

Thanks! I’ll give it a try. That is my go to area in the Spring.

 

[Todtan]

It's high...11,000ft at Bull Creak pass so snow lingers.

 

[OTG Ben]

Thanks! I’ll give it a try. That is my go to area in the Spring.

Our Capitol Reef Backcountry Route goes high into the henry mountains, if you're interested

Overland Guide for Capitol Reef - Route Guide, Maps, GPX files

Route Overview Adventure Rating: Epic Trip Length: 203 miles, 3 - 6 days Season: April - November, but spring and fall provide optimal weather. Avg Technical Rating: 2 Peak Technical Rating: 4 Typical Terrain: Mostly graded dirt roads, some secondary roads that can be mildly technical, and a...

www.overlandtrailguides.com

 

[Gvb40]

It's high...11,000ft at Bull Creak pass so snow lingers.

Do you go in at Hanksville and come out on Notom Bullfrog rd or continue south? I’m mapping it out right now on Gaia.
not sure if you’ve been to the south of 70 in the SR Swell. There are a couple of really nice Camping spots described on the SR Swell tracks on this OTG site.

 

[Todtan]

This is the route we did.

Topo Maps, Trail Maps, and Satellite Imagery

Access free topo maps online and use intuitive mapping tools to plan your next adventure. Gaia GPS’s map catalog includes detailed satellite imagery, worldwide trail maps, weather forecasting overlays, and avalanche data overlays.

www.gaiagps.com