| Located within Canyonlands National Park, Syncline Loop Trail begins on the Upheaval Dome Overlook Trail. It forms an eight-mile loop around Upheaval Dome. There is access to Upheaval Canyon Trail, which leads to White Rim Road. At this junction is a primitive camping area and water is available at one site along the route.Begin this hike in the Upheaval Dome picnic area at approximately 5,680 feet. Follow the Upheaval Dome Overlook Trail out of the parking area. Hikers will soon reach a junction with the Syncline Loop. Turn left to begin hiking along the southern side of the dome.The trail descends slowly then uses switchbacks as it leads westward. At the bottom of the switchbacks the trail begins to follow a drainage for one and a half miles to a trail junction. At this junction the trail leading to the left descends through Upheaval Canyon to White Rim Road. To reach the campsite and continue around Syncline Loop turn right at this junction.The trail climbs out of Upheaval Canyon northeastward into Syncline Valley. After passing the campsite, which lies at the confluence of the three drainages that flow into Upheaval Canyon, the route crosses the northernmost drainage. Ascending through Syncline Valley the trail parallels the southern side of the drainage.The mile and a half east from the Upheaval Canyon Trail junction are the steepest of the entire route. The trail ascends nearly 1,000 feet during this stretch. It follows a drainage, although dry in most seasons, around the rim of Upheaval Dome. The trail continues to gain elevation as it turns southward to reach the trailhead. It ends at an elevation of 5,780 feet. |
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