Syncline Loop Trail

Syncline Loop Trail


	Courtesy of EatStayPlay.com

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.

Facilities: A primitive camping area and water is available at one site along Syncline Loop Trail.

Reservations: Reservations are not needed or accepted for Syncline Loop Trail.

Best Time To Visit: Syncline Loop Trail is open year round. Extreme heat makes hiking this route during the summer months dangerous. Late fall is the best time to hike the trail.

Fees: A fee is charged to enter Canyonlands National Park.

Accessibility: This trail is not handicap accessible.

Rules: A permit is necessary for overnight trips.

Directions: Syncline Loop Trail is located within Canyonlands National Park. From Island in the Sky Visitor Center, drive southward on Highway 313 for approximately 6.25 miles to the junction of Main Island Road and Upheaval Dome Road. Bear right at this junction and drive 5.5 miles to the parking area for Upheaval Dome.

There are two paved entrances into Canyonlands National Park: Highway 313 leads to the Island in the Sky District and is 10 miles north of Moab; Highway 211 leads to the Needles District and is 40 miles south of Moab. Roads to the Maze District are a mixture of graded dirt and 4WD. These roads may become impassable when wet.

To reach Canyonlands National Park from Blanding: travel north on I-191 to the Highway 211 exit. Take Highway 211 to the Needles District entrance.

Address

Canyonlands National Park

2282 SW Resource Blvd

Moab, Utah 84532

Phone
General: (435) 719-2313

Website

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