|
phipps arch |
|
Enjoying lunch in the shade of the massive Phipps Arch is the
highlight of this challenging day hike. Beginning at the Hwy 12
Bridge Trail Head, follow the Escalante River downstream via a
easy to follow trail which runs along its banks. A mile downstream
and a couple of crossings later you will encounter the first
drainage that comes in from the west on your right, this is Phipps
Wash. A well used trail follows Phipps Wash up to the second side
drainage that appears on your left or south. Do not enter the side
canyon but instead follow a well cairned trail that ascends the
eastern side of this drainage. The trail continues to climb up
several exposed pitches up and out of the canyon to a bench above.
Phipps Arch is located on the top bench. Awareness of your route
is key on this part of the hike as there is only one way up and
out of the canyon. If you can still climb, you're not there yet.
Retrace your route to get back to the trail head. After visiting
the arch on the way back, look for a trail going up the first
major drainage that comes in from your left or north. Follow this
trail a quarter mile up to Maverick Natural Bridge. Bridges are
formed by water undercutting the soft sandstone, while arches
generally appear high on canyon walls and are caused by weather
erosion. Retrace your steps back into Phipps Wash and back to the
trail head. |
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
hike summary |
- Rating: Challenging
- Distance: 4 miles each way, 8
miles round trip.
- Topography: Elevation gain of 400 feet
from TH to Phipps Arch.
- Access: Paved; trail head located on
Hwy. 12.
- Water: Available from the Escalante
River and sometimes in Phipps Wash. Carry at least 2 liters per
person.
- Fee: None.
|
|
getting there |
|
The trail head is located on Hwy 12 at the
Hwy 12 Bridge Trail Head. From Escalante, take Hwy.
12 east 15 miles, the trail head and parking area will be on your
left, just past the bridge over the Escalante River. |
|
maps / guide books |
|
|
|