HDT Day 24: Coyote Gulch & Hurricane Wash

Daily Miles: 11.9, Total Miles: 324.8

My earliest jump start of the hike even after two cups of coffee.

I can understand why Coyote Gulch is so popular. Accessible, narrow canyon, stream, waterfalls, and, to top it off, beautiful arches, Coyote Natural Bridge that you walk through and Jacob Hamlin Arch, that’s extra special because the canyon wraps around on itself. You see the front and back of the arch from the canyon floor. I felt like my neck was on a swivel most of the way up the canyon.

I exited into Hurricane Wash which was pretty cool in its own right before widening out. I was immediately slowed down by deep, fine sand.

I got to the Hurricane TH on the Hole-in-the-Rock Road, now having entered the Grand Staircase Escalante National Monument (GSENM). Dusted myself off, put on a fresh coat of sunscreen (thru-hiker deodorant) and waited for a ride.

Right behind me came four young men just finishing their hike and heading for their Jeep. I asked for a ride to Escalante if they were headed that way. They said there was probably not enough room but they would see what they could do. Where there is a will, there is a way – they gave me the thumbs up. Five guys, five backpacks and climbing equipment – packed in so tight, no need for seatbelts.

Had a great time talking to these BYU students who had just finished their finals and on their last fling before parting ways for the summer. Oh, to be young again! Forty miles into Escalante on a washboard road. Ok guys, thanks again and check tomorrow’s post for your pic!