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TIL the Coyote Gulch route in Utah works way better in reverse | Backpacking Routes - nhfree.com

TIL the Coyote Gulch route in Utah works way better in reverse

I always started at the Hurricane Wash trailhead and went downstream to the Escalante confluence. The sand slog at the end and the nasty bushwhack back up the wash killed me every time. Tried going in from Forty Mile Ridge this spring and suddenly the whole hike flows way better with the sun at your back and the sketchy handlines going up instead of down. Has anyone else found a classic route that works better in the opposite direction?

3 comments

3 Comments

the_oscar4mo ago

Funny you mention that. I had a similar thing happen with the Narrows in Zion. Everyone starts at the bottom and hikes up, right? Big mistake. I did it top down one year and suddenly the whole day felt different. You start early, the sun hits the canyon walls just right, and the water is cold but not freezing. Plus the shuttle situation at the end actually makes sense instead of that awkward hitchhike back. My buddy swore I was crazy but he tried it last fall and admitted I was right. Your mileage may vary with water levels though. That spring runoff can mess everything up.

shane_wilson4mo ago

Wait, you actually convinced me with that top down idea? I always thought starting at the bottom was the only way to go but your description of the morning light hitting the canyon makes way too much sense. Might have to try this next time I get out to Zion, especially since I HATE that shuttle hitchhiking nonsense at the end.

michael_bennett113mo ago

The Narrows top down is the only way to do it, no question. I did bottom up once and spent the whole day staring at the ground trying not to trip on rocks, plus the shuttle back was a nightmare. Went top down last September and the light bouncing off the walls at noon was unreal, felt like I was walking through a painting. The water was only knee deep in most spots too, perfect conditions.