Fun, but more challenging than expected!

While we really enjoyed this trail, we didn't exactly know what we were getting into. (At least when we went in October 2022). Due to past flash floods, almost all trail markers had been washed away, and there were dozens of times when we weren't sure which way was the "correct" trail. However, (luckily) most of the time, the two trail options joined back up shortly. We also didn't realise we would absolutely be getting our feet wet; or climbing through, around, and over small boulders on our journey. The majority of parties we passed had at least one dog with them, but many were off-leash. And frankly, with the challenging terrain in a few spots, it would be difficult to keep even the best behaved and skilled pup on leash in those places, due to narrow passes, crossing water, and climbing up or down rocks. There were also at least two places that my (relatively young and agile) pup was too uncertain to follow me, and I had to let her find her own way back to the trail. Finally, this trail would require a lot more planning if we had done it in the heat of summer, as I would've needed way more water, and my pup probably would've needed some kind of booties to protect her feet from the sand that would be blazing hot on almost the entire trail. All that being said, we did both have a lot of fun, got to challenge ourselves without pushing too far, and the water was great for Lexi to both wade in (and swim, if she had wanted) and drink. Since we went in autumn, the weather was wonderful with the coolness of the shady canyon and periodic stretches of sun. I would certainly do this trail with my pup again someday!

Oct. 18, 2022