Black Dragon

Type: One-way, shuttle required
Rating: Intermediate
Length: 16 miles
Notes: Bring plenty of water, no sources along route

THE RIDE: The San Rafael Swell is one of the most dramatic landforms in the U.S. Narrow canyons, dramatic cliffs, and spectacular rock formations abound. There are also ancient Indian rock art panels that lend an imagination of the past to this beautiful area. Please treat this desert land with respect and practice a "leave no trace" ethic.

Directions: From 1-70 take Ranch Exit 129 north 5-1/2 miles to the Sinkhole Flats/jackass Benches sign where this ride begins. From the San Rafael Camp- ground, drive south along the main road for 12-1/2 miles to the signed junction at the trailhead. A shuttle vehicle should be left at the mouth of the canyon which is located 15 miles west of Green River along 1-70 between mileposts 145 and 144 on the north side of the road.

From the trailhead at Sinkhole Flats, head east along the double track dirt road for 1.8 miles to a junction. Turn left and continue along a dirt doubletrack descending for 2.5 miles across Rattlesnake Flats to the next junction. Take the right fork around Jackass Benches (which are on the north) and continue for 1.2 miles to the next intersection. Take a right here and follow the 4WD road east into the upper reaches of Black Dragon Canyon. The road here begins to descend rapidly and becomes more technical. Eventually the trail drops into the bottom of the canyon. After about 2.5 miles after entering the wash bottom, look for pictographs here as well as the Black Dragon petroglyph.

Where the wash exits the canyon, take the well maintained dirt road right (south) for 1 mile back to your vehicle near 1-70.

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