Turtle Back Arch

Details

We will start at the Rock Bridge picnic area, hike down to Rock Bridge Arch, then proceed along Swift Camp Creek approx. 1 mi. Here we will track west, climb a low ridge towards Turtle Back Arch, then continue up the ridge, past Turtleback Arch, in a long arc back to the Rock Bridge Road, with a 0.9 mi walk back to the start for a total of 5 miles. moderately difficult, mainly due to a couple of rock faces that need scrambling (largest around 15 feet). These are managed without a rope but I will still bring one just in case.

TRAIL OVERVIEW
Location: Clifty Wilderness
Trail: Turtle Back Arch
Distance: 5 miles
Elevation: 579 ft
Route Type: Loop
Difficulty: Moderately Difficult
Estimated hiking time: 3 hours
Trail Conditions: unofficial trail with class 3 rock scrambles.

Highlights include...
--Creation Falls
--Rock Bridge
--Turtle Back Arch
--Pooch"s Turtle Falls

Essential Hiking Gear

• Sturdy hiking boots or shoes with good traction
• 2-3 L of Water, Snacks & lunch
• Daypack for gear
• Weather-appropriate layers (50-75 degrees)
• Trekking poles (optional)

Experience Level: This is a great hike for both new and experienced hikers. If you’re looking to build strength, improve endurance, and gain confidence on a moderate route, this hike will be a solid challenge in a supportive group setting.

No Dogs due to significant rock scrambling

No Guests, please have your own membership to RSVP

9:00 AM- Park & Ride
We will meet at the P&R at 9:00 am to combine cars & gear then we'll carpool together to the Rock Bridge Trailhead. Please arrive a few minutes early to greet the other hikers, take a restroom break or grab some snacks for the trail at GoTime gas station. The Carpool will depart no later than 9:05. If your running late text me 801.628.2116

Directions:
From the I-64/I-75 southern split, drive east on I-64 16.4 mi, exit 98 Combs Mountain Parkway; drive 32 mi to exit 33, Hwy 15 (Slade); from exit go left, then immediate left (west), then another immediate left into park & ride parking lot next to GoTime gas station.

DISCLAIMER
By committing to this event, you acknowledge you have read the following Disclaimer: Meetup organizers/leaders are not guides, nor are they experts. You are solely responsible for your own safety. By signing up for and attending this Meetup event, you acknowledge, understand, accept, and agree that hiking is an outdoor activity that can be dangerous and can cause serious bodily injury and possibly death. By participating in this meetup event, you acknowledge that you're of good physical standing and willing to risk the inherent dangers of the activity. All attendees participate at their own risk and are solely responsible for any damage to their property, and/or any injury to themselves or their guests. By signing up for this event, you affirm that you understand this disclaimer, and that you knowingly and voluntarily agree not to bring any type of claim arising out of or related to this Meetup event