West Zion: Pocket Mesa at Dawn!
Details
Rating: 3-5 miles, up to 800 feet accumulated climbing, minor exposed rock climbing, minor bushwacking. Altitude is around 7000 feet.
Zion back country limit: 12 hikers. This hike is in conjunction with Red Rock Hiking, so you may be able to get onto this Meetup or the other for our total count of 12.
Pardon the early start, but it's the only way to avoid the heat. You'll be glad we did start that early later on this beautiful hike!
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This hike explores one of those white sandstone domes scattered around West Zion, but this one isn't a dome, it's more like a big horseshoe-shaped mesa, or rounded pocket, with an interior section as well as exterior that we can explore.
Pocket Mesa does indeed have a very dramatic pocket, easily visible from the rim on our descent off the mesa.
The approach will be from the north side through pine woods and up a natural staircase. There will be lots of fun sandstone climbing and descending to enjoy, shaded woods to rest and relax in, and GREAT views of the surrounding West Zion peaks from several varied stopping points along the rim. These views offer wonderful photo stops and meditative interludes.
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In short, a unique and seldom visited Zion mesa with great views in all directions, moderately challenging terrain, and cool dawn light in the middle of a long hot summer.
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TAKE NOTE! The descent portion off of the mesa goes through an area with thick shrubbery. This portion is about 100 yards long. In the past, we have just pushed through these bushes, but this time we're bringing along some heavy clippers. We estimate the work to clear this zone should take less than 30 minutes.
We encourage you to bring your own clippers and help out. But this is optional, and a few free hands to help clear the clipped bushes is all we really need. Bring gloves!
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Drive: From the La Verkin Sinclair gas station we drive to Virgin and then up-country to the Wildcat Trailhead in West Zion. It's 24 miles one way, all paved.
Prep: 2-3 big bottles of water, flashlight for the start, sun hat, leather gloves, optional long pants, food, and hiking stick may help on downhill scrambles. AND a camera is a must!
See you there!
M+J
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Notice: Meetup organizers are not touring guides and are not park rangers. Expect the same risks and take the same precautions you would if you were hiking alone. You are solely responsible for your own safety and well-being. By signing up for and/or attending this Meetup event, you acknowledge, understand, accept, and agree that hiking and other outdoor activities can be dangerous and can cause serious bodily injury and possibly death. The organizers of this group and current and former members cannot be held responsible or liable in any way for the actions of any participant - including you - at any event. All attendees participate at an event at their own risk and are solely responsible for any damage to their property, and/or injury to themselves or their guests. By signing up for and/or attending this Meetup 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 against the organizers of this Meetup group.