East Zion: China Hat Pass to Seperation Pass

Rating:
4 miles, all cross-country, moderate to strenuous, about 1000 feet of climbing total. Basic ability to handle oneself on difficult terrain is required. 4-5 hours hike time.

Sorry for the early start, but it is June, and the early hour makes it much easier and quicker to get to the hike. Also the low light is way prettier! :)

Zion back country limit: 12 hikers. This hike is in conjunction with Mindful Scramblers Meetup and the 12 hiker limit is being split between the two groups.

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This time we head to East Zion and a splendid route that goes where few ever go, right in the heart of East Canyon. The hike starts with a lot of fun, occasionally steepish climbing right from the road. It's 800 feet of total rise, all in one big go, so we'll take it nice and slow.

As we rise, the view rapidly expands and becomes pretty fantastic, which is normal for the area. We pass close by a large white butte dubbed "China Hat" for its shape, finally topping out thru a high pass and into true backcountry wilderness. Pristine and sublime red and white sandstone formations are everywhere.

Usually at this pointwe would proceed far into that beautiful wilderness, but this time we'll take it easy and shortcut the route sideways a bit, over to a different, lower pass for the return trip. But have no fear, even this shorter route is plenty rough and tough. And tiring! :)

Cautions: Be aware that the hike is at 6000 feet altitude and has considerable climbing/descending. Endurance will be a factor on this hike! Also, there will be a lot of steeply slanted sandstone to traverse. Anyone with some experience walking on the slanted redrock should do okay, but complete beginners could face a challenge.

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Assuming you are a rugged and safe individual, we can pretty much guarantee an exceptional Zion hike. Much of the area just bursts with appeal, almost too much so at times. Those who have been there can represent.

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Prep:
2-3 big bottles of water. Sun hat and well-ventilated clothes. sunglasses for the bright white rocks. Leather gloves are a big help too. Camera required. ;-)

Drive:
Meet at 6:00am at the La Verkin Sinclair Gas Station. Then it's just over an hour's drive to the trailhead.

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See you there! M+J :)

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Please Note The Following:

Meetup organizers are not tour 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.