Once in Canyonlands National Park, turn right just south of the Mesa Arch parking area and follow the road to its end. Arrive early to beat the heat and get a good parking spot at the parking loop, where space is limited. It is approximately 48 miles from Moab to the trailhead.

Route Description

This route can be done in either direction. Going to the right, as described here, means a gradual descent into the canyon and a steeper ascent. Going left means a steep descent and a gradual climb out of the canyon.

From the parking area, follow the trail that leads northwest about 100 feet. A sign at the junction of trails will present choices. Straight ahead is the Upheaval Dome Overlook (see below). Take the trail going right. The trail follows the circular drainage that surrounds the Upheaval Dome crater via a wash due north. You’ll walk through the fine sand of washes and over Navajo sandstone dry falls. The trail is evident as it leads you deeper into the wash with cairns and footsteps.

At the north end of the crater, the route jogs from the westward course due north down a steep and shady draw between towering bastions of Navajo sandstone. A cluster of trees hints that this spot is an oasis at certain times. Dropping steeply to the trees, the coolness will refresh you. The draw bottom narrows briefly before depositing you into another drainage, where you resume a westward course.

The canyon bottom is filled with foliage and a lazy stream may be present. By the end of mile 2, you’ll come to a dramatic pour-off towering above the continuing canyon that cannot be climbed down. Bear right, following cairns and worn areas on the canyon’s north side. Some route finding may be required.

The route narrows above the yawning gorge, and a narrow ledge must be negotiated around a corner. Exposure is brief during this move. The Park Service has placed a cable here for those who would rather not use the available handholds. Once around the corner, the route switchbacks sharply down into the canyon. Looking down the canyon you’ll see the trail far below on the opposite side of the draw.

Once in the deeper canyon bottom, the trail is sketchy among a jumble of boulders. You’ll be in the shadow of walls of Wingate sandstone that tower 1000 feet above you. Work over to the south side as soon as you can and you’ll intercept the trail. The trail leads you to the grand openness of yet another canyon level and at a sign, you’ll be on the west end of the Upheaval Dome Crater. You’re 3.5 miles into the loop. The trail going east from this sign leads into the crater, which invites exploration. It is 1 mile in to the crater, a dead end route. Nearby is the route’s only official campsite.

The Syncline Loop continues, dropping into yet another lower level in the ever deepening canyon. If you continue west, you’ll reach the Green River in another 2 miles, in a desolate wilderness of isolation. To continue the loop, follow the draw westward about 1/8 mile, then go up the first draw on your left. You are now bound southeast, continuing your circular route around the Upheaval Dome crater. Follow the draw up the canyon and as you proceed, the trail will become more defined. At the south side of the loop, the trail begins to climb up the steep north side via switchbacks through a boulder strewn slope.

An alcove of slick rock cliffs towers above. The trail winds toward a passage through the defenses, where rocks have been fashioned into steps that allow easy passage. Beyond, the trail climbs up more steep slopes and vistas to the west open up. The trail leads eastward through the high desert of the Island in the Sky. You may see people to the north atop the slick rock on the Upheaval Dome overlook trail. Another ten minutes will place you back at the junction sign and 100 feet from the parking lot.

DISTANCE: 8 miles round trip
GAIN: 1300 feet

Upheaval Dome Overlook

From the parking loop, follow the wide and well worn trail to the overlook, where some plaques have been placed that discuss the mysterious origins of the Upheaval Dome crater. The overlook trail continues west atop the slick rock, marked with cairns. All along the way, outstanding views are seen, including gazes into the maw of the crater. Return the same route.

Upheaval Dome Summit

If you wish to claim a “summit” on this “inverse mountain” from either route, go to the plaques at the Upheaval Dome Overlook, then climb east to the highest rocks on the east end of the crater (Class 2).

Essential Gear

There is no water on this route. Bring more water than usual. Wear a hat that shades your head and face and wear good boots for traction on the slick rock. Standard day hiking gear is otherwise okay.

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