East Ridge, The Wickiup.

Overview

The Wickiup is located in the center of the San Rafael Swell 3 miles north of I-70, three mile north east of exit 131. This page will consist of access with or without an AWD or high clearance vehicle. Plan on a half day outing is starting from the gate, about 1 mile from I-70. Plan on 1-3 hours if starting from the base of the peak.

Getting There

Be sure to have a full tank of gas, as the closest gas station is located either in Green River, or Ferron, both are at least 25 + miles away.

This peak is accessed from Interstate 70, either from Fremont Junction, approximately 45 miles to the west, or Green River, 25 miles to the east. From either of these locations, take Ranch Exit 131, and turn north. Just after leaving the interstate, drive north, heading straight into the small viewpoint area, not heading east on the dirt frontage road.

Once in the dirt viewpoint area, locate the dirt road leading north. This road is easily passable by any passenger vehicle during summer months and winter dry spells. The road drops down to the hill to the north, and begins to turn in a north west direction. After approximately one mile, you will encounter a barb wire fence and gate. For those in a car without clearance of AWD, this would be a good place to park at the road begins to degrade and get's quite rugged ahead. If you park at this location, the Wickiup is on the horizon north west about two miles. Follow the road to the main T.H. located at 38.54126 N, 110.41159 W. This is the main starting point for the route leading up to the summit, from the south east.

If you have an AWD/high clearance vehicle, you can make it to the starting point of the route as long as the dirt road/trail is not overly wet. There are several parts of the road after the two mile point from I-70 that may intimidate some, however it is passable with a higher clearance vehicle.

USGS quads:

1:100,000: San Rafael Desert
1:24,000: The Wickiup

Route Description

The route to the summit starts off of BLM route 642, south east of the mountain. GPS coordinates for this point are: 38.54126 N, 110.41159 N, elevation 6,500 feet. This location is approximately 3 miles from the exit of the interstate.

From this location you will be in the bottom of the wash directly south east. Head up to the prominent ridge to the north east, reaching it's crest. Follow the ridge in a general heading towards the mountain, passing through Junipers and rock bands en-route. Once on the east side of the mountain, you'll notice rippled Moenkopi Sandstone, which is abundant in the area. Traverse to the east ridge, and begin making your way up.

From the base of this ridge almost to the base of the reddish rock, you may find glass like Gypsum, which reflect the sun on a bright day. Also use caution on some of the steeper sections, as the rock is very brittle.

Once just above the reddish rock just under the summit, make your way to the north side. This final section of the summit is best ascended from the north, as the rock making up the summit cone is extremely brittle. Test every hand and foot hold during the last 20 feet up.

Essential Gear

The ten essentials, decent hiking boots or shoes. For winter, you will need winter clothing as this area is above 6,300 feet and can get colder than you'd imagine. During summer months this area can get very hot and dry, take extra water.

I highly suggest climbing helmets, especially with parties of two or more. This mountain's rock structure is very loose, brittle, and rocks can be dislodged very easily. Use discretion on the last 30 feet to the summit, the reddish rock looks fairly solid but is fractured badly. A good set of trekking poles are also recommended, and could be put to good use.

Statistics

From the start of the route at the AWD parking.

Total elevation gain: 482 feet.

One way mileage: .6

From the gate:

Total elevation gain: loose 120 feet, gain 482.

One way mileage: 2

Images

View East Ridge, The Wickiup. Image Gallery - 4 Images