Sundance Trail to Dark Canyon, UT

Overview
The Sundance trail takes you from the rim above Dark Canyon down to the stream that runs through this canyon, ending at a sandy beach popular for backpacking, not far from Lean-To Canyon.


Warning
This is a very remote place, plan to be totally self-sufficient. Also, don't expect a nice trail, but it is the easiest way into Dark Canyon complex.Also, don't bust the crust, stay off the crypto-soil!

History
The Sundance trail is named

Hike
Note that it appeared on my visit that they have rerouted hikers to make use of the 4WD road, rather than the older, straighter router directly to the edge, my guess is they were seeing too much damage to the crypto biological soil.

Follow the 4WD road for about a mile, then pay attention to the markers that denote where it leaves the road. From here there are several braiding paths, but they generally converge again. You will be led to the edge of a slope on the cliff overlooking dark canyon. I would recommend day hikers admire the view and turn around here. The "trail" down the slope is nothing but an erosion gully through a landslide area. Very little trace of a decent trail can be found, so pick your path carefully and avoid sending rocks down onto your fellow hikers. When you finally reach the bottom, two good trails will both take you towards the creek and a sandy beach. From here, travel up or down Dark Canyon is possible, and there are more campsites if you want to camp elsewhere.

Water Sources
Dark Canyon creek itself is reliable, but bring a filter and be prepared to have to clean it often as the water is very silty.

Camping
Many options near the creek.

2017-10-07 nonot