Deadman Spur, NM

Deadman Canyon, winding its way beneath the cliff side route followed by The Roundup Trail (t107), offers some easy Class I Canyoneer scrambling during the initial 2.5 miles of the lower Canyon. A few of those minor climbs might pose problems for beginning hikers.


What goes up does not always go down as easily.Fortunately, at the top of the largest dryfall (below the junction of the canyon split) is a nice trail that winds up and back to the north, connecting with the Roundup Grounds Trail below where it begins its steep climb up to the Roundup Grounds.

At the top of the dryfall look for the clear path heading off from the northeast edge. This easy to walk path stays clear for most of the route, winding over the top of another dramatic dryfall formation, then moving off and around through the desert scrub, generally following near the cliff edges until it finally connects with the official Forest Service trail 107.

If you are hoping to use this path to enter the upper portion of Deadman Canyon from the Roundup Grounds Trail, look for the T107 Carbonbite sign below where the trail begins its steep ascent to the Roundup Grounds. Turn to your right off the trail at that point... or, from any point below that ascent, simply move over to walk the cliff edges overlooking Deadman Canyon. You will make your way around to connect with the path.

If you are headed for any of the upper sections of Deadman Canyon this route is an easier approach alternative.

This Spur trail offers a nice alternative to the scrambling of the canyon... or the steeper ascent up o the Roundup Grounds. It is worth the effort to find and become familiar with this great bit of connection.

2014-01-21 imike