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Scott Thorson

This is not a trail to take lightly especially during summer months and flash flood season. Expect to drink a gallon (easily) or more and pack accordingly as there are no water sources except 8mi round trip trail to the green river. Temps in the canyon during august were easily 100-110+ with little relief in the shade. I got a permit to camp solo and started clockwise on the loop, brought about 40lbs of gear including a gallon of H2O and a 1 man tent. I was almost half way through my water when I reached the crater trail (another 3mi round trip) so I dropped my pack in the shade and walked in with a 1L nalgene to at least see the crater for a short time. Ended up hiking back the way I came, was brutal but saw some amazing views and Geology. I DO NOT recommend going solo if you are not familiar with basic desert survival techniques. Also flash floods kill dozens of people every year, and this hike is %60 going through old washes. Follow the carins and you shouldn't get lost.

Great hike with amazing views of Navajo sandstone cliffs along most of the trail. Trail is for intermediate day hikers (14 miles round trip) the initial trails is along a few ridges that descend to the valley with an overall elev change of 1000ft (climb back was strenuous). Plan on at least 5-6 liters of water for a day hike or bring portable filter, there are plenty of streams along the trail to the river. Overall some of the best views I have found so far here in Utah and some of the most satisfying (but tiring) hiking I've found near Cedar.