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Show Safari Special . . . Hurrah Pass trip is new for this year's Safari For Safari participants who want to enjoy the outstanding variety of southeastern Utah's canyon can-yon country scenery, both from far above and at the level of the Colorado River, the Hurrah Pass trail may perfectly fit the bill. This relatively easy trail, led by seasoned traveler Charles Lovin-good Lovin-good features canyon depths and breathtaking views from high up on canyon rims. Beginning from the south end of Moab, a paved road heads west from U.S. 163, follows the edge of the Moab valley, and turns to parallel the Colorado River canyon. Just after entering the river portal, "Little" Arch can be seen high above and Indian petroglyphs may be viewed at several spots at the base of the cliffs along the river. After three miles, the road becomes graveled and turns into Kane Springs Canyon where it winds along a picturesque ledge following a creek" until the road switchbacks deep into the canyon gorge. At the base of the switchbacks is a lovely fresh water spring, covered cover-ed with dripping ferns--a refreshing oasis in the desert scenery. Past the springs the road crosses the Hunter Canyon wash after which the gorge widens into a broad valley. Abandoned mines can be seen along the base of the cliffs. After crossing Kane Springs wash, the road turns to begin the ascent to the pass. The trail climbs and winds through fantastically fantastical-ly eroded, dark red sandstone formations. Beautiful towers and balanced bal-anced shapes can be seen on all sides until reaching the summit of Hurrah Pass. The magnificent view from the pass includes the Kane Springs Canyon trail just traveled and the Colorado River gorge a-head. a-head. In the distance, the Island in the Sky mesa of Canyonlands and Dead Horse Point promontory are in sight. From Hurrah Pass the trail descends to the lunch stop, Jackson Hole, at the level of the Colorado River. Here, there will be time to relax and explore this abandoned loop of the river, geologically called a "rincon" (corner), before leisurely returning to Moab via the same route. |