Pumphouse Wash Trailhead — Attraction in Four Corners States

We tried to hike down from the Ferntastic rapelling route. We ended up in a lot of poison ivy and poison oak as we tried to avoid deep water crossings. It was getting dark and cold and we hit a tight spot that was only passable through deep water. Due to risks of hypothermia, we opted to try and exit the canyon up the north slope. This resulted in a precarious acent, a couple of almost impassible cliffs, and hiking by headlamp until 11pm. Not sure what normal conditions are, but there was flowing water and multiple water crossings required in the upper section. We never made it to the lower mile down...

An off the beaten path trail - not really a trail - it's bouldering on a dry creek bed. Find the trailhead by parking on the west side of 89a South just past the bridge, then walk back to the bridge and scuttle down the embankment to the creek bed below. Head East up the creek. Up a ways is a nice slot canyon and many large boulders to navigate. An enjoyable little adventure - and a very peaceful jaunt. We only saw one other group (mid Sept. on a late...

Several really great spots but some have been overused to downright abused. I ended up in the 400 loop. The spots there are relatively level and in good shape. If you like boondocking, love quiet, and aren't afraid of a fairy rough access road, you will love it. I drove it in my class A towing my SUV. Just did it...