I'll be backpacking into Grand Gulch this weekend, taking advantage of the marvelous spring-like weather we are enjoying.It is a little early in the season for such a backpack - so, I'm being cautious. As a sign that I'm getting old, I actually called the BLM ranger down there and asked about conditions. He said we shouldn't have any problem. Perhaps a little snow in shady areas, and some mud, but very nice conditions overall.
My purpose for this trip is to get photos and video that represent the Grand Gulch backpack experience. They will go on my site, and probably also on utah.com. So, I'll be working while I enjoy one of the best backpacking destinations on earth.
I plan to visit Perfect Kiva Ruin. I have photos of artifacts I took there about 10 years ago. It will be interesting to compare and see if any of those artifacts are still there.
The "normal" backpack route is down Kane Gulch, from the ranger station, and then out Bullet Canyon. That's about 23 miles and we would need two vehicles. Could do it in two days but three would be more comfortable.
We will probably focus on ruins near the junction of Bullet Canyon and Grand Gulch, going in and out Bullet. That is about 14 miles round trip from the trailhead to the junction and back. So, one night in the canyon will be sufficient.
That will give me a chance to day hike to another destination - probably the Big Man rock art panel. It is in Grand Gulch, about 9 miles below the Bullet Canyon Junction. The best way to see it is by coming into Grand Gulch via the Government Trail along Pollys Canyon. It's only about 10 miles round trip.
My buddies at KSL Radio want me to pack in a satellite phone so I can call the outdoors program Saturday morning. I suppose I will. With the phone and my camera gear, I'll be carrying about 20 pounds of electronic on top of my normal gear.
Should be a fun trip.
