Syncline Loop Trail

Hike the Syncline Loop

NPS/Veronica Verdin

Quick Facts

Location:

Island in the Sky, Canyonlands National Park

Significance:

Trail

Amenities

2 listed

Restroom, Trailhead

The Syncline Loop Trail follows canyons around Upheaval Dome and requires navigating steep switchbacks, climbing and scrambling through boulder fields, and a 1,500-foot (460 m) elevation change. This is the most challenging trail in the Island in the Sky district, and most park rescues occur on this trail. 

• Roundtrip Distance: 8.1 mi (13 km)
• Time: 5-7 hrs
• Elevation Change: 1,516 ft (462 m)
• Difficulty: Strenuous– Mesa Top to White Rim
• Hike Description: This challenging trail follows the canyons around Upheaval Dome and requires navigating steep switchbacks, climbing and scrambling through boulder fields where trail markers are few and far apart. Hiking the trail clockwise starts with a very steep descent but affords better afternoon shade for the gradual ascent through miles of loose sand.
• Bring: Water (at least 1 gallon/4 L per person), snacks, sturdy footwear, headlamp or flashlight, map, and be prepared for, sun, rain, heat, or cold.
• Accessibility: This trail can be rough, uneven, and requires walking up and down a rocky hill and stone steps. It is not accessible to wheelchairs. In winter, there may be snow or icy conditions; we recommend traction devices for hikers.
• Dogs are not allowed on this trail. Service animals are allowed in national parks. What is a service animal?

This trail loops around Upheaval Dome but does not provide any views of that unusual geologic feature. For the best views, hike the Upheaval Dome Overlooks trail described in the Moderate - Mesa Top section of the Canyonlands app.