Edged by a glistening stretch of the Missouri River, Sioux City historically played a pivotal role in Westward expansion with associated sights that today, along with river cruises and local hiking trails, draw in a steady stream of travelers.
Sycamore Canyon Vista Scenic Drive takes you to an overlook of the Sycamore Canyon Wilderness Area. It is located on a promontory between two major tributaries to the canyon so, as you stand at the overlook, you are literally surrounded by the broad panorama. Geologic forces are the artists that have etched into the Colorado Plateau this scenic gorge deep which twists for 21 miles along the course of Sycamore Creek. In places, it spans as much as 7 miles from rim to rim. Over the eons wind, rain and frost have exposed and sculpted spectacular formations of red and white sedimentary rock that form the high cliffs and deep side canyons of this unique area.
Vegetation within the 47,762 acre Wilderness ranges from cactus and mesquite in the southern portion at an elevation of 3,600 feet to Douglas fir and ponderosa pine on the northern canyon rims at an elevation of 6,500 feet.
Details
Location:
13.5 miles southeast of Williams
Setting:
Flat to Hilly
Surface:
Cinder surfaced
Suitable Vehicle:
Passenger Car
Length:
27 mile round trip
Time:
1-2 hours
Main Roads:
Forest Service Rd 146/S Garland Prairie Rd
Additional Details:
To get there:
Go south on FR 141 from I-40 at the Garland Prairie Road exit #167, about 4 miles east of Williams. Follow FR 141 to its junction with FR 56 and turn south on FR 56. The road dead-ends after about 3.5 miles at a parking loop. From here, you must walk south for about .25 mile until you come to the Sycamore Rim Trail (clearly marked with a sign). Follow the Sycamore Rim Trail in the direction indicated for about 100 yards to the Sycamore Canyon Vista.
Map + Directions
Basic Directions
Go south on FR 141 from I-40 at the Garland Prairie Road exit #167, about 4 miles east of Williams. Follow FR 141 to its junction with FR 56 and turn south on FR 56. The road dead-ends after about 3.5 miles at a parking loop. From here, you must walk south for about .25 mile until you come to the Sycamore Rim Trail (clearly marked with a sign). Follow the Sycamore Rim Trail in the direction indicated for about 100 yards to the Sycamore Canyon Vista.
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