2023-01-19, 03:19 PM
Yes, as Taco says, the gnarly part possibly requiring short wheel base is at the top of Steele Pass, a few pretty tight turns and one or two significant steps. So in fact it's not a big deal (though certainly 4WD) coming up to the area from Saline. But you are far from help. Well probably someone at the Saline pools would help out if they could.
As for the hike to Ryan BM. Looks beautiful. Was on the list for last year - basically to do what you did only in reverse. But that's a long hike and I was nursing a somewhat injured knee from a fall a few weeks earlier so did not try it. Hopefully both the BM and the other site make it on the menu for our March trip. I know someone else who did a route similar to yours, only in reverse.
PSA about going down steep smooth stone, e.g. Zion slickrock or, I imagine, some DV polished canyons. If the angle is getting too steep and you're worried about sticking to the rock, it is natural to try to crab walk down. But as I learned the hard way, the seat of my pants has much less friction than my boots.
As for the hike to Ryan BM. Looks beautiful. Was on the list for last year - basically to do what you did only in reverse. But that's a long hike and I was nursing a somewhat injured knee from a fall a few weeks earlier so did not try it. Hopefully both the BM and the other site make it on the menu for our March trip. I know someone else who did a route similar to yours, only in reverse.
PSA about going down steep smooth stone, e.g. Zion slickrock or, I imagine, some DV polished canyons. If the angle is getting too steep and you're worried about sticking to the rock, it is natural to try to crab walk down. But as I learned the hard way, the seat of my pants has much less friction than my boots.