Syncline Loop
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Syncline Loop
Difficulty Rating:
The Syncline Trail is a worthy challenge for experienced adventurers. This hike has lots of steep scramble sections over rugged terrain as it circles the incredible Upheaval Dome formation. If you want to split up your time along this trail, there is a lovely campsite at the midway point for use with a backcountry overnight permit.
Getting there
From the Island in the Sky Visitors Center, follow Grand View Road south for 6.3mi then take a right to head west on Upheaval Dome Road. Follow this road for 4.8mi to the Upheaval Trailhead, this is the starting point for the Syncline Loop.
About
| Backcountry Campground | Syncline Campsite |
| When to do | year-round |
| Pets allowed | No |
| Family friendly | No |
| Route Signage | Average |
| Crowd Levels | Moderate |
| Route Type | Circuit |
Syncline Loop
Elevation Graph
Weather
Syncline Loop Description
The Syncline Loop is a fantastic route for experienced hikers. This trail is steep and scrambly with lots of ups and downs over varying terrain. Good, supportive footwear is an absolute must for this route and hiking poles can be a huge help. Bring lots of snacks and more water than you think you’ll need to fuel your hike along this trail. We strongly recommend starting this loop early in the morning and giving yourself plenty of time to complete your hike. If you do start later in the day, bring along a reliable headlamp or flashlight in case you finish in the dark.
The Syncline Loop is a worthy challenge for experienced hikers and will give you a solid workout as you navigate your way over the diverse terrain. For the prepared person, this hike is tons of fun. Steep scrambles and bouldery sections will make you feel like a nimble mountain goat conquering the desert landscape.
From the Upheaval Dome trailhead, follow the path to the left to hike this loop clockwise. 3.0mi in, you will reach a fork, take a right to head towards the Syncline campsite and then take a left at the campsite itself to continue along the loop. Approximately 4.4mi later, you will find yourself back at the Trailhead.
Just up the path straight across from the trailhead is the Upheaval Dome Trail. If you have the energy, it’s worth it to take a peek at this geological wonder. The first viewpoint overlooking the Upheaval Dome is just a quarter mile up the trail.
Trail Highlights
Upheaval Dome
The Upheaval Dome is a strange geological formation: a rock dome surrounded by a craterous moat spanning 3.4mi. There is debate over what caused this formation, but there are two main theories. The first is that the upheaval dome was caused by molten salt bubbling up under the earth and pushing the overlying rock into a dome-like formation. The other, more popular theory is that The Upheaval Dome was created by a meteorite impact approximately 60 million years ago.
Frequently Asked Questions
Can you camp along the Syncline Trail?
Yes, camping along the Syncline trail is permitted at the designated campground. Campers must have a backcountry overnight permit that can be obtained from the Parks office or online here.
Insider Hints
Proper footwear is essential for this route, hiking poles are strongly recommended.
Give yourself lots of time to complete this route, the challenging terrain can make this hike slow-going.
This hike is easier to do in the clockwise direction.
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