Syncline Campground

Cool backcountry campsite. The NPS is not kidding when they say that the trail is strenuous and difficult to follow - the trail is hard to see, very curvy, and at one point you have to follow carins up around a cliff through a steep boulderfield. It is easy to see why it is the trail that requires the most rescues in the park. Me and a friend started in the afternoon and hiked counterclockwise. We spent one night at the campsite, which is right at the bottom and 1300 ft below the trailhead. There is no water at the site or on the trail (we passed one water source that I suspect is seasonal). Everything must be packed out as the desert dirt does not decompose stuff well, so be sure to bring a wag bag. Otherwise, this is a cool site :)

Fantastic campsite, but be warned: the trail is rough. We hiked clockwise and the ascent out the next day was one of the hardest hikes we have ever experienced. Bouldering with a backpack is not for the faint of heart, and that is what he had to do on the ascent out of the canyon. Beautiful campsite though, one of the most magical in my life.

Beautiful, but make sure your tent is sturdy because winds can be high through the canyon.

A little exposed to the weather but a great view.