Trail Map of Noah's Ark Trail - Dixie National Forest

Three mile round trip hike on a maintained trail. Beautiful views of Noah's Ark and Vermillion Castle rock formations.

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Overview
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Noah's Ark Trail - Dixie National Forest
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Difficult: 3.0 miles, Half day
 
Overview: The origin of this namesake rock is as lost to history as the original Ark is lost to the world. It is presumed that much like the rock pinnacles of Zion National Park which were named by a traveling Methodist Minister who, on a whim, started naming the spires of Zion. Some early settler startled by the similarities of the shape started calling the large square summit Noah's Ark.

The Noah's Ark Trail, part of the Dixie National Forest trail system is a maintained trail of dirt and rock. Moderate at the start, this 3 mile round trip (trailhead sign says 1 mile) becomes difficult the last half mile through steep, crumbling rock formations.

Tips: Elevation: Respect the fact you are hiking at 7000 - 8000 feet elevation. You can expect to be winded but pay attention to any unexplained headaches and move to lower elevation if necessary.
Water: 2 liters per person. The picnic area does NOT have potable water.
Good hiking shoes and a hiking stick or walking poles. I have never used walking poles, but on the down hill "slide" through the crumbling composition rock it would have been nice to have the balance poles or a walking stick provide.
Bug Spray: Although not a noticeable problem, there is water in the area and the fly's and Nat's are a nuisance without some form of protection.
Camera! Views are fantastic
Trailhead and Parking
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Scrub Oak and Timbered Draw
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Pinyon Pine Ridge
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Lighting Strike and Striking Views
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Conglomerate Rock
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Bristlecone Pine Trees
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Viewpoint
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POIs: numbers | icons