HooDoo You See?

The cache is small. Be sure to look under the lid.

Welcome to the Wild Horse Area of the Little Book Cliffs Range

There are multiple ways to access this area. The one most commonly used is Cameo Exit 46 from I-70. Follow the signs to the BLM land/Wild Horse Area. The road leads to a huge parking area.

In this special place called the Wild Horse Area are two major canyons: Coal Canyon which accommodates single track and two track; and Main Canyon which is open only to single track.

Coal Canyon is aptly named because of the large deposits of coal that are visible as you traverse the wonderful canyon on the back side of the Little Book Cliffs. Opposite the large areas of coal is the beginning of the Hoodoo Trail, so named because of the hoodoo rock formations that rise above the creek bed.

Main Canyon is quite different from its neighbor. The canyon floor is much wider and because of its single track use, it appears more natural. From it, you can access Spring Creek Trail, Round Mountain and others.

BLM maps show trails, distances and rate the difficulty. For complete information of the Wild Horse Area, visit the BLM website:

www.blm.gov/co/st/en/fo/gjfo/recreation/bookcliffs_area_page/little_bookcliffs.html

Whichever canyon you choose to play in, you have a good chance of seeing one or more bands of wild horses who call this range home. They live in a very fragile environment. Always be respectful of their space and they'll entertain you. How wonderful to be able to access this fantastic area! And just think, each day thousands of vehicles pass the Little Bookcliffs with motorists unaware of the majesty on the other side.

Early spring and fall are the best times to view the horses, as well as for your personal comfort. About the second week of June through late August, the canyons are engulfed with nasty little gnats (no-see-ums) and/or uncomfortable heat. When you do go, take plenty of water; wear a hat and sturdy shoes. Perhaps take binoculars and a camera. OK….the usual for Colorado’s outdoor fun activities.

It’s an easy hike from the parking area to Main Canyon trail head. Follow the road to the bottom of the canyon (uneven terrain), and start your search. Check out the Gallery.

If you wonder about its name, well….we borrowed it from the Hoodoo Trail even though it’s not located near there. It’s in a part of the canyon less traveled by people but there’s ample evidence that wild horses frequent the area. BooBoosPal and Sioux Moon spend a lot of days horseback riding in the canyons enjoying the beautiful scenery, the wild horses and other animals, too. You may see coyotes, sheep, mountain goats, collared lizards, large flocks of blue birds and overhead raptors flying across the Colorado-blue sky. Look for us there. Happy Trails!