Hurst Bridge

Hurst Bridge

San Rafael Swell
Hiking

          Hurst bridge is a fun hike to one of the more picturesque bridges or arches in the San Rafael Swell. This is an off-trail hike that seasoned hikers will find extremely gratifying.

Circle of Friends:
         Hurst Bridge is part of the "Circle of Friends" program. Members of the "Circle of Friends" have access to more specific information, explicit route information, GPS waypoints, trailhead location and detailed maps.  If you would like more information on joining the "Circle of Friends" visit the sign up page.

"Circle of Friends"

Ernie Bridge Christina hiking up the reef.

General Information:
          Hurst Bridge is a enjoyable desert hike. Navigation for this route is moderate with a proper map and route description. A GPS is very useful for identifying waypoints and verifying your location. Good map reading skills are essential. This route is rated 1 I using the Canyon Rating System.

          You will encounter large areas of cryptobiotic crust along this route. Please avoid disturbing all cryptobiotic crust. Stay on existing trails, walk in wash bottoms or on slickrock. Go out of your way, literally, to avoid cryptobiotic soil. Cryptobiotic crust requires five to ten years of undisturbed growth before it even becomes visible as an irregular, blackish mat on the soil surface. A single footprint by a careless hiker can destroy decades of growth.

Hurst Bridge Facts:
          Hurst Bridge has a span of 55 feet, a height of 22 feet and 8 feet wide. The bridge was discovered in the 1950's by Jim Hurst and friends from an airplane. Jim Hurst's son and a friend then visited the bridge from the ground. The bridge has been called Shadow Box Bridge by some.

Greg, Shane and Jason on top of Hurst Bridge. Christina and Greg on top of Exclamation Bridge.

Trailhead Information:
          The trailhead is accessible to high clearance vehicles in normal weather conditions. A vehicle shuttle is not required to complete this route.

Hurst Bridge

Optional Hiking Information:
          Information is also provided for those who wish to visit Exclamation Bridge. This is an amazing triple bridge that might be the most impressive natural span in the San Rafael Swell.


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