7 kivas trail / This hike ruined my knees

Описание: Embarking on a hike to the Seven Kivas near the Citadel Ruins in Cedar Mesa, within Utah's Bears Ears National Monument, offers an unforgettable journey through ancient history and breathtaking landscapes. This adventure combines hiking, overlanding, and dispersed camping, making it a perfect expedition for outdoor enthusiasts seeking to immerse themselves in the rugged beauty of the American Southwest.
Girl on a Hike

Trail Overview: Seven Kivas

The Seven Kivas site is nestled within Road Canyon, a remote and scenic area of Cedar Mesa. Accessible via a 4.1-mile out-and-back trail, this moderately challenging hike descends approximately 500 feet into the canyon, leading adventurers to a remarkable archaeological site featuring seven ancient kivas—ceremonial structures used by the Ancestral Puebloans.

The trailhead is located off Cigarette Springs Road, a rough dirt road requiring a high-clearance vehicle, especially after storms. From the parking area, hikers follow cairns down a series of ledges to the canyon floor. The path meanders through the canyon, offering views of towering sandstone walls and desert flora. As you approach the site, keep an eye out for the kivas nestled into the canyon's south-facing wall.

Citadel Ruins: A Fortress in the Sky

For those seeking to extend their adventure, the Citadel Ruins offer a challenging yet rewarding hike. This 4.4-mile round-trip trail begins near the same area as the Seven Kivas hike and leads to a narrow land bridge that connects to a promontory housing the Citadel—a well-preserved cliff dwelling that likely served as a defensive stronghold. The trail involves some scrambling and exposure, making it suitable for experienced hikers comfortable with heights.

The panoramic views from the Citadel are awe-inspiring, with Road Canyon stretching out below and the vast expanse of Cedar Mesa beyond. The sense of solitude and connection to the ancient inhabitants who once called this place home is palpable.

Overlanding and Dispersed Camping

Cedar Mesa's remote location makes it an ideal destination for overlanding and dispersed camping. The Bureau of Land Management allows dispersed camping along dirt roads in Bears Ears National Monument, provided campers use previously disturbed areas and follow Leave No Trace principles. No permits are required for dispersed camping, but there is a 14-day limit at any given site.
Anasazi Hikes

Popular dispersed camping areas include Butler Wash and Snow Flat Road, both offering stunning views and proximity to trailheads. These primitive sites lack amenities, so campers must be self-sufficient, bringing their own water, food, and waste disposal methods.

Planning Your Adventure

When planning your hike to the Seven Kivas and Citadel Ruins, consider the following tips:

Vehicle Requirements: A high-clearance, four-wheel-drive vehicle is recommended for navigating the rough roads leading to trailheads.

Permits and Fees: A day-use fee of $2 per person is required for hiking in Cedar Mesa. Permits can be obtained at the Kane Gulch Ranger Station or online.

Weather Considerations: Spring and fall offer the most favorable hiking conditions, with cooler temperatures and less chance of flash floods.

Navigation: Trails in Cedar Mesa are often unmarked. Carrying a detailed map, GPS device, or using a reliable hiking app is essential.

Leave No Trace: Preserve the area's natural and cultural resources by packing out all trash, staying on established trails, and not entering or touching archaeological sites.

Conclusion

Hiking to the Seven Kivas and Citadel Ruins in Cedar Mesa is more than just a physical journey; it's an exploration of ancient cultures and the rugged beauty of the Utah wilderness. Whether you're navigating the challenging trails, setting up camp under the stars, or simply soaking in the vast landscapes, this adventure offers a profound connection to the outdoors and the rich history etched into the canyon walls. For those seeking solitude, discovery, and a deep appreciation for the ancient and the wild, Cedar Mesa beckons.