ALERT - WOW!
Severe Storm Damage in the Canyonlands, Utah.
A storm on August 19, 2010 caused severe damage to the Mineral Bottom Road, which is closed indefinitely as a result. This damage will affect all groups traveling the White Rim Road or planning river trips that launch or take-out at Mineral Bottom. Due to the extensive damage and projected costs associated with repairing the road, it is likely that the road will be closed until sometime in 2011.
Due to the total failure of the switchbacks it is currently impossible to complete the White Rim Road as a loop. For further information regarding the White Rim Road contact the backcountry office of Canyonlands National Park at (435) 259-4351.
The Shafer Trail and Potash roads are open; however the White Rim Road is currently closed to motor vehicles just beyond Potato Bottom. Hardscrabble, Labyrinth and Taylor campsites are not accessible by motor vehicle.
There are currently no estimates for when the Mineral Bottom Road switchbacks will be repaired; however, it will likely be several months. The Park Service has temporarily suspended making reservations for the White Rim for calendar year 2011.
Green River - Mineral Bottom
It is not possible to access the Green River via the Mineral Bottom Road. There are no current estimates for when the switchbacks will be repaired; however, it will likely be several months.
Needles District
Many four-wheel-drive roads are closed, including Horse Canyon/Salt Creek and Lavender Canyon. Elephant Hill has been repaired and is now open (as of 9/4/2010).
Maze District
The roads from Utah Highway 24 to Hans Flat or Horseshoe Canyon are very rough, but passable to two-wheel-drive vehicles. The road from Green River to Horseshoe Canyon is being worked on and is not advised for travel. All other roads are open.
Overall Picture of Mineral Bottom Road Damage:
Enlarged Photo of Mineral Bottom Road:
Enlarged Detail of Washout
