After about a mile and a half you reach the Hermit Shale. From this point on the trail follows along the western face of a cliff composed of the Coconino Sandstone. Below the Hermit Shale you will encounter the Supai Group which stays with you until you reach Horseshoe Mesa. If you plan to camp on Horseshoe Mesa, the campground is located on the eastern side of the mesa, just back of the eastern arm. Just follow the signs.
Chemical toilets are also available near the camping area.
The mine shafts should be avoided as the timbers are getting close to 100 years old and can give way at any time. There is an old indian ruin which is visible just below the northwestern end of the eastern arm of the mesa. There is also a very nice collection of caves, named Cave of the Domes , just below the rim of the mesa on the western side of the western arm. To reach the caves continue north after reaching the mesa top, past the Cottonwood spur and the miner's cabin. Follow the trail towards the western side of the butte that tops the mesa and look for a trail that descends to the west over the mesa rim.