Can be snowpacked and icy in winter. The Spring Canyon hike traverses a 23-mile section of canyon stretching from the shoulder of Thousand Lake Mountain to the Fremont River. The canyon can be accessed midway via Chimney Rock Canyon. The junction of Chimney Rock Canyon with Spring Canyon delineates the end of Upper Spring Canyon and the start of Lower Spring Canyon. Upper Spring Canyon is a strenuous 20 mile hike from Holt Draw to Chimney Rock.
Route finding skills and the ability to read and use a topographic map are necessary.
This route should only be attempted by experienced canyon country hikers. To access Upper Spring Canyon, drive the Holt Draw Road until it ends near Sulphur Creek, approximately 1.5 miles from Hwy 24. Park your vehicle at this point. You will find a horse trail angling north toward Sulphur Creek. Eventually, the Wingate cliffs will tower directly over you.