We will have hiked through Mara Canyon three times in April, each with a different route.    On this day, we hiked up the (east) ridge then down the canyon, a 5 km route.   We started climbing right away.    The ridge route is 2 km and gains 1600 ft. in elevation.    

From the top of the ridge there are fine views in every direction. 

contAt a trails junction we turned downhill to the bottom of the canyon, then followed it down toward the start area.  

There are many scenic spots along the route and a few are shared here.   All photos by the author.    Click an image for a lightbox view and caption. 

juniper limbs

on the way up the ridge

junipers in the canyon

one of many hoodoos

the finger

one of many hoodoos

basalt columns (horizontal)

our route

through the narrows

The loop route is a bit demanding in spots and sections of the trail can be slippery.    Some trails are on loose materials and there are spots that require light scrambling, but overall the rewards make the effort worthwhile.  

More information on accessing the trail can be found on the Mara Canyon Trail page.   (Or – menu bar > Trails > Mara Canyon)