The Wickiup is a really cool, pointy peak in southern Utah near the San Rafael Swell. In addition to being steep, the peak has some cool coloring, sporting a reddish top.

Dylan and Nicole had came "our way" to Colorado back-to-back weekends, so it was our turn to head their way to Utah.

We picked them up at Crescent Junction and drove the remaining hour to The Wickiup. I had never driven I-70 past Green River... very cool!

The stats above seem pretty small, The Wickiup is a short trip. We combined it with an ascent of nearby Indian Benchmark, still making for a short day.

I had read reports that The Wickiup was super steep, super loose and super dangerous. In fact, I had read a recent report of someone wearing crampons on the steep dirt... hmmm!

We set off to climb the peak from the south, making our way up some drainages and eventually onto a ridge that led to the base of the peak. Now the rest of the way was all steep.

I won't say it isn't steep and loose, but it isn't terrible. The surprising thing to me was after a very short time, we just "popped out" near the summit. I was anticipating more steep and more loose and more angst from my wife, but we were almost done... YES!

The final 15 feet or so to the top would be an easy scramble, but there is just loose rock to grab on the final 2 or 3 handholds, making the final move a bit tricky.

The top is tiny and airy with great views!

The descent goes fast, as the dirt is forgiving, so you can get some speed.

Fun area to explore. For a post hike meal, check out Ray's Tavern in Green River.

Take I-70 west from Green River, Utah. Get off on exit 131. Turn right after the exit, then basically take the next left, a road heading north toward The Wickiup.

This road doesn't require 4-wheel drive, but a sedan might have some issues depending on the tires and driver.

We started from the south and hit the rib to the top that made the most sense. I have heard others doing the west ridge or coming in from further east.