Citadel Ruins - Cedar Mesa

The Citadel
Anasazi Ruins

Cedar Mesa
Hiking

The Citadel is one of my favorite Anasazi (sometimes called Ancient Pueblo or Ancestral Pueblo) ruins. This is a no bullshit place equivalent to a medieval European castle. The Citadel is an ancient fortress designed to wage war. The approach is a tight and heavily defended walkway, which is guarded by a precipice to each side. No uninvited guest is about to storm this stronghold.

Circle of Friends:
The Citadel is part of the "Circle of Friends" program. Members of the "Circle of Friends" have access to more specific information, explicit route information, GPS waypoints, trailhead location and detailed maps. If you would like more information on joining the "Circle of Friends" visit the sign up page.

"Circle of Friends"

The Citadel Ruins sit under the capstone.

General Information:
The Citadel ruins require a short hike. Please take only pictures and leave only footprints. The Citadel is rated 2A II using the Canyon Rating System. A good route description and a GPS are helpful. The area is criss crossed with confusing roads and trails. Navigation for this route is moderate. A BLM Backcountry Permit is required to hike The Citadel.

Trailhead Information:
A high clearance vehicle is advised for accessing this trailhead.

Please take only pictures and leave only footprints.

Cryptobiotic Soil:
You will encounter areas of cryptobiotic crust along this route. Please avoid disturbing all cryptobiotic crust. Stay on existing trails, walk in wash bottoms or on slickrock. Go out of your way, literally, to avoid cryptobiotic soil. Cryptobiotic crust requires years of undisturbed growth before it becomes visible as an irregular, blackish mat on the soil surface. A single footprint by a careless hiker can destroy years of growth.