Join Jim Boone and the Friends of Gold Butte as they explore this scenic loop hike from the Falling Man petroglyph site to Black Butte Dam and back. The Falling Man, 21 Goats, Black Butte Dam Loop is a nice, 2.7-mile hike near Whitney Pocket that links together three interesting areas. Starting from the Falling Man Trailhead, the route passes through the Falling Man petroglyph area, then continues on a use-trail to the 21 Goats petroglyph site. There is some rock scrambling involved, but from there, the route follows washes and another use-trail to Black Butte Dam. Even when dry, Black Butte Dam is an interesting ranching-era site.

Other than the standard warnings about hiking in the desert, this is a safe area, but be careful scrambling around on the rocks. The walking is fairly easy, but parts of the route cross rocky areas where the use-trail is faint. While in the area, remember that petroglyphs and pictographs are national treasures and are easily damaged. Please do not touch them, as the oils from you skin can degrade them. Be sure and bring your camera, and take plenty of photos to remember your hike.

While hiking, please respect the land and the other people out there, and try to Leave No Trace of your passage. Be prepared to pack out everything you pack in. Also, even though this hike is short, this is a wild and remote area without services of any kind (no restrooms, no water, no gas, no food, no cell service).

Bring plenty of water, food/snacks for yourself, and wear weather-appropriate clothing. Layers are best, so you can adjust for the temperature fluctuations during the day. Please also bring hand sanitizer and sunscreen and wear closed-toed shoes and a hat. Hiking poles may also be helpful.

We will meet at the junction of Highway 170 and Gold Butte Road at 9:00 AM and will return by 4:00 PM. Because of Covid-19 restrictions, we are unable to provide carpool services, but the trailhead is accessible with a carefully driven sedan, although high clearance vehicles are preferred. You will need to wear a mask when in close proximity of others, such as at the beginning of the hike when turning in hike waivers but social distancing is simple while hiking, if you remain cognizant of the others in your group.

Please provide a cell phone number so we can contact you in case of changes, as well as an email where you can receive a hike waiver to be printed and filled out prior to arriving.