Swasey's Beach Trail
The Swasey's Beach Trail follows the Green River as it exits Desolation Canyon and offers outstanding views of the lower canyon as well as a sandy beach. The trail offers challenge for novice to intermediate. The Swasey Beach is a long, river beach that is back-dropped by shady cottonwood trees and is an excellent place for lunch and a refreshing swim on a hot afternoon. The traveler should be on the lookout for mountain goats which frequent the area in addition to a variety of wildlife. The ride ends near Nefertiti Butte which is a rock formation that bears resemblance to the former Egyptian Queen of the same name.
Directions: Access to the Swasey's Beach trail begins from the Green River Visitor Center in downtown Green River. You then progress east along Main Street to the intersection with Hastings Road. Turn left (north) and follow the relatively flat road for 6.3 miles to the intersection with a dirt road just before a ranch entrance. Turn right onto this road and follow it for 3.8 miles to Swasey Beach and the river rapid of the same name just upstream. The road from here becomes rougher and steepens a bit for the next 8.5 miles to Nefertiti Butte, where the road dead ends. Turn around here and retrace your route back to the starting point. The trail is 18 miles one-way to this point. This ride can be shortened to any distance by simply driving your vehicle and conveniently parking where you choose along the route.