The Citadel Ruins at Bears Ears are some of the best preserved cliff dwellings in the Southwest. Built on a peninsula of sandstone cliffs, this fortress was one of the most defensible villages in the Southwest, Many visitor make it to the overlook, only to realize they can't find their way down. The first ledge you have to reach is approximately 20 ft below the point. Backtrack along the edge of Road Canyon until you find an easy Class 2 scramble to get down. Follow the ledge all the way around the point to find the second scramble, which is a Class 3. The friction walk across sandstone isn't difficult, but a fall will mean almost certain death. Getting the right line across this steep section of sandstone is critical, but fortunately there are some cairns along the route to help you see it. Beyond that there is only one more obstacle to overcome in order to reach the ruins. This little 10 ft step, located at a natural chokepoint on the causeway, was the first line of defense against anyone attacking the village. You can get around it on the right side. We rate this hike as moderate.

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