Target Ruins in Butler Wash Bears Ears

by Pat A | Aug 17, 2021 | Videos | 0 comments

Target Ruin is an Anasazi cliff dwelling found in Upper Butler Wash on the eastern side of Comb Ridge.

The hike to the Target Ruins is mostly very easy and access is simple as the trailhead is on the roadside of Utah 95.

Most of the ruins, in the Upper Butler Wash area, are Anasazi construction of Mesa Verde Anasazi style. However, some Kayenta influences can be found. Roughly speaking, Comb Ridge is considered a dividing line between the cultures but there is no exact line and many of the ruins in this general area show a mix of the two construction styles.

Target Ruins in Butler Wash Bears Ears Pocket 2
Target Ruins Butler Was Bears Ears

The alcove on the south (left-hand side looking up Canyon) holds the remains of what was once a fairly extensive set of structures but most of these structures are now in serious disrepair. This alcove is easily accessed by a trail that is obvious and is easy to explore. Although most of the rooms are gone, several still show their initial shape and configuration. In addition to the ruins, there are a number of metates created by the repeated grinding of corn on the rock. There are a few petroglyphs and pictographs on the alcove walls.

The alcove on the north side (right side looking into the canyon) has a large well-preserved ruin that is the Target Ruin. Unfortunately, the alcove is surrounded by sheer walls and there is no way to access the ruin without climbing aids.

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