Blanco Wash to Lybrook Badlands Overlook trail run— Lybrook Fossil Area

The Blanco Wash to Lybrook Badlands Overlook trail run begins in the Blanco Wash. Parking is generally available near the wash, but be aware that the area is undeveloped, so specific marked parking lots may not be present. Access is typically off local roads leading into the Lybrook Fossil Area.

Yes, the Lybrook Fossil Area, where this trail is located, generally allows dogs. However, given the undeveloped nature of the area and potential for wildlife, it's always best to keep your dog on a leash and ensure they are well-behaved. Remember to pack out all pet waste.

The Lybrook Badlands can experience extreme temperatures. Spring and fall are generally the most pleasant seasons for trail running, offering milder weather. Summers can be very hot, and winters can be cold, so plan accordingly and check the weather forecast before you go.

No, there are no specific permits or entrance fees required to access the Lybrook Fossil Area or this trail. The area is largely undeveloped public land, managed by the Bureau of Land Management (BLM), and is open for recreational use.

The terrain is quite varied and unique. You'll navigate through the sandy Blanco Wash, which can be soft and challenging for running. Beyond the wash, the Lybrook Fossil Area features water-carved clay hills, mesas, and rugged sections with eroded stair steps and sandstone cap rocks. Expect a mix of soft sand and potentially uneven, natural surfaces.

This route offers dramatic and colorful scenery. You'll encounter unique rock formations, including impressive hoodoos, and scenic gray and pink-colored clay hills. The trail leads to the Lybrook Badlands Overlook, providing expansive views of the badlands. The area is also rich in geological history, showcasing multi-colored eroded layers.

While the 'Blanco Wash to Lybrook Badlands Overlook' portion is generally considered an 'easy hike,' the sandy sections in Blanco Wash can make jogging more challenging, even for experienced runners. If you're a beginner, be prepared for the soft sand and potential for uneven terrain. Good fitness is recommended, and you might find it more strenuous than typical easy trails.

The Lybrook Fossil Area is largely undeveloped and lacks marked trails. While the route to the Lybrook Badlands Overlook is more defined, be prepared for cross-country navigation in some sections. It's advisable to carry a map, GPS device, or use a reliable navigation app like komoot, as cell service can be spotty. Familiarize yourself with the route before heading out.

The Lybrook Fossil Area is a geological wonderland. You'll see striking badlands formations, including massive and oddly shaped hoodoos, some with distinct names like Needles and Teepee Rock. The landscape features multi-colored eroded stair steps, clay domes, and evidence of ancient shallow seas and coastal swamps, revealing millions of years of natural processes.

No, the Lybrook Fossil Area is largely undeveloped and lacks facilities such as restrooms, water sources, or trash receptacles. You should plan to be self-sufficient, carrying all necessary water and supplies, and practicing Leave No Trace principles by packing out everything you bring in. The nearest towns with amenities would be a drive away.

The route is approximately 4.5 kilometers (2.8 miles) long. For a trail run, it typically takes around 35 minutes, but this can vary significantly based on your fitness level and how challenging you find the sandy sections of the Blanco Wash. Allow extra time if you plan to explore or take photos.