The trail is clearly marked and well traveled. Beware of hikers and horses, especially in the first few miles. The trail starts out in a sagebrush meadow and slopes gently upward for about two miles before taking you up switchbacks to a higher aspen meadow. Again climbing gently and again starting a set of switchbacks to the rim (~2100' total elevation gain). Pass an old gnarly juniper and some amazing views before the trail forks -> "scenic route" and "shady route". Take either and do both because they form a loop.
**Keep an eye for a trail leading down the east side of the loop and a sign for the "Jardine Juniper" - a very worthwhile sidetrip to an ancient tree.
The return is a fast, smooth singletrack descent with excellent views.
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