Although we have visited the Guardsmen many times, we often take different routes in and out.   Details on how to get to the area are already documented on this site (type Guardsmen into the Search box).   On this trip, we followed a track and game trail into the vale between Wheeler Mountain and the Mara hills.    Eskers from the last ice age run down into the valley.

All of the approaches down to the river are a little rough and windfall from dead trees gets worse each time.   We have also done this hike in different seasons.   On our last hike, we did it in June, which means the river is high.   Although we enjoyed Tranquille River, there were no good places to sit for lunch.    Later in the year, we can find a big rock to sit on next to the river.

Both sides of the colorful gorge are lined with  big hoodoos (the Guardsmen).

On our way back out, we went straight up the ridge, a steep and loose route.   For the best views, this is the best choice, but it is a scramble, not suited for all hikers.  We took a last look into the canyon before following the double track down through the sagebrush-covered hills.

Spring brings higher river flows and limits where we can sit and explore.   Summer brings heat and most of the route is out in the open on south-facing slopes, but we can cool ourselves off in the river.   In fall the river drops a lot, but temperatures and access is better.   Pick your own season, but make sure you get at least one visit to the Guardsmen.