From the Far Side

Since we could not complete our loop ride the previous day due to steep sandstone in our way, we rode to the place we had planned to come out (had we been able to continue) to see if we could find a route from that side.

Steve studied the map and the terrain we would have to cross to reach yesterday's turn-around point.

I studied the scenery.

We did see some not-too-smart burro trails, and eventually Steve began to recognized signs left by cowboys and/or outlaws pointing to a route.  They didn't use cairns; they used dead juniper trunks and branches that could easily be dragged into place and could be seen from a long distance.

Above, an axe-cut juniper trunk points out the direction of the trail.  Other times, limbs on either side mark the way.
The indicated path led to a steep sandstone path that burros had been using.  It probably was do-able on horseback, if one was willing to risk life and limb of horse and rider.
We weren't willing.  If our livelihood depended on it, or if the high sheriff was hot on our heels for our latest train robbery (as might have happened to the early residents of Robber's Roost), maybe we would have taken the leap, so to speak.

We may be a little crazy, but this is just recreation for us, after all!

Note to PAULA, who asked about rides in the San Rafael Swell:  I answered you via the comment section on the posts you addressed.  I don't have your email address to reply directly.