The latter officer instead of returning with Colonel Cook, decided to take up the hunt himself for the hostiles.
With little delay, a fresh trail was found and an energetic pursuit began.

It was plain the Indians were making for the Utah country, and they were pursued without difficulty; but, when that section was reached, the soldiers came upon so many trails, which crossed and recrossed so many times that all individuality was lost.

The most skilful scouts in the company were unable to identify or follow any one with certainty.
The situation was exasperating, but there was no help for it and the command was compelled to turn about and make their way home, having been in the field more than two weeks without accomplishing anything at all.
But it was known that the Apaches would speedily reorganize and the soldiers had but to wait a short while, when an opportunity would be presented for striking an effective blow.

When a sufficient period had elapsed, another expedition was sent out under the command of Major Carleton, of the First Regiment of United States Dragoons.

He engaged Kit Carson to act as his guide.
The force marched northward about a hundred miles to Fort Massachusetts, where all the arrangements were completed.