Another world. Utah slot canyons.
Grand Staircase-Escalante National Monument
Somewhere along the way I became curious about exploring slot canyons. Possible a precursor to canyoneering. Maybe. After a lot of research and getting info at park visitor centers, I picked out a few routes that due to their reviews and ratings, got on my short to-do list. As I found out it takes a bit of getting used to relax in such confined spaces.
Zebra and Tunnel Slot Canyon Loop
Getting an early start helps (now almost everywhere). It’s nice to have the place to yourself and less stressful since passing in slot canyons can be tricky. I found this trip to be a great intro to hiking slot canyons. The photographic moments were brief, but the experience was and is (for me) just as important, if not more so. Photographing with great light and finding the ideal spot takes time away from being in the moment- moving. Finding the balance is part of this trip.
This loop is short but sweet. A flat open approach that brings you to a wash, then canyon and then the narrow section that reveals a short but dramatic symetrical wave of striped walls. Perfect.
Zebra Slot Canyon
Tunnel Slot Canyon
Peak-A-Boo and Spooky Slot Canyon Loop
A treat for my birthday! I can’t describe the fun and beauty of this trip. It also was nice to share the experience with someone else that I met along the way. Kat, who has been on the road full-time for over a year, joined me taking photos and laughing along the way as each turn revealed an almost natural amusement park experience. Great day!
Photo by Kat
Photo by Kat
Lower and Upper Calf Creek Falls
While not a slot canyon the surrounding high Navajo Sandstone cliffs with water and amazing waterfalls made this a perfect visit. I saw turkey, mule deer and geese along the way. At one point across the canyon, there was three large figure pictographs, a good representation of ancient Fremont culture art.
View of Calf Creek Canyon from above
Lower Calf Creek Falls
Lower Calf Creek Falls
Another short but steep hike to Upper Calf Creek Falls
Kodachrome State Park Area
Suggested by a Facebook group member, it was close by to where I was and the area has some nice less traveled hikes and slot canyons. One canyon called the Round Valley Draw, provided some challenging route finding via the north rim access and then the final pour-over which was about a 12 foot stem to the final valley floor. Forgive me if I don’t put all the names of routes I took. Message me if you are really interested and I will get you that info.
Kodachrome State Park
Round Valley Draw Loop via North Rim
Dropping in point from the North Rim Plateau
