Utah·United States
Photo: Paxson Woelber · Wikimedia Commons (CC BY 2.0)
The Escalante River and its tributaries carve some of the most beautiful canyon country in the Southwest, with alcoves, arches and slot canyons far from any road. Coyote Gulch is the classic, while Death Hollow and the Golden Cathedral offer swims and rappels.
In season: Apr–May, Sep–Oct · Peak: Oct
Walking in shallow creeks and on sand, with scrambles and optional rappels in the side canyons. Water sources are good in the main canyons, but the approaches are hot and exposed.
Arches, a natural bridge and a creek you walk in
Deep narrows and swimming sections, the hard one
Rappel through the roof holes to a sandstone chamber
Pick up the free backcountry permit in the town of Escalante and check road conditions to the trailheads. Start with Coyote Gulch over two or three days, then try Death Hollow or Neon Canyon once you are comfortable with swims and rope work.
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