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Zion National Park 01-02-13 Northgate Peaks Trail

For the first hike of 2013 I drove up to the end of the plowed road on the Kolob Terrace and headed up the hill to the Wildcat Trailhead. From there I strapped on the snowshoes and hiked to the Northgate Peaks and back. Lots of snow, cold but the tough hiking kept me warm.

Jan 2, 2013

Photos: 16

Red Cliffs Desert Reserve 12-28-12 Cottonwood Canyon

After finding Heath Wash more interesting than expected the other day, I resolved to return and hike the entire length of Cottonwood Canyon, to the road near Yankee Doodle and back. Easier hiking in Cottonwood but a colder day and longer miles, still not difficult. As with Heath the scenery gets much more interesting as the canyon cuts through the cliffs. Gets narrow, though not a true slot it is scenic.

Dec 28, 2012

Photos: 19

Red Cliffs Desert Reserve 12-25-12 Heath Wash

Was thinking about hiking Hop Valley, but while I was expecting snow the large amount of it didn't really make such a long hike a realistic possiblity, so I drove back to Saint George and started hiking up Cottonwood Canyon. I eventually branched off to the extremely rocky Heath Wash, and followed that into the cliffs, where I spent some time exploring an unnamed tributary canyon. The area was far more scenic than I had previously given it credit for.

Dec 25, 2012

Photos: 15

Zion National Park 12-16-12 Winter Comes to Zion

Had thoughts on hiking the West Rim, but a winter storm hit the area and the hike was no longer feasible, so instead I hiked Many Pools in heavy snow. Afterwards I went to the main canyon and hiked Kayenta to Emerald Pools.

Dec 16, 2012

Photos: 10

Red Cliffs Desert Reserve 12-15-12 A Storm in Hellhole

Despite poor weather I decided to hike up Hellhole, getting rain and then snow. Partway up the wash I encountered a river coming down, and soon thereafter reached the canyon, where two large waterfalls were pouring off the side of Red Mountain. Fantastic scenery and an amazing experience.

Dec 15, 2012

Photos: 33

Zion National Park 12-01-12 Chinle Trail, Coapits Wash and Scoggins Wash

Hiked out on the Chinle Trail to Coalpits Wash, then down Coalpits to the confluence with Scoggins, and finally back up Scoggins to Chinle. Long day, really slowed down by the rough terrain in Coalpits and Scoggins.

Dec 1, 2012

Photos: 17

Snow Canyon State Park 11-22-12 Winter Quarters and Awesome Chasm

Despite being quite sick and very tired I decided to try for a hike in Snow Canyon, returning to the Winter Quarters area and finally finding the correct route through the cliffs to the rim of Snow Canyon, which I followed to the impressive Awesome Chasm.

Nov 22, 2012

Photos: 21

Zion National Park 11-01-12 Hidden Canyon From The Top

Went with my father back to Hidden Canyon to descend it from the top, an excellent fall canyon, dry and full of colorful leaves. Foud myself amazed at what I downclimbed last time going solo, and did a few more rappels this time.

Nov 1, 2012

Photos: 35

Zion National Park 10-20-13 Moqui Peak and Windy Peak

Went with Andy and Bo to find a different route up a minor peak on the Kolob Terrace called Moqui Peak. We spent some time route-finding before eventually finding a reasonable chimney to the top. Unique views from the top. We found our way down the less technical route, and then decided to head up to Windy Peak via a roundabout way that took in some alcoves and arches.

Oct 20, 2012

Photos: 27

Zion National Park 10-16-12 Meadow Creek and Mineral Gulch

I've put off this hike for several years due to a reputation for low return on considerable work, but finally decided to give it a shot. More excellent fall colors, and found the hike very enjoyable, especially the fantastic slot at the end just before Parunuweap Canyon. Very underrated hike.

Oct 16, 2012

Photos: 67

Zion National Park 10-14-12 North Fork of Taylor Creek

Hiked out to the North Fork of Taylor Creek, managed to get photos of some incredible falls colors, as the 'eternal fall' continues for me. Great shots this year. Twisted my ankle scrambling up some boulders far up the canyon, called it a day shortly after.

Oct 14, 2012

Photos: 24

Canyonlands National Park 10-10-12 Chesler Park and Druid Arch

Drove out to Moab after work on Tuesday, and the next morning returned to Canyonlands to hike the same Chesler Park and Druid Arch hike I did the first time there, except as a dayhike. It was as fun as I remembered, especially the Joint Trail. Drove home that night, covering over 800 miles in 30 hours, plus the tough hike.

Oct 10, 2012

Photos: 35

Cedar Breaks National Monument 10-05-12 Rattlesnake Creek Ashdown Gorge

Used the last day of my vacation to get out to see more colors. Hiked down the Rattlesnake Creek Trail to Ashdown Gorge. Great colors, great lighting, beautiful pictures. Went up to the Lake Creek and Rattlesnake Creek waterfalls and found that to be one of the best parts of the entire hike.

Oct 5, 2012

Photos: 54

Kolob Terrace 10-04-12 Kolob Reservoir Road

Drove up the Kolob Reservoir Road to see the fall colors, which were excellent in the high elevations, before dropping down to Highway 14 by Cedar City and taking the North Fork Road back.

Oct 4, 2012

Photos: 13

Grand Canyon National Park 10-01-12 to 10-03-12 Nankoweap Trail

Embarked on a trip down the dreaded Nankoweap Trail, the most difficult and dangerous of the recognized trails in the park. The descent was long, exciting, and in many places terrifying. I spent a day at the Colorado River, resting and snagging beers from river groups, before managing to complete the brutal two day hike out in only one day.

Oct 1, 2012

Photos: 82

Zion National Park 09-15-12 Misery Canyon

Took my parents to Misery Canyon, fulfilling my mother's long-held wish to see it. The canyon was watery but well-lit and fun. Parunuweap was muddy, murky, and slow-going, but I still made a push for Labyrinth Falls. I wasn't successful unfortunately, but there's always next time.

Sep 15, 2012

Photos: 33

Zion National Park 09-07-12 Cougar Mountain

Got an early start and headed up the Right Fork to Trail Canyon, confirming the draining of the landslide lake along the way. After struggling up Trail Canyon I ascended the break in the cliffs of Cougar Mountain and made for the summit, returning as the heat of the day was becoming overwhelming.

Sep 7, 2012

Photos: 33

Zion National Park 09-06-12 Arch Canyon and the Crimson Facade

Wasn't feeling all that well, so tried to keep things easy by exploring two canyons that I hadn't gotten to on the east side of the park. The first, Arch Canyon, I went up to discover the source of the water that always seems to be flowing from it, and the second, the Crimson Facade, was the final significant tributary of Upper Keyhole Canyon. With lots of brush, stemming over pools, and climbing over boulders I couldn't really say I took it easy, but it was good just to explore again.

Sep 6, 2012

Photos: 20

Zion National Park 08-23-12 Beartrap Falls, Kolob Arch, and the La Verkin Creek Flood

Setting out on a stormy day, I went down the La Verkin Creek Trail, taking it all the way to Beartrap Falls, which was particularily beautiful. On the way back stopped at Kolob Arch, and then the storm hit. Massive thousand foot waterfalls on the face of Timber Top Mountain and a tremendously powerful flash flood in La Verkin Creek made this one of my most memorable hikes ever.

Aug 23, 2012

Photos: 54

Grand Staircase-Escalante National Monument 08-18-12 Wahweap Hoodoos and the Toadstools

Revisited an old route to the Wahweap Hoodoos that I basically swore never to do again. Last time I was severely challenged by a mucky river, this time the wash was almost entirely dry, though I did have to deal with the intense heat. Much more pleasant and quick this time though. The hoodoos were still every bit as unreal as the first time. Also visited the Toadstools on the drive back.

Aug 18, 2012

Photos: 18

Pine Valley Mountains Wilderness Area 08-16-12 Oak Grove Trail

Decided to tackle the Oak Grove Trail in the Pine Valley Mountains again. Didn't have the best of starts, missing a turnoff and wandering through the woods for an hour trying to relocate the trail, which proved to be every bit as difficult as I remember. Did make it up to the summit ridge, but had to hurry down when I discovered I had used up all my water.

Aug 16, 2012

Photos: 18

Dixie National Forest 08-08-12 Virgin River Rim and Navajo Lake

Hiked the middle section of the Virgin River Rim Trail, from the Te-ah Campground to the Cascade Falls Trailhead, and then back on the shores of Navajo Lake. Despite having infrequent views and considerable elevation change, I found this section of the Virgin River Rim Trail to be the most enjoyable, and I always enjoy being at Navajo Lake.

Aug 8, 2012

Photos: 15

Zion National Park 08-02-12 The Subway From the Top

Took and Elaine and Rod to the Subway, his first technical canyon. Both Das Boot and Russell Gulch were flowing thanks to many days of storms. No crystal clear pools, indeed, the water was more like chocolate milk but it was still fun in a very different way.

Aug 1, 2012

Photos: 15

Zion National Park 07-28-12 An Attempt at Keyhole Canyon

Elaine, Rod, and I attempted to get in Keyhole after work. It was drizzling when we arrived, and we waited until it cleared up. As we attempted to descend the canyon heavy rain started, and caused the canyon to flash flood, an awesome and exciting sight!

Jul 28, 2012

Photos: 11

Great Basin National Park 07-26-12 Wheeler Peak and the Bristlecone-Glacier Trail

Drove out late after work to Great Basin, secured a campsite, and got some sleep before waking up early to finally tackle the trail to Wheeler Peak. At 13,063 feet getting to the summit was difficult but the weather was perfect and I beat everyone up so I had the top all to myself. Incredible views from up there. Hiked back down and continued my day by visiting the glacier below Wheeler.

Jul 25, 2012

Photos: 41

Zion National Park 07-22-12 Mystery Canyon

Teamed up with Bo, Andy, and a new guy by the name of Dean for a descent of Mystery Canyon. Things were dry and easy, no difficulties of any sort really. Cloud cover through much of the day made the open parts of the canyon enjoyably cool.

Jul 22, 2012

Photos: 13

Fishlake National Forest 07-21-12 Delano Peak via Poison Creek

A second attempt at Delano Peak, the highest point in the Tushar Mountains. Didn't think this one would work either because of some intense storms in the area, but remarkably the peak was clear. Followed Poison Creek up most of the way and then scrambled up a steep slope to the peak, where the views were great and I got to see a herd of mountain goats.

Jul 21, 2012

Photos: 16

Zion National Park 07-18-12 Racing the Narrows

Having done the Narrows as an overnight several times, I wanted to challenge myself with the very long and difficult dayhike. And I wanted to challenge myself more by getting a late start. Had I taken the full 12 hours that is the average I never would have made it, but instead my final time was 7 hours and 14 minutes... not half bad!

Jul 18, 2012

Photos: 30

Zion National Park 07-17-12 Middle Echo Canyon

Went out after work with Elaine to Middle Echo Canyon. Very hot hiking up to it in the late afternoon! The canyon had just been flooded over the last few days of storms, and was very full of water, included a flooded corridor from a recent landslide. Very exciting to see it changed.

Jul 17, 2012

Photos: 20

Cedar Breaks National Monument 07-06-12 to 07-07-12 Cedar Breaks Bottoms Via Rattlesnake Creek

An overnight trip, finally getting down to the bottom of the Cedar Breaks Amphitheater. I chose the hardest possible route, descending and ultimately returning via the Rattlesnake Creek Trail. I set up camp along the banks of Ashdown Creek and attempted to reach Cedar Breaks, but a storm forced a hasty retreat. Undaunted I set out again the next morning, reaching my colorful destination, though the hike out that day was made very difficult by the extra mileage and delayed start.

Jul 6, 2012

Photos: 43

Zion National Park 07-04-12 Pine Creek Canyon

4th of July in Pine Creek Canyon, which was showing the effects of the long drought with very little water. Most of the watery corridors were now nothing but sand, making this the first time I've had the chance to descend the canyon without a wetsuit. After the canyon we had dinner and then found ourselves at Chuckwalla to watch what we could see of the fireworks from there.

Jul 4, 2012

Photos: 19

Zion National Park 06-27-12 Orderville Canyon

Took my parents down Orderville Canyon, one of my mother's favorites and a first time for my favorite. Good scenery and extra time for experimenting made for excellent photos of the easy and beautiful canyon. Much warmer than my last time through here!

Jun 27, 2012

Photos: 16

Zion National Park 06-24-12 Kolob Creek Canyon

Went with a group of canyoneers down Kolob Creek Canyon, infamous as the site of one of the original canyoneering disasters back in the day. A constant flow of water through the canyon creates many fun and beautiful waterfalls to rappel through and pools to swim in. Very cold!

Jun 24, 2012

Photos: 36

Zion National Park 06-14-12 Not Quite to Horse Ranch Mountain

Made an attempt to reaching the summit of Horse Ranch Mountain, the highest point in Zion. Went far into the wilderness north of Taylor Creek and managed to pick up the remains of some old cattle trail that led up a brushy ridge. Very hot and stagnant day, and the going was slow. Made it to just below the gray cliffs protecting the easy terrain on top before turning around because of a sketchy traverse I just wasn't up for. Turns out I was out of water anyway thanks to a leak, so a good decision. Still frustrating.

Jun 14, 2012

Photos: 23

Zion National Park 06-07-12 Misery Canyon

After another year off it's time to get back to Misery Canyon, this time with Elaine. The canyon was in a bit harder condition than previously, with a good deal of sand washed out and several longer drops in places. Encountered lots of snakes, lizards, birds, sheep, etc. The hike out was as brutal as always, so it may be another year until I'm up for it again.

Jun 7, 2012

Photos: 31

Zion National Park 06-06-12 Camp Creek

Not wanting to run myself down right before Misery Canyon, I thought to do an easier hike. Camp Creek has been on my list to do at some point, and it turned out to be surprisingly scenic for something mostly forgotten.

Jun 6, 2012

Photos: 30

Zion National Park 05-31-12 Windy Peak and Pocket Mesa

Went out for a relatively easy day ascending peaks in the Kolob Terrace area. Started with Windy Peak, which was a little brushy but quite tolerable and worth it for the stunning views from atop. The second was Pocket Mesa, which was terribly brushy and not worth the effort, unfortunately. Made up for it with a fun drive back across Smith Mesa.

May 31, 2012

Photos: 23

Zion National Park 05-27-12 Birch Hollow and Orderville Canyon

I led a big group of people down Birch Hollow and Orderville Canyon. It was quite the undertaking, with the size of the group and the many rappels making for a lot of fun challenges. The water in Orderville was very cold but the scenery was fantastic.

May 27, 2012

Photos: 31

Zion National Park 05-19-12 to 05-20-12 Right Fork of the Great West Canyon

Put together an overnight trip down the Right Fork of the Great West Canyon, starting out with a short technical descent of Little Blue Creek to Wildcat Canyon. We then crossed the Left Fork and dropped down the tricky Giant Staircase to enter the Right Fork. The canyon had several more rappels and a long swim through the Black Pool before we reached the Grand Alcove to camp. The next morning we hiked out with several more rappels, pools, and lots of waterfalls.

May 19, 2012

Photos: 97

Zion National Park 05-14-12 The Narrows from the Bottom

Felt like some water so I headed out to the Narrows, hiking up from the bottom to Big Spring and back and also up Orderville to Veiled Falls. The water was a little chilly, but comfortable with an extra layer on, and it was beautifully clear.

May 14, 2012

Photos: 18

Grand Staircase-Escalante National Monument 05-09-12 to 05-10-12 Coyote Gulch

Had two days off and managed to fit in a very long hike down Hurricane Wash into Coyote Gulch. Drove down the night before and got an early start, making camp past Jacob Hamblin Arch and hiking down to the river and back, then hiking out the next day. Exhausting, but an incredibly beautiful and peaceful place, and something I've been wanting to get to for a long time.

May 8, 2012

Photos: 59

Spring Creek Canyon Wilderness Study Area 04-22-12 Spring Creek Canyon and Sweetwater Gulch

Took my father up to Spring Creek Canyon by Kanarraville to try out my new canyoneering boots. Dry much of the year, Spring Creek was flowing nicely with snowmelt. The canyon was positively glowing, and I finally made it to the end, finding Sweetwater Gulch, which was filled with beautiful waterfalls.

Apr 22, 2012

Photos: 39

Zion National Park 04-19-12 Pole Canyon and Connector Trail

Spent some time up on the Kolob Terrace. Went up Pole Canyon, which didn't particularily hold my interest. I climbed up to the bottom of an impressive alcove, then returned and hiked up and back on the Connector Trail, one of the last trails in Zion that I hadn't been on yet.

Apr 19, 2012

Photos: 18

Zion National Park 04-17-12 Northgate Peaks Trail

Hiked to the end of the Northgate Peaks Trail despite a considerable amount of melting snow and mud. Took my time at the end enjoying the solitude, and then found my return blocked by a stream that hadn't been there on the way in! Went downstream and managed to walk around the 'front' of the river. Very odd experience!

Apr 17, 2012

Photos: 15

Zion National Park 04-11-12 Family Planning

Despite an unfavorable forecast I decided to head out and explore down the third drainage on the way to Misery Canyon, the infamous canyon that trapped a family several years ago. I found several sections of narrows, being very careful that I was always able to retreat. Eventually I turned back because of encroaching weather, and did get poured on for a little while.

Apr 11, 2012

Photos: 21

North Wash 04-06-12 The Journey Home

After a day of doing canyons we decided to enjoy a very long and very scenic drive home, packing everything possible into it. First we drove to a viewpoint of Lake Powell, then back to Capitol Reef where we drove to Capitol Gorge and Grand Wash, then hiked the Hickman Natural Bridge Trail. We had lunch in Torrey, then drove over Boulder Mountain to Bryce Canyon, stopping at a few overlooks, and finally back through Red Canyon and ultimately Zion.

Apr 6, 2012

Photos: 25

North Wash 04-05-12 Left Fork of Blarney Canyon

After the Right Fork of Leprechaun we had lunch and decided to try something a little easier, the Left Fork of Blarney Canyon. Hiking up we dropped into the canyon and discovered it was still pretty narrow, very scenic, with some fun surprises and interesting downclimbs waiting for us. The wind really picked up and pummelled us on the return hike and during the night.

Apr 5, 2012

Photos: 21

North Wash 04-05-12 Right Fork of Leprechaun Canyon

Elaine and I headed out after work and drove to the North Wash area on the far eastern end of Lake Powell for some canyoneering. The day started with the Right Fork of Leprechaun Canyon, beautiful, narrow, and exhausting.

Apr 4, 2012

Photos: 40

Zion National Park 03-30-12 Hepworth Wash

After spending some time in Gifford the previous day I was compelled to return and finally get the route out to Hepworth Wash correct. I was hoping to get to Stevensworth Peak but started too late and contented myself with just following the wash to the drop into Lower Pine Creek. Forgot just how much work going over that ridge is.

Mar 30, 2012

Photos: 37

Zion National Park 03-28-12 Gifford Canyon to Little Jenny Peak

My father and I headed out to Zion, retracing a route I had done last spring, scrambling out of Gifford Canyon to a minor summit known as Little Jenny Peak. The views of Parunuweap and the wilderness of East Zion were fantastic, and the weather was perfect.

Mar 28, 2012

Photos: 17

Zion National Park 03-20-12 to 03-21-12 Upper Upper Coalpits Wash

After losing out on last weekend due to the less-than-impressive storm, I resolved to challenge myself at the earliest opportunity. I got out of work early and heading up Coalpits Wash, camping at the last site, waking to cold temperatures and a long hike. I found a way to bypass the alcove pool that had previously stopped me, and continued onward, finding a difficult but beautiful secluded landscape beyond. I eventually reached the confluence of tributaries underneath the towering cliffs near the very end of the river before being overwhelmed by brush and obstacles. The return hike was long and challenging, but ultimately the hike was a much-needed success.

Mar 20, 2012

Photos: 64

Virgin River Canyon 03-17-12 Hurricane Rim and Canal Trails

Despite an unfavorable forecast I decided to head out and hike the Hurricane Rim/Canal Trail Loop. It ended up never raining at all during the hike, and I had a great time crawling through the canal tunnels.

Mar 17, 2012

Photos: 27

Virgin River Gorge 03-01-12 Purgatory Canyon and Black Canyon Loop

With the weather not starting off the day off for the best, I thought it good to stick to the desolate desert of the Virgin River Gorge, where I hiked up Purgatory Canyon and made a loop by descending Black Canyon. Turned out to be a bit longer and more exhausting than I had thought, with constant rockhopping in Black that made for slow going.

Mar 1, 2012

Photos: 29

Zion National Park 02-24-12 Razorback Canyon

Back in Zion after a weekend spent in Death Valley, I took things fairly easy and used a route above Cascading Falls to reach the north slopes of Progeny Peak, using the opportunity to explore a pleasantly brush-free canyon I nicknamed Razorback after a ridge next to it.

Feb 22, 2012

Photos: 23

Death Valley National Park 02-19-12 Pyramid Canyon

For my final day in Death Valley I drove east of Furnace Creek and hiked up Pyramid Canyon to the impassable dryfall. I then continued up a bit further by climbing the impassable fall and got to see a bit more canyon. Good views of Pyramid Peak towering above.

Feb 20, 2012

Photos: 16

Death Valley National Park 02-18-12 Ubehebe Mine, Corridor Canyon, and Salt Creek

After visiting Racetrack Valley, I drove north to the ruins of the Ubehebe Lead Mine, and hiked down the gravelly wash to Corridor Canyon. Some very nice limestone narrows, and I got to have some fun trying my hand at climbing several dryfalls. Afterward I drove back to the main part of the park and stopped at the very short boardwalk trail at Salt Creek.

Feb 19, 2012

Photos: 33

Death Valley National Park 02-18-12 Racetrack Valley

The next day I decided to tackle some of the northern area of the park, which I had neglected on my previous trips. I drove the Racetrack Valley Road to the Racetrack Playa, parked at the Grandstand, and decided to hike across the vast emptiness of the flats to the famous moving rocks on the other side.

Feb 18, 2012

Photos: 15

Death Valley National Park 02-17-12 Panamint Dunes

After a canyoneering trip to Death Valley got cancelled, I decided to head out on my own and enjoy a few days off somewhere warm. After the long drive I got a campsite at Stovepipe Wells and got in a quick hike to the isolated Panamint Dunes, barely making it back before dark. The dunes were large are pristine, with excellent views of Panamint Valley, and the sand proved fun to play with.

Feb 17, 2012

Photos: 24

Saint George 02-12-12 Rainbow in Saint George

A brief break in a rainy day showcased a great rainbow above Saint George.

Feb 12, 2012

Photos: 1

Zion National Park 02-11-12 Cable Mountain via Weeping Rock

Originally was thinking of hiking to Deertrap Mountain up the icy trail from Weeping Rock, but the muddy slush on top of the plateau slowed me too much and made it necessary to shorten it to a trip to Cable Mountain. Excellent weather but quite treacherous trying to descend the iced-over trail on the way down.

Feb 11, 2012

Photos: 9

Zion National Park 02-05-12 Upper Coalpits Wash via Crater Hill

Hiked back to the upper reaches of Coalpits Wash from the Crater Hill trailhead, visiting the wonderfully secluded narrow canyon and waterfall section. Fabulous photo at the end is definitely one of my new favorites.

Feb 5, 2012

Photos: 25

Zion National Park 02-04-12 Crawford Wash via Boneyard Wash

Despite some recent snow in Zion it was clear enough to hike back to Crawford Wash using the Boneyard Wash route. The keeper pothole at the end was mostly full, yet still terrifying.

Feb 4, 2012

Photos: 20

Zion National Park 01-28-12 Scoggins Wash

Hiked up Coalpits Wash to Scoggins Wash, and followed that to the Chinle Trail. Continuing on Scoggins beyond Chinle, I scrambled up several boulder jams to the split in the wash below the West Temple before reaching the end of the passable canyon. Return I made a long loop by hiking along Chinle and back down Coapits. Didn't have the best time in Coalpits.

Jan 28, 2012

Photos: 18

Zion National Park 01-19-12 Red Mane Point

Went up the East Rim Trail to the head of Red Mane Canyon, then took off into the forest for several miles to reach a point overlooking the highway and Clear Creek. Got to see the heads of Indiana and Serpent Canyons, and show off my navigation skills in not missing the trail on the way back.

Jan 19, 2012

Photos: 25

Grand Canyon National Park 01-15-12 Badger Canyon

Spent another night at the Soap Creek Trailhead, a slightly warmer night, and then set out for the North Fork of Badger Canyon, one of the technical canyons descending to the river. Got to experience some cold water and a few rappels, and then the demanding climb back out to the rim. Nice canyons, some beautiful narrow spots and interesting geology.

Jan 15, 2012

Photos: 50

Grand Canyon National Park 01-14-12 South Canyon

Drove out after work to the Marble Canyon part of Grand Canyon National Park, spending a very cold night huddled in my car at the Soap Creek Trailhead. The next morning I drove out to South Canyon and descended it to the river, Stanton's Cave, and Vasey's Paradise. It was a very exhausting, long hike, but the scenery made it worth it, especially the beautiful beach along the river.

Jan 13, 2012

Photos: 55

Zion National Park 01-11-12 Exploring Upper Keyhole

Continued my exploration of the Upper Keyhole Canyon complex... no rattlesnakes this time. Visited one tributary I nicknamed the Golden Dome which had a beautiful narrow slot with many suspended chockstones, and another I named Indiana Canyon thanks to a massive chockstone above one narrow spot. I then attempted to scramble out to the east rim via the main fork, only to be denied by a watery cliff near the top.

Jan 11, 2012

Photos: 43

Zion National Park 01-04-12 Nippletop and Nippletop Canyon

Due to the fabulously warm weather we've had, Zion is mostly snow-free and I decided to try and get in a peak, Nippletop on the east side. The ascent was steep, loose, and in places a little exciting, but I made it to the summit with its excellent views. On the way down I took a line that brought me into the canyon to the west, Nippletop Canyon for want of a better name, and spent some time exploring it. Couldn't go far but it did have some interesting features.

Jan 4, 2012

Photos: 41

Dixie National Forest 12-29-11 Yankee Doodle Canyon

Last adventure of the year, looks like. A solo run through Yankee Doodle, delightfully dry, makes a good end to it.

Dec 29, 2011

Photos: 13

Zion National Park 12-28-11 The Narrows from the Bottom

Took my parents on a hike up the Narrows... a little chilly, but warmer than in January. In a drysuit and bunch of layers I was actually doing quite well. Interesting ice formations, especially around Mystery and Orderville.

Dec 28, 2011

Photos: 38

Zion National Park 12-25-11 Many Pools to Deertrap Mountain

Hiked up Many Pools, scrambled out to the plateau above and went to Deertrap Mountain. Usual good views, some snow, and above all, the completion of the hike put me at 803 miles hiked this year.

Dec 25, 2011

Photos: 29

Zion National Park 12-21-11 Sand Bench Trail

After freezing my feet in the West Root Canal, I decided to stick to more traditional hiking for the rest of the day and headed back to the main canyon to hike the Sand Bench Trail, or at least the part not destroyed by last year's floods.

Dec 22, 2011

Photos: 8

Red Cliffs Desert Reserve 12-22-11 Hellhole Trail

Went up Hellhole on a chilly day, the canyon was almost entirely dry. As usual spent some time scrambling up the various boulder obstacles at the end, getting further than before, finally stopping at a very sketchy rope left hanging on a wall. Next time I'll come back with rope of my own and get past this one as well.

Dec 22, 2011

Photos: 11

Zion National Park 12-21-11 West Root Canal Canyon

Hiked up the West Root Canal, the canyon immediately west of Many Pools. Interesting canyon... much narrower and deeper than Many Pools, it kept wanting to be a slot canyon but couldn't entirely pull it off. Lots of potholes though, and one, I'm sorry to say, did get me!

Dec 21, 2011

Photos: 18

Zion National Park 12-14-11 Winter Epic on West Rim

Finally managed to get in a hike worthy of being called a Winter Epic. Went up the West Rim Trail from the Grotto all the way to campsite six, a very long hike even when the mountains aren't covered in snow. Got hit by some snow on the top, and it was very chilly, but also got some very unique pictures thanks to the odd cloud cover.

Dec 14, 2011

Photos: 49

Zion National Park 12-08-11 Full Reconciliation Canyon

Returned to the east side of Zion for more exploration of Reconciliation Canyon. This time I approached it through the light scrambling route to Ponderosa Wash, gaining access to the lower part of Reconciliation near the big drop into Parunuweap. The canyon proved to have several slot sections. I was eventually able to link up to my route from the previous trip, returning via Separation Canyon.

Dec 8, 2011

Photos: 44

Zion National Park 12-07-11 East Rim to Cable Mountain via Weeping Rock

Hiked with my father and sister up to Cable Mountain from Weeping Rock. Some snow on the ascent, and on the top of the plateau, but not enough to cause any trouble. Echo Canyon was dry enough to check out a bit, though some not-entirely-frozen pools eventually stopped me.

Dec 7, 2011

Photos: 17

Zion National Park 12-04-11 Progeny Peak and Upper Pine Creek

Out again on the east side despite some cold weather a little bit of snow. Climbed to the top of Progeny Peak, visiting Two Pines Arch on the way. Great views from the top, though a little chilly. Came back down and decided to hike Upper Pine Creek for a time, surmounting a number of boulder problems of various difficulties before turning around at a very large rock jam with little light left.

Dec 4, 2011

Photos: 32

Red Cliffs Recreation Area 11-30-11 Red Reef and Orange Canyon Loop

With Elaine and I both feeling a little under the weather we decided to keep things simple and went out to the Red Cliffs Recreation Area and made a loop of a side canyon and the main canyon. Nice weather for it, and no one ended up in the chilly water.

Nov 30, 2011

Photos: 12

Zion National Park 11-27-11 Reconciliation Canyon

Explored a canyon on the Parunuweap side of Separation Canyon, which I nicknamed Reconciliation Canyon. Routefinding a way through the cliffs I discovered a narrow slot filled with quicksand before being stopped by a very large drop. Coming back I made a loop by hiking up the east fork of the canyon to Checkerboard Canyon.

Nov 27, 2011

Photos: 39

Death Valley National Park 11-20-11 Grotto Canyon

For my final hike in Death Valley this weekend I drove further north to the Stovepipe Wells area and Grotto Canyon. A strenuous hike up the soft gravel of the wash led me to a short but enjoyable section of climbing up dryfalls in a narrow sculpted slot.

Nov 22, 2011

Photos: 14

Death Valley National Park 11-20-11 Desolation Canyon

After Sidewinder Canyon I had lunch and drove north on the Badwater Road to Desolation Canyon. This one was one of the longer hikes I did but certainly the easiest thanks to the hard surface of the canyon bottom. Lots of great color to the rock and good views of the Artist's Drive area.

Nov 21, 2011

Photos: 11

Death Valley National Park 11-20-11 Badwater Basin and Sidewinder Canyon

Started the second day in Death Valley early with a drive south, stopping at Badwater Basin to visit the lowest point in North America, even though I've been there three times now, why not? Further south I hiked up Sidewinder Canyon, a strenuous jaunt up a gravelly wash with several very interesting slot canyons coming into it to explore.

Nov 20, 2011

Photos: 39

Death Valley National Park 11-19-11 Natural Bridge Canyon

After visiting Darwin Falls I made the long drive back to the main part of the park around Furance Creek, and then further south near Badwater Basin to visit a short canyon known for a large natural bridge. Beyond I discovered some fun dryfalls to scramble up, including the final rappel if one was descending the technical portion of the canyon.

Nov 19, 2011

Photos: 16

Death Valley National Park 11-19-11 Darwin Falls

Put together a last minute trip to Death Valley, where the weather was warm. Mostly went to check out various canyons with an eye to descending some at a later time. My first stop was a surprisingly watery place called Darwin Falls on the far west side of the park.

Nov 18, 2011

Photos: 18

Zion National Park 11-17-11 Hop Valley to Beartrap Falls

Hiked Hop Valley to Beartrap Falls and back, succeeding in reaching my goal of 700 miles hiked this year. The day was cold to begin with but warmed greatly. La Verkin Creek was pleasant and the falls as enjoyable as always, though the higher water made for a bit more challenge getting there dry.

Nov 17, 2011

Photos: 31

Zion National Park 11-13-11 Observation Point Trail

Hiked up to Observation Point after work today, made it up and back in 2 hours and 25 minutes, a personal best. Cloudy and a little cool but good weather for hiking. Nice lighting on Zion Canyon through the cloud cover at the top.

Nov 13, 2011

Photos: 11

Zion National Park 11-10-11 Clear Creek and Petroglyph Canyon

Hiked Clear Creek all the way from the east entrance to Pine Creek and back... though I was stopped just shy by impassable water pools. Also took some time to wander up Petroglyph Canyon, so named for obvious reasons. Lots of sheep out.

Nov 10, 2011

Photos: 47

Zion National Park 11-06-11 Parunuweap Pass Canyon to Cockeye Falls

The day was supposed to be rainy in the afternoon, cold, with snow possible in the higher elevations. But not letting that stop me I headed out to the east side of Zion to continue exploring side canyons off Clear Creek. I went up Parunuweap Pass Canyon, scrambled up to the Hidden Dragon, and then looped back down by Cockeye Falls, having a fairly typical encounter with bighorn sheep along the way. Managed to get it all in just before the rains hit.

Nov 6, 2011

Photos: 24

Red Cliffs Recreation Area 11-05-11 Red Reef Trail

Wasn't feeling all that well and the weather was cold and windy. Finally got up the desire to head out to Red Cliffs Rec Area and hike part of the Red Reef Trail and do a loop with Orange Canyon. Unfortunately declined to bring a map and Orange Canyon proved irritatingly difficult to find from the other side, so I ended up hiking the Red Reef Trail and back on Prospector, a bit more of a day than I wanted. Nice waterfalls at the start of Red Reef.

Nov 5, 2011

Photos: 18

Zion National Park 11-02-11 Birch Hollow

Even with the weather turning cool I'm looking for some canyoneering action. My father has been asking me to take him back out to Birch Hollow, so I decided to go for it. First rap had some ice but the canyon was nicely dry past that. The usual for Birch, lots of easy and fun rappels. Orderville was icy on the hike out until we ran into a river of snowmelt coming down the canyon.

Nov 2, 2011

Photos: 33

Zion National Park 10-29-11 East Entrance to Deertrap Mountain

Wanted to get in some major mileage today, so was planning on hiking the long and difficult route down Meadow Creek to Mineral Gulch, but that turned out to have a lot of water flowing through it which made any progress very slow. Decided instead to hike to Deertrap Mountain from the East Entrance and back. Lots of miles but nice cool weather for hiking.

Oct 29, 2011

Photos: 15

Zion National Park 10-23-11 Middle Fork of Taylor Creek Trail

After the epic adventure the other day on Flagpole Mountain I needed something a little easier, and invited Elaine to check out the fall colors along the Middle Fork of Taylor Creek. They were very good, and the hike easy and calming.

Oct 23, 2011

Photos: 11

Zion National Park 10-20-11 Flagpole Mountain

Elaine and I completed a truly epic adventure, visiting Flagpole Mountain, a very rarely done route that involves several rappels, some climbing, and lots of brush. The views were incredible and unique, including a look straight down into the Narrows near Mystery Falls. Getting back required a complex and exhilarating rappel sequence down a large wall into Mystery Canyon, and then a grueling hike up the normal descent route.

Oct 20, 2011

Photos: 41

Zion National Park 10-15-11 Das Boot and the Subway

My sister wanted to descend the Subway, and my father was going to lead the adventure before I decided to join in. I convinced everyone to add Das Boot to make things more interesting. The water was of course very cold in Das Boot, but everyone made it through okay. Subway was warmer and nice. Last time I make the slog up the hill at the end, this year at least.

Oct 15, 2011

Photos: 24

Canaan Mountain Wilderness Area 10-13-11 Water Canyon to the Windlass

Went up Water Canyon to the top of Canaan Mountain, with the usual stops at the White Domes, Notch, and windlass ruins. Broke 600 miles for the year with the day's hike.

Oct 13, 2011

Photos: 22

Red Cliffs Desert Reserve 10-11-11 Red Mountain Trail to Snow Canyon Overlook

I went out after work to get in some extra hiking, trying to enjoy the cooler fall weather around Saint George by going out on the Red Mountain Trail to the overlook of Snow Canyon. Had it all to myself and made excellent time.

Oct 11, 2011

Photos: 8

Zion National Park 10-08-11 Red Mane Canyon

After my encounter with a rattlesnake in Serpent Canyon, I decided to leave the rest of the Keyhole Canyon complex for later and check out another canyon to the east. A fairly long canyon, surprisingly easy till the end, and one that allowed me to climb all the way out and intersect the East Rim Trail and follow it back.

Oct 9, 2011

Photos: 18

Zion National Park 10-08-11 Serpent Canyon

Trying to take it easy, I embarked on a day of exploring unnamed canyons on the east side of Zion. First I went up into the Upper Keyhole Canyon complex and checked out the first major tributary canyon, and had a close encounter with a rattlesnake, leading to the name.

Oct 8, 2011

Photos: 21

Zion National Park 10-05-11 West Rim Trail The Grotto to Campsite Six

Wanting to get in some decent miles I headed out to Zion despite a less-than-stellar weather forecast and headed up the West Rim Trail, first to Cabin Spring, and then continuing on to Campsite Six and back. Started raining on the way up and never stopped, making for a wet and muddy hike but starting many waterfalls along the return hike.

Oct 5, 2011

Photos: 34

Jeremy Gorzalski
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Recent Comments View All

	"big wow" nic lemandroiu
	"wow ... beautiful" nic lemandroiu
	"It's a complex route that's not really marked at all. A lot of people will end up rappelling in from the rim of the canyon instead of finding the walk-in route. It would obviously make a huge difference to go with someone who has been there before... but then again, I didn't the first time, and I found my way there. Luke's route description at http://www.bluugnome.com//cyn_route/zion_das-boot/zion_das-boot.aspx is the best step-by-step I've found for it. Expect to still take some time figuring it out." Jeremy Gorzalski
	"What is hard finding the entrance to 'Das Boot'? Do you recommend going with a guide your first time through?" Daniel McNeely
	"We used to call it Five Fingers, where the canyons come to an end at the top. A nice afternoon hike when you've got a lot of kids bouncing off the walls. We'd each get a can of soda pop to drink when we got to the end and rested awhile before starting back down. Kolob is probably sirius with the hidden Sirius2 being the residence of God or the Gods." kathleen matheson...

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