Keyhole Canyon

Grade B
Equipment: one 60 meter rope, harnesses for everyone, wetsuits, and drinking water
Time: 2 hours for 5 people
Date: 9-19-09
Conditions: Wet, cold standing water at the base of most rappels
Experience Level: great for beginners, fun for all
Tom's Description

This was a great little canyon to explore. It took us about 2 hours to complete, including the hike to the first rappel. The canyon was narrow and tall (a slot canyon). The red rock walls beautifully reflected the light of the sun. There was a lot of standing water that was very cold, so we were very glad to be wearing our wetsuits, but the rappels were short and easy. It was a great little canyon to take along a first timer.

Some of the drop-downs did not require a rappel, but instead some kindly souls had previously left lengths of webbing or rope to grab a hold of in order to let yourself down. (See my picture above.)

It is short enough to complete it and still have time for some others in the same day. We hiked Angel's landing in the morning and did this canyon later in the day. Another nice feature is that it is a loop, beginning and ending at the same place, so you finish right at your parked vehicle. I'd definitely do it again.

-Dave