Lodge Update

Last fall we wrote you a thrilling tale of Lodge Canyon that no doubt convinced many of you that it is worth a trip. At that time we were awed by the autumn colors, this time we were blown away by the blossoms along the trail and covering the hanging gardens. We have one further update before you head out. Lodge is still wonderful with its steep walls, but this year you'll encounter a few more obstacles as you wander up the wash. As far as we can deduce, an avalanche tore through the canyon this winter and left quite a bit of debris on the canyon floor. Watch your step as you go; plenty of fallen trees and rocks now lie in your path--but don't let them stop you! The hanging gardens at the end of this trip are well worth the effort!

PS-The false set of bolts at rap 4 were not removed, remember to cut off early and head to the east. Follow our instructions in our earlier post or consult Tom.

-Danielle

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Lodge (Employee) Canyon

Grade A
Equipment: two 60 meter ropes, helmets for everyone, extra webbing, ascenders (just in case)
Time: 5 hours (for a group of 4 experienced canyoneerers)
Date: 10-17-09
Conditions: Dry and warm
Experience Level: Experienced
Tom's Canyoneering Advice

Our latest adventure sounded a bit risky at the beginning. We consulted our trusty reconnaissance man, Tom, and learned that this canyon has a reputation for getting the rope stuck, deaths from falling rocks, and a tricky spot on rappel 4 where a wrong turn could lead to being suspended 100' in the air with no more rope from which to rappel. In addition, Tom gave this a low ranking and suggested doing other canyons in lieu of this canyon for "experienced" canyoneerers. Now, I'm no Tom, but I consider myself an experienced canyoneerer. The true selling point for our motley crew? It is October. Most of the canyons in Zion involve water. Water in October, even in southern Utah, can be exceptionally chilly. The wet Pinecreek Canyon or the dry Lodge Canyon? We went with Lodge, but we were extra careful in our preparations to prevent the possible tragedies Tom warned us of...

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