Black Canyon 3B IV

[rcwild]

A physically demanding technical canyon with rappelling, swimming and buswhacking.

For more detailed information: Arizona Technical Canyoneering (http://www.canyonsandcrags.com/servlet/the-55/Arizona-Technical-Canyoneering/Detail) by Todd Martin

Rating: 3B IV
Time Required: 9-13 hours
Longest Rappel: 140 feet

Permit Information
No special permit required.

Preferred Season
Spring, Fall

[mgetchis]

We descended black canyon on May 18th, 2010. It was, as Todd describes it, strenuous. It's a long day. The slickness of the stone in this canyon can't be overstated. Lots of crab walking down slopes to avoid tumbling. This area get's extremely hot in summer months. Allow 10+ hours to get through, in cool weather.

A note on the last (longest rappel). I noticed someone had used a pile of rubble as an anchor. Instead, there is a flake on canyon left, just above the drop, that provides a safer option. Again, watch for the slippery rock. We had two full length ropes with us and used a tree located approximately 50 feet back from the edge, directly up canyon. (we noticed the flake after half our party descended).

Lastly, there is either a curse on my miniworks water purifier, or this canyon has sediment that will clog up your filter. Bring iodine or a second source if you plan to pump water. Twice my miniworks has clogged to the point of needing to be boiled in this canyon.

Enjoy this beautiful and remote canyon!