Ladder/Micro Canyon Semi-Loop 3A II

[rcwild]

An interesting off-trail hike through two small desert slot canyons.

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

Rating: 3A II
Time Required: 5-8 hours
Longest Rappel: 70 feet

Permit Information
No special permit required.

Preferred Season
Fall, Winter, Spring

[Endo]

The road to this canyon has been closed by Homeland Security to protect the dam. I have hiked past the road closed sign several times, even encountering employees driving up and down the road. They have stopped to make sure that we were OK, and to ensure that our car was parked outside of the gate, but none have ever asked us why we were there or asked us to leave. You can see a picture of the closure sign here (http://joescanyoneering.shutterfly.com/649). After that it's up to you.

My brother and I did this canyon in January. The water was very cold in Fish Creek, but it was fairly short and was only wading, no swimming. We were fine without wetsuits. We really enjoyed the short Micro Canyon section for it's climbing problems and for the unusual upstream direction of travel. The return requires ascending back up the first and only rappel in Ladder Canyon. All in all a very fun short day of canyoneering.

Joe