Sierra Canyon - 3AIII

[nonot]

If you have been to Tango Canyon as described in Todd's book, you know that after climbing up Horse Mesa you descend a drainage and then veer out of it to the north (after about 2.5 miles) to get into Tango.

Instead, continue down the drainage. 7 total rappels, some of them nuisance rappels. Highest rap is about 85 feet, I recommend a 60ft rope+200ft rope and bring lots of webbing and 40 ft or cord to beef up some of the anchors if you're the picky type. May be wet now that we got some rain.

Better than Tango IMO. 6-10 hours.

Approach and exit same as Tango.

Named it Sierra because it comes before Tango. Also if Todd gets to name his canyon, I get to too.

Note: 3AIII in early fall after summer. Once we get decent winter rains, probably a 3BIII through the following spring.
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[coati]

Thanks for posting the beta.

Was looking for a winter canyon near Phoenix that was longer than other ones nearby in the Supes. This really fit the bill.

Might want to reconsider the "A" rating. Had a few unavoidable deep wades and one short swim. The water wasn't very cold; I was fine with a 2 mil shorty wet suit with the air temp around 65 degrees.

[84x4bronco]

just an additional word, water levels in the spring or after storms may prohibit keeping dry in the first recognizable water obstacle, because there are small footholds close to the water.

the swim at the chokestone rappel is avoidable by traversing a cliff band midwall on the left side, slightly exposed. There are anchors on this wall around 75ft past the chokestone rappel. Those who do not feel comfortable with this traverse can be sent across via zipline (see my pictures of sierra.)

as far as keeping dry goes at the end of the narrow slot, the wall on the right is slick, but you can get a good foot launch from it.

if you have any doubts about your abilities, bring the wetsuit.

for this reason alone, i'd agree with a "B" rating.

[84x4bronco]

anchor update.

there was a small tree utilized up a draw in the side of the canyon which required 50 feet of webbing. i have moved this anchor to a small crack in the watercourse ten feet from the lip by utilizing a knot chock. the knot chock sets wonderfully where it is. if you plan on replacing it, be sure to pay attention to which way the knot was oriented when it was in place. if it faces the other direction, it will want to walk out. :)

[84x4bronco]

Beta Update:

this canyon can be done dry. At the awkward chokestone, climb onto a ledge system on canyon left and work your way around the wall about 100-150 feet down canyon to a weakness 8-10 feet wide. at the top you will find a large flake slung with a rap ring in place. this deposits you at the top of the next drop instead of in the swimmer (the only obstacle you need to bring a wetsuit in for) by using this route, with careful traversing, you can stay dry and the canyon will be rated a 3AII.