Keyhole Canyon

[WorkBad]

At first It seemed stupid to take the time to do a write up for Keyhole Canyon. Based on its length and the massive amounts of people that have experienced it, it hardly seemed necessary. So why would I take the time? Well because I've duplicated this canyon more than any other that I've done. More importantly though, I love this canyon. The water, raps, beautiful sandstone, sure beats being at work all day! In addition, I enjoy taking new people through to see how much fun they have. Their energy reinvigorates my canyoneering desires. I think that this canyon has so much to offer in such a short amount of time and every time I've done it I'm always glad I did.

The first time I did this canyon was July 2012 and the last time May 2013. I've placed several pictures sided by side to show a comparison of conditions from different dates. I've experienced Keyhole in several different states. When it dries out it gets stinky, but when wet, the smell conjures up images of walking through a damp pine forest. I have yet to experience this canyon while flowing but have heard that it is a blast, something I look forward to doing.

Time to complete: <1 Hour
Longest rap: 25 ft?

Enjoy!

Overview
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Overview (W/more detail)
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Heading up the sandstone to the top
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Almost to the top looking back down at the road
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Once at the top we dropped back down the steep slope
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Scenery
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Comparison
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Looking back after exiting the first distinct section of the canyon
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Nat on the first Rap
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Looking at the first rap from the bottom
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Some serious antidepressants in this water
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A comparison of rap 1 water levels
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A comparison of the largest pool with different water levels
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Nat on Rap 2
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Looking down Rap 2 under two different conditions
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Two Rap 3s side by side
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Scenery
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Me at the bottom of Rap 3
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My friend in the pool at the bottom of Rap 3
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Scenery
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The long swimming corridor
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Couple of happy people
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The end!
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[DesertDuke]

Great and the side x side shots are very interesting. Thanks for taking the time for this.

[ratagonia]

Nice!

T

[Byron]

Great pics...nice! I've always ignored that canyon because when I'm there I always shoot for the full day ordeals. It looks like it may be worth it to rip through there on a lazy day...if I can ever make one of those happen when I'm there!

[levity]

Excellent! :2thumbs:

It's a fun canyon, especially when full, and a great way to cool off on a hot afternoon.

Impressed that you could get such nice photos -- usually seems so dark once inside.

[hikster11]

Nice write up. Nice pics

[iflycr500]

Great job, Last trip we did it twice in one day. I think the second time through was better than the first time. It is a great little spot that most people can do. I still want to do it at night.

[jman]

Great job, Last trip we did it twice in one day. I think the second time through was better than the first time. It is a great little spot that most people can do. I still want to do it at night.

Night is pretty awesome. I especially like it when it's a bit running when doing it at night.

Btw, nice write-up like usual WorkBad.

[Sandstone Addiction]

Keyhole was the first canyon we did for a second time. I was surprised at how much more beautiful it was the 2nd time through. I guess the first time I was focused on the raps and what was coming up next. The second time I was able to relax and actually soak in the beauty.

This is my kids favorite, so I'm sure we didn't go through it for the last time.

Loved the trip report and the side x side shots. :2thumbs:

[Slot Machine]

Great photos and report! Not the easiest place to take great shots... very nice!