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New Moab Canyon - Quartzite Canyon
Hello Bogley Family!
Over the past few weeks, I uncovered a "canyon" in Moab that has not been previously descended.
I'm sharing with you all some teaser pics, and until it becomes an official route (a law enforcement from Arches NP needs to walk the path first) - I won't share the location publicly quite yet. And unfortunately, I have to be there with him and since I'm in Northern Utah I won't be able to head back down anytime soon.
SO......anyone from C.A.C. who lives in the vicinity of Moab want to take on this responsibility of opening a new route there? PM me for canyon details. Peakbaggers or Moab Mark, are the either of you interested in the coming weeks? I know you two have worked with Moab officials before. You would probably have a better in then me.
The canyon is called Quartzite Canyon because of the abundance of Quartzite found on the approach. GIANT quartzite rocks that range from golf-ball size to basketball size chunks.
Anyway, my fellow friends who tagged along on this adventure thought this canyon was "awesome" for Moab. And I would agree as well. You guys can decide.
Features of the canyon:
-an oasis within Arches National Park (which means easy access) with FLOWING water...well at least until June (due to Google Earth images spanning 10 years). After June, I wouldn't consider this a destination canyon. I would say the prime times are from February - May. AND AFTER a rainstorm, IF, that particular area got hit with substantial rain.
-2 raps (both contain a free-hang). the 2nd rappel is my favorite as the flowing stream will get you a little wet. The first rap is about 20ft and 2nd rap is 30ft.
-The route is beginner friendly.
-The entire route takes less than 4 hours. You could do it in 2 1/2 hours if you power walk the entire thing. A big group might take 5-6 hours.
-red-rock cascades and waterfalls are found between the upper and lower parts of the canyon, similar to what's found in Professor Creek.
-half way through the route, located between the upper and lower canyons is what we called the "halfway waterfall" (clever name I know) which provides a great area to hear a 6ft waterfall below you while you have a lunch and take in the sights. My writing doesn't do it justice.
-a "subway" section that is similar to something in the actual Subway in Zion. Now, granted...it's not as big or large. Keep in mind, this is Moab. But still impressive.
-a climatic and mandatory swim that everyone will have to do at the very end. It ends with a 10ft slide (or jump) into a 15ft deep spring-fed pool. The water is COLD but very refreshing! Wetsuits are recommened in the spring, but not mandatory.
-Low-flash flood danger which means it is a "safe" canyon while threatening and sands don't blow it out like Zion.
Cons:
-heavy bushwhacking in some areas at the end of the upper canyon.
-water flow will stop in May or June (depends on snow melt) once the upper canyon drains its water.
-you could do this canyon after the flow has stoped, but it would be hot! Although the water holes would still be there but they would be smaller and quite stagnant. Running water is much, much betta!
-REMEMBER- for the Moab area, this will be a fun canyon. But if you are looking for the next Imlay or Lehi Canyons..haha, definitely not here. Not even close. If you hate Moab Canyons - you will hate this. If you love Moab Canyons - you'll love this one. Easy to remember, right? :bootyshake:
Enough preaching to the choir!! Get on with it Brett!!
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I'll see if I can post a vid edit later tonight as well.
Oh, and yes - it will be released here and for free (once it is official). A gift to my awesome family. :)
New Moab Canyon - Quartzite Canyon
Quote:
Originally Posted by
Moose Droppings
The one I "found" is not willow springs. Probably 8miles away or so.
I've hiked willow two years ago and it's a entertaining hike with a little water. And Willow doesn't have rappels which this new one does.