Swell and Escalante in the Middle of March

[Richie]

Hi,

Our trip this year is earlier as usual from March 15 to April 7th. Are canyons in this time of the year in the Escalante and the San Rafael Swell area usually possible without special gear like neoprene or is there usually water in the canyons?

Thanks
Richie


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[Scott P]

Tough to say.

In the Escalante, canyons like Neon and Choprock will certainly need neoprene.

Some of the Egypt Slots would be a good bet.

In the Swell, canyons like Segars Hole/Squeeze or Quandary direct will almost certainly require wetsuits. Quandary non-direct or Ramp probably won't, but check current conditions when the time gets closer.

[Richie]

Thanks. What about Ding and Dang and Crack Canyon?
What do you think about that time of the year generally?

[Scott P]

What about Ding and Dang and Crack Canyon?

Those should be fine. Same with Little Wildhorse. That time of year is usually very good, but Easter Weekend will be crowded in all of those (especially Little Wildhorse).

There can be pools of water, but usually they dry out quickly in those canyons.

If you are talking about non-technical canyons, than that time of year is great for most of the Escalante as well.

[jman]

X2 to Scott. Swell is great for those canyons. Still warm but not scorching.

I've done LWH many times in March and just a few times have had snow in the shadows of the canyon. Might be a bit muddy in the canyons but still a great time.