Red Caves

A stunning Class 2 Grade II sandstone slot. Really nice non-technical slot canyon, perfect for beginners and kids. Handlines on two of the drops will be needed for most canyoneers (as of March 2016). In order to avoid getting wet in several water-filled potholes, stemming and chimneying is required at a beginner level. There was one 30-foot long narrow pool that can be stemmed across but requires a fair amount of stamina. Most first-timers or beginners will not stay dry. Penalty points for falling are minimal as it would be a 2 foot drop into water. The narrows sections are truly stunning.

Can be accessed with 4WD to avoid the unnecessary approach hike but may involve driving on private property. On the approach hike in the wash, prior to the junction, notice the shooting targets on the right. These are used as target practice for rifle shooting. Your head will be roughly at the level of the bullets. Notice on the left a compound of half a dozen trailers and 3 cabins. It is hard to tell what the demographics of this compound includes, but be very careful and turn around if any shots are heard.