Cookstove Draw

A short, woodsy OCC drainage with a few short rappels and some thought-provoking downclimbs. Expect the rappel count to increase if the canyon is flowing or in wetter-than-normal condition. Fresh spring water is available by the Cookstove Trailhead.

Take Cookstove Trail from the parking area to the rim. Turn off the trail and head NE, contouring along the rim to the head of the Cookstove drainage.

Use caution on rappel to avoid damaging the moss and ferns growing from the rock and to preserve the pristine nature of this environment. R1: 55’ off tree LDC. Downclimbs. R2: 30’ off tree RDC. Rappel has a large ledge, followed by a large overhang. R3: 45’ off rock pinch. More downclimbs. R4: 45’ off boulder. After another series of downclimbs is a brief narrow section with a pothole that likely holds water in all but the driest times of the year. A strong climber can traverse just above the pool RDC if attempting to stay dry - otherwise, plan for a wade (potentially waist+ depth). If Dry, some groups choose to rappel; R5. Gear down after R4(R5), if you haven’t already. Or don’t - the exit goes quickly.

Travel a short distance down canyon until the road comes into view. The exit and descent in general consists of many large fallen trees and boulders that require scrambling. Go under the bridge and turn left at the use trail to return to your vehicle.