Dothraki

Unique cross-joint in the Navajo sandstone layer featuring a plethora of rappels, a handful of challenging downclimbs, and a brief, very tight narrows section. This route is a good option for the experienced group if you are looking for a dry canyon that does not require a permit in the Zion area. Do not underestimate Dothraki! Dothraki is FIERCE. This is a challenging canyon for someone not used to stemming, narrow slots and tough downclimbs. It is not straightforward like many Zion canyons.

Two options here, both seem to take the same amount of time; around 3hrs to 1st anchor. The Dragon's Back Approach (no shuttle) This is the original approach that starts from Squirrel Canyon trailhead and does not require a car shuttle. Despite being the original approach route, this is not recommended due to it being quite miserable - and unsustainable. This approach has 600 feet of elevation gain up a steep, sandy road and use trails to the cliff band. It then heads up a ravine through the cliff band gaining an additional 450 feet with a few sections of very steep sand and loose rock. Take your time while navigating this section. Once at the top of the ravine you will be on the "Dragon's Back". Scramble and walk to the head of the canyon with great views over the area. The route up the ravine to the Dragon's Back has some challenging route finding. Water Canyon Approach (Shuttle: 10 minute drive, 20 minute walk) Despite being longer, this approach is easier than the Dragon's Back. Park a recovery vehicle at Squirrel Canyon trailhead--which will be the exit trailhead--and shuttle to Water Canyon trailhead (bathroom). Follow the Water Canyon trail up to Top Rock. Follow smaller trails up towards the local highpoint, and then disappearing trails through varied terrain to the head of the canyon. GPS or very good map skills helpful... or required. Gear up on the slickrock overlooking the start of the canyon, then move to the top and drop into the slot. The slot ends at a huge Ponderosa, the anchor for the first rappel. (A tree on the rim will likely have a sling around it, but in the slot is better.)