Grim Reaper Canyon
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| | Difficulty:3A III (v3a1 III) Raps:6-9, max ↨105ft
Red Tape:No permit required Shuttle:None Vehicle:Passenger | ||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||
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| Condition Reports: | 6 Jan 2025
"Approach was generally fun although there were a few steep and loose spots; took 2:15. Really loved this canyon which has many fun downclimbs and oppo |
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| Best season: | Winter
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36.8709, -117.2057
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Introduction[edit]
Probably the best and most numerous downclimbs in DV. 3 notable downclimbs inc. one R at the first anchor in South Fork. 6 rappels inc. a very nice 95’ followed by 50’ freehang. Numerous other beginner-friendly downclimbs along the way. Features a rare narrows formed in conglomerate rock. For canyoneers looking for something more technical than the standard hike-rappel-hike common to DV this is a great option for a short day.
Approach[edit]
A bit of an ass-kicker. Up steep gulley on south side is recommended. Wear gloves due to jagged rocks.
Descent[edit]
Note that at least 2 rappels are being ghosted as of Dec 2024 and there are 1-3+ spicy DCs that may not have anchors. Be prepared to problem solve. A sandtrap could be used for some drops, if desired.
R1: 75' - pinch
R2: 60' - horn DCR
R3: 40' - hole through rock DCR
R4: 40' - deadman
Confluence with South Fork
Couple boulder DCs (2nd semi tricky)
15' steep chute DC - not quite as hard as it looks
R5: 105' - boulder high DCL
Half dozen short DCs
25' vertical DC (or sandtrap)
Tricky 15' DC transitioning into R side
R6: 45' - pinch or sandtrap
DC 15' to R2 105' chockstone
R7: 145' - pinch far upcanyon (could use less rope if you put a sandtrap closer to the drop)
R8: 50' - big rock
A few minor/moderate fun DCs then nice little 20' conglomerate DC, and a few more minor DCs in conglomerate narrows
R9: 35' - fiddle rock horn at end into wash
Exit[edit]
2.5 miles down rocky wash to the road.
Red tape[edit]
Beta sites[edit]
Super Amazing Map : Grim Reaper
Trip reports and media[edit]
FIRST DESCENT TRIP ON 11-16-13:
- 2-18-19 - Grim Reaper South Fork variation:
https://www.facebook.com/media/set/?set=a.10157116083462930&type=3
Background[edit]
Originally explored by Scott Swaney on 2013-11-16 and team - see trip report above for details.
2-18-19 - Additionally, also added a new South Fork to the canyon with added rappels and beta for a second optional way to see this canyon