Illusions Canyon

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Illusions Canyon Canyoneering Canyoning Caving
Rating:
Log in to rateLog in to rateLog in to rateLog in to rateLog in to rate 4.9 (134 ratings)

Illusions Canyon Banner.jpg

Difficulty:4B III (v4a2 III)
Raps:‌13, max ↨100ft
Metric
Overall:4-10h
Approach:30min-1h ↑0ft
Descent:2.5-5h
Exit:1-4h ↑0ft
Red Tape:No permit required
Shuttle:Optional 1h 15min
Vehicle:High Clearance
Rock type:Sandstone
Start:
Parking:
Shuttle:
Condition Reports:

(log in to submit report)
Weather:
Best season:
Late Spring to Early Autumn;COLD in May;Sep;Oct
winterspringsummerfall
DecJanFebMarAprMayJunJulAugSepOctNov
Regions:

Introduction[edit]

This is one of the best in Arizona. Canyoneers attempting this route should be well prepared to escape the keeper pothole at the end.

Approach[edit]

The shortest way to run the canyon is with the Sneak Exit. It can also be done with long shuttle or with the original approach hiking up from the bottom and exiting West Fork of Oak Creek, but this adds a large amount of shuttle time and a strenuous hike up A.B. Young trail.

From Flagstaff, take the road marked in black on the kml. You can camp at the parking spot for the approach/exit. Coordinates are on the kml

Descent[edit]

All rappels are under 100' from bolts and natural anchors.

4 Rating

Illusions has potential keeper potholes - notably the pothole at the base of the final rappel. Depending on water levels, these features may require special equipment and skills to get past (reference ACA Canyon Rating criteria). Parties should review the below sources of beta and be equipped with appropriate pothole escape skills and gear prior to entering the canyon.

In the last pothole, potshots are unlikely to be effective. Drilled holes may be blown. A tent pole and hook to reach the top lip may be effective.

Other risk factors to consider include number of rappels, water temperature, prolonged immersion, and difficulty of escape.

Exit[edit]

Follow the sneak exit drainage back up to the rim and your vehicle.

Or

Hike West Fork to the shuttle vehicle.

Red tape[edit]

Beta sites[edit]

Trip reports and media[edit]

  • Illusions Canyon pic2.jpg
  • Illusions Canyon pic3.jpg
  • Illusions Canyon pic4.jpg
  • Illusions Canyon pic5.jpg
  • Background[edit]

    Illusions was kept secret for many years after it's discovery due to fear that exploitation would have a negative impact on the canyons eco-system . Please help keep this canyon clean and serene.

    First known descent by Joe and Sara DeSalme, Todd & Steph Martin, and Tom Wetherill. Canyoneers exit drainage was descended and documented by Jay Wisocki and Dinna Marquez down to the last pothole in Illusions then ascended back up making sure it was a go for canyoneers and to make the run much more appealing. My adventure companion Bucky joined us on the adventure as well (RIP). Illusions, Insomnia, Immaculate, Flintstone, The Perch, Barney Springs, Two Tone and Lone Spire have sneak exits in place.

    Credits

    Information provided by automated processes. KML map by (unknown). Main photo by (unknown). Authors are listed in chronological order.

    In all habitats live animals and plants that deserve respect, please minimize impact on the environment and observe the local ethics. Canyoneering, Canyoning, Caving and other activities described in this site are inherently dangerous. Reliance on the information contained on this site is solely at your own risk. There is no warranty as to accuracy, timeliness or completeness of the information provided on this site. The site administrators and all the contributing authors expressly disclaim any and all liability for any loss or injury caused, in whole or in part, by its actions, omissions, or negligence in procuring, compiling or providing information through this site, including without limitation, liability with respect to any use of the information contained herein. If you notice any omission or mistakes, please contribute your knowledge (more information).