Zigzag Canyon

From ropewiki.com
Jump to navigation Jump to search
Zigzag Canyon Canyoneering Canyoning Caving
 For other features with similar names, see Zigzag Canyon (disambiguation)
Rating:
Log in to rateLog in to rateLog in to rateLog in to rateLog in to rate 2.6 (18 ratings)

Zigzag Canyon Banner.jpg

Difficulty:3A II (v3a1 II)
Raps:‌4, max ↨190ft
Metric
Overall:2.5-4.5h ⟷3.7mi
Approach:30min-1h ↑200ft
Descent:1-2h
Exit:1-1.5h ↑1000ft
Red Tape:No permit required
Shuttle:Optional 5min
Vehicle:Passenger
Start:
Parking:
Shuttle:
Condition Reports:
26 Oct 2024



"With the road reopened and shuttling back on the menu, this was a fun, quick day out on the cliffs. Even dry, with its easy approach and easier exit,

(log in to submit report)
Weather:
Best season:
BEST in Nov;Dec;Jan;Feb
winterspringsummerfall
DecJanFebMarAprMayJunJulAugSepOctNov
Regions:

Introduction[edit]

Zigzag is the absolute epitome of a "cliffaneering" route. Horrible bushwacking in a drainage that is no more scenic than any other in the area leads to a series of big rappels down a climbing route. The most commonly used approach route completely skips the canyon itself and with it all the bushwacking except for maybe the last 100 feet - this approach is shown on the map. Worth doing only when flowing (somewhat rare, and often if it is flowing the road getting to it is closed or impassable due to flash flooding) or if simply looking to do some big rappels. This area of the Superstition Mountains is absolutely beautiful though, so if your are looking for canyon scenery do nearby Minnow Canyon instead.

Approach[edit]

Don't bother with the canyon itself at all, but hike along the slopes and easy ridge north of the drainage to make it to the point where the drainage drops off of the cliff. Stay on the very top of the ridge and "zig zag" your way down to completely avoid the brushy drainage until you reach the edge of the cliff which you will soon be rappelling down. The head back to the drainage to your south and make your way down to the canyon start. This approach has been added to the map.

Descent[edit]

ZigZag is now broken up into 4 drops all off bolted anchors. This canyon warrants the use of a PSA, due to the fact you're always close to the edge.

R1: 90' into a small alcove. To find the first anchor, cross the drainage and go up and look for the chains. It may be helpful if the first person down takes a rope to rig the second rappel.

R2: 190' to a ledge. With the second drop rigged, you can easily sequence the rest of the group through this alcove to avoid overcrowding. Depending on group size, this is a fairly large alcove and will hold your typical group (6-8) if necessary.

For the third rappel, downclimb and then make your way RDC and look for the chains not the webbing.

R3: 60’ and will drop you down to a nice flat section where the final drop can be rigged.

R4: 170’ to the base of the wall.

Exit[edit]

The exit is now hiking up Fish Creek hill to the lookout at the top. I recommend having a shuttle vehicle to get back to the trailhead from the lookout. The hike back up the road is about 2.5 miles and 1000 feet of elevation gain.

Red tape[edit]

Beta sites[edit]

Trip reports and media[edit]

Background[edit]

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).