Cherry Canyon, AZ

A good introduction to the limestone canyons typical of the Virgin River Gorge. An abundance of redbuds adds color in spring and fall. Up to 12 rappels, with the longest approx 90 feet.


From the parking, follow a use trail down to the Virgin River. Carefully cross the Virgin River and then walk a short way south to the major wash entering from the NE. Follow this wash (watch out for a downed barbed wire fence!) for 0.4 mi, then bear left at a confluence and start climbing in earnest. Bear right at the next wash confluence and continue climbing. After approx 1/4 mi, climb out of the wash toward the west (right) and head another 0.2 mi up and south along the slope to obtain the main ridge. Drop over this ridge into Cherry Canyon.Once in Cherry Canyon, downclimb, rappel and hike your way down-canyon. Some rappels are multi-stage, and some may have avoidable pools at the bottom. The canyon opens up after the rappels are over, meeting back up with the wide wash you first started hiking in. Turn right down the wash and head back to the Virgin River. Cross back over the river and climb up to your vehicle.

Warning
Crossing the Virgin River may be unsafe after storms or during spring run-off.
Although this is a relatively frequently-visited canyon, always be prepared with enough gear to replace webbing and rapides in case they are worn or missing. At minimum, you will need: helmet, harness, rappelling device and biner, and 2x100 ft ropes. Bolts are not allowed here and several rappels utilize cairn anchors, so know how to inspect, build, and weight them. As always, carry extra rope.

2015-12-08 autumnstars