Canyons are inherently risky. Flash floods occur without notice on sunny days. Technical skills & surrounding topography knowledge required yet does not eliminate risk.
Overview: Red Wall Canyon located in the central Grapevine Mountains, has some of the finest narrows in the park- A succession of tight corridors that wind deep beneath soaring red walls. The impressive "first narrows" is guarded by a "gate keeper", a 25 foot fall that most hikers will find a challenge to climb both up and down (as of this writing, there was a secure rope in-place allowing strenuous access up this three segment 25 footer) to the most beautiful first narrows segment in Red Wall Canyon that resides beyond. The "second narrows" also has a fall. This 12 foot fall (without an attached rope), is easier to climb up/down than the first one, but can still be a challenge for the average hiker. Note: It is highly recommended that you hike with a partner "and" bring a 25'+ rope to tie your day packs or backpacks to for later pull-up after you have successfully negotiated up/down these two falls.
This hike description and route guides you into the less dramatic "third narrows" before ending .3 miles from its end past the first significant side canyon (a .15ml hike in) to the north which is blocked by an impressive, towering drop-off, impressive high walls, and beautiful polished cascades banded in gray and orange.
The challenge of the falls, the scenic beauty that lures you further in, and the unusual geology of this colorful canyon combine to make a particularly delightful day hike.
WARNING! Hiking and outdoor related sports can be dangerous. Be responsible and prepare for the trip. Study the area you are entering and plan accordingly. Dress for the current and unexpected weather changes. Take plenty of water. Never go alone. Make an itinerary with your plan(s), route(s), destination(s) and expected return time. Give your itinerary to trusted family and/or friends.
Permit $$
NPS
Directions
Road
Paved - Car Okay
To canyon trip From Furnace Creek, CA: From the intersection of SR190/Badwater Road(SR178), drive 19 miles north-NW on SR190 to the intersection of SR190/Scotty's Castle Road; Drive exactly 19.0 miles NW on Scotty's Castle Road to Mile Post(MP 19) and park on either side of the road at MP19, waypoint N36.83653 W-117.22691; The 2.3 mile cross-country hiking route up the moderately steep alluvial fan to the Red Wall Canyon mouth at waypoint N36.86216 W-117.20763 begins at this MP19; It is recommended that you download and follow the GPS Hiking Route posted to this hike description;
page created by Grasshopper on Feb 26 2010 1:50 pm
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