Route Editor
Route Scout
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. Check out the Official Route and Triplogs. Leave No Trace and +Add a Triplog after your canyon trip to support this local community.
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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.
Most recent Triplog Review
Red Wall Canyon - DVNP
Red Wall Canyon located in the central Grapevine Mountains of Death Valley National Park, has some of the finest narrows in the park- A succession of tight corridors that wind deep beneath soaring red walls. The very impressive "first narrows" is guarded by a "gate keeper", a 25 foot falls 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.
This canyon goes much further to it's head at 10.6mls in at 7410ft elevation (above treeline/prime bighorn sheep habitat) and allows for a more serious overnight backpack with a loop connection to popular "Fall Canyon" as an exit point back to your Parking/TH Start.
For me, this day hike was without question one of the most enjoyable, challenging, and impressive canyon hikes I've done in DVNP.. with amazing colors, geology, and tight narrows.
This canyon goes much further to it's head at 10.6mls in at 7410ft elevation (above treeline/prime bighorn sheep habitat) and allows for a more serious overnight backpack with a loop connection to popular "Fall Canyon" as an exit point back to your Parking/TH Start.
For me, this day hike was without question one of the most enjoyable, challenging, and impressive canyon hikes I've done in DVNP.. with amazing colors, geology, and tight narrows.
2010-02-17 Grasshopper
