ENGELSTEAD CANYON

This is one of the premier canyons of Zion National Park.  It features a monster 280 foot drop at the beginning, many interior rappels through exquisite fluted walls, and culminates in a hike out down Orderville Canyon which is itself one of the prettiest in the park.  All in all a long day in paradise.

This canyon is not for beginners.  You need 600 feet of rope (or two 300'ers), or skills at working a mid-height relay while hanging out on the big wall at a bolt station (although this one has a little ledge).  Photographically, the interior is very dark (ASA 400 minimum).  For scenic shots with good depth of field I carried a tripod through.

One of the best in Zion.

For more on this canyon and Zion see our Trip Reports.

Ref:  Tom's Canyon Guide to Zion  

Disclaimer:  The goal of these trip notes is to suggest good photographic locations and what I consider pretty neat hikes.  These paragraphs should not be used as a canyoneering guide.  Seek out good maps and detailed information, and get properly prepared before entering any slot canyon.