Near Willis Creek Slot Canyon
Near Willis Creek Slot Canyon
Near Willis Creek Slot Canyon
Near Willis Creek Slot Canyon
Near Willis Creek Slot Canyon

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Driving Directions
Classic Hike Route

Willis Creek Slot Canyon

4.3 (9 Ratings)
A good beginner slot canyon on a flat out and back route.
2.5
mi
Distance
688
ft
Gain
moderate
Difficulty
Regional Classic
A must do route for the area handpicked by local experts.
Family FriendlyRiver/CreekViewsWaterfall
Access Issues
Flash flood danger: Do not enter this canyon if there is possibility of rain nearby.

Route Details

Flatter
Steeper
2.54mi
Distance
688ft
Elevation Gain
688ft
Elevation Loss
30%
Max Grade
5,981ft
High Point
5,805ft
Low Point
Path Type
There and Back
Description
From the trailhead, follow the marked trail down Willis Creek. The trail is essentially just the creek bed, so your feet will get wet. Within minutes the wide wash becomes enveloped by growing canyon walls, and you'll find a small waterfall tucked into the stone near your feet. Continue on, and soon the full magnificance of the "slot canyon" will be on display. After roughly 0.5 miles you'll exit the first of the narrows sections, and shortly after you'll encounter another waterfall, bigger than the first, that creates a minor obstacle on the route. The drop can be downclimbed or bypassed on either side. Use caution on the slick rock.Beyond this waterfall are the most scenic sections of the trail. The canyon gets even more narrow, though it's neaver quite a true slot. It's probably around six feet wide at its narrowest. Enjoy watching the yellow and black colors of the rock, the way sunlight reflects between the walls, and staring at the sliver of sky above as you go.After approximately 1.3 miles another canyon, Averett Canyon, joins from the left. This makes a good turn around spot if you want just the highlights of Willis Creek in a short hike. If you seek a longer adventure, you can continue another mile down Willis Creek to where it joins with Sheep Canyon, and then return the way you came.- Additional info by Brent Uhrig, Outdoor Project

Route Conditions

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Contributors
Brent Uhrig