5/7/23 Just hiked wire pass into part of Buckskin Gulch today (6.5 miles total turning to the right out of the cave). A new ladder has been added to the wire pass slot in just the last couple of days. And everything is dry and easily passable without getting wet.
We just went in Sept part of the way. Recent Monsoons have placed two large logs at the entrance of Wire Pass that you have to climb over. Difficult with packs on. There is a ladder now at the drop off which make getting down easier. Turning Right into Buckskin after leaving Wire Pass we ran into water and mud almost in the first few hundred feet. We retreated and went left instead and really got a good taste of what Buckskin is really like. Going left leads you back to the Buckskin trailhead.
It's been a wet year for sure. I imagine Buckskin is pretty sloppy in places. We went again this year, but made it before the monsoons went through and filled it up. This place is always changing.
@@JerryArizona If you are looking for new places to visit and film try Willis Creek Slot Canyon and Bull Gorge. They are both located near Kodachrome State Park outside of Escalante. Or try Big Horn Slot just off Hole in The Rock Road near Escalante.
Was there in March 2024. Amazing place. Temps were in the low 60’s in the third week in March. Left Wire Pass trailhead and hiked about 6 miles round trip, in and back to the trailhead. Dry conditions, certainly not wading through water.
It’s a great hike. I highly recommend asking the BLM what the conditions are though. It’s been a really wet winter and cold spring. Lots of water. Right after the middle pass it gets tight and there were spots up to my chest in much drier years. It got really cold. Be prepared for a sloppy hike. Although if you’re geared up for it, that can be a lot of fun. Enjoy!
Wow, that was a great video. I'm glad I didn't see it before I went but I did take all precautions. I went last week. I got to the rabbit hole (I didn't know that existed). I saw the ropes and said no way. I was alone and just on a day hike anyhow, very new to this kind of hiking. There was no water or mud at all the entire way. A few puddles off to the side toward the end but all very dry. The sand was loose and deep though. It was a great hike and I will be back, I just gotta figure out when conditions are like they are now again.
Glad you got to check it out. And to go that far into it. Such an amazing place. Those ropes are always sketchy. You never know who left them and how old they are.
Enjoy! One of my favorite backpacking trips so far. I always felt privileged to be there, if that's the right term. It's just mind blowing being in that canyon.
@@JerryArizona Gotta tell you man, great video. We finished this past Sunday and it was everything that you said it would be. Sludge, muck, nasty stuff, but absolutely amazing. EVERYONE should watch this video to prep for Buckskin. Water up to mid-chest and colder than any of us could have expected. Frigid. One of the best backpacks that I've ever done. THANK YOU!
You're welcome. Was just back there in February and the rabbit hole was closed. First time I've seen it closed and it was not fun getting up and down. If you go, bring a rope.
This is the best video guide for the Buckskin I’ve seen so far. Thank you, I’ve got permits for this weekend (3 days, 2 nights, with same itinerary). Hoping the rabbit hole is open and it’s not too cold. Anything worth checking out down the Paria? I’ve heard Wrather Canyon is interesting.
Thanks! Wrather looks cool. I haven't gone any farther down the Paria than the spring (about 3 miles past the campsite). That hike itself was really beautiful. Be careful this weekend with the forecast; looks like it could rain. If the rangers (or your shuttle driver, if they know) say buckskin is a mess, you might want to consider taking whitehouse to the campsite, explore from there and then exit back through whitehouse. You still get to see some of the best parts of Buckskin and the Paria from the campsite, but you have the option to turn around if you come to an obstacle (pool, rabbit hole boulder fall, etc).
this looks like my plan for june 2019. Still trying to figure out footwear. will probably take all our water. Just hoping we don't miss the parking lot on the way out.. very helpful video. thanks.
So we’re in Kanab, do you eat at Escobars? That seems like the good mexican! We hiked Buckskin today! Man , It’s really beautiful, thanks for all the tips, next off coyote Gulch after some short hikes like zebra and peekaboo.
Definitely Escobar's! A few weeks back we saw it put the other place we used to eat out of business. Buckskin is one of my favorites. We're heading back there soon. But you also can't go wrong with those hikes along Hole in the Rock. Enjoy!
Mountain Top Adventures awesome! Love that area. If you have time, check out yellow rock, wawheap hoodoos, or the stuff along Hole in the rock road while you’re in the area. So much to see up there.
im back, so from kanaab heading towards page is it pretty easy to find trailheads from signs on the hwy for say yellow rock and othe hikes you mentioned ?
Just on the other side of Kanab is Peek A Boo canyon. Never been to that one (I've done the one off Hole in the Rock Road), but hear it's cool. Just past the Moqui Cave tourist attraction there is a parking area to hike up to the caves. No sign, but you can see them from the road. Then there's Toadstools further toward Page. No sign, but the parking is right off the road. The road to Buckskin/Wire Pass is easy to miss. Again, no sign, but it's House Rock Valley Road (a tight turn off the 89 at a curve). Wahweap Hoodoos is by Big Water. Yellow Rock is off Cottonwood Road. No signs for either. For most of those, you should mark something on GPS before you go. I usually use Gaia on my iPhone. Hackberry, Grosvener's Arch and Cottonwood Narrows do have signs off Cottonwood road though. (It's a fun road to take through to Kodachrome Basin, and good for all vehicles as long as it isn't wet or snowy.)
thanks again, i will speak to someone in kanaab , and try to do some scouting for future trips, will have a van plus a dog and will be alone but i am in good shape and banged out flatiron a couple of years back, i will camp in mcdowell mountain park for over 2 weeks, mostly bike there but some hiking to, your a good man !
Man, that all depends on how much you drink. I'm a camel, so I usually drink less than most people. It also depends on conditions and how fast you can get through. And how much you think you'll use at camp. I will say this; we went back earlier this year (Feb). The Paria was flowing with a nasty grey water and clogged our filters. The cesspool was clear but had an oily look to it that indicates bacteria. It was too cold and we were too tired to hike to the spring (about 3 miles down the Paria past the campgrounds), so we ended up filtering another 3L out of the Paria one drop at a time. It was brutal. So keep that in mind.
@@JerryArizona Thanks, Jerry. I'm not out of control when it comes to water, probably a little too conservative. And we're only going be out there one night so I suppose I should be okay. Don't really want to worry about filtering that mess you speak of either. Evening meal and tea and morning oatmeal and coco shouldn't be much more than a liter...sooo...maybe 6 to be comfortable....water wise.😉 I'll bring a filter and hike down to the spring if it's looking bad. Really appreciate the help, buddy and the video too!
I haven't done it in a while, so I'm not entirely sure. It's about 7.5 miles if you go in White House. I believe it's somewhere around 12 from Wire Pass to the campground. Speed all depends on the conditions. I'm sure it's a sloppy mess that may involve some swimming right now given all the rain and snow melt we've had. Much faster when it's dry.
Fantastic travel video; we hiked Whitehouse to confluence, then NW up Wirepass. Claustrophobic experiences in places, esp. getting stuck in tight hole w/ pack attached to me.
The rabbit hole? I've never done it from Whitehouse to Wire Pass....Not sure what I'd do if the rabbit hole was closed and I had to climb those moki steps up the boulder fall. I'm always worried it might be closed and I have to climb down those things.
@@JerryArizona We only had 3 days to hike max, wanted to see the best of the SLOTS, and variety; "Bill" a ranger (who mysteriously dropped out of contract/quit replying to email or voicemail) recommended Whitehouse to confluence, then dayhiking and turning around/hiking back same way. I always hate hiking same trail in reverse, and sensed we'd be missing important stuff, so we got brave, hiked the entire way back from the (raised platform like) confluence campsite up wirepass the 2nd day (13.4 miles I think to the parking lot?), and took our chances on hitchhiking from there to Whitehouse campground parking. We were very lucky that a couple super nice older dayhiking men gave us a ride the entire way back there w/ dirty packs (and refused my offer of $40). I highly recommend that route IF you can arrange a shuttle and not stupidly risk being stranded. My feet and knees were so shot I couldn't have survived hiking back to our vehicle.
Near the beginning of Wirepass trail (not the northwestern Buckskin trail entry) the slot was impassable/blocked, and everyone had to hike up a very steep sandstone wall. Very dangerous w/ full backpack, but that traction is so amazing that dayhiker adults, kids, even some very obese hikers were fearlessly scaling it. Surprised no one fell, but it was all day hikers in that area - the backpackers seemed to all be coming thru from Whitehouse.
Crazy how the conditions in those slots can change. Glad you went out through Buckskin. It's absolutely the best part. Whitehouse is cool toward the confluence, but otherwise it's kind of a bland wash. We usually do the reverse route you took. Day one through buckskin to camp, day 2 exploring buckskin and the paria, day three out whitehouse to the car as fast as we can. We use a shuttle service. I'm too chicken to gamble on hitching a ride.
Love the info as always, thank you! I’m confused by the fact that you say and show parking lot, but comment about a shuttle driver. Are we not hiking from the parking lot, where our personal car is, straight into the trail head? We have permits for March.
There are a lot of ways you can tackle Buckskin. My favorite is to go in Wire Pass, camp at the confluence and go out White House. That route requires a shuttle. If you go back out the way you came, you won't need a shuttle.
Great video Jerry, very helpful! We are doing this exact route in 3 weeks weather and conditions permitting. How many hours did it take you to get from Wire Pass to the Paria confluence?
Can't remember exactly. I've done this hike a few times now and time differs. Much better with experience. I was just there in February and the rabbit hole was closed, so a hand line was needed. I'd say anywhere between 6~10 hours depending on your ability.
I don't remember exactly, but when it's wet, I don't think you get too far without mud. But I've seen it 100% dry all the way to the confluence. So it really depends on how wet a year/season it is.
Great video, thanks for sharing. We are preparing for a trip in a couple weeks. How much water did you pack in with you? I understand it about 13ish miles to the spring.
We took two camelbaks each with....I think 2L in each one? It all kind of depends on how much you drink, what you're willing to drink and what you think you'll use at camp. If you aren't planning to refill at the spring on day 2, you need to take enough to get out as well. Or you can filter from the Paria. I saw people doing that last time we were there. I'd love a trip report when you get back. Planning to go in early June.
Jerry Arizona Thanks! This is our first time doing this hike. We are looking forward to it. Hoping to see some other attractions near by too. I’ll be sure to give you an update on the canyon conditions when we make it out.
It's going to blow your mind. Buckskin is my second favorite backpacking trip behind the Kalalau Trail in Kauai...and that's some steep competition. It will ruin all other slot canyons for you.
Jerry Arizona We made it out today! Wow, what an incredible hike. We started at Wire Pass the 8ft drop off wasn’t an issue there was a log to step down. The big rock scramble we stayed to the right and went up and over rather than going thru the mud underneath. The rabbit hole was clear and easy to get through and there was a blue knotted rope for the Moki steps. I lost count, prob 10ish cess pools. Low levels of water in the pools only one thigh high. We camped at the confluence and hiked out through White House.
@@jconroy5948 Glad you had a good time. I absolutely love this hike. Heading back pretty soon. I really appreciate you taking the time to give me some beta.
For Utah/AZ, it's typically from mid/late June to mid/late September. Not the only time it can rain, but it's much more common to have fast, violent storms during that time. Just had a pretty decent one last night, actually.
Let me know if you ever need a hiking partner . I know Tina usually goes with but my wife doesn't hike. I don't really want to do this one by myself. Thought about entering at White House and just hiking to the buckskin confluence for the day. I am early retired so can meet you just about anytime the weather is good.
Thanks for posting this. I managed to get an overnight permit for the next month (April) and am super excited. You’ve answered mostly what I’ve been wondering about. What are your thoughts on (1) doing this solo and (2) wading across water in April - how big and deep can they get, and would it be a problem for someone who can’t swim (asking for a friend ;) of course).
Man....Solo isn't bad. It's not really dangerous. And there should be other people around. But it's been a really wet year out here. The pools could be pretty deep (although I don’t know they’d be deep enough to have to swim) and the canyon could be an absolute mess. You may want to ask the BLM what the conditions are like. Or you could call one of the shuttle services in Page; the driver we had went through the canyon a lot. (I put a link in the comments.) Another option is to go in Whitehouse to the campgrounds; you can then hike up Buckskin as far as you want. If it gets too sloppy, you can turn around and go out the way you came.
Jerry Ackerman Thanks. I was hoping to hear that this has been a dry year, but oh well. I will definitely call BLM and talk to the shuttle guy before my trip. Your suggestion of a day hike from White House as an alternative sounds good. Is the canyon really prettier from that end compared to the Wire Pass side? Also I remembered the other question I wanted to ask: there’s no chance of getting lost from Wire Pass to White House, is there?
Alt Man wirepass meets with buckskin and you turn right. There’s really no alternate routes so little chance of getting lost. Whitehouse is kind of boring for most of it. It slots up toward the confluence (turn right to the campground) and gets really cool. Buckskin is absolutely gorgeous from the campground upstream to the boulder fall. The entire hike from wire pass is mind blowing, but in my opinion the last 1-2 miles before the campground are the prettiest. It’s a REALLY wet year, unfortunately. You definitely want to ask about conditions. It has to be a mess in there right now.
Yeah, I've just been reading news about weather in Southern Utah and it's not looking good. I can only hope it gets dry from here on. Mind if I ask which driver you used for the shuttle? You mentioned that you put a link in the comments but I couldn't seem to find it. In other news...I managed to score a permit to camp at Havasupai and will be checking out your video about it. The quality of your work is insane--the shots, the editing, the music. Love it all.
@@wthhandle Thanks man. I appreciate it. Try this link: grandstaircasediscoverytours.com/paria-canyon-shuttles/ I can't remember the guy's name. Ask if they have a driver who is prone to walking through buckskin without shoes (kinda crazy, but we actually saw bare footprints, so I'm prone to believe him.) Honestly, I'd think twice about going in there unless you are really comfortable with canyon stew. It has to be a sloppy mess. I believe this is a record rainfall year. You can always get permits as long as you set a reminder and check first thing the day they put a new month up. (If you wanted to go later in the year.) Havasupai.... I'm not one for crowds, but that place is incredible enough to overlook them. Wake up early enough and you can probably have some of the falls to yourself. And check out Navajo (if it's reopened from the flood damage) and 50' falls too. We missed them the first year and they're awesome.
We went in early July a couple years ago. The canyon was dry all the way to the cesspool by the campgrounds. Not sure about this year since there's been so much precipitation, but it should be a lot less sloppy in the summer. It's hot, but not unbearable in the canyon since most is in the shade. There are a couple cracks in the canyon where cold air comes out. It feels almost like AC in the summer. Leave early, especially if you're going out through White House (lots of that is in full sun, as well as the entry to Wire Pass.) You need to keep an eye on the forecast for monsoons and change plans if there's chance of rain. Otherwise, solo is no big deal. The other main risks would be a twisted ankle or the climb down the boulder fall if the rabbit hole isn't open. You won't have any signal in most of the canyon (if not all of it.) Let somebody know where you're going and when you'll be back and enjoy.
Jerry, thanks so much for such a quick response, you made my day! Mostly, because I failed miserably at getting permits in Zion this morning! Was trying to put together my nephews first trek, Zion was his pick...but that is a no go now. We can always do a GC trip in August...always easy to get. Thank you, for the reassurance on my July trip in Buckskin...My permit is for 2...just having trouble finding a partner. Per your videos, I noticed you were in my backyard last fall, when you hiked Blue Lakes. I live in Ridgway. I do that one every few years, but try to stay away because of all of the people! If you are ever in this area again, I strongly suggest hiking to The Bridge of Heaven. It is my favorite!! Haven't watched them all, but thanks for your videos...you've opened my eyes to do many different opportunities. I am a happy subscriber!! Have you been through Coyote Gulch?
Matthew Maxwell ha! Sitting here with the wife planning a trip now. Bridge of Heaven looks VERY cool. Adding it to the list. We’ve barely scratched the surface of Colorado. Just got Subway permits for Zion today. Missed out on the Narrows though. Not sure there’s a trick to that. Might try to snag walk ins for narrows while we’re there. We’re actually looking at Waheap hoodoos, yellow rock and white pocket right now. All near the Buckskin area. Plan A was actually Reflection Canyon toward the end of Hole in the Rock Road. That place is incredible and you basically just have to sign in (no issue with permits) so they know where you are. Coyote Gulch is really cool. I recommend going in at crack in the wall and out the sneak route by Jacob Hamblin. That way you don’t have to walk up that horrible sand hill at the base of crack in the wall. You can backpack or day hike. Also check out Peek a Boo/Spooky Gulch, zebra slot canyon and a quick stop at devil’s garden. All worth it while you’re there. There’s more off that road, but we’re still exploring it.
You are a plethora of it info...sadly you do not get paid! My nephew is dead set on Zion, so we are going to arrive a few days early and try to score permits over the counter. Where to camp for those two nights?? Watchman is already booked! Any suggestions?
Still plenty to see even without permits there. I'm not sure on camping areas. There was a really remote spot we used last year, but I couldn't find it again. 4WD high clearance access only and the campsite wasn't the greatest. You can join the "hiking utah" group on Facebook and ask there. Best of luck, and enjoy. Zion is beautiful. I keep meaning to spend more time there.
Appreciate how honest your videos are, always show casing the realistic ups and downs of any hikes.
5/7/23 Just hiked wire pass into part of Buckskin Gulch today (6.5 miles total turning to the right out of the cave). A new ladder has been added to the wire pass slot in just the last couple of days. And everything is dry and easily passable without getting wet.
We just went in Sept part of the way. Recent Monsoons have placed two large logs at the entrance of Wire Pass that you have to climb over. Difficult with packs on. There is a ladder now at the drop off which make getting down easier. Turning Right into Buckskin after leaving Wire Pass we ran into water and mud almost in the first few hundred feet. We retreated and went left instead and really got a good taste of what Buckskin is really like. Going left leads you back to the Buckskin trailhead.
It's been a wet year for sure. I imagine Buckskin is pretty sloppy in places. We went again this year, but made it before the monsoons went through and filled it up. This place is always changing.
@@JerryArizona
If you are looking for new places to visit and film try Willis Creek Slot Canyon and Bull Gorge. They are both located near Kodachrome State Park outside of Escalante. Or try Big Horn Slot just off Hole in The Rock Road near Escalante.
Excellent informative video. Best I’ve seen. Thanks.
Thanks much, your video shows a lot about the obstacles that everyone else leaves out. Invaluable info.
WildWestHikes glad you found it helpful. One of my favorite hikes ever.
Was there in March 2024. Amazing place. Temps were in the low 60’s in the third week in March. Left Wire Pass trailhead and hiked about 6 miles round trip, in and back to the trailhead. Dry conditions, certainly not wading through water.
Glad you got to check it out. Such an beautiful place.
We have the permit for wire pass tomorrow. So excited. Thanks for all the great information and videos.
It’s a great hike. I highly recommend asking the BLM what the conditions are though. It’s been a really wet winter and cold spring. Lots of water. Right after the middle pass it gets tight and there were spots up to my chest in much drier years. It got really cold. Be prepared for a sloppy hike. Although if you’re geared up for it, that can be a lot of fun. Enjoy!
@@JerryArizona just doing wire pass not much of buckskin this go round
Wow, that was a great video. I'm glad I didn't see it before I went but I did take all precautions. I went last week. I got to the rabbit hole (I didn't know that existed). I saw the ropes and said no way. I was alone and just on a day hike anyhow, very new to this kind of hiking. There was no water or mud at all the entire way. A few puddles off to the side toward the end but all very dry. The sand was loose and deep though. It was a great hike and I will be back, I just gotta figure out when conditions are like they are now again.
Glad you got to check it out. And to go that far into it. Such an amazing place. Those ropes are always sketchy. You never know who left them and how old they are.
Great video! Thank you and look forward to this hike.
This is one of my absolute favorite hikes. It will blow your mind and ruin all slot canyons for you. We go every year.
@@JerryArizona That's perfect. I went up last year and ended up spending time at White Pocket and skipped Buckskin... Never again.
Your guys videos f**** rock! Thanks for all the tips , luv it! GREAT JOB 👏
Thanks for the vid, Jerry. We're heading in, in a few days and this has helped a ton. Appreciate you uploading this.
Enjoy! One of my favorite backpacking trips so far. I always felt privileged to be there, if that's the right term. It's just mind blowing being in that canyon.
@@JerryArizona Gotta tell you man, great video. We finished this past Sunday and it was everything that you said it would be. Sludge, muck, nasty stuff, but absolutely amazing. EVERYONE should watch this video to prep for Buckskin. Water up to mid-chest and colder than any of us could have expected. Frigid. One of the best backpacks that I've ever done. THANK YOU!
Thanks for the kind words. Glad you enjoyed it. It's been an interesting year. I bet it was extra wet, cold and sloppy. Still amazing though.
Good one thank's for all the details.
Wow Jerry, so different than all the other videos I've viewed and way more helpful. A ot make it look like an easy sandy walk...not. Thanks again pal
You're welcome. Was just back there in February and the rabbit hole was closed. First time I've seen it closed and it was not fun getting up and down. If you go, bring a rope.
Very comprehensive video; this adventure would definitely require a little more planning than most
I’m doing this hike early March. This was a very helpful video! 😉
You’re doing this hike with me in early March, man! You’re gonna have to teach me how to not freeze to death.
This is the best video guide for the Buckskin I’ve seen so far. Thank you, I’ve got permits for this weekend (3 days, 2 nights, with same itinerary). Hoping the rabbit hole is open and it’s not too cold. Anything worth checking out down the Paria? I’ve heard Wrather Canyon is interesting.
Thanks! Wrather looks cool. I haven't gone any farther down the Paria than the spring (about 3 miles past the campsite). That hike itself was really beautiful. Be careful this weekend with the forecast; looks like it could rain. If the rangers (or your shuttle driver, if they know) say buckskin is a mess, you might want to consider taking whitehouse to the campsite, explore from there and then exit back through whitehouse. You still get to see some of the best parts of Buckskin and the Paria from the campsite, but you have the option to turn around if you come to an obstacle (pool, rabbit hole boulder fall, etc).
"I only brought orange shirts" LOL
Wire Pass Trailhead; 37.019181, -112.025131 Buckskin Gulch Trailhead; 37.066931, -112.0006 Campsite; 37.002975, -111.869153 Whitehouse Trailhead; 37.080006, -111.8904 Lee’s Ferry Trailhead; 36.865956, -111.591853
While hiking in a Utah slot canyon, I think the most appropriate music is ... robotic hip hop! Yup!
Great video
this looks like my plan for june 2019. Still trying to figure out footwear. will probably take all our water. Just hoping we don't miss the parking lot on the way out.. very helpful video. thanks.
HONDO SMITH glad it helped. Enjoy it, it’s an awesome hike.
So we’re in Kanab, do you eat at Escobars? That seems like the good mexican! We hiked Buckskin today! Man , It’s really beautiful, thanks for all the tips, next off coyote Gulch after some short hikes like zebra and peekaboo.
Definitely Escobar's! A few weeks back we saw it put the other place we used to eat out of business. Buckskin is one of my favorites. We're heading back there soon. But you also can't go wrong with those hikes along Hole in the Rock. Enjoy!
I would recommend adding gaiters to the gear list to keep rocks and dirt out of your shoes.
I keep meaning to try them on a hike like this. So far, I only have the big, cumbersome snow gaiters. I need to get a smaller set.
Love ur intro man, I subbed. We've done road stool, wire pass, and white pocket this week.
Mountain Top Adventures awesome! Love that area. If you have time, check out yellow rock, wawheap hoodoos, or the stuff along Hole in the rock road while you’re in the area. So much to see up there.
@@JerryArizona Its beautiful here. Made for some good videos. Doing Antelope tomorrow
im back, so from kanaab heading towards page is it pretty easy to find trailheads from signs on the hwy for say yellow rock and othe hikes you mentioned ?
Just on the other side of Kanab is Peek A Boo canyon. Never been to that one (I've done the one off Hole in the Rock Road), but hear it's cool. Just past the Moqui Cave tourist attraction there is a parking area to hike up to the caves. No sign, but you can see them from the road. Then there's Toadstools further toward Page. No sign, but the parking is right off the road. The road to Buckskin/Wire Pass is easy to miss. Again, no sign, but it's House Rock Valley Road (a tight turn off the 89 at a curve). Wahweap Hoodoos is by Big Water. Yellow Rock is off Cottonwood Road. No signs for either. For most of those, you should mark something on GPS before you go. I usually use Gaia on my iPhone. Hackberry, Grosvener's Arch and Cottonwood Narrows do have signs off Cottonwood road though. (It's a fun road to take through to Kodachrome Basin, and good for all vehicles as long as it isn't wet or snowy.)
thanks again, i will speak to someone in kanaab , and try to do some scouting for future trips, will have a van plus a dog and will be alone but i am in good shape and banged out flatiron a couple of years back, i will camp in mcdowell mountain park for over 2 weeks, mostly bike there but some hiking to, your a good man !
Going to overnight from Wire to White House this weekend. 5 Liters of water sound like enough? Is 6 excessive? Great review...thanks.
Man, that all depends on how much you drink. I'm a camel, so I usually drink less than most people. It also depends on conditions and how fast you can get through. And how much you think you'll use at camp. I will say this; we went back earlier this year (Feb). The Paria was flowing with a nasty grey water and clogged our filters. The cesspool was clear but had an oily look to it that indicates bacteria. It was too cold and we were too tired to hike to the spring (about 3 miles down the Paria past the campgrounds), so we ended up filtering another 3L out of the Paria one drop at a time. It was brutal. So keep that in mind.
@@JerryArizona Thanks, Jerry. I'm not out of control when it comes to water, probably a little too conservative. And we're only going be out there one night so I suppose I should be okay. Don't really want to worry about filtering that mess you speak of either. Evening meal and tea and morning oatmeal and coco shouldn't be much more than a liter...sooo...maybe 6 to be comfortable....water wise.😉
I'll bring a filter and hike down to the spring if it's looking bad. Really appreciate the help, buddy and the video too!
Shuttle: grandstaircasediscoverytours.com/paria-canyon-shuttles/ Permits: www.blm.gov/programs/recreation/permits-and-passes/lotteries-and-permit-systems/arizona/paria-canyon
Sorry if i missed it in the video, how long is the hike to the campground? In miles and time? (Roughly)
I haven't done it in a while, so I'm not entirely sure. It's about 7.5 miles if you go in White House. I believe it's somewhere around 12 from Wire Pass to the campground. Speed all depends on the conditions. I'm sure it's a sloppy mess that may involve some swimming right now given all the rain and snow melt we've had. Much faster when it's dry.
@@JerryArizona awesome. I plan on going first week of October. Really hoping its mostly dry lol
Fantastic travel video; we hiked Whitehouse to confluence, then NW up Wirepass. Claustrophobic experiences in places, esp. getting stuck in tight hole w/ pack attached to me.
The rabbit hole? I've never done it from Whitehouse to Wire Pass....Not sure what I'd do if the rabbit hole was closed and I had to climb those moki steps up the boulder fall. I'm always worried it might be closed and I have to climb down those things.
@@JerryArizona We only had 3 days to hike max, wanted to see the best of the SLOTS, and variety; "Bill" a ranger (who mysteriously dropped out of contract/quit replying to email or voicemail) recommended Whitehouse to confluence, then dayhiking and turning around/hiking back same way. I always hate hiking same trail in reverse, and sensed we'd be missing important stuff, so we got brave, hiked the entire way back from the (raised platform like) confluence campsite up wirepass the 2nd day (13.4 miles I think to the parking lot?), and took our chances on hitchhiking from there to Whitehouse campground parking. We were very lucky that a couple super nice older dayhiking men gave us a ride the entire way back there w/ dirty packs (and refused my offer of $40). I highly recommend that route IF you can arrange a shuttle and not stupidly risk being stranded. My feet and knees were so shot I couldn't have survived hiking back to our vehicle.
Near the beginning of Wirepass trail (not the northwestern Buckskin trail entry) the slot was impassable/blocked, and everyone had to hike up a very steep sandstone wall. Very dangerous w/ full backpack, but that traction is so amazing that dayhiker adults, kids, even some very obese hikers were fearlessly scaling it. Surprised no one fell, but it was all day hikers in that area - the backpackers seemed to all be coming thru from Whitehouse.
Crazy how the conditions in those slots can change. Glad you went out through Buckskin. It's absolutely the best part. Whitehouse is cool toward the confluence, but otherwise it's kind of a bland wash. We usually do the reverse route you took. Day one through buckskin to camp, day 2 exploring buckskin and the paria, day three out whitehouse to the car as fast as we can. We use a shuttle service. I'm too chicken to gamble on hitching a ride.
Jerry Arizona Hi Jerry can you recommend a shutte service? Thank you for this amazing video!
does anyone have experience bringing ultralight waders? or wiggys? curious if those helped with water/mud or if they're too slippery
That mud would be pretty slippery. And I'd think they'd be heavy. Not sure though; never thought about bringing them.
Love the info as always, thank you! I’m confused by the fact that you say and show parking lot, but comment about a shuttle driver. Are we not hiking from the parking lot, where our personal car is, straight into the trail head? We have permits for March.
There are a lot of ways you can tackle Buckskin. My favorite is to go in Wire Pass, camp at the confluence and go out White House. That route requires a shuttle. If you go back out the way you came, you won't need a shuttle.
@@JerryArizona perfect! Thank you! 😊
Hey Jerry, we only have 4 hours to spend at Buckskin. Is it worth it to go only 2 hours in? I have really enjoyed your channel. Thank you buddy.
Think I answered this in messenger, but absolutely.
Great video Jerry, very helpful! We are doing this exact route in 3 weeks weather and conditions permitting. How many hours did it take you to get from Wire Pass to the Paria confluence?
Can't remember exactly. I've done this hike a few times now and time differs. Much better with experience. I was just there in February and the rabbit hole was closed, so a hand line was needed. I'd say anywhere between 6~10 hours depending on your ability.
How far beyond the wire pass confluence before you usually hit deep mud and water pools?
I don't remember exactly, but when it's wet, I don't think you get too far without mud. But I've seen it 100% dry all the way to the confluence. So it really depends on how wet a year/season it is.
this guy seems like he'd sigh every time he sees me, just like my dad
awesome thx jss
Thanks
Great video, thanks for sharing. We are preparing for a trip in a couple weeks. How much water did you pack in with you? I understand it about 13ish miles to the spring.
We took two camelbaks each with....I think 2L in each one? It all kind of depends on how much you drink, what you're willing to drink and what you think you'll use at camp. If you aren't planning to refill at the spring on day 2, you need to take enough to get out as well. Or you can filter from the Paria. I saw people doing that last time we were there. I'd love a trip report when you get back. Planning to go in early June.
Jerry Arizona Thanks! This is our first time doing this hike. We are looking forward to it. Hoping to see some other attractions near by too. I’ll be sure to give you an update on the canyon conditions when we make it out.
It's going to blow your mind. Buckskin is my second favorite backpacking trip behind the Kalalau Trail in Kauai...and that's some steep competition. It will ruin all other slot canyons for you.
Jerry Arizona We made it out today! Wow,
what an incredible hike. We started at Wire Pass the 8ft drop off wasn’t an issue there was a log to step down.
The big rock scramble we stayed to the right and went up and over rather than going thru the mud underneath.
The rabbit hole was clear and easy to get through and there was a blue knotted rope for the Moki steps.
I lost count, prob 10ish cess pools. Low levels of water in the pools only one thigh high.
We camped at the confluence and hiked out through White House.
@@jconroy5948 Glad you had a good time. I absolutely love this hike. Heading back pretty soon. I really appreciate you taking the time to give me some beta.
Nice! What shuttle service did you use?
We used these guys; grandstaircasediscoverytours.com/paria-canyon-shuttles/
Favorite winter hikes??
When is monsoon season?!?
For Utah/AZ, it's typically from mid/late June to mid/late September. Not the only time it can rain, but it's much more common to have fast, violent storms during that time. Just had a pretty decent one last night, actually.
What is the total mileage from Wire Pass thru White House? I can't find a good answer. Thanks!!
JJ M fast forward to 2:07 in the video. It’s not the best answer, but it’s the only one I have.
I guess that only says wire pass to the campgrounds. Campground to whitehouse is right around 7.5 miles.
Let me know if you ever need a hiking partner . I know Tina usually goes with but my wife doesn't hike. I don't really want to do this one by myself. Thought about entering at White House and just hiking to the buckskin confluence for the day. I am early retired so can meet you just about anytime the weather is good.
Thanks for posting this. I managed to get an overnight permit for the next month (April) and am super excited. You’ve answered mostly what I’ve been wondering about. What are your thoughts on (1) doing this solo and (2) wading across water in April - how big and deep can they get, and would it be a problem for someone who can’t swim (asking for a friend ;) of course).
Man....Solo isn't bad. It's not really dangerous. And there should be other people around. But it's been a really wet year out here. The pools could be pretty deep (although I don’t know they’d be deep enough to have to swim) and the canyon could be an absolute mess. You may want to ask the BLM what the conditions are like. Or you could call one of the shuttle services in Page; the driver we had went through the canyon a lot. (I put a link in the comments.) Another option is to go in Whitehouse to the campgrounds; you can then hike up Buckskin as far as you want. If it gets too sloppy, you can turn around and go out the way you came.
Jerry Ackerman Thanks. I was hoping to hear that this has been a dry year, but oh well. I will definitely call BLM and talk to the shuttle guy before my trip. Your suggestion of a day hike from White House as an alternative sounds good. Is the canyon really prettier from that end compared to the Wire Pass side? Also I remembered the other question I wanted to ask: there’s no chance of getting lost from Wire Pass to White House, is there?
Alt Man wirepass meets with buckskin and you turn right. There’s really no alternate routes so little chance of getting lost.
Whitehouse is kind of boring for most of it. It slots up toward the confluence (turn right to the campground) and gets really cool. Buckskin is absolutely gorgeous from the campground upstream to the boulder fall. The entire hike from wire pass is mind blowing, but in my opinion the last 1-2 miles before the campground are the prettiest.
It’s a REALLY wet year, unfortunately. You definitely want to ask about conditions. It has to be a mess in there right now.
Yeah, I've just been reading news about weather in Southern Utah and it's not looking good. I can only hope it gets dry from here on. Mind if I ask which driver you used for the shuttle? You mentioned that you put a link in the comments but I couldn't seem to find it. In other news...I managed to score a permit to camp at Havasupai and will be checking out your video about it. The quality of your work is insane--the shots, the editing, the music. Love it all.
@@wthhandle Thanks man. I appreciate it.
Try this link: grandstaircasediscoverytours.com/paria-canyon-shuttles/ I can't remember the guy's name. Ask if they have a driver who is prone to walking through buckskin without shoes (kinda crazy, but we actually saw bare footprints, so I'm prone to believe him.)
Honestly, I'd think twice about going in there unless you are really comfortable with canyon stew. It has to be a sloppy mess. I believe this is a record rainfall year. You can always get permits as long as you set a reminder and check first thing the day they put a new month up. (If you wanted to go later in the year.)
Havasupai.... I'm not one for crowds, but that place is incredible enough to overlook them. Wake up early enough and you can probably have some of the falls to yourself. And check out Navajo (if it's reopened from the flood damage) and 50' falls too. We missed them the first year and they're awesome.
Am curious about Altmans... Solo trip. I am entering the canyon July 1...also going solo
We went in early July a couple years ago. The canyon was dry all the way to the cesspool by the campgrounds. Not sure about this year since there's been so much precipitation, but it should be a lot less sloppy in the summer. It's hot, but not unbearable in the canyon since most is in the shade. There are a couple cracks in the canyon where cold air comes out. It feels almost like AC in the summer. Leave early, especially if you're going out through White House (lots of that is in full sun, as well as the entry to Wire Pass.) You need to keep an eye on the forecast for monsoons and change plans if there's chance of rain. Otherwise, solo is no big deal. The other main risks would be a twisted ankle or the climb down the boulder fall if the rabbit hole isn't open. You won't have any signal in most of the canyon (if not all of it.) Let somebody know where you're going and when you'll be back and enjoy.
Jerry, thanks so much for such a quick response, you made my day! Mostly, because I failed miserably at getting permits in Zion this morning! Was trying to put together my nephews first trek, Zion was his pick...but that is a no go now. We can always do a GC trip in August...always easy to get. Thank you, for the reassurance on my July trip in Buckskin...My permit is for 2...just having trouble finding a partner. Per your videos, I noticed you were in my backyard last fall, when you hiked Blue Lakes. I live in Ridgway. I do that one every few years, but try to stay away because of all of the people! If you are ever in this area again, I strongly suggest hiking to The Bridge of Heaven. It is my favorite!! Haven't watched them all, but thanks for your videos...you've opened my eyes to do many different opportunities. I am a happy subscriber!! Have you been through Coyote Gulch?
Matthew Maxwell ha! Sitting here with the wife planning a trip now. Bridge of Heaven looks VERY cool. Adding it to the list. We’ve barely scratched the surface of Colorado. Just got Subway permits for Zion today. Missed out on the Narrows though. Not sure there’s a trick to that. Might try to snag walk ins for narrows while we’re there. We’re actually looking at Waheap hoodoos, yellow rock and white pocket right now. All near the Buckskin area. Plan A was actually Reflection Canyon toward the end of Hole in the Rock Road. That place is incredible and you basically just have to sign in (no issue with permits) so they know where you are. Coyote Gulch is really cool. I recommend going in at crack in the wall and out the sneak route by Jacob Hamblin. That way you don’t have to walk up that horrible sand hill at the base of crack in the wall. You can backpack or day hike. Also check out Peek a Boo/Spooky Gulch, zebra slot canyon and a quick stop at devil’s garden. All worth it while you’re there. There’s more off that road, but we’re still exploring it.
You are a plethora of it info...sadly you do not get paid! My nephew is dead set on Zion, so we are going to arrive a few days early and try to score permits over the counter. Where to camp for those two nights?? Watchman is already booked! Any suggestions?
Still plenty to see even without permits there. I'm not sure on camping areas. There was a really remote spot we used last year, but I couldn't find it again. 4WD high clearance access only and the campsite wasn't the greatest. You can join the "hiking utah" group on Facebook and ask there. Best of luck, and enjoy. Zion is beautiful. I keep meaning to spend more time there.
"If I had soap I'd use it"??? come on brother you know better than that
What can I say, man? That canyon stew can get downright nasty...the pool filled with rotting wood from the obstacle blow out was particularly ripe.
Very appealing. Not. Well, ok a little.