Heaps (Jul 2011)

Heaps is probably the toughest and longest canyon in Zion. A three hour hike up the West Rim is the approach, before you have to descend cliffs and slabs down into Phantom Valley, From there the canyon narrows up into several extremely long, narrow, dark, deep, swimming slots. Lots of down and up climbing, raps, and obstacles make it challenging. The day we did it we had some heavy rains at time, which made it unnerving. Luckily the slots did not flash flood. The final drop is 500' into Upper Emerald Pool, requiring two straight-down, overhanging rappels. Our group of five finally got back to the grotto 13 hours after starting the hike. What a great way to spend a day! Pictures below are sunrise on the West Rim, Phantom Valley, a keeper pothole, several narrow spots, and two shots of Upper Emerald Pool from the last rappel station. Notice the tourists sitting around the pool.























































Keeper