trips / utah/ san rafael swell

Hype

Baptist draw is often touted as one of the best beginner friendly canyons in the San Rafael Swell. A short approach, coupled with great narrows, easy down climbs, and straight forward rappels make this a winner. It doesn't hurt that it has some of the deepest, darkest narrows in the Swell.

I would agree it is beginner friendly, it was my first technical canyon in Southern Utah in the 90's, and I've been through several times since. That being said, Baptist Draw has seen far more than it's share of accidents, epics, and near epics. The common thread of many of the ill fated trips is time of year. This is NOT a good canyon to do in the winter. With a large drainage area, it can hold mud and water for long periods. Couple that with cold temperatures and the short days of winter, and you have a recipe for disaster. Many of the accidents have been cold water and/or short day related. Save this canyon for spring, summer, or fall. Because of the large drainage area, it has a very high flash flood danger. Do not enter if rain is in the forecast.

Note: The description here has both a short and a long version. The short version is by far the preferred route, but all groups should be prepared to do the long version if necessary. Mud, water, or flood debris can make the short version substantially more difficult or impassable, causing groups to need to take the longer route back.

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