The Squeeze - San Rafael Swell
(1 Ratings)
RATING: 3B
LENGTH: 7-10 hours
GEAR: Standard Technial Gear, Wetsuit, Pothole Escape Gear
RAPPELS: Up to 16 and 30 m ( 99 ft. )
WATER: Generally quite a bit. Wetsuit required.
FLASHFLOOD: High. Do not enter if threatening rain.
SEASON: Spring through Fall
Hype
The Squeeze, draining high off the Moroni slopes, is arguably one of the best and most difficult canyons in the Swell. From either of the two possible trailheads, it is a long day and physical canyon. The reward is an amazingly beautiful and fun canyon, including 2 natural bridges you go through. Because of the challenges, intermediate canyoneers or better. The canyon, when 1/3 or 1/2 full of water can provide serious pothole challenges, go prepared. If you happen to visit after rains when it is full, it is a delightful romp, and you'll wonder what all the "pothole difficulty" talk is about.The crux keeper pothole often has a fixed line to allow traversing above it, however on my first trip through, the line was missing. A stick clip can be handy in the crux, as well as 1 or 2 other potholes, and likely more expedient than pack tosses depending on your clipping skill level.
Commentary: Rumor has it the Squeeze was done years ago using only natural anchors. This would be a challenge! In recent years, bolts have sprung up and some canyoneers have placed bolts while others have removed them. Currently (2010) the canyon seems bolted in a fair way. If you go through at full water levels, you may scoff at the proliferation of bolts protecting short down climbs and drops. Be assured, however, that at lower water the bolts may be required. This canyon is difficult to find natural anchors in if an anchor is missing. The bottom line? Please leave the bolts alone in the canyon. If you don't wish to use them, then don't, but don't pull them.
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