Christopher Creek Canyon 3CII, Arizona

Christopher Creek is an excellent C-class canyoneering route that takes you through more of an open gorge-like canyon with jumps and waterfalls to negotiate. A thick wetsuit is what we all grabbed for this run down the canyon — a much-needed necessity.

Faced with a few rappels and jumps, working our way down the canyon was like a waterpark full of slime and hopeful expectations. Plenty of areas to get out of the canyon to warm up if needed and enjoy just what you are going through.

Some of these jumps were hard not to like — like this 20-footer. Swimming, jumps, raps, waterfalls, and sun. Where are we going wrong? Nowhere. There are plenty of spots to set up guided rappels as well for the more risk-averse.

You will not be upset with this canyon — unless you get upset a lot, and even then, maybe only about the hike out. Even that was like taking a walking tram back to the top. I would love to see this canyon in higher flow next time!

🎒 Gear for this: Sterling Canyoneering Rope · Petzl Grigri+ · Petzl Vertex Helmet · Petzl Canyon Harness