Little Colorado River, Arizona

The Little Colorado River is one of the main tributaries to the Colorado River, with over a 54-mile hike (one way) or access via side canyons. Water sheds for hundreds of miles into the LCR. One of the mysteries of this watershed is the beautiful milky blue water that emerges from springs — high in calcium and magnesium, it reflects a baby blue color as it passes over calcified travertine dams.

We ran Big Canyon which delivered a 5-mile approach and rappels to 100ft, dropping us into the LCR — this blue water was a real treat at the canyon's end. The water was surprisingly warm — high 60s — perfect for swimming and floating the travertine dams. Do NOT drink the water without careful consideration — the high mineral content causes illness for some. Camps on beach near Salt Trail. 4-hour exit at 5am to beat the heat. When we left, I felt we needed a lot more time here. Spectacular.