Redwall Canyon Northwest Fork, Death Valley National Park

It's not always the best idea to have a 'list' of canyons — it truly is about the experience and not the destination. Who we become, what we learn, and how we grow from the experience is what makes for a great canyon adventure. The filters in place include our own limitations, physically and mentally. The 80/20 rule — also called the Pareto Principle — states that 80% of your success comes from 20% of your efforts.

The northwest fork of Redwall Canyon requires effort that not everyone is willing to invest. A 3,500 ft approach for just 5 rappels. But what made up for the lack of raps was the actual experience — the strength, resilience, and fortification of resolve that makes other canyons feel 'within reach.' This canyon was one of the last on my Death Valley list, and it delivered. Redwall Canyon: 5 raps, and 3,500 ft of gain. Yup — just 5.