Burro Wash - Capitol Reef

Burro Wash

Capitol Reef National Park
Technical Canyoneering

Burro Wash is a clandestine treasure tucked into the Waterpocket Fold of Capitol Reef National Park. The bottom section of the canyon can be enjoyed by hikers seeking a glimpse of a classic sandstone slot canyon. Enjoying the complete adventure offered by this wild canyon requires technical canyoneering skills.

The Waterpocket Fold is an immense bulge in the earth's crust known as a monocline in which 14 layers of sedimentary strata were tilted upward. A trip through Burro Wash as it slices through the Waterpocket Fold is a geologic amusement ride.

Circle of Friends:
Burro Wash is part of the "Circle of Friends" program. Members of the "Circle of Friends" have access to more specific information, explicit route information, GPS waypoints, trailhead location and detailed maps. If you would like more information on joining the "Circle of Friends" visit the sign up page.

"Circle of Friends"

General Information:
Burro Wash is a technical canyoneering adventure and requires complete technical gear. The technical portion of the canyon consists of swimming, wading, downclimbing, rappelling and a bunch of fun.

There are few bolted anchors in this canyon, let's preserve this feature. Hundreds of canyoneers before you have descended this canyon without placing additional bolts, so please play fair. You might need to locate and construct natural anchors, which is moderately difficult in this canyon.

Burro Wash is rated 3B III using the Canyon Rating System. This canyon has a moderate flashflood danger. Navigation for this route is difficult. A GPS is extremely useful in identifying waypoints. Good map reading skills are essential.

Canyoneering Permit:
You will need a Capitol Reef Canyoneering Permit to complete Burrow Wash as a technical canyoneering route. A permit is not required for hikers.

Hikers Route Information:
Burro Wash can be visited and enjoyed by hikers. Burro Wash from the bottom is rated 2B II using the Canyon Rating System. Hikers will likely encounter knee to waist deep wading. Attempting this canyon from the bottom up is a great adventure for hikers wanting to experience a nice slot canyon.

Sierra - 5 years 32 days old - Youngest ever to descend Burro?

Trailhead Information:
A vehicle shuttle is required to complete this route as a technical adventure. No shuttle is required for hikers wanting to explore a slot canyon.