Slot Canyon Characteristics

Module 15

So, what are some of the characteristics of slot-canyons? Well, each single one has been carved and shaped due to a few factors: the rock type, the erosion and weathering process, geological structures, hydrology and water features, and finally dimensions and scale of the slot canyon.

Rock Types

Sandstone: Smooth, undulating (smooth or wave-like) walls, vibrant reds, oranges, yellows.
Limestone: Sharp edges, jagged walls, karst (ie caves) formations, dissolves in acidic water.
Granite: Rugged, sharp-edged rock walls, challenging terrain, loose rock, steep drops.
Volcanic (Basalt): Dark, rock columns, lava tubes.

Erosion & Weathering Processes

Water Erosion: Flash floods carve deep, narrow channels, creating dramatic canyon features.
Freeze-Thaw Weathering: In colder climates, freeze-thaw cycles cause cracks in granite, leading to loose debris.

Geological Features

Stratification: Distinct layers of rock due to sedimentary processes.
Unconformities: Older rock sections exposed due to erosion, creating geological cross-sections (a profile view).

Hydrology & Water Features

Waterfalls & Pools: Seasonal features that vary, adding to navigation and aesthetic value.
Flash Flooding Risks: Narrow canyons prone to trapping water, particularly dangerous in arid regions.

Dimensions and Scale

Narrow Widths: Ranges from a few inches to several dozen feet wide, creating dramatic shadows and lighting.
Verticality: Steep, vertical walls can rise hundreds of feet, posing climbing challenges and offering stunning views.

Here are some generalizations of Canyoneering areas, depending on the time of year, just to give you an idea of WHEN to go:

Death Valley, California

Spring: Popular, but rapidly warming
Summer: Avoid—extreme heat (110-120°F)
Fall: Still hot, shorter daylight
Winter: Ideal, mild temperatures (60-70°F)

Cedar Mesa, Utah

Spring: Popular, but cold water
Summer: Popular, water-filled canyons, bugs
Fall: Warm days, cold nights
Winter: Short canyons, long exits, cold, snow possible

Escalante, Utah

Spring: Moderate temps, snowmelt increases water
Summer: High 90s, can be too hot
Fall: Comfortable (70-80°F), shorter days
Winter: Cold, snow on approach, short daylight

San Rafael Swell, Utah

Spring: Popular, water-filled canyons
Summer: Hot, with more water
Fall: Less water, wetsuits needed
Winter: Cold, wetsuits/drysuits, short days

Moab & Arches N.P., Utah

Spring: Great conditions, more water, some bugs
Summer: Hot, but short canyons are doable
Fall: Great conditions, warm days, cold nights
Winter: Short canyons, cold, snow possible

North Wash, Utah

Spring: Popular, little water
Summer: Too hot for comfort
Fall: Great conditions, little water
Winter: Popular for “Freezefest,” short daylight, snow possible

Lake Powell, Utah

Spring: Popular, more water, wetsuits required
Summer: Hot, water-filled canyons, bugs
Fall: Least water, wetsuits needed
Winter: Cold, wetsuits/drysuits, short days

Zion National Park, Utah

Spring: Popular, more water, wetsuits needed
Summer: Popular, Hot, water-filled canyons
Fall: Moderate temperatures, wetsuits needed
Winter: Cold, snow possible, wetsuits/drysuits required