Heaps Canyon

Location: Zions National Park
Rating: Advanced 4B V R
Length: 12-20 hours
Longest Rappel: 280ft (90m)
Start: West Rim trailhead
End: Temple of Sinawava
Permits: Required
Wet Suit: Required or Dry Suits!
Shuttle: Yes

** Permits can be obtained from Zion National park through an online lottery system. The lottery is 2 days, 7 days or 3 months in advance. Mystery and Subway are the only canyons with a lottery 3 months in advance. Click here for site lottery.

Overview: Do not attempt unless you are thoroughly prepared. Heaps Canyon is one of Zion's most difficult canyons. Bring someone who has done it before if possible. Each person needs to be fit, have climbing skills, and understands the risks. Attempt a few "not so risky" canyons first like Das Boot to prepare.

Approach:

1. From Virgin, Utah drive North on Kolob Reservoir Road toward Lava Point. Exit Lava point and follow signs to West Rim trailhead. or
2. Take Zion shuttle to Grotto shuttle stop. Head up the West rim trail. This rout will have a heavy climb on an already extremely difficult canyon. Plan for two days with this rout
Heaps has two approaches: 1. Phantom Valley and 2. Gunsight. Heaps has many keeper holes, multi pitch raps, and more. Consult a guide before attempting.