Big Spring Canyon (3BIV)

Location: Grand Canyon National Park, North Rim (Kaibab Plateau), AZ
Rating: Intermediate 3B IV (technical canyon with remote access and route finding)
Length: 2 to 4 days
Mileage: ~8 to 12+ miles depending on route
Longest Rappel: Unknown / conditions dependent
Start: Lancelot Point (preferred) or Big Spring drainage
End: Big Spring Canyon / return via same or alternate route
Permits: Grand Canyon backcountry permit required
Wetsuit: Not typically required
Shuttle: Not typical

Overview: Big Spring Canyon is a remote and technical canyon located on the western flanks of the Kaibab Plateau within Grand Canyon National Park. This route offers a mix of rugged canyon terrain, route finding, and potential technical descents through the upper Supai formation.

Due to its elevation and remote access, this canyon is typically completed as a multi day trip and requires careful planning, navigation, and permit coordination.

Access to the North Rim via Hwy 67 is typically closed from the first major snowfall in November through mid May. Road conditions and accessibility should be verified before planning.

Approach: From Jacob Lake, travel south on Hwy 67 approximately 24 miles. Turn west onto Forest Road 22 and follow for several miles to FR 270. Turn south on FR 270 and continue approximately 2.1 miles, then take the fourth right onto FR 223. Follow FR 223 approximately 5.5 miles, then turn left onto FR 268.

Continue approximately 2.3 miles and turn left onto FR 268B. Shortly after entering Grand Canyon National Park, follow the road to access the Big Spring Canyon area. Road conditions vary and may require high clearance.

The recommended route begins from Lancelot Point, located along the rim above Big Spring Canyon. From the rim, travel to the north side of Lancelot Point where two gullies descend into the canyon near the top of the Supai formation. These gullies provide access into the canyon but may require downclimbing, route finding, and possible rappels depending on conditions.

This entry allows access directly into the more technical and scenic portions of the canyon.

An alternate entry exists from the lower drainage near Big Spring. This approach involves dense vegetation and difficult travel due to heavy bushwhacking.

Route Description: From the Lancelot Point entry, descend into Big Spring Canyon and follow the drainage downstream. The canyon becomes more rugged and enclosed as you descend, with multiple obstacles and changing terrain.

Most parties return via the same route, climbing back out. Alternate exits are limited and may require extensive navigation.

Nearby Hiking Option: A separate route known as the Big Spring Canyon Loop Trail (~10.8 miles) exists on the Kaibab Plateau. This loop remains on the rim and does not descend into Big Spring Canyon. It offers a non-technical hiking option with forested terrain and occasional canyon views.

This route should not be confused with the technical canyon descent described above.