Cathedral Wash

Location: Marble Canyon / Lees Ferry area, AZ
Rating: Basic Canyoneering 2A II
Length: 2 to 4 hours
Mileage: ~3.5 miles round trip
Longest Rappel: None required (25ft optional)
Start: Cathedral Wash parking area near Lees Ferry Road
End: Colorado River / return same route
Permits: None - $30 per vehicle for Glen Canyon National Recreation Area
Wet Suit: Not typically needed
Shuttle: Not required

Overview: Cathedral Wash is a short and scenic canyon route near Lees Ferry offering an accessible introduction to canyon travel within the Marble Canyon region. The route descends through colorful rock formations, narrow limestone passages, and dryfalls before reaching the Colorado River.

While non technical, the canyon does include several scrambling obstacles and one notable ~25ft drop that requires route finding and exposed fourth class movement. Some groups may opt for a short rappel. 

This is a popular route for visitors seeking a shorter adventure near Lees Ferry without the commitment of longer Grand Canyon routes.

Approach: From Marble Canyon, follow the road toward Lees Ferry approximately 1.5 miles. Cathedral Wash passes beneath the road near a wide pullout and informational sign discussing the Vermilion Cliffs.

Park in the designated roadside area and descend into the drainage.

Route Description: Follow Cathedral Wash downstream toward the Colorado River. The canyon begins as an open drainage before narrowing into more confined limestone sections. Approximately half a mile into the route, the gradient steepens and several dryfalls appear.

The largest obstacle is approximately 25 ft and is typically bypassed via a fourth class scramble on canyon right, leading through a narrow limestone passage before rejoining the drainage below. 

Cathedral Wash is typically dry, though pools and mud may occasionally be present after storms.