Rattlesnake Canyon (3AIII)

Location: Coconino National Forest
Rating: Intermediate 3A III
Length: 6 to 10 hours
Mileage: ~5 to 7 miles total depending on route and shuttle
Longest Rappel: ~40 ft (13 m)
Start: Exit 306 (Stoneman Lake Rd / FR 213) off I-17
End: Out and back or shuttle to Hwy 179 via Woods Canyon
Permits: None
Wet Suit: Not needed
Shuttle: Optional

Overview:Rattlesnake Canyon offers a moderately technical canyon experience with scrambling, dry falls, and a short rappel within a progressively deepening canyon. This route is best considered a semi technical dry canyon with canyoneering characteristics.

The canyon is typically dry with occasional pools that are usually avoidable. As you move deeper into the canyon, the walls rise and the terrain becomes more defined, creating a more enclosed canyon environment.

A key feature of the canyon is a ~40 ft drop, which is the primary technical obstacle and is most safely descended using a rope.

Approach: From Flagstaff, head south on I-17 approximately 30 miles to Exit 306 (Stoneman Lake Rd / Forest Road 213). On the north side of the freeway, locate an access or frontage road leading to a dirt road heading north toward the canyon. Follow this dirt road approximately 1.3 miles to the canyon rim.

Alternatively, park near the highway and hike the additional distance for a longer approach. Road conditions may vary and may require high clearance. Entry into the canyon requires route finding.

Route Description: Descend into Rattlesnake Canyon and travel downstream (generally west). You can expect scrambling and downclimbing, dry falls and ledges, occasional pools (typically avoidable), increasingly defined canyon walls, and sections with exposure requiring careful movement.

Although pools of water may be present, you may avoid them.

Rappels: Estimated 1 to 2 depending on route choice

• Primary Rappel: ~40 ft vertical drop. While the drop may be bypassed by experienced groups, the bypass can be exposed (5.4 to 5.8 difficulty) and is not always recommended. Rope use is strongly recommended for safety.

Additional minor drops may be encountered depending on route and conditions.

Exit Options

• Out and Back: Return the same way after reaching Woods Canyon. Requires ascending the 40ft dry fall - so plan accordingly. 
• Woods Canyon Shuttle Exit: Continue to the junction with Woods Canyon and locate the Woods Canyon Trail on canyon left (north side). Follow this trail approximately 3.5 miles to Hwy 179 where a shuttle vehicle may be staged

Route finding is required to locate and follow the correct exit trail.