Rattlesnake Canyon (3BIII)

Location: Coconino National Forest
Rating: Intermediate 3B III 
Length: 6-10 hours
Mileage: 2.64 to 5 miles. Plan ~5 to 7 mile hike.
Longest Rappel: 40ft (13m)
Start: Exit 306 off I-17
End: There and Back or Shuttle at Oak Creek (Hwy 179)
Permits: None
Wet Suit: Not needed
Shuttle: Optional

Overview: Rattlesnake Canyon is a dry canyon that offers some pools, scrambling, and a rappel that is possible to avoid—however, it's best to use a rope. As you move through the canyon, the walls ascend higher and higher. 

Approach: From Flagstaff, take I-17 south 30 miles to Stoneman Lake Rd. Exit (Forest Service Rd #213 or exit 306). On the north side of the freeway is an unnamed frontage road that leads to a 4wd dirt road. Take this trail leading north to Rattlesnake Canyon. The dirt road is about 1.3 miles to the canyon from the highway. Or, park your car by the I-17 to add 2.6 miles to your adventure.

Completing the Canyon: Scramble down to the canyon floor and head west. The canyon is about 2.64 miles long from the entrance we described. Fix a rope near the 40ft falls so you can head back. Once you reach the intersection at Woods Canyon, head back. Or, you can follow Woods Canyon trail to Hwy 179, where you may opt to set up a shuttle. Woods Canyon trail will be found on the north side of Woods Canyon. From Rattlesnake canyon to Woods Canyon, the trailhead is about 3.5 miles. 

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