Woods Canyon (2BIII)

Location: Coconino National Forest, near Sedona and Camp Verde, AZ
Rating: Basic Canyoneering 2B III (non-technical canyon with distance, heat, and route finding)
Length: 6 to 12 hours
Mileage: ~8 to 12 miles (shuttle) or significantly longer out and back
Longest Rappel: None
Start: FR 80 (upper access)
End: Trail #93 near Hwy 179
Permits: None
Wetsuit: Optional depending on season
Shuttle: Highly Recommended

Overview: Woods Canyon is a long and physically demanding non-technical canyon route featuring open desert terrain, sections of water, and remote canyon travel. While not technically difficult, the canyon presents challenges through distance, heat, and route finding.

The lower portion of the canyon is especially exposed and can be extremely hot, making timing and preparation critical.

A shuttle route from the upper access to Trail #93 is the preferred method. Out and back travel is possible but extremely strenuous and not recommended for most parties.

Approach: From Flagstaff, head south on I-17 approximately 24 miles to Exit 315 (Rocky Park Road). Follow Forest Road 80 north parallel to the freeway for approximately 1.7 miles to a suitable parking area.

Shuttle Setup: A shuttle is recommended between the upper and lower access points. Lower Shuttle (Trail #93):
From Flagstaff, head south on I-17 and take Exit 298. Head toward Sedona on Hwy 179. After approximately 3.6 miles, you will cross Dry Beaver Creek. Continue another 2.3 miles to a wide pullout with a gate and dirt road heading east toward the canyon. Proceed through the gate and follow the dirt road approximately 0.1 miles to the end. Trail #93 begins here.

Road conditions can be rough and may require high clearance.

Route Description: From the upper access, descend into Woods Canyon and begin traveling downstream toward Trail #93. The canyon is generally open but includes sections with more defined walls and drainage features. Travel is slower than typical hiking due to terrain and route finding.

Water is intermittent where pools may require wading or swimming. Conditions vary depending on rainfall.

Over halfway through the route, Rattlesnake Canyon enters from the north, serving as a notable landmark and potential reference point along the descent.

The recommended route is top down with a shuttle. While it is possible to travel this canyon out and back, doing so is extremely difficult and involves repeated swimming, route finding, and a demanding climb out of the canyon. Conditions can change quickly, and returning the same way may prove far more challenging than expected. The preferred option is to continue downstream to locate Trail #93 near Hwy 179, then follow Trail #93 out of the canyon to your shuttle vehicle.