GIFFORD CANYON 
ROUTE INFORMATIONVIEW PHOTOS!

Overview:
Gifford CanyonGifford Canyon is the north-south wash just east of the Zion-Mount Carmel Tunnel in the upper East Canyon, south of Route 9 and across from the parking lot for the Canyon Overlook Trail. Gifford Wash is mostly open and sandy with much lush vegetation and reddish oxide seeps which are common to the East Canyon. Though not the most interesting or photogenic canyon in Zion, this wash makes an interesting half-day hike for people looking to do some random exploring.

Detailed Description:
This hike may take roughly 2-4 hours and is roughly 3 miles (round trip). Park at the Canyon Overlook parking lot and look south across Pine Creek (the wash below) to see the 15-foot high dryfall blocking entrance to the mouth of Gifford Canyon above. The hardest part of this hike is the beginning. Scramble down the steep sandy hill into Pine Creek, then look to the left (east) of the Gifford Canyon dryfall for the fairly easy scrambling route up through the overgrown bushes. Once you are level with the mouth of of Gifford Canyon, make your way around a shelf that places you right on top of the dryfall. (Note: While this is a bit of a scramble, there should be no dangerous exposed section. If you reach a precarious spot, retreat and find a safer path.)

Once in Gifford Canyon, it's a nice and easy stroll through the open wash. Sandy sections mix with overgrown sections and a few areas of slickrock (including a large slickrock bowl to climb up). Although there are often wet sandy sections (as Gifford collects a lot of rain water), there are plenty of dry slickrock formations that are perfect for enjoying lunch. About a mile and a half into the canyon, you will reach the steep rock formations that mark the head of the canyon. Turn around and return the way you came.

Note: The west side of the canyon offers several opportunities to scramble up and out of the canyon. Do not do this if you have no rock-scrambling experience and remember that you must be able to navigate back down as well!

Joe's Spin:
While this might not be the most stunning or exciting canyon in Zion, it is a beautifully serene wash for a leisurely stroll. Be sure to bring a lunch or some other excuse to hang out on the rocks for a few hours; you will enjoy your time here.

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Gifford Canyon Topo Map