This Page is Under Construction - 4/2/05
Kentz and Lindsey set out on their fantastic 40 mile journey on March 12, 2005. I got involved by agreeing to shuttle them, as the entry trailhead east of Kanab, Utah and exit trailhead near Lees Ferry on the Colorado River, are more than an hour drive apart. Both drove down from Wyoming to enjoy a winter-time hike without snow or cold.
Kentz, early in the going. Paria is walled in by soaring, multi-colored sandstone. At times the canyon walls are mere feet apart; at other times, the canyon widens substantially.
As Lindsey soon discovered, heavy winter rains had caused Paria Creek to be full and, at times, challenging going. The depth varied from a foot or so to waist deep - its waters were a bit cold, too. Note the people atop the steep wall behind Lindsey.
Kentz and Lindsey pose inside one of the many narrow canyons - canyons that can be life-threatening during flash floods. I had warned them to be alert at all times within the narrows, and to camp well outside their threat. Day 2 of their trip was spent largely walking in the river.
Lindsey fords the muddy Paria in a broader expanse of Paria Canyon, unaware of the Narrows awaiting her. I strongly recommend that one bring along a sturdy pair of sandals for the river walking stretches. There were a good number of very nice camping areas available along the route; it is asked that backpackers camp only in the existing camp sites.
Lindsey takes a break alongside the Paria River. Note the smoothly carved walls of Paria Canyon's "Narrows." The Paria River is the architect of these marvelous sculptures. The rock formations include Carmel, Temple Cap and Navajo Sandstone at the beginning; Kayenta a little past Judd Hollow Pump, followed a short distance farther by Moenave; a few mile farther you will find Chinle Formations. As you near the end of the trek, you will pass Native Indian Petroglyphs to the east of the trail, and then encounter the Moenkopi Formation just before crossing the wilderness boundary. Formations are strata or layers at various depths of the canyon.
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