Kris invited me out for a little canyon adventure in a system he had been exploring. Kris's neighbor Kieth is a pilot and was flying back from Arizona when he spotted this interesting-looking canyon system in a fairly unlikely spot, took some photos and got Kris and a few neighbors interested. They spent a weekend figuring out how to get up to it, then a weekend exploring the South Fork. This trip would do the South Fork complete, then also do the North Fork, thus completing the exploration. Since this canyon enjoys the "show, not tell" status, I have used the obfuscating name "Aardvark Canyon".

Pictures this Latest Rave: by all - a mix of pictures.

Note about helmets: Yeah, I could not believe these guys did not wear helmets. I raked them over the coals pretty good for it, don't worry.

Here's the gang, Kris Nosack (left), Brian Moncur and Kieth Sorenson.

First problem - climbing up out of the exit canyon to get to the toplands and the start of the canyon.

(The story, from Kris's perspective:) While I haven't been able to get out for much canyoneering, I was able to explore a canyon without beta this year. With tales of Sandthrax and the like haunting my memory, I was apprehensive, but excited by the prospect of facing the unknown and testing myself. The first foray failed to find an approach route to the canyon. On the second trip we found a workable route. Since the approach had consumed a large part of the day, the decision was made to attempt only the lower 1/2 mile of the south fork. We walked down to the edge of the canyon and rapped in, leaving Kieth on top in case we had to retreat. The canyon quickly slotted up and as the group pushed ahead, people were left as relays (by voice or radio) back to the rap in spot. The lead two found an escape and signalled us relays to move down canyon as the exit seemed certain. When considering this trip, 3 outcomes seemed logical: the canyon would be too narrow and result in Sandthrax-like misery, the canyon would be too wide and result in an unexciting walk down a wash, or the canyon would be just right and offer the fun canyoneers seek. I was happy to discover this canyon was just right. A good mix of slot punctuated by pools and open sections. The canyon was friendly and entertaining. The final drop was the icing on the cake. The objective of the next trip was to descend the entire south fork. I walked to the head while the other 3 in our group scouted from the rim. I found a spicy walk-in route and headed down canyon.

Classic multi-butt shot!

Up on top, looking into the Wingate maze that holds our canyons.

Skirting some slabs to get around to the top of the canyon. They let me lead out across the desert, and I did a good job of finding the most difficult and strenuous way of getting there.

Kris downclimbing into the canyon.