SPLASHY!

Benson Creek is a splashy short little thang about 45 miles north of Springdale up towards Brian Head from the town of Parowan. In the heat of the summer, it is a delightful break from the sweat-fests in Zion proper, especially if you manage an early start for the steep approach. Could be a good stop on the way to or from Salt Lake City.

It is short. A casual pace with six experienced canyoners took us three hours total. Water levels will vary, but the normal summer level means enough splashiness to be fun but not enough to push you around. No pools. Anchors are trees and bolts. The approach – well, let’s not spoil the fun fun fun vibe, shall we? The drive from the east side of Zion is a treat by itself. Up Highway 89 to Todd’s Corner, then across Route 14 past Navajo Lake to Route 143. At 10,000 feet, the road runs through Cedar Breaks National Monument to Brian Head, then down Parowan Canyon to Benson Creek at 7200 feet. Or one can access Parowan Canyon from I-15. With no pools to swim, wetsuits are generally not called for, though drybags, a raincoat and a change of clothing will be useful. Bring webbing to replace anchor rigging.

TIMELINE

0:00 Park at Hidden Haven

0:15 At Picnic Tables

1:10 At first rappel, gear up

2:40 Finish last rappel

3:00 Back at Hidden Haven

Canyon Profile

Logistics

RATINGS
3B II ★★★☆☆

TIME REQUIRED
2-4 hours

PERMIT
Not Required. Call the Iron County Sheriff for emergencies (435-867-7550).

SEASON
Summer or fall.

LONGEST RAPPEL
105 feet (32 meters)

Equipment

ESSENTIALS
Helmets, rappelling gear, webbing and rapid links. Raincoat recommended.

SEASONAL ADJUSTMENTS
Waterflow is likely to be high in the spring until the snow has finished melting.

DRINKING WATER
None available. Bring plenty for the approach.

ACCESS
Starts and ends at Hidden Hollow parking area, Parowan Canyon, Route 143.

DIFFICULTIES

FLASH FLOOD RISK
Moderate.

ANCHORS
Large trees and bolted anchors.

Getting there

**Driving**
Six miles from the center of Parowan, the ten-car parking lot is signed as Hidden Haven, and trails are maintained by the town and the Utah Division of Wildlife Resources as a hiking spot for families. Find it between mileposts 8 and 9 on State Route 143. From I-15, exit at Parowan and follow the signs for Brian Head. From the East side of Zion, follow the directions above, and then watch for the mileposts.

The Business

The approach is up a steep talus slope leading to steep dirt and rocks; helmets recommended.

From the carpark, follow the established trail as it heads parallel to the road for a few minutes, then hikes up beside Benson Creek toward the mouth of the gorge. After fifteen minutes of flat walking, several picnic tables mark where the easy part ends. The hillside ahead is comprised of steep talus leading up to cliffs on the left and right, with a steep gully allowing access in the center. Bushwhack or follow elusive game trails to the base of the talus left of center. Climb the talus up and right to the highest point of talus. Follow signs of passage when you can find them, as the talus will be more stable there. From the top of the talus, climb steep dirt up and somewhat left to the top of the steep part. (If you have not found trails by now, you are in the wrong place).

At the top follow a small but distinct path as it contours left to a viewpoint, then back along above the creek until you can easily descend into the flat creek bottom not far below.

The first rappel is the longest, from a large tree on the left.

R1: 105 feet (32m). Rappel the waterfall to the bottom. Can be slippery.

R2: 45 feet (14m). Rappel from bolts a short, awkward chockstone, then down a splashy flute.

R3: 55 feet (17m). After a brief walk, a wider waterfall with anchor possibilities back from the edge offers a choice of lines, depending on how wet you want to get. The top of the waterfall especially can be slippery, being in the sun.