Choprock East Access

[Nick]

I'm thinking about venturing into Choprock Canyon, but I'd like to access it from the east side in the Circle Cliffs. Steve Allen's Canyoneering 3 mentions an old mining track that loops around Silver Falls Bench and connects into Silver Falls Creek. I'm wondering if this track is still driveable and if anyone knows how far it goes into Choprock? I can see it on sat imagery in the very upper part of the canyon, but I'm curious how far it really goes (or if it's even still open). If starting from that end, is that the best road? Or is there a better way like from the Moody Creek Road? Any input is much appreciated.

 

[Joey]

Its still there and easy to follow. I'm not sure how drivable it is, seems like there is a big washout as it rounds into Choprock. But the road grade is still there. It doesn't really go into Choprock, just connects (or crosses) the wash where Choprock opens up.

Its possible it could be quicker from the Moody Creek road, but I don't know because I've never tried. But its at least an hour walking the mining road between the two canyons.

 

[Nick]

Thanks for the info, @Joey. Did you do the Silver Falls/Chop loop? I'd love to hear about it.

 

[Joey]

Thanks for the info, @Joey. Did you do the Silver Falls/Chop loop? I'd love to hear about it.

I did the loop from the river, in early May. I was camped near the mouth of Choprock, and was heading back up river. I decided to loop around for a change of scenery.

I assume you've seen both those canyon from the bottom, just based on how much stuff you do down there. After the poison ivy junction, choprock really opens up. It was mid day when I was there, and hot. Hot and dry. I almost turned around. At the time I didn't think much of it, but reflecting back I really love the solitude. The mining road was easy to find. The route was cairned, if I remember correctly. Road bed was easy to follow, and the views were spectacular from the Silver Falls Bench. The sun was going down as I headed down the Silver Falls route, and so the lighting changed on everything, really making everything dramatic. Really awesome. Another one of those Jurassic Park feelings. I hiked until dark, even bringing out my headlight until I found water. Set up camp in the dark, and hiked back to the river in the morning.

That's a great loop, regardless of where you start from. Choprock is special. Silver Falls is great too. Definitely worth it, wish I was camped out there right now.