Step Canyon access to Grand Gulch, Cedar Mesa

[TrailScot]

Hi,

Does anyone have any experience of using Step Canyon as an entry/exit route to Grand Gulch ?

Kelsey makes the route sound relatively straightforward (!), but other trip reports that I've come across make it sound like a more difficult challenge.

Thanks for any advice.

 

[LarryBoy]

Kelsey makes the route sound relatively straightforward

I've never been in Step and can't really offer advice, but this phrase is a harbinger of certain doom

 

[gnwatts]

I had some difficulties heading up Step after descending Pine, in the lower part of the canyon. It was a while ago so I don't remember exactly what the obstacle was, just that I did not feel comfortable climbing up with a pack. My $.02, Kelsey is not a good, accurate resource. You will get accurate and better input in BCP.

 

[Reef&Ruins]

I would agree with @LarryBoy about Kelsey. His books are great for getting an idea, but can be pandora's box on the ground.
If you figure out how to get in through Step Canyon, please PM me as I'd love to know as well.

 

[IntrepidXJ]

I don't know of anyone who has accessed GG from Step. I would think that if it were an easy way into GG, more people would be using it.

 

[TrailScot]

I don't know of anyone who has accessed GG from Step. I would think that if it were an easy way into GG, more people would be using it.

Yes, you're absolutely correct, Randy ... after finding no online reports for this route, I suspected as much; but hoped otherwise, after reading Kelsey's brief description

 

[Bob]

I have it as a entrance in.... From a old map a friend of mine had that helped lay out the GC boundaries.... So I'd assume it goes .... Other than that you are on your own.....

I have looked at a loop kinda the same years ago but never got to it

Always take a 40 ft piece of webbing in new Canyon country

 

[3d3vart]

If it's a problem, the problem is below Pine confluence.