Slab Rift, including the Backscratcher Passage
Details
REQUIREMENTS FOR SIGN UP - NO EXCEPTIONS
• You must have done one of my Tier 2 or higher hikes, OR be able to describe your scrambling experience (places and people), OR have a "Scrambling Skills" pin from a VegasHikers Organizer.
AND
• YOU MUST SIGN A WRITTEN WAIVER TO ATTEND THIS HIKE. The link to the written waiver is here:
http://richardwaltjen.com/wp-content/uploads/2020/06/written-waiver.pdf
You will not be moved to the "going" list without providing a signed waiver to the email address on the waiver.
If you have already provided one to me, you do not need to provide another one.
HIKE DESCRIPTION
From the side of Grand Staircase you can see the Slab Rift. The split in the rocks is spectacular and it's wide enough to climb in and around. It's common for people to climb out into its cracks and enjoy the view of the Calico Basin area. It's a great place to sit and enjoy a picnic.
For this hike, we'll take a new route to the top and find our way to the Slab Rift. The route has a lot of obstacles and will provide a good workout for your lungs. Once we're there, we'll stay and enjoy the view for a while. Then we'll return using a new route that has a few different slots.
I'm always hopeful to see wildlife along the way. I've seen ring tailed cats, tortoises, and a roadrunner in this area. Check out my wildlife gallery for pictures of wildlife I've seen.
We will be visiting some different places on this hike, including the Backscratcher Passage and Deyang's Passage.
There are tight spaces on this hike. There are some places that require intermediate scrambling skills and there is some exposure. You must be able to pull your body weight up and lower yourself down using your arms. You must be able to keep up with the group.
• Helmets are always welcome. Be sure to use one that doesn't block your sight.
• Always carry "in case of emergency" numbers with you.
• No guests will be allowed without my prior approval.
YOU MUST BE ON THE "GOING" LIST IN ORDER TO GO ON THIS HIKE. CRASHING WILL NOT BE ALLOWED.
STATS
• Distance: ~ 2 miles loop.
• Elevation gain: ~ 1000 ft.
• High point: 4227
• Low point: 3600
• Difficulty: moderate
• Pace: ~ 1 Miles Per Hour
• Children: no.
• Dogs: no.
• Time: 3 hours max.
• Bring: At least two liters of water. Snacks
INFORMATION LINKS
Scrambling Tiers
Slab Rift, including the Backscratcher Passage