Chute Canyon offers a fine, easy stroll through a dramatic sandstone canyon. Were it not for the finer canyons on all sides, this would receive a somewhat higher rating. For those not seeking danger and adventure, this makes a grand way to spend a pleasant afternoon in the Swell.
Crack and Chute can be combined for a 13 mile round trip. However, this is not the most charming way to visit these canyons. The couple miles of travel across the front and back of the reef are not human being friendly. Finding the front of Chute requires good map reading skills. But it makes rather a fine run, in cool weather. Click HERE for more details.
Approach: From Temple Junction, drive north through the Reef on Temple Mountain Road 2.2 miles to the unmarked Behind the Reef Road. Turn left and drive 6.1 miles to the end of the road at Chute Canyon. (UTM 12S 0520394E 4276096N) There are possible continuations of the road toward Little Wild Horse Canyon, but they are very rough.
Fun Stuff: head into the canyon. Walk as far as you wish. Enjoy large Wingate, then Navajo walls. Return.
The Ascent of Chute Buttress (III 4th Class) also makes an excellent adventure in cool weather. See Steve Allen's Guide #1 for information.
