The Clearwater Route
High Clearance-Class IV-Grade V
Today we launch to exemplify “EXPEDITION”. A team of four NAVTEC back-country guides will attempt to explore the Clearwater drainage of Canyonlands. The route is one of the most remote, rugged, and least explored canyons in the lower 48. Clearwater is rated 4BVR using the Canyoneering decimal system; however, there have not been enough descents of this canyon to validate a rating.
Technical Class 4- Route involves: difficult and exposed free climbing and/or down-climbing, multi-pitch rappels, complex rope work, obscure or indistinct natural anchors, advanced problem-solving and anchor-building skills.
Water B- Normally has water, very light current with deep wading, swimming and floating disconnects.
Grade V- An average one and a half days of serious commitment to complete route.
Rating R- One or more extraordinary risk factors exist that could complicate the descent. Solid technical skills and sound judgment are critical.
The logistics involved for the 3 day expedition include shooting the class IV rapids of Cataract Canyon to stage a boat, a high clearance 4x4 to drive the Orange Cliffs Trail, 5 miles of technical Canyoneering in over 1600 feet of elevation, 250 meters of Blue Water static rope to rappel the highest permanent waterfall on the Colorado Plateau, and a Cessna 172 for shuttle and style points.
The trip is due back late Saturday night after a visit to Stan Burger Shak. Check back in for the trip report.