Hike Cathedral Wash, Grand Canyon National Park, Arizona

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Cathedral Wash is is a 3 mi (4.8 km) roundtrip (1.5-3 hours) hike near Lees Ferry, Arizona that goes down to the Colorado River. Hike begins in Glen Canyon NRA and ends in Grand Canyon National Park. Descend into the rocky wash, traveling through the Kaibab Limestone and Toroweap Formations of the Grand Canyon Group. Many interesting formations and fossils may be seen, along with plants and desert critters.The trail ends as the bottom of the wash as it spills into the the Colorado River. Some rock scrambling and wayfinding required. The hike is moderately easy but does involves scrambling, traversing ledges and climbing up and down heights of approximately 30 feet. At the 30' drop, go down on the right side. Ropes would be nice for this section but not required. After you turn off Highway 89A onto the Lees Ferry access road, drive 1.3 miles. The trailhead is at the pull out on your left. You can access both upper and lower Cathedral Wash from this parking area. WARNING: During inclement weather it is not advisable to enter the wash due to the possibility of flash flooding. Remember that desert canyons can draw water from hundreds of surrounding miles, so clear weather here does not necessarily negate the possibility of flooding. Trailhead: Follow the Lees Ferry access road 1.3 miles (2.1 km). The trailhead is at the pull out on your left. You can access both upper and lower Cathedral Wash from this parking area. No overnight parking.

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