Upper Black Box

Upper Black Box

San Rafael Swell—North of I-70
What to Expect
3C III ACA Canyon Rating
  • This route requires standard technical gear.
  • You can usually expect some water that has light to moderate current with easy water hazards.
  • Competent and smaller groups (4±) typically complete the route in 5–8 hours
Other Details
Seasons:
Spring, Summer, Fall—Mid-Spring through Fall
Rappels:
1 to 99 ft for preferred route; 1 to 197 ft for short route
Additional Gear:
Wetsuit in all but hottest conditions
Water:
Constant wading and swimming, flow should be less than 50 CFS
Flash Flood Risk:
High—big drainage (a flood upstream could take a day or two to reach the area)
Expected Time:
5–7 hours for preferred route; 3–5 hours for short route
Notes:
  • Water in the San Rafael Swell is heavily mineralized and works as a laxative, even after being filtered.
Nearby Routes:
Lower Black Box

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