April 26-28 2024
Blarney, Hogwarts, Leprechaun (left fork), Morocco, Goblin's Lair
Brandi and Nick had never experienced canyoneering and since we have been wanting to plan another trip with them, we decided that heading out to North Wash for some entry level canyoneering would be a good way to spend a weekend. Laura's dad, Stan also decided to meet us in Utah and join in the fun.
Me, Laura, Hazel, Nick and Brandi headed out from home Friday around noon in anticipation of an adventure filled weekend. We arrived to Hanksville and crashed for the night, ready for an early start the next morning.
First canyons we headed for were Blarney and Hogwarts. Both were amazing and fun. Hazel now tandem rappels with Laura, so moving through the canyon is easier as she does almost 100% of the canyons on her own.
With the first day successful, we all headed back to Hanksville and had dinner and ice cream. It rained all night and we were worried that the next day would be a bust. Watching radar, it appeared clear over the canyons so we decided to give it a shot and head back down. As we neared the canyons, the road went from wet to dry. While the skies were not looking perfect, we decided that we would hike to the head of Leprechaun canyon and make a decision on whether to drop in when we got there and looked at the skies.
All looked good so in we went and squeezed our way down the scenic left form of Leprechaun. After we were done, Morocco was on the to do list. We thought it would be dry but because canyons are always changing, we were not sure. We encountered a pool of water and while Nick and Hazel were able to stay dry, Brandi, Stan, Laura and I all ended up in the water. As we exited, we called the canyon a success. Adventure adds to the memories and Morocco was certainly an adventure.
On our last day, we stopped into Goblin Valley State Park and hiked to the rappel into Goblins Lair. It is a special place that I've been to multiple times and will always want to go back to. Exiting the chamber, Laura, Stan and I went through the tight and dark tunnel, while Nick and Brandi climbed out with Hazel.
Weekends like this are rewarding and it's always awesome to show people the special places they may never see if you don't help them step out of their comfort zone!
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