Englestead Hollow and Orderville Canyon

After the 18 hour adventure of hiking, swimming, rappelling, route-finding, and spyder-climbing out of the deep Zion potholes of Imlay Canyon, the 6AM John B alarm came quite early.  I was surprised to find I had any energy to embark on another full day Zion exploration through Englestead Hollow and eventually out the entire length of Orderville Canyon to the exit through the Narrows.  Lionel dropped us off somewhere in what seemed like the middle-of-no-where East Zion and said his goodbyes to get home to his family.  We made our way through the thick forest down towards the wash.

Descending into the valley below was no challenge considering we were carrying 600 FT of rope.  (details on that later)

Englestead Hollow is not only famous for it's beauty as a tributary canyon to Orderville, but rather for it's world famous 300 foot rappel which any "newbie" canyoneer might find a bit intimidating.  In other words, you might not want to make Englestead your first canyoneering adventure.

Rigging 600 feet of rope requires some serious planning and therefore safety is never taken lightly.

From this perspective, you are only able to see about 1/3 of the grand Englestead 300 foot overture.

Looking down Englestead Hollow towards Orderville Canyon.  Amazing what wind and water can do!

John B on rappel literally descending into the "gut" of the earth.  This is officially the longest "rap" I have ever experienced.  There are very few 300 footers anywhere in Zion.   I have to admit it was a bit "gut wrenching" going over that first lip to a 300 foot void below.

Rap 2 was a beautifully polished "fluted" wall which you often find in Zion slot canyons.  Pinecreek has a few that are memorable. 

The canyon bottom was cool and quiet.  Good conversation along the peaceful walk.

Everyone definitely has their "unique" sort of relationship with their father-in-law.  This just happens to be mine :)

Something different around every corner.  The canyon walls were closing in which gave me the feeling that we were getting close to the confluence with Orderville Canyon.

I wonder if it's "illegal" to eat fresh raspberries in a national park?  If so, were busted now.

Here we are at the confluence of Orderville and the Narrows.  I could swear we were just here yesterday.  Wierd.  Another great canyoneering adventure checked off the list.