Hydros Adventures

Lava Falls Route

Vital Statistics                                                                                   

Mileage

App. 1.5 miles

Elevation Changes

4180’ to 1640’

Trailhead Access

Toroweap Valley or the Colorado River

Trail Description

Although the upper 2/3 of the trail is well marked with cairns, many people report having difficulty following it. Keep in mind that this is an undeveloped trail. It was originally established as an emergency escape route out of the canyon for river trips.

From the trailhead the route leads west then south, As the slope begins to level off you follow the route east into a ravine. From here the trail begins its very descent. The trail descends to and along a series of ledges traveling slightly east and then down and west to a series of short switchbacks on a rocky but generally stable ridge. At the bottom of the ridge is a small level area at approximately 2760’ suitable for an emergency bivouac. From this flat area the route descends east down some loose material and then follows along the slopes on the NE side of the ragged ridge for about 200 yds to the saddle below. From the saddle, cairns take you west across the top of a ravine and onto and down a stable rocky ridge immediately west of the ravine for about 200 ft. The trail then descends east into the ravine The lower 1/3 of the route follows this VERY steep rocky scree-filled ravine. Very few cairns mark this portion of the route. Approximately ½ way down this ravine, a large boulder blocks the drainage – the safest route involves a 25 ft downclimb on the left side (east) of the blockage. Near the bottom of this ravine, the cairns take you over a small ridge and west across a smaller ravine. The rout then contours around a yellowish outcropping (about 50’ above the river) of limestone just downstream of several huge blocks of lava. The trail ends approximately 1/3 mile above Lava Falls Rapids at a  slight bend in the river.

Comments

This trail is not recommended for summer use because of its steepness and extreme heat. If it is to be attempted in the simmer, it is suggested to carry a pair of gloves to protect your hands fro the hot black rocks. 4-6 qts if water cached along the trail would be beneficial.