Cathedral Wash is a short and scenic slot canyon with easy access and big rewards. Located in Marble Canyon, Arizona, you can drive right by it if you are not paying attention.
This moderate adventure has no major technical challenges, though there is some scrambling and care should be taken to choose safe routes over ledges and drop-offs. And, of course, any walk in this desert wilderness needs to be taken seriously with respect to heat and weather.
As you walk downstream the canyon walls quickly rise above and the scenery improves dramatically. Further on, the wash develops into a true slot canyon, with high sheer walls, fantastic geology, and not much sunlight penetrating to the canyon bottom.
While most of the walking is easy, there are a few ledges that require some scrambling and care should be taken to scout the best route. Around one mile in you’ll encounter the first of several dry waterfalls that threaten to stop you in your tracks. You’ll know it when you see it and think “how the heck am I supposed to get down there?!”
Don’t worry though, there’s an easy way down. As you’re facing downhill, head to the right side of the canyon, all the way toward the canyon wall, and you’ll see an easy and well-worn series of steps in the rock that lead to the ledge below.
From here, finding your own way is half the fun! You’ll need to choose when to stay high on ledges or descend lower into the canyon bottom, which might have some puddles if there’s been recent rain. There are often several ways down, and none should be too difficult.
Don’t hesitate to backtrack and try a different path if you find yourself staring down a drop that seems too severe. A boost from a hiking partner might come in handy here or there, but shouldn’t be necessary if you’re comfortable with a little mild scrambling.
Eventually Cathedral Wash opens up at the Colorado River within Marble Canyon. Because the Glen Canyon Dam is not far upstream, the river runs clear and blue here. Enjoy the scenery, which may include groups of rafters just beginning their trips through the Grand Canyon from the Lee’s Ferry put-in spot a few miles above. When you’re done soaking in the canyon scenery head back up the way you came.
This was the BEST trail we hiked in Arizona.
NOTE: This hike can be hot, especially in the summer, and there is no potable water available along the route. Bring a litre or two of drinking water and some snacks to enjoy when you reach the river. It’s best to carry a backpack so your hands are free for scrambling. Do NOT hike Cathedral Wash when it’s raining, or could rain, anywhere in the nearby area. Flash floods can and do occur in this canyon, and you don’t want to be in it when they do.
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