Buckwater Draw

Trip Report: Buckwater Draw Main and South Fork

Date Completed: 12/9/2017

Weather: Sunny, High of 40 deg / low of 20 deg

Condition: Dry, some ice entering the canyon

Team: 2

Car to Car: 3.5 hours, 7:30 am - 11 pm.

Route: Plug Hat - Descend Main Fork- Ascend South Fork- Plug Hat

Approach: We decided to attempt a hybrid of the previously listed Grand Tour which includes both the main and south fork. We parked at Plug Hat and descended the rim to the entrance of the South Fork. From that point we did not descend the South Fork, but continued east toward the top of the Main Fork. We intentionally stayed above or south of the ridge (has red dirt at its base) to avoid entering the wrong canyon south of the Main Fork. This path made it really easy to enter the Main Fork of the canyon in the same spot if you were approaching from the old jeep route. From car to canyon entrance was under 1 hour.

South fork is nearly dry. One small pool to stem and only a little mud.

South Fork is dry. Anchors are in good condition.