Hike through Cathedral Wash near Lees Ferry, Arizona.

This hike is yet another great route to get to the Colorado River in the Marble Canyon area. Although short in distance, it challenges the hiker to scramble around some dry falls. You need to be comfortable scrambling (on occasion with exposure) to do this hike.

From the parking area, follow the hiking sign on the South side of the road into sandy Cathedral Wash. You won’t be trudging through sand for too long before the walls get deeper and you’re in some beautiful narrows. The first fall is the most significant, as it’s about a 25 ft drop. There is a route on your right to get around this fall. Follow the cairns, even though they can be hard to find. The scrambling here is easy, but there is a bit of exposure so be cautious. After this point, there are more falls to navigate around, just keep your eye out for the cairns and you’ll get by them without much trouble (as long as your scrambling skills are up to it). Soon enough you’ll leave the narrows of the canyon and emerge to views of the Colorado River. This is a great spot to rest a moment and enjoy the cool waters rushing by. If you brought your fishing pole (and have a fishing permit) this is an excellent place to try your luck at landing a Colorado River trout.

When ready, return the way you came.