Pets allowed
Not Allowed
Elevation Gain
1,232.00 ft (375.51 m)
Trail type
There-and-back
Distance
6.60 mi (10.62 km)
Please respect the outdoors by practicing Leave No Trace. Learn more about how to apply the principles of Leave No Trace on your next outdoor adventure here.

Access Crack Canyon from Behind the Reef Road.  The trailhead is right off the road and there is room for only a few cars.  However, it is possible to drive another 0.9 miles down the wash on a well packed stretch that even a 2WD vehicle can do if you are careful.  This would cut 1.8 miles from your round trip.  Crack wash is wide with some towering cliffs on each side.  The trail narrows down after about 2 miles from the trailhead.  Crack Canyon is deeper and more narrow than it's neighbor, Chute Canyon, and is definitely more interesting and challenging. 

You may encounter water a few days after rainfall.  This is sporadic and would take time to keep removing your shoes to go through the water, so wear shoes you don't mind getting wet if you do this in spring or after rainfall.  Do not enter this canyon if rain is in the forecast!  There is no high ground if you are in the narrow stretch of the canyon. 

The canyon begins to open up after about 3 miles and you can turn back any time.  Crack Canyon can be done as a 13-mile loop with Chute Canyon and requires some navigation skills. 

Logistics + Planning

Preferable season(s)

Spring
Summer
Fall

Congestion

Low

Parking Pass

None

Open Year-round

Yes

Pros

Slot canyon hike.

Cons

Long approach.

Trailhead Elevation

5,493.00 ft (1,674.27 m)

Highest point

5,656.00 ft (1,723.95 m)

Features

Geologically significant

Typically multi-day

No

Permit required

No

Location

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