Adobe Swale had one of the most creative natural anchors I have seen in a canyon. A group of us descended it in 2004 or 2005 before it had been published anywhere. Not knowing for sure what we were getting into, we had a full arsenal of technical gear and a strong team. The first two rappels were obvious and had webbing on them. Clearly others had done the canyon.

At the third drop, we didn't see an obvious anchor. There is not a lot of material to work with in that particular spot. Some poking around and we saw it, a carabiner wedged into a solution pocket with webbing! Talk about creative. Our group used the anchor and were all impressed by the previous groups skill. To be sure, such an anchor requires very high skill and expertise to place and evaluate, but what a great solution. Since then, other groups have built a deadman at this spot, so using the carabiner is not needed or recommended.

The canyon is a good one. The technical section is short, but with fantastic rappels and lighting, it is one of the best in the Poison Spring area in my opinion.

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