Tucked high above Hickman Bridge, Stegosaur Slot offers a short narrow section of canyon with an amazing approach. The views along the approach are stunning, and the route up offers just enough route finding challenge to be fun. The canyon is named after a distinctive ridgeline that defines the skyline above the canyon. I had poked around this area years ago, and when I recently heard of a new canyon being done called Stegosaur Slot, I immediately knew the general area. It is a very distinctive landmark.

The route described here includes both the north and south forks. The south fork offers either moderate down climbing challenges with big exposure, or a couple of rappels to get down the south fork to the canyon proper. Experienced canyoneers can take on the down climbing challenges, though for most groups I would recommend making a rappel or two to reach the canyon floor. The north fork offers a better approach, and more straightforward rappels. This is the recommended fork for most, with the south fork included mainly because it offers a fair bit shorter day.

Once in the canyon, it is a short section of squeezing and a down climb or two before a single final rappel and short hike back.

This is a good, beginner friendly canyon, and highly recommended if you have a few hours in Capitol Reef.

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