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| French Canyon: The Jungle in Zion that nobody knew existed |
As I kid I'd watch Indiana Jones movies and wonder at the world's most exotic and adventurous locations. I'd imagine hacking my way through the jungle to discover an amazing secret spot. I felt like a kid again this month as I hiked up French Canyon, a branch off of the East Virgin River, also known as Parunuweap or the Barracks.
French Canyon begins mysteriously as a slot canyon immediately off of the Virgin River. A gorgeous tree obscures the view into this narrow slot canyon, yet the clear water flowing over the sandy stream bed invite further exploration. The canyon remains narrow for 1/3 mile. In that short distance, you will trek over trees and through vines all the while in a pleasant 2-6 inches of clear water. Nothing is really difficult. The obstacles really create a special feeling of mystery and excitement. Hiking here is fun, beautiful and Indiana-Jonesish.
I should report that getting to French Canyon takes a good 4x4 high-clearance vehicle. To get from the upper parking area to the jungle pictured here takes good route finding skills and you drop 650 vertical feet in a short distance. This is the price to pay but it's wonderful.
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| Hiking up French Canyon near Zion National Park |
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| Grab a vine. You're in the jungle. Feels like it deep in slot canyon in Utah. |
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| Everything turns green as you hike up French Canyon towards the spring source |