The Escalante is a small volume large drainage river emptying into Lake
Powell (the Dam just upstream from the Grand Canyon) from the North. The
drainage has become quite popular for canyoneering, especially since its
formation as a National Monument in 1996. The commonly run section is 70
miles, however with the lowering of Powell due recent drought the river has
several additional miles open, if you can arrange or pay for a power boat
shuttle.

There are probably more years on the Escalante when it is never really
runnable than there are 'good' years. This is shaping up to be the best
year in at least 20 with optomists forecasting water through June.

I've just returned from one of the earliest season trips and would like to
recommend the river, and the opportunity, should it arise for you. The
river is easy, rated 2. This is a bit low due the continous nature of the
river, the remoteness and difficulty of rescue, and the large amount of
maneuvering needed. However a class 2 paddler in good physical condition
and in the company of more experienced paddlers would do fine - and be quite
ready for the class 3 by the time it arrives - not to mention smoking the
novice slalom class at the next race...

No pictures yet, but if you can, pencil this one in.