Stem School Canyon is a short canyon just off highway 24 in Capitol Reef. The canyon is short, and not terribly dramatic, but makes for a great outing to fill out the day. The canyon will be one I will not soon forget! Halfway through I heard a large rockfall just ahead of me. It turned out to be a desert sheep not more than 20 feet away heading down canyon on a ledge. He did not seem particularly concerned I was there, and continued along his way after a few minutes, taking a steep route up and out of the canyon that impressed me.

Route finding to the head of the canyon is intermediate, but otherwise I would rate the canyon “experienced beginner” friendly. Straightforward anchors, easy down climbs, options around pools, and great scenery make it a canyon I will undoubtedly do often as an introduction for friends wanting to do an easy canyon or as a quick outing when I only have a few hours to pass while in the area.

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