Alcatraz starts like a Mountain Dew commercial, with a 50 m ( 165 ft. ) rappel off your car bumper. With such a dramatic start, it is hard to imagine the canyon getting any better or more adventurous, but it does! Aside from the go-big-or-go-home entrance rappel, the rest of the canyon is a deep, dark, sinuous slot.

The canyons name comes from a group (Scott Patterson and Michael Kelsey) that were descending the slot. As the narrows began growing tighter and tighter, they were unsure they could finish the canyon. Mike led a particularly bold route out the canyon by climbing the right side wall about half way through using hooks. Thus, the canyon had gained its name and a bit of a reputation. These days, knowing that the canyon is passable, it is popular outing for intermediate or better canyoneers.

The narrows are challenging, and tiring, so small packs are in order. Given the physical nature of the canyon and a fair bit of climbing and squeezing, it is not a good choice for beginners.

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