How to Use Sierra Canyons Route Descriptions

The route descriptions provided on this site contain a wealth of information that can allow the canyoneer to assess a route for appropriateness and assist in the planning and execution of a fun and successful descent. The information below provides a basic guide to using this information as well as some references to additional information should it be required.

ACA Rating	The canyon's rating is based on the American Canyoneering Association's rating system. This system contains 4 parts, a technical difficulty from 1-4, an indicator of the water character from A-C, a time rating from I-VI and an optional special hazard rating of R or X. Ex. I.W.M.M.: 4-C2 R II For a complete discussion of the ACA rating system and the practical meaning of each value please visit the ACA website.
Aesthetic Rating	A star rating from 1-5 stars (five stars being the best) indicating the overall beauty, interest and fun of the route. Ex. Upper Log Ride: 3C III *****
Time	The approximate time that a party of 4 reasonably competent canyoneers doing the route for the first time can expect to take to complete the route. Allow more time for larger teams or teams with inexperienced folks. Smaller teams with lots of experience may be able to descend the route faster.
Season	An estimate of the time of year that the route will most likely be in season based on the type of water year it is. The type of water year is determined by the California Department of Water Resources April snow survey for the watershed that the route is located on. A "Low" water year is indicated by snow pack amounts below 75% of normal. A "normal" water year is indicated by snow pack amounts of 75% - 125% of normal. A "high" water year is indicated by snow pack amounts greater then 125% of normal. The results of the April snow survey each year can be found on the California Department of Water Resources website. Numerical data is not a substitute for a careful on-site examination of water levels and route conditions before starting any route.
Number of Raps	The number of rappels that a reasonably competent party can expect. Beginners and non-climbers may require additional rappels to pass obstacles that are usually downclimbed.
Longest Rap	The length of the longest rappel found on the route.
Gear	The minimum gear required for a safe descent of the route.
Rubber	The minimum thickness of wetsuit that can be safely worn on the route when it is in season.
Hazards	The most notable hazards and challenges that will be found on the route. This is not an exhaustive list of the hazards, challenges or problems that might be encountered!
Vehicle	The type of vehicle that will be required to access the trailhead(s) for the route when the roads are in summer condition. If the roads are wet or snow covered all bets may be off.
Car Shuttle	The distance between the upper and lower trailheads for routes that are not loop hikes.
Approach	The hiking distance from the trailhead to the start of the canyon route.
Exit	The hiking distance from the exit point of the canyon to the trailhead.
Good Eats	Places where you may find good après-canyon food and/or drink.
Camping	Good dispersed campsites and/or campgrounds nearby the route.