Ding and Dang Canyons

Ding and Dang canyons are located in the southern part of the San Rafael Swell, Utah.  Access to the canyons is much easy now with a paved road all the way to Little Wild Horse Canyon.  Ding and Dang is a great option to avoid the crowds at Little Wild Horse.  However, do not underestimate the difficulties in completing this loop.  Far too often people do not research the canyon before setting out.  While there is no true technical sections, this loop has many drop-off 8-10 feet high.

From the parking area, head down the wash for about 1 mile. Here, you will reach a "V" shaped grass section. To the right is Ding Canyon and to the left is Dang Canyon.  It is best to complete this loop in a counter clock-wise direction to avoid ascending the drop-off so turn right into Ding Canyon.  After a short way the canyon begins to narrow. I hiked this in April and there were several long pools of knee deep, ice cold water. You could remove your shoes and make your way through the water but I recommend wearing shoes you don't mind getting wet and embrace the water and go for it.  After the water sections you reach your first obsticle.  Overcoming the obsticle straight on isn't always the best idea.  As with many of the obsticles in Ding Canyon, they typically can be avoided by ascending a shelf either on the right or left.

At about the 4 mile mark the canyon opens up and you have great views of Ding Dang Dome.  Start looking on the left for an obvious trail.  Turn left and continue for about .5 miles until you drop down into Dang Wash.  Dang Canyon is where you will run into the most difficulties.  However, all the drop-offs over 8 feet have anchors with knotted rope or webbing.  The best way to attack these is to descend facing the rock.  It is an unnatural act for those who are not rock climbers.  You should also avoid bringing dogs into the canyon.

At the 6.5 mile mark begins a series of 8-10 feet blind drop-offs.  Fortunately there is bolted anchors at each with knotted webbing.  After negotiating these drop-offs, the canyon narrows with a slant to the right.  I encounter three different pools of water about 50 feet long and chest deep!  Make sure you get your car remote key and cell phone out of your pockets.  There is no way to tell how deep the water is when standing in front of it.  After this last section of water, the canyon opens up to some slick rock and a good place to dry off.  Late spring and summer there probably is not much water or none at all.  The rest of the way to Ding Wash is very rocky but no real obsticles.

Overall this is an amazing adventure not to be underestimated.  This hike would not be a good recommedation for someones first slot canyon hike.