Poe Canyon, Smiling Cricket, or L' Canyon is one of the most remote and extreme places for canyoneering located in the area of Lake Powell. It requires the best gear, best rock climbers, and highly skilled cannyoneers. Only well trained and skilled groups can try this activity, never go alone.
This spot can be deadly dangerous for beginners or unexperienced enthusiasts. Never do this crazy thing if you are not well prepared and physically fit enough for that, do not underestimate the difficulty of this canyon. This challenging canyon is known for its numerous potholes. This place will require serious climbing, partner support, and boosting and wading through. This is a tough adventure for the fearless.
Spring (March–May) and fall (September–November) are the best seasons to challenge yourself in this dangerous place.
Practical info
What is the best time to visit Poe Canyon, Smiling Cricket, or L' Canyon?
Spring and fall seasons are the most suitable for Poe Canyon. The temperature is just right for canyoneering, which can be physically demanding. Extreme weather conditions during other seasons might compromise safety. Poe Canyon is one of the most extreme canyoneering adventures in Lake Powell, thus it is essential to be sure of the weather as it is in an area that is prone to weather events. Show more
Where is Poe Canyon located in Utah?
Glen Canyon National Recreation Area, a part of the National Park Service in Utah and Arizona, is where Poe Canyon is located. It is situated in the area of Lake Powell, which is south of Escalante, Utah. The park entrance is not near the canyon and can be accessed via Highway 89. Show more
How difficult is Poe Canyon compared to other canyoneering spots?
Poe Canyon stands out as one of the most challenging canyoneering spots in Lake Powell. It is only suitable for highly skilled and well-trained enthusiasts due to the technical, physical, and mental challenges posed. Skilled canyoneers with the best specialized gear and partner support are necessary to take on this extreme challenge. Taking the appropriate safety measures before the adventure is crucial to ensure that it is an enjoyable and safe experience. Show more
When is the ideal season to visit Lake Powell?
Spring and fall are the best seasons to visit Lake Powell, particularly between March to May and September to November. Physically demanding activities like canyoneering are more suitable during these seasons, as the extreme weather conditions in summer and winter can be hazardous. Mild temperatures are ideal for visitors to explore the natural beauty of the area as they would not be affected by harsh weather events like flash floods. Show more
Can beginners or unskilled canyoneering enthusiasts try the Poe Canyon adventure?
Poe Canyon, also known as Smiling Cricket or L' Canyon, is not suitable for unskilled beginners or canyoneering enthusiasts. It is one of the most extreme and remote canyoneering locations, and the physical and technical challenges make it unsafe for all except a few experienced and highly skilled canyoneers. Specialized gear, knowledge of the right technique, and partner support are vital to overcome the numerous potholes and demanding climbs in Poe Canyon. Adventurers should never attempt this alone. Show more
