Sidewinder Canyon, Death Valley NP

Everyone starts on the waitlist.
This is a really cool conglomerate alluvial fan with several really cool slot canyons. We will basically explore three side canyons. The final canyon we come down will be pitch black so make sure you bring a headlamp unless you like bumping around in the dark.

On the first canyon we go up, we used to be able to loop back to the main canyon. However, since Hurricane Hillary, a bunch of gravel was washed down and filled in a hole that we used to walk right through. Now there is a huge house sized boulder blocking the way. It's still very cool to explore so we will go up and then back down this slot canyon. We will miss the very top of the main canyon.

Most of this is class 3 or less but there are a few spicy spots. The tops of the canyons where we traverse the ridge line can be loose but it's all manageable.

What to bring: 10 essentials, two liters of water, and snacks. Approach shoes or standard hiking boots are sufficient for this hike. There is no sandstone.
The short dirt road to Sidewinder Canyon is not too bad and while a high clearance vehicle isn't completely necessary it's beneficial.
Some of use will be spending the night in Death Valley at Furnace Creek. There are some walk-up tent sites still available.

We will meet at the Sidewinder Canyon Trailhead which is at about mile marker 32 on Badwater Basin Road. It's about a two hour drive from Las Vegas to Sidewinder Canyon.

Colleen and I will be spending the night in Death Valley at the Furnace Creek campground.

Distance: 6-7 miles
Difficulty: 3 of 5
Class: Mostly 1 with some class 3 & 4
Elevation gain: ~1000'
Disclaimer
The purpose of these activities is to provide enjoyment of the outdoors through organized outdoor activities. You are solely responsible for your own safety and well-being. By signing up for and/or attending this Meetup event, you acknowledge, understand, accept, and agree that hiking and other outdoor activities can be dangerous and can cause serious bodily injury and possibly death. Each participant is expected to be physically and mentally capable of safely accomplishing activities and will follow all safety guidelines and use instructions associated with the adventure. Each participant is financially responsible for loss or damage to any equipment related to the adventure. The organizers of this group and current / former members cannot be held responsible or liable in any way for the actions of any participant - including you - at any event. All attendees participate at an event at their own risk and are solely responsible for any damage to their property, and/or any injury to themselves or their guests. There may be times when a coordinator fee is assessed. By signing up for this event, you affirm that you understand this disclaimer, and that you knowingly and voluntarily agree not to bring any type of claim arising out of or related to this Meetup event against the organizers of this Meetup group.