Overview

Hype:

TOTGA Canyon (short for "The One That Got Away") is a scenic and moderately challenging technical slot canyon located in Capitol Reef National Park, Utah. TOTGA offers an adventurous experience for canyoneers seeking solitude and rugged beauty. The route involves extended chimney downclimbs that many groups will not be comfortable descending without a rope. The canyon is short and tight. This canyon is best suited for experienced canyoneers with proper gear and knowledge of anchor building, and it rewards those who take it on with stunning views and a true sense of wilderness exploration.

Canyon Rating: 3A

Time: 1.5 hours from Betrothed to bottom of canyon

Length: 0.2 miles with 1 mile approach from trailhead to Betrothed and 0.4 mile approach from Betrothed to top of Betrothed

Longest Rappel: 0+

Gear: Standard rappelling gear for most groups not comfortable with downclimbs.

Fees: None

Recommended Ages:

0-3
4-11
12-19
20-49
50-69
70+

Recommended Months to Visit:

Jan
Feb
Mar
Apr
May
Jun
Jul
Aug
Sep
Oct
Nov
Dec
Features:
  • Downclimbs
  • Wetsuit Generally Not Required
  • No Drinking Water
  • Slot Canyon
  • Wayfinding
  • No Restrooms
  • Road Access is Paved
  • Access Road is 2WD Accessible
  • Wildflowers and Vegitation
  • Wildlife and Birding

Permits: Permits are required https://www.nps.gov/care/planyourvisit/canyoneering.htm

Links: http://www.bluugnome.com/cyn_route/cap-reef/cap-reef_the-wives/cap-reef_the-wives.aspx
https://www.roadtripryan.com/go/t/utah/capitol-reef/the-wives-canyons

Getting There

Navigate to 38.283433, -111.246052.

Parking in the parking lot on the north side of the road.

Route

Approach

Hike up Cohab Canyon until you get to Betrothed Canyon. Then take the cliff route south past Betrothed Canyon until you get up on top of the cliffs. Stay relatively high as you travel west to the top of the canyon.

Canyon

Downclimb #1: 100' ft chimney.

Maps

Closest City or Region: Capitol Reef National Park, Utah

Coordinates: 38.278850, -111.243250

Interactive Guide Map

Download Guide Map

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December 21, 2024 Trip Report

By Ryan Hone

Trip Members

Tara Dye, Anthony Dye, Ondylyn Wagner, Luke Galyan, Tracy Kwan, Tom Collins, John Diener, Zac Hansen Jennii Fielding,

Story

Solstice 2024, celebrating The Gnomes qualifying year for Medicare! The plan this year was to take the plunge into polygamy, catering to the whims of 7 wives. Some wives were total knockouts, while others had, hmm, let's say 'flavor', like a dash of grime, a pinch of stink, leaving you with a few scrapes and bruises. The intricacies of multiple relationships quickly became sidesplittingly apparent. Jealousy popped up as some wives received more attention, resulting in dramatic flare-ups and temporary vanishing acts. The one that got away (TOTGA) proposed spine tingling descents complete with the Aussie kiss. All in all, polygamy isn't for the faint of heart, but with this wacky crew, balance was somehow, improbably achieved. A big thank you to the Dyes and their campers and Tre’s ridiculous ?cooking, mixology skillset! Happy holidays to everyone, hope you all find yourself healthy, and happy.

Pictures