Winter Cabin Canyon

May 5, 2019 — Hoping for a dry canyon after a long day in cold water yesterday, we set out along the Winter Cabin Trail toward Winter Cabin Canyon. The trail was well-maintained if not a little rocky. After a short time, we reached a trail junction at the Winter Cabin, an old rusted heap of shelter. The trail led southwest, and we took a short detour to Ott Lake as the forest opened up into large area of shrubs, a view down toward Sycamore Canyon in the distance. Eventually we reached a point where the official trail curves west and starts to rapidly lose elevation. We would be returning that way after Winter Cabin Canyon, but instead we left the trail and bushwhacked southeast down a not-too-unpleasant animal trail through a gully. This gully led to the start of Winter Cabin Canyon, which turned out to be really pretty. After some rock hopping and minor obstacles (some of which had natural anchors set up for optional rappels), we entered gorgeous red rock narrows filled with lush scenery. Though the canyon never becomes a true slot, its narrow enough to feel comfy and interesting. There was one 30 foot rappel toward the end of the narrow section, and then more great scenery. We were spit out at Sycamore Canyon, where we could pick up the lightly overgrown Winter Cabin Trail, taking it back to where we left it earlier.