Baptist Draw - is often touted as one of the best beginner friendly canyons in the San Rafael Swell. A short approach, coupled with great narrows, easy downclimbs, and straight forward rappels make this a winner. It doesn't hurt that it has some of the deepest, darkest narrows in the Swell.
TL;DR: This is not a casual trail run. Technical canyoneering experience necessary. Along with necessary gear. Do not enter slot canyons without proper knowledge of the canyon, gear, and skills. Please plan your FKT attempt during shoulder season, mid-week, and earlier or later in the day to avoid crowds, be a good representative of the sport. Don't ruin someone's canyon experience to race the clock.
This FKT loop is created by linking around south through Upper Chute Canyon. (see caltopo map here)
Following details adapted from Road Trip Ryan:
Approach
From the trailhead, locate the tipi looking hill to the north, it is an important landmark. Go down, across the first drainage, and to the right of the tipi hill. There is an emerging trail here; please try to find and stay on it. Several social trails are beginning to crisscross the area. Baptist Draw is the canyon on the other side of the tipi hill. Hike down into Baptist Draw and head down the canyon.
Baptist Draw:
The going is easy, as it begins to narrow and deepen. A couple of small downclimbs keep this section interesting. Soon a short 8 m ( 27 ft. ) rappel is encountered. 5 minutes passed this first rappel is the big rappel into Upper Chute. This rappel is about 25 m ( 83 ft. ).
Down Upper Chute:
The long route goes down Upper Chute. Head down the canyon. A few large boulders are easy to defeat by climbing around them. One may require a short 5 m (17ft.) rappel. Don't jump! Several people have been injured jumping this drop.
Below the large boulder, it is easy going, but a few pools may present themselves. It is 2 or 2.5 hours (walking pace) from the last rappel to where a side canyon comes in on both sides of Upper Chute. Go right (west) up the side canyon.
About 25 or so minutes up the side canyon, begin looking for an easy exit to the north (right) side. Climb out the north side to the top of the hill. From here, you will need to cross the shallow drainage (Southern Baptist) and climb the mesa on the other side to the exit trailhead. If you spotted a car, you are done. If not, walk the road back north less than a mile to the trailhead.
Resources:
Blue Gnome
Road Trip Ryan
Caltopo Map
