"flash floods" Top 5 Page for this destination Grand Staircase - Escalante National Monument Warnings Or Dangers Tip by richiecdisc

In narrow canyons like Buckskin Gulch, there is always the danger of flash floods. This area is generally starved of moisture but when it comes, it comes torrentially , and often with little warning. The ground is simply unable to absorb the water quickly enough and hikers can soon be in over their heads. With nowhere to go but up, one needs to be constantly on guard for signs of impending flooding.

You will notice some areas are quite dry and others will have small streams running through them. Look for debris moving along with the water as one sign that more could be on its way. When in doubt make your way out of the canyon. For that reason, it's good to know where you are in the canyon to be able to make a decision on where to retreat to. If deep in the canyon, seek a wide part of it. You will notice as you hike, there are some nice big lush areas seemingly in the middle of nowhere. These can be safer areas to seek refuge. Then you have to wait it out till the water recedes. That's a good reason to carry some warm clothes and extra food while hiking.