The Chute
Re-emerged rapid; Returning Rapids Project calls it 'the Hermit of Cataract' at high water. Fully returned at low Lake Powell levels.
Also known as: Rapid 29, Chute Rapid
The Chute (Rapid 29) is one of the significant re-emerged rapids in lower Cataract Canyon. The Returning Rapids Project characterizes it as 'the Hermit of Cataract' at high water — a reference to Hermit Rapid in the Grand Canyon, another long, powerful wave train. At low water levels the rapid is fully returned and defined as a Class III+ drop; at higher flows it develops standing waves comparable to the Colorado's more famous big-water features. Character continues to evolve as Lake Powell levels and sediment transport shift the reach.
Difficulty
Class III+ at low-to-moderate flows; escalates to Class IV with large, sustained standing waves at higher flows. Comparable to Hermit Rapid in the Grand Canyon per Returning Rapids Project descriptions.
Scouting
Not routinely scouted at standard flows. At higher flows or when the reach is unfamiliar, scouting from river right is possible.