A couple years ago my friend and I went down Spry. At the first rappel we heard someone down canyon throw a large rock onto the canyon floor. We could hear it echoing off the canyon walls. I’m thinking, “Who would do such a thing?” As we continued down the canyon, we heard it several more times. As we came around some bushes, we caught them in the act. It was two big horn sheep crashing their horns into each other. We hurried and pulled out our cameras, but they wouldn’t do it again while we were there.
I just wanted to share that story because it was one of the greatest rewards of canyoneering. So if you hear crashing sounds in the canyon ahead, get your cameras ready!
Modifier
9/20/2019 we saw 2 bighorns on the ridge slightly above and left from the first rappel. It was amazing to see them moving nimbly across terrain that I couldn’t imagine navigating myself (… and I’ve been technical climbing for 40 years). Then we discovered Hank’s “surprise” at the bottom of the first rappel. Perhaps the two we saw were still in mourning? One of our group selflessly grabbed a leg and dragged the remains well off to one side and out of the path of travel, leaving behind a trail of very confused maggots. Morbid curiosity seekers who want a first-hand look need do nothing more than follow their nose.
Kuenn
It’s probably not your reference, but the post title and the 3 repetitions (especially when spoken with a southern drawl) reminds me of an iconic representation of an actor from my childhood… born in Sylacauga Alabama.
hank moon
Super cool experience, Wayne L. Seems it’s Sprys, Sprys, Sprys! this Sept.
(Name that reference for a no-prize).
From FB land (Sept 2019):
Well this was a first. When pulling our rope on the first rap in Spry Canyon, the rope got stuck on something. After tugging for a bit it came loose. Much to our horror, down came tumbling a dead big horn sheep that must have been submerged in the pothole above.
So if you’re doing Spry any time soon, there’s a poor little departed sheepie hanging out at the bottom.