Just downstream from the Christopher Creek Campground, west of the RC Boy Scout ranch, is the start of the gorge. It has been a canyoneering experience for most. A few routes exist compared to the amount of rock you can see. The north side of the canyon is sunny and makes a fun winter spot; the south side is shady and is better during the warm months. Forget going in July and August, too buggy and hot. The best parking is at the old ADOT yard. The gate is now permanently open.

Many folks like to bring dogs to this beautiful riparian canyon. This creek flows into Tonto Creek and that flows into Roosevelt Lake, Phoenix's water supply. Please clean up after your dogs, pack your poop out, and keep your dog under your control. Nobody wants paws on their gear and ropes, nobody wants to deal with an aggressive dog off a leash. Please be considerate and keep control of your pet. It is not up to others to get along with your dog, it is your responsibility to care for and control your pet.

From Payson, drive east on Hwy 260 until milepost 270.8ish and a paved exit on the right is your parking area. Park on the side of pavement and do not block the road. Walk through the cattleguard and head left on the powerline road to the east/start of main gorge. 

Most climbers walk southwest towards the large cairn marking the main trail to Christopher Creek Gorge. At the end of the flat mitigation field you'll arrive at a large depression . At the depression you can continue directly south to the Exit Gorge and Yodel Wall. Taking the main trail to the west will take you to the main areas: Confluence Wall, Southern Wall, Memorial Wall, Mordor, etc.