Asbestos Canyon — There is much of interest in this area and many routes. Asbestos is extremely isolated and difficult to reach except by going down the Red Canyon Trail and crossing the river above Hance Rapid. Reliable springs are found in both upper arms just below the Tapeats rim. Water sources in the lower bed are reported also but not certain.

There is no difficulty, other than time and distance, contouring through the upper drainages above the Tapeats rim. The upper east fork can be entered either from above, descending a crevice providing access to the spring, or from below, bypassing the pouroff below the tower on the east side or using the access along the neck joining this tower to the rim. At least one access is available through the west side below the fork as well.

Trails — Mine works are located along the cliff overlooking the river and Hance’s old trail leads to the river at the north bank of Hance Rapid opposite Red Canyon.

Routes — From the saddle of a small hill on the Tonto to the west, an access goes directly down into the lower bed. Along the descent, this should connect with the remnant of a trail north into the upper basin. Access to the east Tonto (southwest of Sheba Temple) can be found in the ravine on the east of the lower basin, but this looks quite steep. Breaks on both sides at or just below the fork make it possible to pass through the upper basin. Including the option of contouring above the Tapeats, this makes 3 possible ways to pass through. Going to the east is The Tabernacle; to the west is Vishnu Canyon. See notes on the North Rim Passage Trip.

A break in the headwall of the ravine between Asbestos and Sheba Temple provides a way to the top of the Redwall for climbing the group of major promontories here. The west slope of Tonto below Sheba is extremely steep and best avoided. Both shoulders of Sheba saddle have been reached, but the south side appears more accessible and connects with the ridge to the summit of Sheba.

1998 May - Camp 4 of Bright Angel to Saddle Mountain just above the spring in the upper east fork. Ample water at the east spring; some at the west. Early evening rainstorm; an overhang next to the bed provides shelter, but only if you are the first one in.