Canyoneering in Moab: What To Know Before You Go
Moab is nature’s playground, a destination that draws adventurers from around the world to its towering red rock formations, hidden slot canyons, and endless desert beauty. Of all the ways to experience this iconic destination, canyoneering is a must-try activity for those looking to explore Moab’s hidden wonders. Whether you’re a beginner or a seasoned pro, canyoneering in Moab offers a chance to immerse yourself in breathtaking landscapes few get to see. Here’s everything you need to know about canyoneering in Moab, Utah.
What is Canyoneering?
Canyoneering is an adventure sport that takes you into stunning canyons using a mix of hiking, climbing, scrambling, rappelling, and sometimes swimming. Equipped with harnesses, helmets, and ropes, you’ll navigate unique terrains from canyon rims to their depths. It’s the ultimate blend of outdoor exploration and adrenaline-pumping fun.
Why Moab for Canyoneering?
Utah’s canyons are the birthplace of modern canyoneering, and Moab stands out as its premier destination. Home to two national parks, countless slot canyons, and surreal desert landscapes, Moab is a haven for outdoor enthusiasts. From beginner-friendly routes to advanced challenges, its canyons offer a rare chance to connect with nature in its most awe-inspiring form.
Picture Yourself Canyoneering in Moab
Start your day watching the sunrise cast a golden glow over the desert landscape, fueling up with a wholesome breakfast before meeting your guide. After gearing up with harnesses, helmets, and ropes, you’ll be transported to your canyon of choice. After a short hike, the adventure truly begins.
Between rappels, you’ll scramble, climb, and hike, marvel at sandstone formations carved by water and wind over millennia. When lunchtime arrives, you’ll enjoy a packed meal from ULUM Moab and a moment to recharge while soaking in the serene surroundings. By the end of the day, you will have created unforgettable memories.
Canyoneering Adventures in Moab
Adding guided adventures to your stay at ULUM Moab is easy. Browse our experiences, select your dates, and book—leave the rest to us. Take a look at our recommended canyoneering adventures in Moab.
Medieval Chamber
4-6 Hours | 3 Miles | Easy
Ideal for beginners and families, the Medieval Chamber route offers two incredible 100-foot rappels. The first descent drops you into the namesake Medieval Chamber, a dark and secluded hallway accessible only by rope. The journey continues to the Morning Glory Bridge, one of Moab’s largest natural bridges, creating a magical finale to your adventure.
Entrajo Canyon
4-6 Hours | 2.5 Miles | Moderate
Entrajo Canyon combines hiking, rappelling, and easy rock climbing through petrified dunes and narrow slot canyons for a shorter but equally thrilling adventure. Marvel at panoramic views of the La Sal Mountains and wind your way through narrows sculpted by water over millions of years. No experience? No problem—just bring your adventurous spirit.
Granary Canyon
9-11 Hours | 6 Miles | Advanced; Adventurous Beginners Welcome
Granary Canyon offers an unmatched blend of breathtaking rappels, secluded wilderness, and incredible natural arches. This journey includes six exhilarating rappels and countless scrambles, with a descent of over 2,000 feet. You’ll encounter at least seven major arches and numerous smaller ones along the way. Granary Canyon is closed from April to August for bighorn sheep lambing.
Zig Zag Canyon
5-7 Hours | 3 Miles | Advanced; Adventurous Beginners Welcome
Prepare for big views, ancient dunes, and thrilling obstacles on this three-mile adventure. Zig Zag Canyon culminates in Moab’s longest guided rappel at a jaw-dropping 220 feet. This circuitous loop takes you through winding terrain with elevation changes, two smaller rappels, and a breathtaking finale.
Where to Stay in Moab
After a day of adventure, unwind in style at ULUM Moab. Soothe your muscles in hot and cool dipping pools, savor elevated dining, and rest easy in a private suite tent with plush king-size beds—perfectly blending rugged adventure and refined comfort. Just steps from Looking Glass Arch, our secluded location south of Moab offers breathtaking views across Canyonlands National Park and world-class exploration right outside your tent.
