We rate our canyoneering trips based on physical difficulty. Zig Zag Canyon is a loop hike and requires some uphill, off-trail scrambling. There are places where we’ll use our hands and feet for progress and your guide will coach you through a few easy climbing moves. This canyon also offers the opportunity to use different techniques such as downclimbing, using a handline and “chimneying” (your feet on one wall, your back on the other). The hiking here is doable for anyone that is reasonably fit, but it is more adventurous than your run of the mill hiking trail.

The term “canyoneering” basically refers to exploring canyons, though it is most commonly used to describe canyon hikes in which ropes and basic climbing skills are occasionally required to completely get through the canyon. These canyons are called “technical canyons” due to the special skills and equipment required. Moab Canyoneering features big rappels and wide open canyons, while going further afield to Hanksville, we encounter true slot canyons. Typically, canyoneers will hike down, or “descend” a canyon since it’s often easier to rappel down the canyon’s steep drops than to climb up them. Once we’ve negotiated the canyon’s technical challenges, an easier side canyon – sometimes with its own unique set of obstacles – is then hiked up in order to get back to the start. Rappelling is necessary in every canyon that Desert Highlights visits.

During a Moab canyoneering trip, we travel over terrain throughout the duration of the trip. We are hiking, scrambling (easy climbing) and using techniques like down-climbing and rappelling to navigate through an area that is otherwise inaccessible. Moab rock climbing tours are more focused on simply climbing. We visit one area (called a “crag”) where your guide will set up a rope high on the cliff (called a “top-rope) that will be used to protect you from a fall (called “belay”) while you’re climbing up to the anchor. Once you’ve arrived at the top, you will be lowered back down to the ground and repeat on another route at the same cliff.

It is moderately challenging, with a mix of hiking, scrambling, and route-finding. The distance is manageable, but the terrain keeps things engaging. It is a great fit for active travelers who want more than a simple hike but are not looking for an all-day extreme outing.

Yes. The two shorter rappels earlier in the day are perfect for learning and building confidence. By the time you reach the final 220-foot rappel, most guests feel prepared and excited for the experience.

It is big, but very manageable with the right guidance. The rappel starts as a free-hanging descent before transitioning to a steeper wall. It feels more exhilarating than scary for most people, and it is often the highlight of the day.

It is the longest guided rappel offered in the Moab area, which makes it a standout experience for those looking to do something memorable and unique.

You will travel across slickrock fins, sandy washes, and narrow canyon sections. Some areas require using your hands for balance or short climbing moves, which keeps the experience interactive and engaging.

Unlikely. This route was developed to provide a more secluded experience, so it often feels quiet and removed from busier areas.

Yes. It is a great progression from easier routes. You will build skills throughout the day and finish with a bigger challenge that feels rewarding without being overwhelming.