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Canyoneering

181 Trip Reports for 123 Activities.

TOTGA

TOTGA

Capitol Reef National Park, Utah on December 21, 20241.5 hours from Betrothed to bottom of canyon | 0.2 miles with 1 mile approach from trailhead to Betrothed and 0.4 mile approach from Betrothed to top of BetrothedACA Rating: 3A Longest Rappel: 0+TOTGA Canyon (short for "The One That Got Away") is a scenic and moderately challenging technical slot canyon located in Capitol Reef National Park, Utah. TOTGA offers an adventurous experience for canyoneers seeking solitude and rugged beauty. The route involves extended chimney downclimbs that many groups will not be comfortable descending without a rope. The canyon is short and tight. This canyon is best suited for experienced canyoneers with proper gear and knowledge of anchor building, and it rewards those who take it on with stunning views and a true sense of wilderness exploration.
Wife 1 Canyon

Wife 1 Canyon

Capitol Reef National Park, Utah on December 21, 20244-6 hours | 0.12 miles with 1 mile approach from trailhead to Betrothed and 0.6 mile approach from Betrothed to top of Wife 1ACA Rating: 3A Longest Rappel: 3 rappels to 60 ftWife 1 Canyon in Capitol Reef National Park offers a rewarding canyoneering experience with three exciting rappels, the tallest reaching up to 60 feet. The route features stunning sandstone narrows and classic desert canyon scenery, making it an ideal introduction to the "Wives" series. While not overly technical, this canyon still requires proper gear, including a harness and rope, as well as basic rappelling skills. The approach is relatively straightforward, and the canyon is typically dry, adding to its accessibility for prepared adventurers. Permits are required and can be obtained for free from the Capitol Reef Visitor Center. This canyon offers a blend of adventure and striking natural beauty, perfect for those looking to explore the rugged terrain of the park.
Wife 6 Canyon

Wife 6 Canyon

Capitol Reef National Park, Utah on December 21, 20244-6 hours | 0.16 miles with 1 mile approach from trailhead to Betrothed and 0.3 mile approach from Betrothed to top of Wife 6ACA Rating: 3A Longest Rappel: 3 rappels to 80 ftWife 6 Canyon, part of the "Wives" canyoneering routes near Cohab Canyon in Capitol Reef National Park, offers a technical and exhilarating descent. This slot canyon features three rappels, ranging from 35 to 80 feet, each with natural anchors such as bushes or boulders. The approach involves hiking from the Fruita Campgrounds to Cohab Canyon, where navigational tools like GPS are recommended to identify the correct canyon. The canyon is a mix of stunning sandstone formations and technical challenges, making it ideal for experienced adventurers seeking a blend of beauty and skill-testing obstacles. Permits are required, but they are free and available at the visitor center. For those seeking variety, this canyon is part of a series of routes, each offering unique experiences in the rugged Capitol Reef landscape?.
Wife 2 Canyon

Wife 2 Canyon

Capitol Reef National Park, Utah on December 21, 20242.5 hours from Betrothed to bottom of canyon | 0.2 miles with 1 mile approach from trailhead to Betrothed and 0.5 mile approach from Betrothed to top of Wife 2ACA Rating: 3A Longest Rappel: 100 ftWife 2 Canyon in Capitol Reef National Park is a rewarding slot canyon adventure for canyoneering enthusiasts with moderate technical skills. This route features a series of short rappels, tight narrows, and scenic sandstone walls that showcase the park's stunning geology. The approach hike is relatively short and provides picturesque views of the surrounding desert. The canyon is typically dry, making it a great option for those looking to avoid water obstacles. A free permit, obtainable from the park’s visitor center, is required for this adventure. Wife 2 offers just the right amount of challenge and beauty, making it a memorable experience for those who take on its twists and turns.
Wife 3 Canyon

Wife 3 Canyon

Capitol Reef National Park, Utah on December 21, 20242.5 hours from Betrothed to bottom of canyon | 0.2 miles with 1 mile approach from trailhead to Betrothed and 0.5 mile approach from Betrothed to top of Wife 3ACA Rating: 3A Longest Rappel: 200 ftWife 3 Canyon in Capitol Reef National Park is a hidden gem for intermediate canyoneers seeking a balance of adventure and beauty. This slot canyon offers a series of technical challenges, including multiple rappels, narrow passages, and occasional water obstacles depending on recent weather conditions. The approach involves a scenic hike from the Cohab Canyon Trailhead, taking you through the rugged desert landscape characteristic of Capitol Reef. With its stunning sandstone walls and thrilling rappels, Wife 3 provides an engaging experience for those comfortable with technical canyoneering gear and techniques. Free permits are required and can be obtained at the park’s visitor center.
Wife 5 Canyon

Wife 5 Canyon

Capitol Reef National Park, Utah on December 21, 20241.5 hours from Betrothed to bottom of canyon | 0.2 miles with 1 mile approach from trailhead to Betrothed and 0.4 mile approach from Betrothed to top of Wife 5ACA Rating: 3A Longest Rappel: 100 ftWife 5 Canyon, located near Cohab Canyon in Capitol Reef National Park, offers a challenging and scenic adventure for experienced canyoneers. The route includes multiple rappels, with the longest descent reaching around 100 feet, and tight slots that require technical skill to navigate. The approach begins near the Fruita Campgrounds and requires careful route-finding to locate the correct canyon entry. The canyon showcases stunning sandstone formations, narrow corridors, and a mix of natural beauty and technical obstacles, making it a rewarding experience for those prepared with the proper equipment and skills. Permits are required and can be obtained for free at the Capitol Reef Visitor Center. As one of the "Wives" canyons, Wife 5 stands out for its combination of aesthetics and adventure, appealing to those who love exploring rugged desert terrain.
Wife 4 Canyon

Wife 4 Canyon

Capitol Reef National Park, Utah on December 21, 20242.5 hours from Betrothed to bottom of canyon | 0.2 miles with 1 mile approach from trailhead to Betrothed and 0.4 mile approach from Betrothed to top of Wife 4ACA Rating: 3A Longest Rappel: 75 ftWife 4 Canyon in Capitol Reef National Park is a technical slot canyon that balances challenging obstacles with beautiful sandstone formations. This route features several rappels, with the longest typically around 75 feet, and a mix of narrow slots and open desert scenery. The canyon's approach begins near Fruita, requiring a short but steep hike to reach the entry point. Known for its accessible yet thrilling challenges, Wife 4 is a popular choice among canyoneers looking for an intermediate-level experience. Permits are free but required and can be obtained at the Capitol Reef Visitor Center. With its blend of technical sections and stunning views, Wife 4 offers an exciting day of exploration in the heart of Utah’s canyon country.
Hard Day Harvey

Hard Day Harvey

on November 2, 2024ACA Rating: Longest Rappel:
Wormhole Canyon

Wormhole Canyon

Ticaboo, Utah on November 1, 20242-4 hours | 1.44 mile approach, 0.18 miles in canyon, 0.93 mile exitACA Rating: 3A R Longest Rappel: 0 rappelsWormhole Canyon is a short but tricky canyoneering route on Ticaboo Mesa. While there are no rappels, this canyon is still very technical due to its high stemming and downclimbs. Wormhole was named after a silo feature in the canyon that is the crux move in the canyon. Stemming over the wormhole is rated X for its roughly 35-ft exposure, but this move is not mandatory for most canyoneers. It is possible for most if not all canyoneers to drop to floor level rather than stemming over the wormhole. That being said, canyoneers entering this canyon should be prepared for high stemming.
Watson Canyon

Watson Canyon

Torrey, Utah on September 1, 20242-3 hours | 0.54 mile approach, 0.55 miles in canyon, 1.1 mile exitACA Rating: 3A Longest Rappel: 1-3 rappels to 65 ftWatson Canyon, located near Torrey, Utah, offers a moderate canyoneering adventure in a scenic desert setting. This canyon features several downclimbs and potentially a few short rappels, depending on conditions and the skill level of the group. The approach is relatively quick, and the exit, a miserable slog straight up a steep and loose canyon wall, provides sweeping views of the surrounding red rock landscape. The canyon is typically dry. While it lacks the dramatic features of other nearby canyons, Watson Canyon provides a pleasant outing for those seeking a more relaxed canyoneering experience near Capitol Reef National Park. Reaching the trailhead requires a true high clearance 4x4 and skilled driving. The drive looks short on a map, but it takes about 45 minutes each way from the pavement.
Wife 1 Canyon

Wife 1 Canyon

Capitol Reef National Park, Utah on August 31, 20244-6 hours | 0.12 miles with 1 mile approach from trailhead to Betrothed and 0.6 mile approach from Betrothed to top of Wife 1ACA Rating: 3A Longest Rappel: 3 rappels to 60 ftWife 1 Canyon in Capitol Reef National Park offers a rewarding canyoneering experience with three exciting rappels, the tallest reaching up to 60 feet. The route features stunning sandstone narrows and classic desert canyon scenery, making it an ideal introduction to the "Wives" series. While not overly technical, this canyon still requires proper gear, including a harness and rope, as well as basic rappelling skills. The approach is relatively straightforward, and the canyon is typically dry, adding to its accessibility for prepared adventurers. Permits are required and can be obtained for free from the Capitol Reef Visitor Center. This canyon offers a blend of adventure and striking natural beauty, perfect for those looking to explore the rugged terrain of the park.
Wife 6 Canyon

Wife 6 Canyon

Capitol Reef National Park, Utah on August 31, 20244-6 hours | 0.16 miles with 1 mile approach from trailhead to Betrothed and 0.3 mile approach from Betrothed to top of Wife 6ACA Rating: 3A Longest Rappel: 3 rappels to 80 ftWife 6 Canyon, part of the "Wives" canyoneering routes near Cohab Canyon in Capitol Reef National Park, offers a technical and exhilarating descent. This slot canyon features three rappels, ranging from 35 to 80 feet, each with natural anchors such as bushes or boulders. The approach involves hiking from the Fruita Campgrounds to Cohab Canyon, where navigational tools like GPS are recommended to identify the correct canyon. The canyon is a mix of stunning sandstone formations and technical challenges, making it ideal for experienced adventurers seeking a blend of beauty and skill-testing obstacles. Permits are required, but they are free and available at the visitor center. For those seeking variety, this canyon is part of a series of routes, each offering unique experiences in the rugged Capitol Reef landscape?.
Blarney Canyon, East Fork

Blarney Canyon, East Fork

Hanksville, Utah on May 26, 20242-3 hours | 1.5 mile approach, 0.3 mile canyon, 0.6 mile exitACA Rating: 3A Longest Rappel: 0-2 rappels to 50 ftThe east fork of Blarney Canyon mostly consists of canyon hiking and scrambling. There are a couple of drops that some people will want to rappel, but the rappels are not mandatory if everyone in the group is comfortable with downclimbing. This canyon is fun if you're in the area, but it is not a favorite and is much less fun than the neighboring west fork of Blarney. My recommended way to experience the Blarneys is to go up East Fork and down West Fork in a loop. This is only recommended for capable athletic types. Larger groups or mixed groups will prefer East Fork from the top down with the ridge approach.
Shillelagh Canyon, West Fork

Shillelagh Canyon, West Fork

North Wash, Utah on May 26, 20242-3 hours | 2.75 miles, 1.4 mile approach, 0.75 miles in canyon, 0.6 mile exitACA Rating: 3A Longest Rappel: 2-3 rappels up to 70 ftThe west fork of Shillelagh Canyon is short and fun. The canyon has two mandatory rappels and a couple shorter drops that can be rappelled or downclimbed. The approach and exit are straightforward. This canyon has a lot of bang for the buck.
Blarney Canyon, West Fork

Blarney Canyon, West Fork

Hanksville, Utah on May 26, 20242-3 hours | 2.2 miles round tripACA Rating: 3A Longest Rappel: 40 ftThe Left Fork of Blarney Canyon is a great introduction to canyoneering. There is one mandatory rappel right at the beginning. There are another 2-4 drops that could be rappelled or down-climbed depending on the group. Blarney holds very little water, even after recent rains.
Blarney Canyon, West Fork

Blarney Canyon, West Fork

Hanksville, Utah on May 26, 20242-3 hours | 2.2 miles round tripACA Rating: 3A Longest Rappel: 40 ftThe Left Fork of Blarney Canyon is a great introduction to canyoneering. There is one mandatory rappel right at the beginning. There are another 2-4 drops that could be rappelled or down-climbed depending on the group. Blarney holds very little water, even after recent rains.
Leprechaun Canyon, East Fork

Leprechaun Canyon, East Fork

Hanksville, Utah on May 25, 20243-6 hours | 2.2 miles one way, shuttle-to-carACA Rating: 3A/B Longest Rappel: 50 ftThe East Fork of Leprechaun Canyon is a fun, medium-intensity canyon. There are some fun rappels and down climbs and several narrow sections. The canyon is quite photogenic in the right lighting, and lots of people hike up from the bottom as far as they are able.
Poe Canyon (aka Smiling Cricket Canyon)

Poe Canyon (aka Smiling Cricket Canyon)

Waterpocket Fold, Utah on April 18, 20249-20 hours | Technical Portion: 1.2 miles, Total: 4.9 milesACA Rating: 4B Longest Rappel: 200 ftPoe Canyon is one of the hardest pothole canyons in Utah. There are dozens of potholes with difficult entrances and exits. Notably, the "Pit of Despair" requires an extremely long sand bag throw from an awkward stemming position. If you can't make the throw, there is a very good chance you'll be stuck in the canyon.
Baboon Laughs Canyon (aka Laughing Baboon Canyon)

Baboon Laughs Canyon (aka Laughing Baboon Canyon)

Waterpocket Fold, Utah on April 18, 20243-6 hours | Technical Portion: 1.0 miles, Total: 3.4 milesACA Rating: 3B Longest Rappel: 160 ftBaboon Laughs is an awesome pothole canyon in the southern end of the Waterpocket Fold.
Ramp Canyon

Ramp Canyon

San Rafael Swell, Utah on December 17, 20234-6 hour loop | 1.9 mile approach from top of Ramp Canyon, 1.3 miles in Cistern Canyon, 1.5 miles to bottom of Ramp Canyon, 1.5 miles in Ramp CanyonACA Rating: 3A Longest Rappel: None, but a short section of 5th class climbing in Ramp CanyonThe Cistern and Ramp Canyons loop is one of the San Rafael Swell classics. The route visits two very different canyons. Cistern Canyon is easy walking and fairly wide while Ramp contains several obstacles, and some amazingly well-sculpted canyon floors and solutions pocketed walls. The hike along the reef connecting the two is the icing on the cake, giving great views of this unique landscape. Ascending Ramp Canyon comes with a price. The crux obstacle requires unprotected lower 5th class climbing. Although not hard (5.2 - 5.5 depending on who's rating it), it is somewhat exposed (20 ft) and can be a little intimidating to some. Beginners will need competent leadership and a rope. For those not wishing to lead the climbing section, it is only about a 30­-45 minute side trip to fix a rope before starting the hike.
Cistern Canyon

Cistern Canyon

San Rafael Swell, Utah on December 17, 20234-6 hour loop | 1.9 mile approach from top of Ramp Canyon, 1.3 miles in Cistern Canyon, 1.5 miles to bottom of Ramp Canyon, 1.5 miles in Ramp CanyonACA Rating: 2A Longest Rappel: None, but a short section of 5th class climbing in Ramp CanyonThe Cistern and Ramp Canyons loop is one of the San Rafael Swell classics. The route visits two very different canyons. Cistern Canyon is easy walking and fairly wide while Ramp contains several obstacles, and some amazingly well-sculpted canyon floors and solutions pocketed walls. The hike along the reef connecting the two is the icing on the cake, giving great views of this unique landscape. Ascending Ramp Canyon comes with a price. The crux obstacle requires unprotected lower 5th class climbing. Although not hard (5.2 - 5.5 depending on who's rating it), it is somewhat exposed (20 ft) and can be a little intimidating to some. Beginners will need competent leadership and a rope. For those not wishing to lead the climbing section, it is only about a 30­-45 minute side trip to fix a rope before starting the hike.
The Squeeze

The Squeeze

San Rafael Swell, Utah on December 16, 20237-12 hours | 10 miles round trip from Hidden Splendor, 8.7 miles round trip from Factory Butte.ACA Rating: 3B Longest Rappel: up to 17 rappels to 100 ftThe Squeeze is one of the longer and more difficult canyons around. With up to 17 rappels, multiple potholes, some light stemming, and around 10 total miles traveled, The Squeeze makes for a full day of canyoneering. This is not a canyon to be taken lightly. Along the way, enjoy a pictograph panel, five arches, mining relics, and a dirt airstrip.
Sam's Mesa Box Canyon

Sam's Mesa Box Canyon

Robbers Roost, Utah on October 21, 20233-5 hours | 1.0 mile approach, 1.0 mile in canyon, 1.9 mile exitACA Rating: 3A Longest Rappel: 0-1 rappels to 50 ftSeldom visited, Sams Mesa Box Canyon makes a great outing for beginners or those looking for a less technical outing in Robbers Roost. The canyon is not very technical with one rappel/downclimb for the short route described here. The two slot sections are both short. That said, the canyon is beautiful and well worth visiting.
Lost Spring Canyon, North Fork

Lost Spring Canyon, North Fork

Robbers Roost, Utah on October 20, 20232-4 hours | 2.2 milesACA Rating: 3A Longest Rappel: 3+ to 30 ftNorth Fork is good, with several short drops to downclimb or rappel, in a surprisingly deep slot. This is one to do after doing something else in the area like No Mans Canyon or Larry Canyon. It is not one to come all the way out into the Roost to do on its own. It also makes a great way to round out a Bull Pasture Canyon day.
Bluejohn Canyon, Squeeze Fork

Bluejohn Canyon, Squeeze Fork

Hanksville, Utah on October 20, 20231-2 hours from car to junction with East Fork | 2 miles from car to junction with East ForkACA Rating: 3B Longest Rappel: 20 ftThe Squeeze Fork of Bluejohn Canyon is awesome and very tight. Unfortunately, you will miss out on the upper East Fork of Bluejohn by taking Squeeze Fork, so we recommend going down East Fork and taking a short detour up and down Squeeze Fork.
Bluejohn Canyon, East Fork

Bluejohn Canyon, East Fork

Hanksville, Utah on October 20, 20233-5 hours from car to junction with Main Fork | 5.6 miles one way from car to junction with Main ForkACA Rating: 3B Longest Rappel: 20 ftThe East Fork of Bluejohn Canyon is very fun and scenic. There are some fun potholes and downclimbs. However, there is a ton of wash hiking required for the exit, making it not as much fun as other similar canyons.
Upper Twin Corral Box Canyon

Upper Twin Corral Box Canyon

Robbers Roost, Utah on October 19, 20231+ hours | 3.4 miles down and backACA Rating: 2A/B Longest Rappel: 0Upper Twin Corral Box Canyon is not a great canyon, but because it is short and easy and there is great camping nearby, this canyon is an easy addition to your day while others at camp are having a slow start or at the end of a day when everyone else wants to go to camp and you want a little more exercise. Because it is generally dry, it's also a fun canyon to do with kids. While you can exit the canyon near the bottom, the recommended route is to descend the canyon as far as you want then return the same way. There are several narrow downclimbs. While not particularly difficult, make sure you are comfortable reversing them! Coming back up always requires a lot more energy that going down.
Knotted Rope Canyon

Knotted Rope Canyon

San Rafael Swell, Utah on October 13, 20236-8 hours | 2.6 mile approach from Quandary camp, 1.2 miles in canyon, 0.75 mile exit to Muddy Creek then either 2.25 miles to Factory Butte Trailhead or 4.0 miles to Hidden Splendor Trailhead plus 3.1 miles of road walking back to campACA Rating: 3B Longest Rappel: 0+Knotted Rope is a pothole adventure extraordinaire! Although the canyon has no rappels, it is recommended for canyoneers with pothole escape skills. Generally the potholes are easy to get out of, but in 2007 a woman drowned in Knotted Rope when she broke her arm getting into a pothole. Her husband did not have the gear to rescue her, and she eventually succumb to hypothermia and drowned. Knotted Rope is typically a fun romp, but bring a rope and a be prepared for some potential challenge, depending on water levels. Although the canyon itself is fun, the length of the approach and exit gives this canyon a high pay-to-play ratio.
Quandary Canyon

Quandary Canyon

San Rafael Swell, Utah on October 13, 20236-8+ hours | 0.75 mile approach, 2.3 miles in canyon, 1.5 miles to Muddy Creek then either 2.25 miles to Factory Butte Trailhead or 4.0 miles to Hidden Splendor Trailhead plus 3.1 miles of road walking back to campACA Rating: 4B (pothole escape) Longest Rappel: 2-7 rappels up to 70 ftQuandary Canyon is one of the San Rafael Swell classic canyons. Most of the canyon is mediocre with only minor obstacles, but the crux pothole is a real challenge. Because of the potholes, a minimum group size of 3 is recommended. Because of the long approach and exit, Quandary has a high pay-to-play ratio.
Agua Fria Canyon

Agua Fria Canyon

Queretaro, Mexico on June 11, 20233-5 hoursACA Rating: 3B Longest Rappel: This is a beautiful limestone canyon with big travertine rappels. The entrance and exit are straightforward, with well-travelled paths. The canyon is accessed from La Barranca. It is quite vertical (i.e. it has a lot of rappels in quick succession, and several of them are 100+ feet). The PG rating is likely due to exposure at several of the rappel stations, including one where it is best to use care and ensure you are clipped into the next station before getting off rappel from the previous rappel station.
La Barranca

La Barranca

Queretaro, Mexico on June 11, 2023ACA Rating: 3C Longest Rappel: A beautiful and deep canyon with numerous dark, cavern-like sections and fun waterfall rappels, having many fun jumps and one really great slide. The narrows section takes many hours to go through. This canyon is frequently done in its entirety, with leaving a shuttle car at the Puente de Dios tourist attraction at the bottom.
Infiernillo Canyon

Infiernillo Canyon

Queretaro, Mexico on June 10, 20235-7 hoursACA Rating: 3C Longest Rappel: 13 rappels to 90 ftA spectacular limestone canyon in a beautiful highland area. This canyon is deep, often dark, with long sculpted travertine passages filled with emerald to aquamarine water and lots of swimming. You will rappel down steep conic travertine accretions covered with moss into grand cathedral-like grottos. Slides that shoot you out into open space 12 feet above the water. You'll want to do this canyon more than once. The upper part of the full route is beautiful, with many jumps and swims, and several rappels. Once you reach the commercial route (there is a very obvious trail coming down RDC), the first rappel can be jumped but is shallow and somewhat technical. The second is difficult to get up to the anchors and is on a thin ridge. you can jump this, it's plenty deep. the third rap is mandatory (though you could get off partway and slide/jump) and drops you into a spectacular cathedral-like grotto.
Coyote Gulch

Coyote Gulch

Glen Canyon National Recreational Area, Utah on June 3, 20233 days | 28 miles from the Red Well trailhead to the ConfluenceACA Rating: 1BVI Longest Rappel: N/ACoyote Gulch is an amazing 3-day backpacking trip down a picturesque canyon. Along the way are 4 arches or natural bridges, close to a dozen waterfalls, Indian petroglyphs, and miles of beautiful scenery.
Black Hole of White Canyon

Black Hole of White Canyon

Hite, Utah on May 28, 20234-8 hours | 0.43 miles approach, 4.33 miles in canyon, 0.59 miles exitACA Rating: 3B Longest Rappel: None, but there are several drops where a short rope is usefulThe Black Hole is often touted as one of the best semitechnical canyon adventures around. It has amazing beauty, challenging obstacles, and is a lot of fun. Be warned, however, flash floods have taken lives here. Competent leadership is required for a safe and great adventure. Several years ago the canyon flash flooded and filled with immense log jams, making it very difficult to descend. After several years, these washed out, and the canyon is back to its former self. Beware, though, it is a canyon that can change dramatically. Many groups do the Black Hole in high summer without wetsuits. Though doable, I would recommend a wetsuit even in summer. Being warm and not shivering through the best sections makes for a much more enjoyable day!
Duckett Slot

Duckett Slot

Hite, Utah on May 27, 20232-4 hours | 0.25 mile approach, 0.4 miles in canyon, 1.25 mile exitACA Rating: 3B Longest Rappel: 2+ to 50 ftDuckett Canyon, while very short, does not disappoint. It offers beginner groups several partner assist and team work problems to overcome, while never feeling overly committing or hard. The hardest section is at the very start and can be avoided if needed. Though the canyon can sometimes be dry, I recommend bringing a wetsuit. It's no fun to freeze!
Short Canyon

Short Canyon

Hite, Utah on May 26, 20231.5-3 hours | 0.25 mile approach, 0.4 miles in canyon, 0.4 mile climber's exit or 2.3 miles down Grotto Trail to roadACA Rating: 3B Longest Rappel: 0-2 rappels to 20 ftWith a short approach and short exit, this canyon is awesome. The only downside is that the canyon is short too. With just a couple easy obstacles, this is a great canyon for beginners and kids. Be prepared to get wet. Water levels are often waist deep but can also be completely dry or a full swim. Because the wet section is short, you will likely be fine without a wetsuit on warmer days.
Brides Canyon

Brides Canyon

Moab, Utah on April 30, 20233-4 hours | 1.5 miles approach, 0.5 mile canyonACA Rating: 3A/B Longest Rappel: 3-4 rappels up to 50 ftBrides Canyon is near the Gooney Bird Rock Tower off the Gemini Bridges Road. The canyon is interesting and pretty by Moab standards. If you are used to North Wash or Zion and expecting a challenge, you'll be disappointed that this is more of a hike with rappels. It never really slots up. There are a lot of rock towers and arches in the vicinity as well. Bring webbing and at least 100 feet of rope.
Pool Arch Canyon

Pool Arch Canyon

Moab, Utah on April 29, 20233-5 hours | 3.5 milesACA Rating: 3B Longest Rappel: 3 to 140 ftPool Arch Canyon is a great beginner canyon near Moab, UT. The route is mostly hiking with 2 or 3 straightforward rappels interspersed. Throw in two arches and some possible wading, and it makes for a great half day.
Lower Granary Canyon

Lower Granary Canyon

Moab, Utah on April 28, 20235-7 hours to do Upper and Lower Granary | 7.2 miles round tripACA Rating: 3A Longest Rappel: 5 rappels up to 100 ft if returning or 6 rappels to 200 ft if exiting down Jug Handle ArchLower Granary Canyon is an awesome little canyon. It has several big rappels and a couple of pools of water that are avoidable. There are also several arches and natural bridges.
Upper Granary Canyon

Upper Granary Canyon

Moab, Utah on April 28, 20235-7 hours to do Upper and Lower Granary | 7.2 miles round tripACA Rating: 3A Longest Rappel: 5+ rappels to 100 ftUpper Granary Canyon is an awesome little canyon. It has several big rappels and a couple pools of water that are avoidable. There are also several arches and natural bridges.
Goblins Refuge

Goblins Refuge

Goblin Valley State Park, Utah on October 16, 202215 minutes in canyon plus 2 hours for approach and exit | 200 ft in canyon, 2 mile approach, 2 mile exitACA Rating: 2A Longest Rappel: 0 if doing canyon from bottom, likely 1 or more rappels if approaching from topGoblin's Refuge is a narrow slot canyon in Goblin Valley that can be explored from the bottom. The canyon has curvy walls and roofs in places and feels like a cave in spots. Because it is far from the parking lot and pavilion, this canyon rarely gets explored. When exploring from the bottom, you reach the upper end, which is a cavern room that prevents further uphill travel. It's possible that the canyon could be explored top-down, and rappels would likely be required.
Shillelagh Canyon, West Fork

Shillelagh Canyon, West Fork

North Wash, Utah on October 15, 20222-3 hours | 2.75 miles, 1.4 mile approach, 0.75 miles in canyon, 0.6 mile exitACA Rating: 3A Longest Rappel: 2-3 rappels up to 70 ftThe west fork of Shillelagh Canyon is short and fun. The canyon has two mandatory rappels and a couple shorter drops that can be rappelled or downclimbed. The approach and exit are straightforward. This canyon has a lot of bang for the buck.
Shenanigans Canyon

Shenanigans Canyon

Hanksville, Utah on October 14, 20226-10 hours | 4 miles one way with shuttleACA Rating: 3A/B Longest Rappel: 50 ftShenanigans is an awesome slot canyon that is incredibly tight in several places.
Munchkin Canyon

Munchkin Canyon

North Wash, Utah on September 18, 20226-8 hours for full route, can be shortened | up to 8 miles with many optional exits to shorten the tripACA Rating: 2A, PG Longest Rappel: NoneMunchkin has some pretty slot sections that are narrow and some sections that require easy stemming up to 20 feet above the ground. The narrows are short and spread out with a lot of wash walking between narrows. Rappelling is not required. The exit is a slog, especially for kids.
Jilted Lover

Jilted Lover

North Wash, Utah on September 18, 20221-2 hours | 0.2 miles round trip in addition to Blushing Bride CanyonACA Rating: 3B PG-13 Longest Rappel: 50 ftJilted Lover is a fun and short slot canyon near the bottom of Blushing Bride Canyon. This canyon is not often done by itself but makes a fun addition to Blushing Bride. There are very few natural anchor opportunities, so most drops require a meat anchor and a competent climber.
Butler Canyon, Main Fork

Butler Canyon, Main Fork

North Wash, Utah on September 17, 20223-5 hours | 0.4 mile approach, 1 mile in canyon, 2.1 mile exit, additional 2.2 mile approach or exit if no shuttleACA Rating: 3A Longest Rappel: 3 rappels up to 40 ft (80 ft rope)The main fork of Butler Canyon is not spectacular by any account. The canyon is primarily a walking canyon with a few easy obstacles and a couple rappels.
Yankee Doodle Canyon

Yankee Doodle Canyon

Leeds, Utah on June 25, 20222-3 hours round trip | 0.5 mile canyon, 0.5 mile exitACA Rating: 3A/B Longest Rappel: 1-4 rappels to 70 ftYankee Doodle Canyon is a short but fun technical canyoneering route in Leeds Canyon. The canyon has one mandatory rappel and a few other drops that can be rappelled or downclimbed. The canyon is often dry but can also hold water in a few places. Because it is short and permits are not required, Yankee Doodle is very popular, especially with beginners.
Water Canyon

Water Canyon

Hildale, Utah on June 25, 20225-7 hours | 2.2 mile approach, 0.8 mile canyon, 1.0 mile exitACA Rating: 3B Longest Rappel: 175 ftWater Canyon is a great canyon. It's different than most any other canyons because it has tan-orange-colored sandstone and because the canyon is so lush. The lower portion of Water Canyon is a favorite destination for local guides to take groups, so if you're a fast group, you may want to get an early start to avoid the bottlenecks. Water Canyon boasts 12 rappels up to 175 feet tall. In addition to the rappels, there are a couple of pools, some narrows, and a couple of easy downclimbs. Most of the canyon is fairly open with easy walking.
Pine Creek

Pine Creek

Zion National Park, Utah on June 24, 20225-6 hours | 1.3 milesACA Rating: 3B Longest Rappel: 95 ftPine Creek Canyon in Zion National Park is the quintessential canyoneering experience. It has a quick entrance, a quick exit, several swims, and some awesome rappels.
Hogwarts Canyon

Hogwarts Canyon

North Wash on March 19, 20222-3 hours | 1.3 miles round tripACA Rating: 3A Longest Rappel: 90 ftHogwarts Canyon is an awesome little canyon. It packs a great punch into a short time. In the middle of the canyon, which is not accessible from the top or from the bottom except via the canyoneering route, is a spectacular arch from one wall of the canyon to the other. The canyon has 4+ rappels up to 90 feet and a short easy stemming section. This canyon is very popular with beginners and experienced canyoneers alike because it can easily be combined with a longer canyon in the same day and it is very scenic.