canyonlands canyoneering tour

THE 10 BEST Canyoning & Rappelling Tours in Moab, UT

Canyoning & rappelling tours in moab.

• 4WD, ATV & Off-Road Tours
• Hiking & Camping Tours
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• Adrenaline & Extreme Tours
• Canyoning & Rappelling Tours
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• Adventurous
• Good for Couples
• Good for Kids
• Good for Adrenaline Seekers
• Honeymoon spot
• Good for Big Groups
• Budget-friendly
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• Things to do ranked using Tripadvisor data including reviews, ratings, photos, and popularity.

1. Red River Adventures

2. Paddle Moab

3. Moab Canyon Tours

4. Base Jump Moab

5. Windgate Adventures

6. Desert Highlights

7. Clapper Adventures

8. Way To Moab

9. Front Range Climbing Company

10. Elevate Outdoors

11. Southwest Mountain Guides

12. Sticks and Stones Adventures

13. Wild SOL Retreats

14. canyon country adventures, what travelers are saying.

Canyoneering

Canyoneering Tours in Moab, Utah

Canyoneering is the ultimate well-rounded adventure! It utilizes different techniques such as hiking, rappelling, scrambling, down-climbing, bouldering, and sometimes swimming to travel a safe route through a canyon. Moab Canyon Tours offers canyoneering tours in Moab, Utah, with various packages designed to suit different experience levels and fitness levels.

1/2 Day Canyoneering

Perfect for anyone new to canyon exploration and a sense of adventure.

3/4 Day Canyoneering

A little bigger, more adventurous, more remote, and technical.

Full / Multi-Day Canyoneering

Remote locations, advancing technical skills, and growing comfort zones.

Helicopter Canyoneering

Ultimate canyoneering experience flying to and. from the canyons.

Basic Fitness Level – Beginner Skill Level

• Clock 3-4 Hours
• User Ages 7+

Entrajo Canyon

Experience the power of water that sculpted layers of ancient sandstone to form the elegant slots and chambers on this beautiful, adventure-packed Entrajo Canyon tour. Beginner-friendly & perfect for warmer days when it’s best to become one with the H20!

• Clock 4 Hours

Bow & Arrow

This exclusive Moab Canyon Tour is the perfect adventure for anyone new to canyoneering. An exhilarating and great introduction to canyoneering in this half-day outing!

This unique all-in-one Moab adventure tour provides an array of adventurous roped activities, combining elements of both rock climbing and canyoneering. Experience incredible views while cabling and climbing through Moab canyons!

Higher Fitness Level – All Skill Level

• Clock 5 - 7 hours

Rock of Ages

Venture into the amazing Behind The Rocks area, a labyrinth of sandstone located just minutes outside of the town of Moab. Densely-packed, parallel fins of rock form tight canyons that hold natural wonders hidden deep within these mazes at Rock of Ages.

• Clock 5 - 8 Hours

Zero Gravity

Zero Gravity is a classic swell canyon interchanging between tight narrows and open canyon space. “Zero G” has a good amount of water locked within deep slots and potholes. Book your tour this summer!

Do you want to experience an exclusive canyon that no other local Moab company guides?  Ox Canyon provides a truly unique experience. This family-friendly canyoneering tour in Moab, Utah, offers scenic slot-sections and narrows, and an amazing overlook of the Moab Valley.

Full or Multi-Day Canyoneering

Strong Fitness Level – Advanced Skill Level

• Clock 7 - 12 Hours

Irish Canyon

The Irish Canyons are the center of canyoneering in North Wash. With short approaches, a wide range of difficulty levels and unsurpassed beauty, it’s understandable why these are the most popular canyons in the Moab area.

• Clock 8-12 Hours
• User Ages 12+

The Hog Canyons are great for those with experience in basic canyoneering looking to learn the skills behind “ghosting” or descending a canyon without a trace. Challenge yourself on this moderate to difficult journey with plenty of intrigue.

Blue John Canyon

Blue John Canyon has become one of the most popular canyoneering routes with its several different forks of the canyon that offer an array of options, all offering amazing scenery and challenges that are suitable for beginner canyoneers. Book online!

After a drive across the vast, open desert of the Roost, at the abrupt end-of-the-road looms Alcatraz Canyon. This subterranean realm can only be experienced with a full gamut of canyoneering tricks and techniques. Book your tour now!

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Moab Canyoneering: Five Best Moab Canyoneering Adventures

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• Canyoneering
• Get In The Wild News

Moab visitors are conveniently close to what is considered one of the world’s best canyoneering destinations. Slot canyons are one of the top, hidden treasures found within Southern Utah’s diverse redrock landscape. Not only are slot canyons unique in their beauty, but they offer memorable adventure’s filled with rappelling, climbing and hiking through pristine areas.

Canyoneering in Utah for Everyone

Exploring the canyons (canyoneering) isn’t just for experienced adventurers. Canyoneering is a quintessential Utah experience and with the support of guide, canyoneering is accessible to visitors of all ages and experience levels. The professional guides at Get In The Wild Adventures provide you with all of the expertise and equipment needed, so you can show up and enjoy the slot canyons safely.

Five Adventures to Experience Canyoneering Near Moab

The Greater Canyonlands and Dirty Devil/Robber’s Roost Wilderness areas are world class canyoneering destinations located just a quick hour and thirty minute drive Southwest of Moab. Each of these Moab canyoneering routes is rated by level of challenge and for the level of solitude guests can expect to find in each area.

1. Half-Day Goblin’s Lair Canyoneering Excursion

This canyoneering excursion is suitable for beginners and families, taking you right into the heart of Goblin Valley State Park for nearly five hours. This is a beautiful red rock area known for the hoodoos and goblins (the incredible rock formations) that exist there.

Along with enjoying the otherworldly scenery found here, you will learn how to safely rappel from a professional guide. After learning the correct rappelling techniques, you get to take on a 90-foot free rappel directly into Goblin’s Lair (also sometimes called The Chamber of the Basilisk – a fun reference for you Harry Potter fans out there). Explore the cavern with your guide and enjoy scenic views of nearby Robbers Roost , before heading back home.

Learn more and book this canyoneering Utah experience in Goblin Valley State Park today.

2. 127 Hours Slot Canyoneering Adventure

This is a moderate canyoneering adventure that can be enjoyed as a full-day or multi-day outing. Your guide will take you on an awe-inspiring and challenging journey through BlueJohn Canyon (now sometimes called Aron Ralston Canyon) for a full-day adventure. This was the canyon featured in the film 127 Hours , making it the most famous slot canyon in the area.

A blend between a desert hike and a technical canyoneering challenge, you will get the best of both worlds with this adventure. After hiking through the pristine Robbers Roost desert and entering the canyon, you will experience the thrill of moving through narrow slots, long rappels, down-climbs, and potholes.

Book today and experience Utah’s most famous canyon.

3. Ultimate Moab Canyoneering Challenge

When you are looking for things to do in Moab or nearby, there is nothing that gets you into the depths of Utah’s true remote wilderness quite like an all day canyoneering excursion. 

An experienced guide will lead you through the wilds of Greater Canyonlands at either the San Rafael Swell or Robbers Roost . Ultimate Challenge Canyoneering Adventures can be customized for beginner, intermediate or advanced explorers. In general, this is designed as a more challenging canyoneering adventure. You’ll receive guidance and then take on technical challenges like rappelling, scrambling, down climbs, and wading, all while taking in breathtaking views of the spectacular redrock landscape. 

Learn more and take on the Ultimate Challenge canyoneering adventure.

4. Half-Day Canyoneering Tour of Occulus Canyon

Occulus Canyon lies among the alluring canyons of the San Rafael Swell . Still considered a beginner excursion, this half-day canyoneering adventure will take you to an incredible petroglyph viewing area and an ancient Puebloan alcove, as well as viewing areas for natural bridges and hanging gardens deep within The Swell.

After a slot canyon hike, you will learn rappelling techniques and have the experience of rappelling 90-feet into the Occulus, to enjoy an environment touched only by weather and time. At the top of the canyon you can take in views of surrounding areas, which include Robbers Roost , Canyonlands National Park , and Bears Ears National Monument .

5. Explore Utah with a Multi-Day Canyoneering Tour

Experience the absolute best of canyoneering Moab with a moderate intensity three- to five-day canyoneering tour. On this tour an experienced guide will take you through all of the best spots throughout Robbers Roost and San Rafael Swell .

On the first day, your professional canyoneering guide will teach you all of the techniques you’ll need for the journey. This includes rappelling, scrambling, and how to navigate tight slots in the canyon. Throughout these three days, you’ll explore territory where outlaws famously took refuge from the law and ancient first nations territories for a truly unforgettable experience in Utah’s most remote and pristine environments.

Learn more and book your big Utah canyoneering adventure today.

If you’re visiting or in the Moab area and ready to explore Utah’s best slot canyons with the safety of a professional guide, these Moab canyon tours are the best opportunity to do it.

Get In The Wild Adventures also provides canyoneering courses and other tours and classes to get you outside to experience Utah’s raw and wild beauty. These include yoga and hiking retreats and wildwest and outlaw tours .

Contact Get In The Wild Adventures for more details.

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Guided Moab Canyoneering Tours

• Trip Details

What To Pack

• Reservation/Cancellation

Moab Canyoneering Tours

Moab Canyoneering tours are all about fun. The landscape surrounding Moab, Utah holds wonderful surprises for those with a sense of adventure. Beautiful water-carved canyons, inaccessible without technical skills, await your discovery.

NOTE! On all of our Moab canyoneering tours, except Chamisa, there is NO option to go around the rappels or return to the office. Chamisa Canyon can be completed by doing a 10-foot (3-meter) rappel. The second rappel IS optional in Chamisa. Please be certain that you, your children, and all members of your group will be able to complete the rappels before booking.

Bow and Arrow – Most popular!

• Difficulty – Easy to Moderate
• Duration – Half-Day
• Length – 3 miles / 4.8 km (approx.)
• Number of Rappels – 4 (up to 110 feet / 33 meters)
• Minimum age – 8
• Meets – Varies depending on season; see calendar
• Adults $150 | Youth $135

Check availability and   Book online now!

Morning Glory aka Ephedra’s Grotto – A Moab classic!

This 3-mile canyoneering adventure is only made possible by doing two of the area’s best rappels and a bit of scrambling. It’s a step up from your typical hike, yet doable by almost anyone with the help of our incredible Moab canyoneering guides.

• Number of Rappels – 2 (90 feet / 27 meters and 120 feet / 36 meters)
• Meets – 7:30 AM
• Adults $135 | Youth $110

Chamisa Canyon aka Entrajo Canyon

Current conditions – June 2024: Chamisa Canyon is full of water and requires wading and a short swim.

• Length – 2.5 miles / 4 km
• Number of Rappels – 2 (10 feet / 3 meters and 90 feet / 27 meters)
• Adults $115 | Youth $100

View our Chamisa Canyon Photos

Rock of Ages – Our longest route!

Current conditions – June 2024: Rock of Ages is dry.

Welcome to the best canyoneering Moab, Utah has to offer! This route features three rappels, a tight “slot,” potholes, some easy scrambling, and views of seldom-seen arches. A hike through this route will leave memories that will last a lifetime.

• Difficulty – Moderate to Difficult
• Duration – About 6 hours
• Length – 5 miles / 8 km
• Number of Rappels – 3 (160 feet / 48 meters; 100 feet / 30 meters; and 50 feet / 15 meters)
• Minimum age – 12
• Adults $175 | Youth $160

View our Rock of Ages Photos

Please call us if you have any questions about the commitment required to complete these Moab canyoneering tours or to inquire about our Moab white water rafting trips.

Check out our canyoneering video!

Moab Canyoneering Photo Gallery

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Online reviews - 5 Stars

Why Choose RRA? - 20 years of doing it right! Since 2003, when rafting operations began, we have gone on to expand our operations into rock and ice climbing, canyoneering, guided ski touring, travel trips and outdoor education. We have hosted over 85,000 guests and spent over 110,000 days in the field! We are so proud that this has garnered 5-star rankings across all online review sites. Land or water our clients rave about the quality of our guides, the depth of their knowledge, their ability to teach and most importantly, how incredibly fun each is. We believe our past guest's comments make the decision easy! Back to top

Your Safety is our number #1 concern

Since we started this journey in 2003 we have safely hosted 85,000+ kids and adults and spent over 100,000 days rafting, climbing, canyoneering and skiing in Utah and around the world. RRA guides are at a minimum state licensed, insured and hold first aid and CPR certifications. Many of our river guides hold additional certifications in swift water rescue and whitewater instruction. Many, though not all, of our rock, ice, ski and canyoneering guides are AMGA trained or certified for the terrain they guide.. Back to top

Quality Equipment

Do i need a reservation.

YES! To guarantee space on the trip of your choice, we recommend reservations, especially on holidays and summer weekends. In order to provide the type of trip the we have become known for we do limit the number of people on a launch and we do fill up. In addition a lot goes into the planning of a river trip, including scheduling of guides, drivers, packing lunch for full-day and lunch trips and ensuring that our equipment is always in top-notch condition. Make a reservation as soon as you have a good idea of when you want to raft with us and you'll avoid disappointment. Feel free to call us about reservations at any time @ 1-877-259-4046 or email. Back to top

About Age Limitations

Which trip to choose.

We are thrilled to have the ability to offer such a wide variety or trips. We also realize that this can create confusion. We are a fantastic resource and look forward to helping you choose the trip that is perfect for you and your group. Please feel free to call or email with any questions you might have, we love to help. Often after a brief conversation with one of our staff the the answers become clear. Back to top

Where do we park/leave our things

There is plenty of secure parking on site at our offices. Valuables can be locked in your vehicles and will be perfectly safe for the duration of your trip. In addition we are more than happy to store anything that you may be extra concerned about in our offices while you are on the river. Back to top

Are there bugs

Thankfully there are usually very few to no bugs on our trips. The we travel through some of the driest terrain on the planet so there is generally no standing water for bugs to breed in. At the same time the current in the main river section is too swift to allow for breeding. This being said sometimes there are gnats or mosquitoes. Back to top

What to Bring

Red River Adventures tries to make your trip with us as easy as possible! What to bring is clearly outlined on the "what to pack" tab for each of our trips. We provide most, to all, necessary equipment for you to take part in our rock climbing, canyoneering and river trips. This includes all rock climbing and canyoneering equipment, boats and boating equipment, safety equipment, life jackets, guides, food, beverages, camping and kitchen equipment. In addition you are welcome to bring, or we can provide at NO ADDITIONAL COST, camping equipment including tents, sleeping bags and inflatable mattresses. You simply bring your own personal clothing and gear. We will provide trip specific lists to assist you in bringing the right things. Back to top

What the Weather is Like

Be prepared for hot (75-110 F degrees) weather during June, July, and August. You can expect cooler temperatures (55-90 F degrees) during April, May, September, and October. August is usually the wettest month (short-lived but intense thunder showers). April 73|42 May 84|50 June 85|58 July 101|64 Aug 98|63 Sept 89|53 Back to top

About Swimming and Fishing

Swimming is as much a part of a great river trip as whitewater and cooking out. Guests are more than welcome to swim on all our river trips. There is no better place to be on a hot summer day than swimming alongside one of our rafts. Catfish and Carp are plentiful in the Colorado and Dolores Rivers. Back to top

What Risks Are Involved

Red River Adventures has an unblemished safety record. We personally screen and train our employees vigorously each year. Each of our guides receives extensive instructions on safety, swift water rescue and first aid training. Our Climbing and Canyoneering guides are highly trained and many are AMGA certified. Our trips take place in rugged, remote "wilderness" settings. You should be in good general health to participate. Non-swimmers can go and are more than welcome. We provide Coast Guard approved life jackets for your safety. Back to top

We supply plenty of drinking water. Back to top

Alcohol Policy

Full and 1/2 Day Raft Trips: Alcohol or drugs are not to be consumed before or during trips. No refund will be given to those drinking alcohol or using drugs prior to a scheduled trip. Multi-Day Raft Trips: Alcohol or drugs are not to be consumed before or during time on the river. No refund will be given to those drinking alcohol or using drugs prior to river time. Alcohol may be consumed, in camp, on multi-day trips. Climbing/Canyoneering trips. Alcohol or drugs are not to be consumed before or during trips. Back to top

Charter and Group Rates

Red River Adventures offers a group rate discount of 10% to groups of 10 or more. Additional rates reductions are available for school, club, church, or special-interest groups on some trips. We are happy to, when ever possible, customized trip lengths and itineraries. Please contact us for help in arranging your charter trip or for group rate information. Back to top

Red River Adventures will provide all of the technical equipment required to guide our listed canyoneering routes. Due to insurance and liability regulations, guests are required to use the technical equipment provided by Red River Adventures. In some instances there may be a required gear list; if applicable, this list will be distributed prior to your date of departure.

What you should pack

• Small day pack
• 1-2 liters of water (minimum) per person
• Shoes, sandals or anything you can hike in and don’t mind getting wet!
• NOTE: Shoes or sandals will get wet and should be appropriate to hike 3 miles (Morning Glory) or 5 miles (Rock of Ages)

What we provide

• AMGA-certified Single Pitch Instructors
• All technical equipment:
• Free parking
• Please NOTE!!!! There is a time change from Arizona to Utah. Moab is one hour ahead of Arizona!
• There is plenty of secure parking on site. Valuables are safe in your vehicle.
• A credit card might be advisable for payment balances, t-shirts, etc.
• At the end of all trips, we will return you to your starting location.
• Guide gratuities are customary.

Reservations

Option #2 - For those trips that do not open a calendar Call 1-435-259-4046 or Email us through our Contact Page

Reservations are HIGHLY recommended! Many dates sell out far in advance! A refundable payment is due to guarantee reservation.

Cancellations

Full & half day trips.

• 50% deposit due at time of reservation.
• Balance is due and will be charged 7 days prior to departure.
• Cancellation/changes made 7 days prior to departure are FREE!
• Cancellation, partial or in full, within 7 days of departure will not be refunded or rescheduled.

Full & Half day - Large Group (14 or more)

• Balance is due and will be charged 14 days prior to departure.
• Cancellation/changes made 14 days prior to departure are FREE!
• Cancellation, partial or in full, within 14 days of departure will not be refunded or rescheduled.

Clinics, Courses, and Exams

• Balance is due and will be charged 30 days prior to departure.
• Cancellation/changes made 30 days prior to departure are FREE!
• Cancellation, partial or in full, within 30 days of departure will not be refunded or rescheduled.

International trips

• A refundable deposit of 10% is required to hold space.
• 120 days - 50% is due and will be charge to the card on file.
• 60 days - 100% is due and will be charged to the card on file.
• Cancellation 60 days prior to departure are FREE. A full refund will be given.
• Cancellation, partial or in full, within 60 days of departure will not be refunded or rescheduled.
• A non- refundable deposit of 25% is required to hold space.
• 90 days - Balance is due and will be charged to the card on file.
• Cancellation, partial or in full, within 90 days of departure will not be refunded or rescheduled.

Please Note: RRA recommends you insure your trip!

RRA reserves the right to cancel any trip due to weather, insufficient bookings or any other circumstances beyond our control at anytime. RRA will make every effort to reschedule the date. Bookings that are unable to be rescheduled or are cancelled by RRA will receive a full refund.

Full and 1/2 Day Raft Trips: Alcohol or drugs are not to be consumed before or during trips. No refund will be given to those drinking alcohol or using drugs prior to a scheduled trip. Climbing/Canyoneering trips. Alcohol or drugs are not to be consumed before or during trips.

Questions? Call (877) 259-4046 or Email Us

River rafting reviews and red river adventure testimonials.

Good crew with the rapid waters Half day proved to be a lot of fun.

Our guide Jordan, and everyone who works there, were amazing. Jordan was fun, extremely capable and knowledgeable. The scenery was equally amazing. My only complaint is that there was a fair amount of waiting. Can you do the safety briefing on the bus or something? Send the equipment out first? It would be nice if there was less time waiting around in the heat. At least there was a pavilion for shade. Overall, had a great time

We did the Rock of Ages route with Kenzie. It was the highlight of our trip to Moab and Kenzie was an amazing guide. The hike in was challenging and the rappelling was great.

Our trip down the river was so fun! Makayla was our guide and she was friendly, informative and funny! She made our trip that much more fun for sure. Everyone that works there are friendly and patient, especially with newbies. Thank you Red River Adventures for a great time and I will recommend this place to anyone who wants an adventure!

What an incredible experience! Our group had a wonderful time. Our bus driver, Keeli, was nice and fun (we had her last time too) and our guide Makayla was an absolute blast. Even other rafts commented on how much fun it sounded like we were having. I’ve rafted with Red River Adventures 3 times and I wouldn’t think about going anywhere else. 100% recommend!

The half day white water tour here is really well put together. The guides are thorough and knowledgeable

Great experience, cool rock, super friendly & knowledgeable guide! Also super flexible & willing to accommodate schedule & preferences :)

We had such a great day rock climbing at Ice Cream Parlor with our guide, Kenzie. She was so warm and friendly, very knowledgeable about the climbs, and really patient with our 3 kids. We had a variety of skill levels in our group and she set routes that everyone enjoyed. We had a fantastic morning! Highly recommend Red River Adventures!

Steffan, Derek and John put on an excellent course with many lessons learned. They not only have an expansive knowledge and skill set, but are great guys and super fun to learn from. I would not hesitate to take another course from them or hire any of them as a guide.

The course “Rigging for Rescue in Semi-Technical Terrain” hosted by Red River Adventures and lead by Derek DeBruin was a great experience. We covered everything from active and passive protection placements, anchor building, various belay techniques and short roping in the context of moving an individual whom is being rescued safely over different types of terrain. We also went into when and where to utilize different techniques depending on the level of risk, technicality of terrain and competence of the rescuer. A scenario wrapped it up and put a bow on it, all for a very reasonable price. Thanks!

This place was easy to book, organized on arrival, left on time, and all the guides were friendly and energetic.

We canyoneered Morning Glory AKA Ephedra's Grotto with Molly and had a great time. She was fantastic with the kids (ages 10 and 12) and was super encouraging and supportive during rappels. It was a beautiful hike and the 2 rappels were amazing!

We had a wonderful time on the river today for a half day trip with Maggie, Kiera and Will. We had a group of 17. All the kids had a blast (ages 5-19). Thank you for showing us everything.

Great day with red river!

Such a fun experience for my first time rafting! The guides were awesome, and the trip was fun. The guides were very knowledgeable and kept us entertained with fun facts on the way there. Throughout the raft, they got to know us a little bit. The bus driver who was there spoke rudely to me and many others in my group, but other than that, it was wonderful!!

Amazing Staff!! Great time! Highly recommend! Five star ⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️

There best rafting experience we ever had!

This outfit was great! Good service, funny and friendly rafting guides! We'd adventure with them again!

They did a fabulous job, we loved our guide Jordan. We had a great day!

We went on a full day rafting adventure today. Our guide, Savannah, was awesome! All the guides were informative and well prepared. The information provided was interesting and didn’t seem rehearsed. The only reason I gave 4 stars was because the lunch provided was not something commonly preferred by most people. It would’ve been nice to receive a menu, so we could’ve brought our own sandwiches or power bars. When catering to the masses it’s better to provide simpler fare. Although I was impressed with the gluten free option.

Mary's Crack Camp was amazing as were instructors. I don't know which was better, how much I learned or how much fun I had. The program seemed individually tailored to each person with a wide range of experience and abilities. I would recommend and return to this experience in a heartbeat.

We had a blast and highly recommend rafting with Red River Adventures!! My husband and I took our 5 kids, ranging from 6 years old to 15. Maggie was our guide and we loved her! She was extremely knowledgeable of the river and the surrounding areas. She was amazing with our one kid who was extremely nervous, talking with him the whole time about what to expect and when. She was also great with our one kid who wanted to row the entire time! Liz made us laugh while talking about the scenery and the local history. Another guide gave restaurant tips for after rafting. They helped keep the 40 minute bus ride interesting. And shout out to our bus driver! I wish I could remember her name! She had legit skills driving a huge bus while hauling a trailer of rafts!

Crack Camp with Mary Catherine Eden is the best thing any crack climber could dream of! She is beyond talented but also a great coach who can both push and support you with skill and compassion. If you want to improve your crack climbing or even just start crack climbing, this camp is a must! 10/10 would recommend

The guides were friendly, uplifting, and funny. They explained everything in an easily understandable way and were there to help me every step of the way. Overall an awesome experience!

My son loves his climbing camps at momentum gym and now he got to see what it’s all for! Climbing with red river adventure out in the real world has blown his mind! What an unforgettable and amazing experience. No doubt we will be booking more climbing sessions with these fantastic people!

We aren’t exactly outdoorsy, I booked this when I knew we would be passing through Moab and I wanted to get my family out of our comfort zone and I am so glad I did. My 12 year old son and my husband would both rather read a book than go outside and they had an absolute blast. I chose Red River because they mentioned using smaller groups which appealed to my introvert soul. Everything from booking to leaving at the end was simple and easy. Our guide Emily was so much fun, full of facts about the region and skilled enough to keep my, less than adventurous family from drowning. Some of the reviews I read prior to booking complained about the river not being wild enough but this was exactly what I had hoped for. The rapids we did encounter were exciting and fun while giving us enough time to paddle and enjoy the scenery between the little adrenaline hits. My son had a grin on his face the entire time. Lunch was delightful. The other guests were courteous and entertaining. We did encounter other rafting companies and they were so full of rafters I would have been uncomfortable in their groups. . Our family of 3 was given our own raft with Emily and the larger groups were kept close to each other by their incredibly skilled guides. I was never worried about a thing and I’m so glad we chose Red River Adventures.

Great experience! My partner and I did the AM half day raft trip. The bus ride to the put in was very entertaining! Amazing views and fun rapids on the river! Our guide, Liz, was the best part though. She had so much interesting information to share with us. We were so lucky to have such knowledgeable guide! Thanks Liz!! I definitely recommend Red River Adventures.

We had a great time and our guide Liz was fun and knowledgeable!

Molly was an amazing guide for our 1/2 day mountaineering trip. She made my husband & I feel so assured of our safety while rappelling in beautiful canyons while keeping a super positive & good humored nature. She was a blast to hike with & we recommend her & Red River Adventures to anyone. We hope to have more adventures with them in the future!

Molly is a fantastic guide and this is a must while visiting Moab.

Liz was absolutely the best guide!! Would recommend for anyone! It was thrilling, educational, beautiful, and breathtaking all at the same time. You won’t regret choosing Red River Adventures!

This place is legit! Every thing from scheduling to exiting the bus was smooth. The guides were very knowledgeable and created a fun atmosphere. One member of our party- who has been crabby most of the trip- described our raft trip as a "10/10 must do again!"

Crack camp is incredible. Probably the best thing I’ve done for my climbing since I started climbing outside. For those going in the future… It’s going to be a tough boot camp, but well worth the effort and time spent. Like all climbing you’re going to get what you put in, so show up ready to give 200% because Mary will make sure you don’t waste anytime. You will climb nonstop all weekend! It will be full of pain and laughter, and you will love all of it!!! Even if you can barely move on the last day, you will be wishing you had more climbing on your trip back home. Huge thank you to Mary and her crew!!! I cannot wait to go out and use all the crack climbing and trad climbing techniques I learned this weekend.

Had a great time with Red River. We were a group of 2 couples, so we were able to request 2 ducky kayaks and had a blast. The guides were great, good food for a quick lunch, and it was a piece of cake dropping our keys at the office. Great time overall

Lots of fun, great rapids and experience. "Emily is best guide" - Aaron

Awesome! It was a highlight in our Moab trip. The water was warm, and my kid had a blast. The guides are nice and made this trip especially nice.

Awesome experience. My family and I had such a fun time. Our river guide was so nice and informative and made the trip so much fun.

The Spi course taught by Derek was awesome, great instruction and a lot was learned

Great guide. Friendly staff. Very knowledgeable with history on the river. Had a great ride. 👍😊

I had a wonderful time taking my family of 6 rafting. The guides love what they do and want to make sure everyone has a great time. We would definitely go back and do it again with them.

Our family had an unbelievable time on the half-day rafting trip, and our guide Kira was the best!!!

It was very fun. We did the half day rafting trip, if we didnt have other activities planned we would have loved to do the all day trip. Overall,pretty relaxing most of the trip. We went through 4 rapids, nothing crazy but we did get a bit wet. Maggie, our guide was very informative, learned a lot about the area and the sights. And we felt very safe.

Red Rivers crew knocked it out of the park! We had two girls under the age of 10 and ran into some inclement weather, our guide Liz made sure my girls felt comfortable and safe! Also the bus driver was amazing!

Our family had the pleasure of canyoneering with Molly and Cage this past week on our family vacation. Half of us are afraid of heights, but with the expertise, professionalism, and kindness put forth by this team, not only did we successfully rappel down two (very deep) canyons, we had one of the most fun and memorable experiences of our lifetimes thus far. We can’t thank these two enough for allowing us to see Moab in such a magical way (one I felt brave enough to look down ;).

We had a very fun raft trip, with a knowledgeable guide! A small suggestion would be to have a system where the guide could communicate easily with the driver or others, as this was a small issue and could have been a large issue.

Great morning adventure for the white water rafting. Guide was calm, knowledgeable and good fun, as well as the rest of the team. You feel like you are in safe hands.

Still feeling lucky to have done Canyoneering with a cool group and with Kelcie our guide!

Very considerate and knowledgeable guide service. Highly recommend. Kelcie was awesome.

We booked this tour at the last minute and are so glad we did. Kenzie was awesome - she made us feel safe and comfortable, plus was great to chat with on the hike back to the van. This was such a wonderful experience and I could not recommend it more!

We had a terrific time floating the river with the guides of Red River Adventures. The team demonstrated and explained safety precautions and how to maneuver in the raft. They served a made on site chicken Caesar salad. Just when started to get hot there would rapids so we could cool off a bit. The staff was exceptional.

Discover Moab Cliffs & Canyons

Moab utah’s premier guide service, we are open year round, guided climbing, canyoneering, & hiking trips.

Come along on our Full Service Guided Trips! We provide transportation, all the necessary technical gear, backpacks, and snacks on every trip! 

Our Team Has Been Trusted To Serve

More than 50,000 thrilled guided clients since 1999.

As Moab’s oldest Climbing and Canyoneering Guide Service, we’ve earned the reputation of being the area’s Vertical Specialists by safely guiding our clients through some of the most rugged and interesting desert terrain imaginable.

We pride ourselves in being specialists in our area of expertise of  rock climbing and canyoneering. We only offer these types of trips without watering down our expertise with other sports such as water or driving sports!

As Professional Guides , we do not take you and your family’s safety lightly… building a long term, trusting relationship with our guests is at the core of our business. 

We hire and train only professional guides with a broad depth of personal experience in the vertical world. When your safety is involved it is imperative that your guides have both extensive training, certifications, and personal experience .

With Moab Cliffs & Canyons, you can relax and enjoy the adventure , knowing that you have experienced, safety conscious and highly skilled guides that you can confidently put your trust in.

Do Something Out Of The Ordinary

Our best experiences in moab, canyoneering trips.

Few people can resist peering into a deep canyon. It is a work of art, always in-progress. Specialized tools and techniques allow us to probe the ever-changing canyon floor creating one of the most memorable and exciting experiences of life.

Rock Climbing Trips

Beginner, intermediate, and advanced level trips are customized to your needs and experience level. Our accomplished guides will show you the best quality climbs at your ability level and lead you to new heights in your climbing skills.

Exclusive Hiking Trips

Our hiking trips are for very small groups (no larger than six), which is why they cost a bit more than outfits that group together as many as thirty people.  Our knowledgeable guides can take you places large groups can’t fit, and also regale you with stories of the cultural and natural histories, geology, flora, and fauna. 

Rockaneering Trips

Our “Rockaneering” Adventures are unique! . .. unlike any other rock climbing or canyoneering trip.  Much like ascending a long alpine rock route, they take place in areas where there is an array of options for climbing, rappelling, walking across fins, exploring slot canyons and enjoying the magnificent views from a whole new perspective. 

Canyoneering Courses

If you are ready to take your Canyon skills to the next level then join us on our Canyoneering Courses to learn the skills you need to lead canyons on your own with friends or family! We offer 1, 2, 3+ day courses that are completely tailored to where your skills are and where you want them to be!

Offwidth Clinic with Pam Pack

Join some of the best offwidth climbers in the world for an amazing weekend of offwidth climbing mastery! Camp and Climb in the unparalleled Indian Creek to learn the ins and outs of this unique and rewarding style of climbing.

The Ultimate Moab Canyoneering Adventures

Moab, Utah has long been one of climbing and canyoneering’s most sought-after destinations, but there is plenty of beginner-friendly rock on which to learn the ropes. Our seasoned guides will help harness your skills (and your courage) to take a step into the vertical world!

We've crafted two guided canyoneering adventures to explore the hidden side of Moab's Landscape:

• The Morning Glory canyoneering tour traverses Grandstaff Canyon beginning with a rappel into Medieval Chamber, followed by a spectacular rappel from Morning Glory natural bridge into a lush grotto some hundred or so feet below. You'll round out the adventure with several stream crossings through Grandstaff Canyon.
• Bow & Arrow Canyon offers four different rappels interspersed throughout an adventurous hike past otherwise hidden petroglyph panels, longbow arch, and spectacular desert vistas.

Canyoneering Moab: Morning Glory Arch & Medieval Chamber

An incredible canyoneering introduction, with two rappels: 100' into a hidden chasm, and 110' off a giant rock arch! Follow a winding canyon stream out to the Colorado River.

• Duration: Approximately 5 hrs
• Departure Times: Morning and Afternoon
• Season: April - November

Moab Canyoneering: Bow & Arrow Canyon

Experience adventure hiking at its finest, including hidden petroglyph panels, longbow arch, spectacular desert vistas, and multiple rappelling descents deeper into the canyon country.

Moab Canyoneering Reviews

Best in moab canyoneering, rappelled 120′ off an arch.

Canyoneering was Pioneered in Utah

That's right, Utah's slot canyons are the birthplace of the modern sport of canyoneering. What is canyoneering? See if this helps: Mountaineers climb up, Canyoneers climb down, and Pioneers trek Westward...to Utah where they can descend ropes into the myriad slot canyons that drain Utah's world famous Colorado Plateau. The pioneers of the sport all claim first descents in Utah, sooo... yeah, it's pretty much legit. You know, the word "canyon" comes from the Spanish Conquistadors, trying to describe what they saw in the desert as "narrow valleys between cliffs". There was no word for these unique features of the southwest, so they used the Spanish word for "pipe", or "long tube".

Questions about Canyoneering in Moab

• Rock climbing is a fun full-body challenge where muscles and finger grip on textures, bumps, and cracks in the rock walls (and even special shoes) are used to go up a rock wall. When a climber reaches the top, they descend or rappel with the rope and harness back to the ground.
• Canyoneering is rappelling into narrow slot canyons to gain access to otherwise undiscoverable grottoes, chambers and arches hidden in the desert landscape. Often there are multiple descents through a given canyon or series of canyons.

Rappelling is a part of canyoneering. Canyoneering is a hike that navigates down through a canyon, often requiring rappels (roped descents) over cliffs or waterfalls that are otherwise not navigable without a rope.

There are many places to rappel over a cliff in Moab, but not all of them are legal, and not all of them lead down through a canyon. The two best places for canyoneering in Moab

Canyoneering is a very family activity with teambuilding built right into the experience. Cheer family members on as they drop below, or cheer them on from below after you've done your own rappel. The guides keep things orderly and lined up so you can focus on yourself and your fellow family in the experience.

The Morning Glory Arch Rappel has two descents, both of which are side-by-side rappels into the Medieval Chamber, and near Morning Glory Arch.

All four Bow and Arrow Canyon rappels are one-at-a-time rappels.

The tallest rappels in Moab, Utah are roughly 100 feet high. Both the Morning Glory Arch adventure and the Bow and Arrow canyoneering include 100-foot rappels.

Utah, in general, is spoiled for choices when it comes to canyoneering. Arguments can ensue about which is the better location Moab, Utah or Zion National Park area for slot canyon exploration. In Moab, Utah there are perhaps fewer slot canyons to choose from, but perhaps more arches to be found along the way - this all depends on which specific canyon you are hiking of course, but generally true. Once you are in the canyons themselves the experience is not easily comparable, which is to say they are very similar to each other.

Make the Most of Moab Canyoneering with More Adventures

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Starting at $99 per person

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Discover More Moab Adventures >>

What to take, where to eat, where to stay, what to do, and a few little secrets on the side. Our Moab Insiders Guide will provide you with all the essentials for a perfect Moab experience.

What to take, where to eat, where to stay, what to do, and a few little secrets on the side. Not unlike your own personal Jiminy Cricket, (minus the worries of the little guy getting smooshed) the Moab Insiders Guide will provide you with all the essentials for a perfect Moab experience.

Entrajo Canyon – Moab Canyoneering

Adventurous canyon hiking with lots of variety (and sometimes water).

This canyon tour is one of the more adventurous half day tours in Moab. It combines easy rock climbing, hiking and rappelling to visit one of Moab’s best slot canyons. As we work our way to the top of the canyon, we’re rewarded with big views of the La Sal Mountains. Once in the canyon, we wind our way through water-carved narrows and marvel at the work that Mother Nature has done over millions of years. We’ll encounter several fun obstacles throughout our hike, navigating them with creativity, teamwork and ropes! This canyoneering route does not require any previous experience – just a sense of adventure!

• Reviews 3 Reviews 5/5
• Vacation Style Holiday Type
• FAQs & Reviews
• Duration: 4-6 hours
• Difficulty: Moderate
• Minimum Age: We suggest a minimum age of 6 for Entrajo Canyon trips. Exceptions are sometimes made, so please give us a call or shoot us an email to discuss your options.
• Total Hiking Distance: 2 miles
• Rappels: 2 ( ​ 15ft/5m, 80ft/24m ​ )
• Distance from Moab: 25 minutes one-way
• Season: April – September
• Morning and afternoon trips available
• 1 Person – $320
• Group of 2 – $160/person
• Group of 3 – $150/person
• Group of 4 or more – $135/person
• Please call for availability if your group has 14 or more people in it

Oftentimes in canyoneering we find ourselves descending into unlikely places where most folks normally wouldn’t desire to go. Canyoneers get muddy, shuffle through tight canyon passages, rappel down awkward dropoffs and of course wade and swim through pools of water. Why?! Maybe it’s curiosity that compels? Perhaps the chance of stumbling upon a place more beautiful? If any of this sounds enticing to you, Entrajo Canyon is the place to be!

In its short length, Entrajo runs the gamut of most everything that has come to define canyoneering: simple hiking through beautiful wide canyons, long mesa-top views toward distant mountain ranges, struggling through tight narrow canyon walls and interlocking potholes of water – and, of course, climbing gear. A jaunt through Entrajo Canyon involves the use of ropes, carabiners, harnesses, helmets, spring-loaded camming devices, and other nifty tools of the trade used to allow curious canyoneers access to the desert’s deep, dark – and beautiful – recesses. ​ This canyon tour is moderately challenging, yet supremely scenic and rewarding. One short rappel within a series of scoured out potholes is necessary to safely hike through the canyon. The finale of the technical section sometimes includes a swim through chilly water – refreshing during the summer months, though this quality prohibits us from comfortably visiting this canyon in all but the hottest months of the year. Pleasant hiking following the swim places us on a bench high above the trailhead. A second rappel here gently brings us to within a stone’s throw of the start – a fine finish to a wonderful morning of exploring one of Moab’s most unique canyons.

Complementing the scenery are geologic curios that litter the canyon – a stately natural arch perched on the canyon rim, strangely eroded hoodoos, glacial erratics, cross-bedded rock layers and Jurassic-aged burrow casts. The geologic story of this canyon is quite different than that of the other canyons in the Moab area and a good bit of time is spent learning about this geologically fascinating area.

• All canyoneering gear and safety equipment
• Instruction from experienced and fun guides
• Transportation to and from the canyon
• Private Tour – just your group plus your guide(s)!
• Snacks – please bring enough to be out and active for 4-6 hours
• Water – please bring between 1 and 2 liters per person
• Why is this canyon considered moderate?
• How deep is the water in Entrajo Canyon?
• What should I wear?
• I've never rappelled before - is that OK?
• I have other questions about canyoneering.

We rate our canyoneering trips based on physical difficulty. Entrajo 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.

Conditions are always changing, and that’s part of the fun with canyoneering! The pools in Entrajo Canyon are typically left full of water after a big flash flood. As days pass with no rain, these pools start to dry up. We’ve even seen a flash flood deposit sand, leaving no room for the pools to hold any water. Long story short, you’ll just have to wait and see! Generally, we have an idea of the canyon conditions because we are visiting this canyon on a regular basis. That being said, nothing is guaranteed!

We always go into Entrajo Canyon prepared to get wet. We can almost guarantee that you’ll at least get your feet wet, so  closed-toe shoes that can get wet are a must. Trail running shoes, Tevas/Keens with a toe-cap, or old sneakers seem to work best. “Waterproof” boots are not recommended, as they’ll turn from “waterproof” to “waterlogged” at the first ankle-deep pool. In addition, wear clothing that can get wet. In the cooler months, bring a warm layer. You can check the weather  here  before you arrive.

Absolutely! Our private tours allow us to spend plenty of time at the top of each rappel going over rappel technique, answering questions, etc. On every rappel, you will be backed up with a second rope that the guide can use to slow you down or take over control if necessary. You’ll “learn the ropes” and be able to control your own speed, but you’ll never be 100% on your own.

Please visit our FAQ page for answers to general questions about canyoneering.

Entrajo Canyon was beautiful. Thankful for Desert Highlights and our wonderful guide, Kiera, for getting us there. Highly recommend this tour company for their excellence in safety, communication, and local expertise. Couldn't have asked for a better experience! Hope to make it back to Moab some day!

Our family of four first-time canyoneers had a PERFECT day in Entrajo Canyon with our guide Jake. We are ages 48/47/13/11 and everyone had an amazing day. I cannot say enough about Jake and I presume that company owners Melissa and Herb do an equally good job hiring and training all members their staff. We spoke with Melissa for 30 minutes the day before our trip and she put our collective nerves at ease by getting us familiar with our gear and what to expect. Jake stressed safety, respect for the environment and he was eager to help us explore around each corner. This was FUN, FUN, FUN, and a great confidence builder for all four of us. The kids' smiles at the end of the 90' rappel were priceless and every one of us agreed we would happily do it again. If you are hesitating... stop! Call them, sign up and GO. You will not regret it. Thank you to Melissa and Jake for a fantastic experience for our entire family.

Just returned from our 2nd amazing adventure with Desert Highlights in Moab, Utah! In 2011 we went on the Medievil Chamber rappel trip with Herb as our guide! Unbelievably, we rappeled off of a 100 foot arch down into a canyon... and into a chamber as well! Increcible! We enjoyed it and Herb so much that we returned for a May trip and requested Herb as our guide again. This time we did Entrajo Canyon which involved a number of Class 3 scrambles as well as "chimneying" down some narrow passageways, we rappeled into canyon potholes filled with freezing water, and we even swam across one that was about 35 endless feet long! Never in our wildest imaginations would we even consider that we would be able to rappel 100 feet and live to tell about it! Desert Highlights is an amazing adventure company, and all four of us highly recommend them if you're up for the adventure of a lifetime! We are already planning our return trip and our next adventure with them!

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Canyonlands National Park

Tucked away into the most remote section of wonderfully secluded Canyonlands National Park, The Maze is one of the biggest and best of the last: a rarely traveled, wholly inaccessible wilderness. Among the wildest, least trammeled landscapes of size in the continental United States. The Maze’s hypnotic labyrinth, a geologic fusion of cliffs, meandering canyons, and inspiring buttes provide unparalleled riding, folded into a truly unforgettable adventure. Known the world over, Utah’s 100-mile White Rim Trail in Canyonlands National Park comes on like a natural rollercoaster, looping in and out of a multi-colored array of spires, arches, buttes, and mesas carved by the Green and Colorado Rivers. But the added value of Canyonlands is its staggering remoteness. The closest light bulb hangs at least 50-miles away. Our returning guests relate that it’s this great sense of solitude, along with the fantastic camping opportunities, that brings them back.

Filter Tours:

THE WHITE RIM TRAIL

CANYONLANDS, ARCHES, MOAB – ROAD

CANYONLANDS, ARCHES & MOAB – MOUNTAIN BIKE

A word from our founders.

For those who have yet to tour with us, we appreciate the opportunity to introduce you to our family-run company and guiding principles of sustainability and adventure. Our portfolio specializes in Western North America and is rapidly growing internationally. Building on over 100 destinations, we cater to the full spectrum of active traveler, respective to fitness level and activity type. From road cyclist to mountain biker to electric biker, hiker, and multi-sport enthusiast, and from first-timer to friends and family groups of all ability levels, on behalf of our Escape Adventures family, we look forward to many new and exciting adventures with you.

With much gratitude, and happy trails,

Jared and Heather Fisher

Founders and Owner-Operators Escape Adventures

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National Park 4X4 Tours

Explore the backcountry of arches or canyonlands national park in a private tour..

Explore Moab, Utah in style with Canyonlands by Night and Day adventurous 4X4 Tours inside Arches or Canyonlands National Park. The tours take you to see hidden treasures in the backcountry of the National Parks taking you off-road for the majority of the trip.  The trip provides opportunities for photography and time to get out and explore the amazing sites. The  4×4 tour is done in a comfortable climate-controlled vehicle and can hold up to six people in addition to the guide.

Choose your destination near Moab!

Choose a half-day of either Arches or Canyonlands National or do both on the same day!

Arches National Park Half-Day Tour

Visitors typically only see what's along the paved roads at Arches National Park, so join us and venture into the backcountry for a beautiful and unique National Park experience.

This tour explores the backcountry of  Arches National Park in approximately 4 hours. You will ride along in one of our 4x4 backcountry vehicles with heat and A/C for optimal comfort during all seasons.

​ Throughout this half-day tour, you will have a private guide you explain all about the park, history, and geology of the Moab area. Your guide will point out Arch formations, and other towering landscapes along the way. Since our tours are private we can stop for photos at any point. 

​ Sights on this tour include but are not limited to  Marching Men, Tower Arch, and Eye of the Whale Arch.

This tour will include both pavement sections and 4x4 road sections that are not paved. 

​ Water & Snacks are provided complimentary.

Great for all ages, and photographers.

Entrance into the National Park is not included in the price. If you have a pass, you're welcome to use it. If you're planning on visiting more than one National Park on your vacation, then we recommend purchasing an annual pass .

PRIVATE VEHICLE: $550+ tax and park entrance fee for a private 4x4 up to 2 people.  $85+ tax per person after that up to six people.

GROUP VEHICLE: $180 per adult and $170 per youth (0-14)

Morning and afternoon departures are available.

The Arches National Park Half-Day Tour lasts approximately 4 hours long.

Our vehicles are enclosed Chevy Suburban and Toyota 4Runners. If you are reserving a vehicle for 1-5 passengers you will be riding in a 4Runner. Please note that the back 2 seats should be used for children or small adults only. The Suburbans seat up to 6 passengers and have a back row and middle row that seats 3 guests (bench).

If you have specific vehicle requests or questions, please call us. 

Canyonlands National Park Half-Day Tour

Visitors typically only see what's along the paved roads at Canyonlands National Park, so join us and venture into the backcountry for a beautiful and unique National Park experience.

This tour explores the backcountry of Canyonlands National Park in approximately 4 hours. You will ride along in one of our 4x4 backcountry vehicles with heat and A/C for optimal comfort during all seasons.

Sightseeing on this tour includes but is not limited to Potash Mine, Shafer Trail, Musselman Arch, Ancient Indian Petroglyphs (Rock Carvings), Thelma and Louise Point, and breathtaking canyon views. 

​ This tour will include both pavement sections and 4x4 road sections that are not paved. 

PRIVATE VEHICLE: $550+ tax and park entrance fee for a private 4x4 for up to 2 people.  $85+ tax per person after that up to six people.

The Canyonlands National Park Half-Day Tour lasts approximately 4 hours long.

Arches and Canyonlands National Park Full Day Tour

Visitors typically only see what's along the paved roads in the National Park, so join us and venture into the backcountry of both Arches and Canyonlands National Park.

This tour explores the backcountry of Arches National Park and Canyonlands National Park in approximately 4 hours. You will ride along in one of our 4x4 backcountry vehicles with heat and A/C for optimal comfort during all seasons.

​ Throughout this full-day tour, you will have a private guide you explain all about the park, history, and geology of the Moab area. Your guide will point out Arch formations, and other towering landscapes along the way. Since our tours are private we can stop for photos at any point. 

Sightseeing areas on this tour include but are not limited to  Shafer Trail, Musselman Arch, Marching Men, Tower Arch, Eye of the Whale Arch, and lots of breathtaking canyon views. 

​ Water & Snacks are provided complimentary. Lunch is optional for $10+tax at checkout or you can bring your own lunch.

$1095+ tax and park entrance fee for a private 4x4 up to 2 people.

$125+ tax per person after that up to six people.

The Full Day 4x4 is done once daily and the timing varies throughout the season.

The Arches and Canyonlands National Park Full-Day Tour lasts approximately 8 hours long.

Frequently Asked Questions

Yes, you must cancel 48 hours prior to departure to receive a partial refund; otherwise it is non-refundable.

If any trip is cancelled due to weather, mechanical failure, or insufficient reservations, a full refund will be provided.

We have 2 vehicles, one seats 6 passengers and the other seats 7passengers. so we can accommodate up to 13 passengers at 1 time with 2 vehicles. If only a few people book for a certain departure then we’ll take a smaller vehicle.

The weather in Moab is usually very beautiful and vary rarely we get storms or monsoons. In the event of some bad weather – we do not cancel the tour up until departure time. The reason for this is that bad weather or rain usually doesn’t last longer than a few minutes.

We will provide (Adult size Small-XXL) rain jackets if it looks like it might rain, but isn’t yet. If you have rain jackets, please bring them along in this occasion.

Yes! All ages are welcome! If your baby or child uses a car seat, simply bring it with you at check-in time and we’ll strap it into our vehicle.

We thoroughly enjoyed our 4X4 trip. We had an excellent guide and he made the trip really worthwhile. He was very knowledgeable about the area.

—John Crawford

The 4×4 trip was the perfect ending to our vacation! Thank you! We’ll be back again.

—Emily Allred

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Experience Moab

Daily flights to moab.

For your next visit consider flying directly into Moab’s Canyonlands Regional Airport (CNY).

Read more…

Upcoming events, desert rats 150 (long distance running event), geology of canyonlands, moab free concert series.

Our Moab Outdoor Adventure Guide is available for free at the Moab Information Center (corner of Main & Center Streets in Moab). The eBook version is available for download by clicking below. This is the most comprehensive guide to activities available on the public lands surrounding Moab that we have ever published.

Grand County Fair

Independence day celebration.

What’s New

• New Scheduled Jet Service to Phoenix – Contour Airlines begins scheduled jet service between Moab and Phoenix on February 1, 2024. Read more…

• Celebrate 100 Years of Cinematic History in Utah – Utah, a hidden gem among Hollywood’s real-world backlots, has unfurled its scenic beauty to filmmakers for a remarkable century. Read more…

• Discover the Magic of Moab in Winter! – With off-season rates making our hotels irresistibly affordable, and an array of retail shops and restaurants welcoming visitors year-round, there’s no better time to bask in the unique charm of Moab in winter. Read more…

• Bega Metzner Elected to Prestigious AFCI Board – Our local Film Commissioner is in the news! Read more…

• Arches Timed Entry Reservation System Announced for 2024 – Between April 1, 2024 and October 31, 2024 Arches National Park is implementing a Pilot Timed Entry Reservation System. Read more…

• Free Art Trails & Restaurant Pass – Discover Moab’s vibrant art and culinary scenes with our FREE Restaurant and Art Trails Pass. Unlock the best of Moab’s culture, savor exquisite cuisine, and earn prizes and exclusive discounts along the way! Learn more…

• Moab Area Transit – The Moab Area Transit (MAT) pilot program is a new, fare-free, transit service in the City of Moab. Read more…

Welcome to Moab

Welcome to Moab, Utah, where Arches and Canyonlands National Parks are just a part of the breathtaking red rock landscapes that surround this stunning destination. Combining small-town hospitality with unparalleled natural beauty and the cool waters of the Colorado River, Moab has become one of the most sought-after destinations in the American Southwest.

As you explore the unique scenery of Moab, take time to relax and enjoy the welcoming hospitality of this charming resort town. Thanks to its perfect climate, Moab attracts year-round outdoor events and festivals, while the downtown business district has responded with an array of restaurants, microbreweries, shops, and galleries. Whether you’re in the mood for regional southwestern cuisine or world-class gourmet fare, Moab’s diverse culinary scene is sure to satisfy any palate. And for those looking for a souvenir to remember their visit, the downtown shops offer a great selection of southwestern arts and jewelry, t-shirts, and much more to browse through at your leisure.

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Discover Nature’s Masterpiece

Moab’s iconic national parks, Arches and Canyonlands, are just the beginning. Surrounding the town are diverse natural wonders—rivers, forests, and Bureau of Land Management land—all waiting to be explored. Even the smallest desert pothole in Moab is home to unique creatures vital to the ecosystem. Pause to reflect on the intricate balance of life during your exploration. Whether you’re a naturalist or an outdoor enthusiast, there’s always more to discover in Moab’s desert ecosystem. Immerse yourself in its wonders, taking a deep breath and appreciating Nature’s Masterpiece.

We invite you to check out our constantly expanding series of science and nature videos , which showcase the fragile beauty of Moab’s desert landscape and lesser-known experiences.

Moab Information Center 25 E Center St (Corner of Main and Center Streets) 7 Days/Week 9:00 am – 4:00 pm Closed Thanksgiving and Christmas

Once you arrive in Moab, your first stop should be the Moab Information Center (MIC). Conveniently located at the corner of Main and Center Street in Moab, the MIC offers information on recreational opportunities and visitor services throughout southeastern Utah. Allow some time for the interpretive displays and large gift shop featuring guide books, maps, videos, videos, postcards, and much more.

Moab to Monument Valley Film Commission

Become a part of southeastern Utah’s rich film history and choose this stunning location for your next project!

The Moab to Monument Valley Film Commission holds the title of the longest running film commission in the world. Established 1949. We are here to facilitate whatever your production needs may be!

Utah’s competitive incentive program offers a fully refundable tax credit of up to 25% on in-state spend, which helps you cut production costs without sacrificing quality.

FILMMOAB.COM | 435-260-0097

For a more optimal web experience, please view our site on Microsoft's recommended browser, Edge. You can download it here .

Introducing Utah's national parks

Mar 2, 2022 • 5 min read

With the "Mighty 5" national parks located in Utah, the Beehive State is a dream for outdoor adventurers © Getty Images/iStockphoto

Utah is known around the globe for its five national parks, dubbed the "Mighty 5." But some are better than others, depending on how you travel. Before booking your next adventure to Red Rock country, here’s what you need to know.

No state comes close to Utah in terms of the highest concentration of national parks. Although California and Alaska are each home to more, those parks are spread out across two massively-sized states. Utah’s five parks, however, are all located within a few hours' drive of each other.

What’s more, all five crack the top 20 most-visited national parks, according to the latest figures. They're that good. While all five parks are worth your time and can be conveniently paired with each other in one long road trip, here’s where to focus your attention. 

Arches National Park

Best national park for paved driving

You’ve probably seen this park already on a Utah license plate or in an advertisement promoting the state’s great outdoors. Which is fitting because Arches is easily the most drivable, paved park of the five. Even the drive to the top of the plateau where the famous Arches exist is a dramatic entrance. Once inside, visitors can get to nearly every top spot right from the singular scenic drive – oftentimes right from the multiple parking lots that dot the drive.

Visiting Arches: Arches is best-visited from nearby Moab , just a ten-minute drive south. Here there are plenty of hotels, restaurants and tour operators to help you get the most of the area. While in the park, highlights include the scenic drive, hiking Delicate Arch , Devil’s Garden, and Fiery Furnace. Other points of interest include walking Park Avenue, seeing Double Arch, and watching climbers scale Balancing Rock.

Bryce Canyon National Park

Best national park for otherworldly views

The smallest national park in Utah is also probably it’s most visually appealing. Thanks to the thousands of rock spires (called “hoodoos”) that stretch skyward from the canyon floor, the park landscapes can almost seem alive at times, if not extraterrestrial. That’s because Bryce’s intimate and stunning good looks are often compared to something you would expect from planet Mars. Highlights include hiking down into the Navajo And Queen’s Garden Loop, the Sunset to Sunrise rim trail, and seeing the canyon up close on a full moon night.

Visiting Bryce: Unlike Arches, Bryce isn’t near a big tourist town so amenities are limited. There are, however, a few hotels and restaurants just outside the entrance or in nearby Tropic just east of the park. Given its small size, you can see and hike almost everything in a few days. Bryce is often paired with a trip to either Zion National Park or Capitol Reef National Park, which are no more than an hour or two away along the Utah 12 Scenic Byway.

Canyonlands National Park

Best national park for remote off-roading

First things first – Canyonlands is really three national parks (or “districts”) rolled into one: Island in the Sky (most popular), The Needles (two hours away), and The Maze (one of the most remote national park areas in the country – 4x4 only with no roads). Because of this, Canyonlands is also huge and easily the biggest and least-visited national park in Utah. Nevertheless, all three districts are known for their off-roading appeal; Island in the Sky is popular among mountain bikers, too.

Visiting Canyonlands: The Canyonlands Visitor Center located in the Island in the Sky district is located about an hour west from Moab. Highlights include the amazing Green River Overlook, Landscape Arch, and biking or off-roading along the insane switchbacks of the Shafer Trail, White Rim Trail, and/or Dead Horse Point. Hell’s Revenge and Elephant Hill are also popular off-roading trails and two of the most difficult in the world.

Capitol Reef National Park

Best national park for photography

While all five of Utah’s national parks are especially photogenic, if you want to go somewhere that hasn’t been photographed as much as the others, Capitol Reef is the place for you. In fact, many Utah photography professors take their students here in hopes of capturing something new over the same postcard shots found elsewhere. When coupled with its fruit farms, green valleys, and high canyon walls, this makes for a truly “hidden gem” in Utah.

Visiting Capitol Reef: At just five minutes away, the town of Torrey is the best home base when visiting Capitol Reef. Highlights include the scenic drive, canyoneering Sulphur Creek, and hiking Hickman Bridge, Cassidy Arch, and Grand Wash. If you have an off-road vehicle, Cathedral Valley is as good as anything you’ll find in Canyonlands.

Zion National Park

Best national park for iconic hiking

There’s not a bad Utah park to hike in, but if you want the best of the best hikes, Zion takes the top spot. Want proof? Several years ago, National Geographic ranked what they believed were the ten greatest day hikes in the entire world. Amazingly, two of the ten were found in this very park: the Narrows and Angel’s Landing . The first is either a single or multi-day hike through narrow canyons walls in the refreshing virgin river. The latter is a nearly 5.5-mile trek over a precipitous trail that's at times no wider than 5ft – earning its status as one of the most dangerous but awe-inspiring hikes in all of the national parks.

Visiting Zion: Springdale, Utah, is the most popular landing spot. Keep in mind: as Utah’s busiest national park (and third busiest in the nation), Zion campgrounds and hotels fill up fast. Highlights include the aforementioned Narrows and Angel’s Landing, in addition to hiking the Subway , or the Watchman Trail, Observation Point, or Zion Canyon Overlook if you can’t stomach Angel’s.

This article was first published Feb 4, 2019 and updated Mar 2, 2022.

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Exiting nps.gov

Alerts in effect, angels landing permits & hiking.

Planned trail maintenance will close the route to Angels Landing from April 1 to April 4, 2024. We will not issue any permits to hike on those days.

Learning the lottery outcome

• If you cancel your permit at least two days before your hike, we will refund the $3 per person fee.
• You can get your permit by logging in to your account on recreation.gov
• You did not get a permit and can consider applying again the day before your hike or for a future Seasonal Lottery.  

After you get your permit

You will get an email from recreation.gov confirming that you got a permit. This confirmation email serves as your permit. Print or download a copy of the confirmation email and bring it with you on your hike. Mobile phone service is unreliable at the permit checkpoint so be sure to print or download before you arrive. 

Day-before Lottery

When to apply.

You can apply for a permit the day before your planned hike. This lottery opens every day at 12:01 a.m. and closes at 3 p.m. Mountain Time (MT).

Note: It costs $6 to apply for a permit. The fee covers an application for up to 6 people (including the person filling out the application). This fee is non-refundable.  

How to time your application

Apply on the day before you want to hike between 12:01 a.m. and 3 p.m. MT. For example: If you want to hike on a Tuesday, you need to apply between 12:01 a.m. and 3 p.m. MT on Monday. We will issue permits at 4 p.m. MT on Monday.  

At 4 p.m. MT on the day you apply, we will send you an email to let you know:

• This fee is not refundable.
• You did not get a permit and can try again in a future lottery.  

You will get an email from recreation.gov confirming that you got a permit. This confirmation email serves as your permit. Print or download a copy of the confirmation email and bring it with you on your hike. Mobile phone service is unreliable at the permit checkpoint so be sure to print or download before you arrive. 

Getting a refund or changing your permit

Cancellation policy.

You cannot change your permit. All fees are non-refundable.

Seasonal Lottery

If you get a permit using the seasonal lottery, you can cancel the permit until two days before the permit reservation date for a full refund of the $3 per person fee. The $6 application fee is not refundable. Canceled seasonal lottery permits will automatically roll into the day-before lottery.  

Change Policy

You can reduce the group size on your permit until two days before the permit reservation date. If you reduce the number of people on your permit, you will get a refund for the $3 per person fee for each person you take off of the permit. The $6 application fee is not refundable. 

Example:  If you have a permit to hike on a Friday, June 24, you can cancel it or reduce the number of people on it until 11:59 p.m. MT on the Wednesday, June 22. If you reduce the number of people on your permit or cancel it, recreation.gov will refund the $3 per person fee for each person who is removed or canceled.

You cannot:

• Increase the number of people in your group
• Change the date of your hike
• Change the permitee (transfer the permit).
• Change to an alternate leader.

Permits are not transferable.

Embed Video

Learn how to apply for a permit on recreation.gov to hike at Angels Landing in Zion National Park.

Learn more about hiking at Angels Landing

After you get a permit

Prepare for your hike! Along this 5.4 mile round-trip hike, you will gain 1,488 feet in elevation. M ost hikers take around 4 hours to complete the hike, but some take longer. Check the seasonal shuttle schedule before you leave to make sure you do not miss the last shuttle. Print or download your permit and carry a flashlight or headlamp with new batteries, some food and lots of water just in case you end up out later than you planned. The trail is well marked, but bring a park map in case you get disoriented. Always carry and drink plenty of water, dress in layers, know the forecast, and check conditions in the park to get ready for your hike.

Before your hike

Print or download your permit.

You need to print or download the confirmation email from recreation.gov that says you got a permit (this serves as your permit) before you get to the trailhead. A ranger may check your permit at the Grotto (Shuttle Stop 6), at Scout Lookout or along the trail. If you do not have your permit with you, we may not allow you to take your hike.

Treat your feet right

Check the weather forecast, get to the trailhead, at the trailhead, fill your water bottle, go before you go, leave no trace.

• Protect the canyon walls, rocks, and trees from graffiti and vandalism.
• Leave rocks as you find them and do not stack rock cairns.
• Protect the natural sounds of the canyon by talking softly and using headphones for music.

On the trail

The hike along the West Rim Trail to Angels Landing is strenuous. Your safety on the trail is your responsibility, and we want to share some tips so that you reduce the risks and have an enjoyable hike.

Stay hydrated

Enjoy scout lookout.

You do not need a permit to go to Scout Lookout.   

You do need a permit to go past Scout Lookout on to the part of the trail with Chains.

For many people, Scout Lookout is a reasonable stopping point. You will have to hike the West Rim Trail  from Zion Canyon to this viewpoint. and you will covering most of the distance and elevation gain for the hike. If you or someone in your group has a fear of heights, consider splitting up here and regrouping at a specified time and place. It can be a great option to head up the West Rim Trail to get views overlooking Angels Landing and Zion Canyon. You do not need a permit to hike on the West Rim Trail.

Be mindful of conditions

Even if you have a permit, it may not be advisable for you to hike if the weather is bad when you are in Zion. Do not attempt to ascend if:

Storm clouds are in the area.

The ground is wet or icy (the rock becomes very slick when wet; most accidents on the chains occur during wet conditions).

It is dark or will be dark before you finish.

• You have any fear of heights.

Watch for rockfall

Rockfall hazards occur throughout the park and are especially high near any cliff face. If you witness a rockfall, quickly move away from the cliff. If you are near the base of a cliff or talus (loose rock) slope when a rockfall happens and cannot quickly move away from the base of the cliff, immediately seek shelter behind the largest nearby boulder and pull your backpack over your head. After rocks have stopped falling, move quickly as far away from the base of the cliff as possible. Be aware that rockfalls can occur at any time. Pay attention to your surroundings, stay off of closed trails, and, if unsure, keep away from cliffs.

Use caution on the Angels Landing Chains

You need to have a permit to hike the Angels Landing chains.

Take your time and be patient with slower hikers.

Allow faster hikers to pass you (when possible).

• Where available, remain within reach of the chains.
• Be considerate. There are many places that are only safe for one person to travel the two-way route. Communicate and take turns with others.
• In winter, the metal chains are very cold. Gloves may be useful.

Watch for wildlife

Keep wildlife wild : respect them from a distance. Squirrels, ravens, chipmunks, and other animals live along the trail; never feed them or allow them to get your food. Do not leave your pack unattended (e.g., at the base of the chains or while you take a nap).  California condors are the largest bird in North America and you might see one near Angels Landing. Please respect these critically endangered birds by keeping your distance. Never feed or approach a condor.

Pack out your trash and recreate responsibly

Pack it in, pack it out, don't roll rocks.

In Zion, you will commonly be above other people and wildlife. Do not throw anything over the edge of the trail. Angels Landing is a nesting area for many birds and rock climbers are often below. A falling rock could injure or kill.

Logistics and other information

Emergencies.

Even if you plan well and bring the right equipment, you might still have problems. If you need help, try to call 911. If you have cell and/or data service, a call will connect you with the Zion Dispatch Office. If you do not have cell and/or data service ( most people cannot connect to a mobile network in Zion Canyon ), find a park ranger or park volunteer on the trail or at a trailhead.

More Information

• Learn more about why we issue permits to hike at Angels Landing and about Zion's Visitor Use Research and Planning .
• If you have a Commercial Use Authorization to guide hikes in the park, please contact the Zion Commercial Services to discuss options. If you want to find a guide, consult our list of authorized guides . No matter when you plan to hike Angels Landing, you will need a permit

If you do not receive a permit

You can hike about 2.25 mi (3.62 km) from the Grotto (Shuttle Stop #6) to Scout Lookout on the West Rim Trail without a permit.

Hiking to Scout Lookout is strenuous and you will climb 1000 ft (305 m). Hikers at Scout Lookout get scenic views of Zion Canyon. The half mile route with chains to Angels Landing starts at Scout Lookout. You need a permit to go from Scout Lookout to Angels Landing.

There are many other trails in Zion Canyon. Learn more about hiking in Zion.

An album with materials you can print to share QR codes, tips, and updates with people planning trips to Zion

Learn about the Free Zion Canyon Shuttle Service.

Maps, shuttle schedules, hiking, and camping information. Check here for materials translated into languages other than English.

Last updated: June 1, 2024

Park footer

Contact info, mailing address:.

Zion National Park 1 Zion Park Blvd. Springdale, UT 84767

435-772-3256 If you have questions, please email [email protected]. Listen to recorded information by calling anytime 24 hours a day. Rangers answer phone calls from 9 a.m. to 12 p.m. and 1 p.m. to 3 p.m. MT, but a ranger may not answer if they are already speaking with someone else.

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These National Parks Are Hosting Astronomy Festivals in 2024

Get outside, ditch the light pollution and marvel at the cosmos on these protected public lands

Daily Correspondent

National parks lure millions of travelers each year with their otherworldly rock formations, abundant wildlife and thought-provoking archaeological sites. But because they’re often located far from big cities and have very little light pollution , they’re also ideal destinations for stargazing.

Many national parks are now using the tagline “half the park is after dark” to remind visitors to stay up late and appreciate unobstructed views of the cosmos. As an added bonus, stargazing is a chance to experience these serene public lands while nearly everyone else is asleep—which is especially helpful at some of the most popular national parks .

You’ll often find year-round astronomy programming to help you make the most of the dark skies, no matter when you visit. But as you plot out your summer travel plans, you may consider adding some of these national park stargazing festivals to your calendar. They often feature guest lecturers from institutions like NASA, the chance to look through powerful telescopes and other fun, interactive ways to learn about outer space—and, perhaps just as importantly, bond with fellow astrophiles.

Grand Canyon National Park — June 1–8

You can still catch the final weekend of Grand Canyon National Park’s annual “ star party ,” with events taking place on both the North and South rims. On the South Rim, which is the most popular side of the Grand Canyon, enjoy evening programs in front of the visitor center, including a talk from Lauren Camp , the poet laureate of New Mexico, and a lecture on planet formation by Taylor Kutra, an astronomer at Arizona’s Lowell Observatory. On the North Rim, the line-up includes discussions about eclipses, Milky Way photography and how to become an amateur astronomer on a budget.

And if you can’t make it, don’t worry. The park offers year-round astronomy programming—so you’ll have plenty of opportunities to marvel at the cosmos during your next trip out.

Bryce Canyon National Park — June 5–8

Bryce Canyon National Park’s annual astronomy festival is also this weekend, with astrophotography workshops, lectures from NASA scientists and even solar telescopes you can use to safely look at the sun during the day. One lecture even explores our attempts to detect and contact extraterrestrial life. The 35,835-acre swath of southern Utah, which protects otherworldly, reddish-orange sandstone formations known as “ hoodoos ,” has been an International Dark Sky Park since 2019 .

Arches National Park and Canyonlands National Park — June 7–9

Arches National Park, Canyonlands National Park and Dead Horse Point State Park are teaming up for the third year to offer the Southeast Utah AstroFest . This celestial bash, which takes place at all three locations, includes ranger-led programs, telescope viewing and other family-friendly activities.

Badlands National Park — July 5–7

Forget fireworks. Stars, planets, nebulas, meteors and other dazzling celestial spectacles are all you need to celebrate the long Fourth of July holiday weekend at Badlands National Park.

Situated in southwest South Dakota, the 244,000-acre park is once again hosting its annual astronomy festival in partnership with the NASA South Dakota Space Grant Consortium. This year’s lineup includes guided tours of a scale model of the planets, solar telescope viewing sessions, a hands-on paper rocket launch and guest speakers discussing subjects like the James Webb Space Telescope and Mars geology.

Rocky Mountain National Park — August 2–3

You’ll need a timed entry reservation if you want to visit Rocky Mountain National Park during the day this summer, which can require a little forethought and planning. But, at night, you can drive right in without jumping through any extra hoops.

The park, located in northern Colorado, is hosting a series of astronomy events on several Fridays and Tuesdays throughout the summer, featuring ranger-led programming and telescope viewing. Park staffers are still ironing out the details, but they’re also organizing an astronomy festival the first weekend of August.

Voyageurs National Park — August 8–10

For the third year, the nonprofit Voyageurs Conservancy is hosting a star party at Voyageurs National Park in northern Minnesota. The exact lineup of events is still being finalized, but you can expect telescope sessions, s’mores around the campfire, constellation tours, a film screening and more. The dates also align with the peak of the Perseid meteor shower , one of the year’s most highly anticipated celestial events.

Black Canyon of the Gunnison National Park — September 5–7

Head to one of Colorado’s lesser-known national parks, Black Canyon of the Gunnison, in early September for three days of telescope viewing, guest speakers and general appreciation of the dark night sky, which the park calls a “threatened resource.” Known as AstroFest , this annual gathering also includes activities in Curecanti National Recreation Area and the town of Montrose. Spanning 30,750 acres, Black Canyon of the Gunnison earned its dark sky designation in 2015 .

Great Basin National Park — September 5–7

Located in east-central Nevada, Great Basin National Park protects 77,180 acres of limestone caverns, 5,000-year-old bristlecone pine trees , towering peaks and glacier-carved landscapes. It’s also an International Dark Sky Park, thanks to its remote location and its unique basin topography, which helps block out any artificial light from distant metropolises. Another reason to visit? It’s the only national park in the country with a research-grade observatory, called the Great Basin Observatory (GBO).

The park’s annual astronomy festival will feature Milky Way photography workshops, observatory tours, arts and crafts, constellation talks and to-be-announced guest speakers.

Joshua Tree National Park — October 4–5

Fall brings cooler temperatures to Joshua Tree National Park, the 792,623-acre park in Southern California that protects the Mojave and the Colorado desert ecosystems. The milder weather is perfect for hiking, climbing, backpacking and other daytime pursuits. But it’s also ideal for staying up late to admire the inky black skies above. Tickets for the park’s annual night sky festival —which doubles as a fundraiser for Sky’s the Limit Observatory & Nature Center and Joshua Tree Residential Education Experience—often sell out, so be sure to snag some when they go on sale June 15.

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Sarah Kuta | READ MORE

Sarah Kuta is a writer and editor based in Longmont, Colorado. She covers history, science, travel, food and beverage, sustainability, economics and other topics.

Carl Schwope at his home unit at Balcones Canyonlands National Wildlife Refuge in Texas.

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