Best Places for Rappelling in Moab, Utah (Tours, Prices & Pro Tips)
Let’s talk about Moab, Utah—the land of red rocks, deep canyons, and your future Instagram highlight reel. I originally came here just to hike and chill. Then I saw someone casually lowering themselves off a cliff with a rope and a grin. That moment made me drop my granola bar and whisper, “I need to do that.”
Fast forward a few trips later, and I’m hooked. If rappelling sounds intimidating, don’t worry. I’ll walk (or should I say rappel?) you through it. Whether you’re a first-timer or someone who already owns fancy carabiners and says things like “dynamic rope,” this guide is for you.
Why Moab is a Rappeller’s Dream Playground
Moab is like the Disneyland of outdoor adventure—but with fewer crowds and more red dust. Those giant sandstone cliffs? Perfect for rappelling. The canyons? Made for exploration. The desert views? So good you’ll forget your phone’s at 10% battery.
Even if you’ve never tied a figure-eight knot in your life, you’re good. Tons of guided tours will gear you up and show you the ropes—literally.
Top Places to Go Rappelling in Moab
1. Ephedra’s Grotto
What’s the Deal: Two stunning rappels. One’s a fun 60-footer, and the other? A dramatic 100-foot drop into a glowing orange canyon. Spoiler alert: the final descent gives you a peek at Morning Glory Arch, and it’s ridiculously photogenic.
Skill Level: Beginner to intermediate
Tour Info:
Desert Highlights
- Around $125 per person
- deserthighlights.com
- 4–5 hours of awesome
- Includes: Gear, guide, water, snacks, high-fives
Zarif’s Tip:
- Sand is sneaky. Wear good shoes unless you enjoy turning your socks into mini deserts.
- Mount that GoPro—you’ll want proof for your skeptical coworkers.
2. Medieval Chamber
What’s the Deal: Two big rappels with views that’ll make you forget your knees are shaking. You finish right in front of Morning Glory Arch, which honestly sounds like something out of a fantasy novel.
Skill Level: Beginner
Tour Info:
Red River Adventures
- $120–$140 per person
- redriveradventures.com
- 3–4 hours
Zarif’s Tip:
- It’s popular for a reason, so book early. Like, yesterday.
- Kids and scaredy-cat friends will love it too.
3. Entrajo Canyon
What’s the Deal: Mix of slot canyons, short rappels (15–50 feet), and some hands-on scrambling. If you like variety, this one’s your trail mix.
Skill Level: Intermediate
Tour Info:
Moab Cliffs & Canyons
- About $135 per person
- moabcliffsandcanyons.com
- Half-day trip
Zarif’s Tip:
- Spring melt? Expect wet feet. It’s nature’s way of saying, “Surprise!”
- Fewer people = better vibes. Ask about private tours.
4. Granary Canyon
What’s the Deal: This is the big league. 6–8 rappels with the longest being a 90-footer. The views? Chef’s kiss. You’ll see the Colorado River and finish near Arches National Park.
Skill Level: Experienced adventurers
Tour Info:
Canyonlands Field Institute
- Pricing depends on group size
- cfimoab.org
- Full day (pack snacks and jokes)
Zarif’s Tip:
- It’s a workout. Don’t come with a pizza hangover.
- Bring a power bar or three—you’ll burn through them.
5. Pine Tree Canyon
What’s the Deal: Off-the-beaten-path with five peaceful rappels (20–60 feet). It’s a great way to escape the crowd and pretend you’re starring in your own wilderness documentary.
Skill Level: Intermediate to advanced
Tour Info:
NAVTEC Expeditions
- $150–$175 per person
- navtec.com
- 5–6 hours of zen and adrenaline
Zarif’s Tip:
- Watch for cactus. Yes, even the little ones have an attitude.
6. Dragonfly Canyon
What’s the Deal: Gentle rappels, jaw-dropping rocks, and plenty of “whoa” moments. It’s the one to pick if you’ve got kids or nervous adventure buddies.
Skill Level: Beginner
Tour Info:
Moab Adventure Center
- $115–$130 per person
- moabadventurecenter.com
- 3–4 hours
Zarif’s Tip:
- Go early before the sun starts acting up.
- Kids 10+ can join and feel like explorers.
Top Rappelling Tour Companies in Moab
1. Desert Highlights
- Small groups = more fun
- From gentle drops to wild descents
- deserthighlights.com
2. Moab Cliffs & Canyons
- Veteran guides who actually know where they’re going
- Great safety record
3. Red River Adventures
- Easy online booking
- Good vibes, good gear
- redriveradventures.com
4. NAVTEC Expeditions
- They’re licensed to guide in National Parks—legit!
- Longer, more remote trips
- navtec.com
5. Canyonlands Field Institute
- They blend nature education with fun
- Great for schools and curious minds
- cfimoab.org
What to Pack for Rappelling in Moab
- Harness and helmet (tour companies provide them—thank goodness)
- Hiking shoes (your flip-flops can stay at the hotel)
- Lightweight gloves for rope handling
- Water (lots of it—pretend you’re a cactus)
- Snacks (aka morale boosters)
- Sunscreen and shades
- Clothes that cover but breathe
- Daypack for your essentials
Safety Tips & Things You Should Actually Listen To
- Weather matters—a lot. Check it before heading out.
- Don’t go solo unless your middle name is “Experienced and Overprepared.”
- Hydrate, hydrate, hydrate. And then hydrate again.
- Tell someone your plan. Like a responsible adventurer.
- No littering. Nature’s not your trash can.
Best Time to Rappel in Moab
Two words: spring and fall. March–May and September–October are goldilocks seasons—not too hot, not too cold, juuust right.
Summer? Prepare to sweat like you’re in a pizza oven. Winter? Could be icy. Choose wisely, grasshopper.
Local Rappeller Wisdom
A guide once told me, “It’s not about being brave. It’s about trusting your gear and trying not to look down too soon.” Another veteran climber swears by wearing a scarf—not for style, but because sandstorms are rude.
Also, don’t skip the hike in. Some of the coolest views and best jokes happen before you even clip into a rope.
Where to Stay While You’re Out Playing Spider-Man
- Lazy Lizard Hostel: Budget-friendly and full of funky travelers
- Aarchway Inn or Bowen Motel: Cozy and close to town
- Sand Flats Recreation Area: For those who like sleeping under the stars
- Moab Under Canvas: It’s glamping—don’t knock it till you’ve tried it
Moab isn’t just another place to tick off your bucket list—it’s an open-air adventure zone. Rappelling here turns you into a little dot against the giant cliffs, and honestly, it’s humbling in the best way.
Take the plunge. Shout “Wheee!” on the way down. And bring back stories worth retelling around a campfire—or at your next Zoom meeting. Either works.
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