Water in Moab Canyons: What to Expect

A lot of people plan a Moab canyoneering trip assuming everything will be dry because it is the desert. Then they meet cold potholes, shaded pools, or lingering water from a storm cycle.

This page helps you plan for water without overpacking or overcomplicating the day. The goal is comfort and calm. When water shows up, you already have a plan. 

Why Water Shows Up In “Dry” Routes

Moab sandstone holds water in pockets and bowls. Shade preserves it. Storm cycles refill it. Narrow sections can trap it. Some routes hold water more often than others, and conditions change through the season.

Even a short, mostly dry route can have one or two cold surprises that matter.

Weather and Flash Flood Safety

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Potholes, Pools, and Shaded Sections

Potholes are natural basins in sandstone that collect water. Some are shallow. Some are deep enough to force a swim or awkward movement around them. Shaded slots stay cold, even in warm months.

If your route guide mentions potholes, take it seriously. It changes the day’s comfort level, safety considerations, and pace.

Moab Canyoneering Route Guides

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Cold Water Canyoneering Planning

Cold water slows groups down. People get tense. Transitions take longer. Decision making gets worse.

Simple ways to stay warm while canyoneering:

• Pack an extra insulating layer even in warm seasons
• Bring gloves that work when damp
• Keep food accessible so you can refuel quickly
• Have a plan for warming up after wet sections

If you are bringing beginners, guided is often the best call for water variable days.

Guided Canyoneering Tours in Moab

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Should You Wear Neoprene Canyoneering Gear for Warmth?

You do not need neoprene for every canyon. You might want it when water is likely, persistent, or cold enough to change comfort and safety.

Neoprene can be helpful if:

• Your route has repeated potholes
• The canyon stays shaded for long stretches
• It is shoulder season or winter
• Recent storms have refilled pools

If you are unsure, choose a beginner friendly route style or ask for a recommendation based on current conditions.

Help Me Choose a Canyon

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How to Keep Your Cell Phone and Electronics Dry

Moab canyons love to eat phones and keys.

• Use a small dry bag or waterproof pouch
• Do not trust pockets
• Keep car keys secure and dry
• Bring an offline map that works without service

Moab Canyoneering Day Pack Checklist

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Routes more likely to hold water

In general, water is more likely in

• Narrow slot style routes
• Shaded canyons
• Routes after recent storms
• Canyons with deeper sandstone bowls and potholes

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Want the simplest way to plan for water

Pick your route first, then pack for it. Do not pack for every possible canyon.

Moab Canyoneering Gear Checklist

Moab Route Guides Index