The Great Wall Bighorn Route

The Great Wall Bighorn Route in Arches National Park offers a thrilling canyoneering experience through one of the park’s most striking sandstone features. This route provides technical rappelling, steep slickrock hiking, and panoramic views across the heart of the park. Here is the beta you need to complete the Bighorn route safely and confidently.

Overview

This is a short but challenging route that combines a steep slickrock approach with two significant rappels along the towering fins of the Great Wall formation. Bighorn is ideal for intermediate canyoneers seeking a half-day route with bold vertical exposure and breathtaking desert scenery.

Getting There from Moab

From downtown Moab, drive north on US-191 for 5 miles and turn right into the entrance for Arches National Park. After passing the visitors center, follow the main park road for about 3.5 miles until you reach the Park Avenue parking area on the left. Park here. The approach hike begins from the northwest side of the lot.

Route Description

Start by hiking the sandy trail that parallels the cliffs west of Park Avenue. Cairns mark the path as it climbs gradually onto a slickrock bench. The views expand dramatically as you ascend toward the base of the Great Wall.

The first rappel comes after a short scramble up the base of the fin. It is roughly 60 feet, usually anchored from bolts placed above the drop. A sloped landing leads to a brief downclimb and traverse.

The second rappel is the star of the route, a 100-foot vertical drop along the edge of a sweeping sandstone face. This rappel is fully exposed and offers a dramatic view of Courthouse Wash below. Be sure to assess the anchor before committing, as conditions can change.

After the final rappel, descend through a sandy drainage back toward the Park Avenue trail. Stay oriented using the rock formations around you. Once the wash merges with the Park Avenue hiking trail, turn left and walk the remaining distance back to your vehicle.

Safety Tips

• Do not attempt this route in wet conditions. Slickrock becomes extremely slippery when wet.
• Anchors should always be inspected. Back them up if there is any doubt.
• Respect park regulations. Canyoneering routes in Arches require a free permit, available online or at the visitor center.
• Pack out all trash and avoid stepping on cryptobiotic soil.

The Bighorn route delivers everything Moab canyoneering is known for in a compact, rewarding package. With a dramatic setting, solid anchors, and a quick approach, this is one of the best short technical routes in the Arches backcountry.