Discover the Ultimate Canyoneering Adventure in Moab: The Rock of Ages Route

Welcome to the best canyoneering Moab, Utah has to offer! If you’re looking for a thrilling outdoor adventure that combines heart-pounding excitement with stunning natural beauty, the Rock of Ages route is the perfect choice. This iconic route features three exhilarating rappels, a challenging slot canyon, tricky potholes, and breathtaking views of seldom-seen arches. This adventure offers a unique opportunity to experience the unparalleled beauty of Moab’s rugged landscape while pushing your limits and creating unforgettable memories.

The Rock of Ages route is more challenging than our Morning Glory and Chamisa Canyon routes. This exciting journey is ideal for those in good physical condition looking for a moderate to difficult adventure. With a route length of five miles and a duration of about six hours, this adventure promises an unforgettable day of exploration and excitement. Join us as we delve into the heart of Moab’s spectacular wilderness, guided by our expert team who know this route like the back of their hand.

The Ultimate Canyoneering Experience

The Rock of Ages route is renowned for its thrilling features and breathtaking scenery. Here’s what you can expect on this exhilarating adventure:

Three Heart-Pounding Rappels:

First Rappel: 160 feet (48 meters)
Second Rappel: 100 feet (30 meters)
Third Rappel: 50 feet (15 meters)

These rappels offer an adrenaline-pumping descent into the depths of the canyon, allowing you to experience the sheer beauty of Moab’s rock formations from a unique perspective. The sensation of descending down a vertical cliff face is both thrilling and awe-inspiring, making it a highlight of the journey.

Tight Slot Canyon:

The route includes a tight slot canyon that requires agility and skill to navigate. These narrow passages, carved by millennia of erosion, offer a chance to experience the intimate beauty of Moab’s unique geology. As you maneuver through the twists and turns of the slot canyon, you’ll be surrounded by the vibrant colors and textures of the sandstone walls, providing a truly immersive experience.

Challenging Potholes and Scrambling:

In addition to the rappels and slot canyon, the Rock of Ages route features challenging potholes and scrambling sections. These obstacles add an element of adventure and excitement, requiring both physical strength and problem-solving skills to overcome. The sense of accomplishment you’ll feel after successfully navigating these challenges is unmatched, making this route a favorite among seasoned canyoneers.

Stunning Views of Seldom-Seen Arches:

The Rock of Ages route also offers stunning views of seldom-seen arches, showcasing the natural beauty of Moab’s landscape. These arches, formed over millions of years, are a testament to the power of nature and provide a breathtaking backdrop for your adventure. Take a moment to appreciate the grandeur of these natural wonders as you make your way through the canyon.

Preparing for Your Rock of Ages Canyoneering Adventure

Embarking on the Rock of Ages route requires careful preparation and the right gear. Here are some tips to ensure you have a safe and enjoyable experience:

Essential Gear:

– Helmet: Protect your head from falling rocks and other potential hazards.

– Harness and Rappelling Gear: Necessary for navigating the route’s three rappels.

– Climbing Shoes: Provide traction and support for scrambling over rocks.

– Rope and Belay Devices: Ensure safety during rappelling and technical sections.

– Gloves: Protect your hands during rappels and scrambling.

– Water and Snacks: Stay hydrated and energized with plenty of water and high-energy snacks.

– Sun Protection: Sunscreen, sunglasses, and a hat protect against the intense desert sun.

– First Aid Kit: Includes bandages, antiseptic, pain relievers, and any personal medications.

Canyoneering Physical Fitness:

The Rock of Ages route is more challenging than other canyoneering options in Moab, requiring a higher level of physical fitness. Before embarking on this adventure, ensure you are in good physical condition and comfortable with hiking, scrambling, and rappelling.

Preferred Rock of Ages Technical Skills:

Familiarize yourself with basic rappelling and climbing techniques before attempting the route. Practicing these skills in a controlled environment can build confidence and ensure a smoother experience in the canyon.

Mental Preparedness:

Canyoneering requires mental toughness and the ability to handle unexpected challenges. Stay calm, focused, and approach each obstacle with a problem-solving mindset. Embrace the adventure and trust in your abilities and your guide’s expertise.

Embarking on the Rock of Ages Route

The Rock of Ages route offers an exhilarating journey into Moab’s stunning wilderness. Here’s a step-by-step guide to navigating the route and making the most of your adventure:

The Approach:

The adventure begins with a scenic hike from the trailhead to the canyon’s entrance. As you traverse the rugged terrain, you’ll be surrounded by the stunning beauty of Moab’s red rock landscape, setting the stage for the excitement ahead.

Approach Tips:

– Stay on Trail: Follow the marked trail to avoid damaging the delicate desert ecosystem.

– Watch Your Step: The rocky terrain can be uneven, so take care to watch your footing and avoid loose rocks.

– Take in the Scenery: The approach offers stunning views of the surrounding landscape, so take a moment to appreciate the beauty of Moab’s wilderness.

First Rappel: A Thrilling Descent

The first rappel, at 160 feet (48 meters), is the longest and most thrilling of the route. As you descend down the vertical cliff face, you’ll be treated to breathtaking views of the canyon below. The sensation of hanging in mid-air, surrounded by the towering sandstone walls, is both exhilarating and awe-inspiring.

Rappelling Tips:

– Check Your Gear: Before each rappel, ensure your gear is secure and in good condition.

– Follow Instructions: Listen carefully to your guide’s instructions and trust in their expertise to navigate safely.

– Enjoy the View: As you descend, take in the stunning scenery surrounding you, from the vibrant colors of the sandstone to the clear blue sky above.

Navigating the Slot Canyon

After the first rappel, you’ll enter a tight slot canyon that requires agility and skill to navigate. These narrow passages, carved by millennia of erosion, offer a chance to experience the intimate beauty of Moab’s unique geology.

Slot Canyon Tips:

– Stay Low: When navigating tight slots, stay low and use your hands for balance to move through narrow spaces more easily.

– Use Teamwork: Communicate with your group and work together to overcome challenging sections.

– Embrace the Experience: Take time to appreciate the beauty and tranquility of the canyon, from the vibrant colors of the sandstone to the play of light and shadow.

Second and Third Rappels: Continuing the Adventure

The second rappel, at 100 feet (30 meters), and the third rappel, at 50 feet (15 meters), continue the adventure with thrilling descents into the heart of the canyon. Each rappel offers a unique perspective of Moab’s stunning rock formations, allowing you to fully immerse yourself in the beauty of the landscape.

Navigating Potholes and Scrambling Sections

Scrambling Tips:

– Watch Your Footing: The rocks can be slippery, especially in wet conditions, so take your time and ensure each step is secure.

– Use Your Hands: In scrambling sections, use your hands for balance and support as you navigate the rocky terrain.

– Communicate with Your Group: In challenging sections, teamwork can be invaluable. Offer assistance when needed and share the excitement of overcoming obstacles together.

Taking in the Views of Seldom-Seen Arches

Throughout the Rock of Ages route, you’ll be treated to stunning views of seldom-seen arches, showcasing the natural beauty of Moab’s landscape. These arches, formed over millions of years, are a testament to the power of nature and provide a breathtaking backdrop for your adventure.

Appreciating the Scenery:

– Take Photos: Capture the beauty of the arches and the stunning landscape to remember your adventure.

– Reflect on the Experience: Take a moment to appreciate the grandeur of these natural wonders and the unique opportunity to experience Moab’s wilderness up close.

Why Choose the Rock of Ages Route?

The Rock of Ages route is a thrilling canyoneering adventure that offers a unique combination of technical challenges, stunning scenery, and a sense of accomplishment. Here’s why this route is a favorite among canyoneers:

Challenging Canyoneering Adventure:

– Technical Challenges: The route’s rappels, slot canyon, and scrambling sections offer a thrilling and rewarding experience for those in good physical condition.

– Sense of Accomplishment: Overcoming the challenges of the Rock of Ages route provides a sense of achievement and pride that is unmatched.

Moab’s Natural Beauty:

– Stunning Scenery: The vibrant colors of the sandstone, the intricate rock formations, and the breathtaking views of seldom-seen arches make this route a visual feast.

– Unique Geology: The route offers a chance to explore Moab’s unique geology and experience the power of nature up close.

Memorable Canyoneering Experience:

– Unforgettable Adventure: The Rock of Ages route promises an unforgettable day of exploration and excitement, creating memories that will last a lifetime.

– Connection with Nature: The adventure offers an opportunity to connect with nature and appreciate the beauty and complexity of Moab’s wilderness.

The Rock of Ages route is the ultimate canyoneering adventure in Moab, offering a thrilling combination of technical