MOAB CLIMBING FIELD GUIDE
Vertical Elegance: Scaling Ancient Art’s Corkscrew Summit in Moab
A focused, 2-Hour climb at Fisher Towers that takes intermediate to advanced climbers up the nearly 400-foot corkscrew pinnacle known as Ancient Art.
Vertical Elegance: Scaling Ancient Art’s Corkscrew Summit in Moab.
Adventure brief
Vertical Elegance: Scaling Ancient Art’s Corkscrew Summit in Moab
At Fisher Towers, layers of Cutler sandstone have eroded into some of Utah’s most intricate desert sculptures. Near the base of the large towers sits Ancient Art, a spire that rises almost 400 feet from its own base beneath towers that loft 900 feet above; this climb condenses that landscape into a concentrated, gravity-defying objective for experienced climbers.
Experience a thrilling 4-hour climbing adventure at Fisher Towers, located just outside Moab, Utah. This climb focuses on the awe-inspiring Ancient Art formation, a sandstone spire rising about 900 feet with a distinctive corkscrew summit that challenges intermediate and advanced climbers. With Windgate Adventures guiding you, you'll navigate intricate sandstone routes while enjoying spectacular desert landscapes unique to Utah's iconic red rock country. The climb offers both technical variety and breathtaking views, making it a memorable experience for those looking to push their limits in a stunning natural environment. Not only will you test your climbing skills, but you'll also learn about the geological forces that shaped these formations and the harsh desert conditions that make this area special. Whether you're a seasoned climber or a strong intermediate looking for your next challenge, Ancient Art delivers an adrenaline rush combined with unforgettable scenery.
Route Schematic
Route Schematic
Key stops on the climb from approach to summit.
Approach to Fisher Towers
Walk into the Fisher Towers area amid Cutler sandstone formations to reach the climb's trailhead and base views of Ancient Art.
Base of Ancient Art
Start at the spire’s base, where the feature rises nearly 400 feet from its own footings beneath the larger towers.
Stolen Chimney — Four Pitches
Climb the Stolen Chimney route over four pitches (graded 5.8 A0 or 5.10+), moving up the technical line toward the corkscrew summit.
Corkscrew Summit
Finish on the narrow, twisting summit of Ancient Art with panoramic views framed by the sculpted desert towers.
This route is rated for intermediate to advanced climbers; participants should be prepared for multi-pitch technical climbing and exposure.
Highlights
Outing Highlights
Fisher Towers’ Sculpted Sandstone
Cutler sandstone has worn into finlike towers and spires at Fisher Towers, creating the dramatic desert backdrop that makes the Ancient Art climb visually singular.
Stolen Chimney — Four Pitches
The ascent uses the Stolen Chimney route, a four-pitch line that is graded 5.8 A0 or 5.10+ depending on style, offering a sustained technical objective for intermediate and advanced climbers.
A Corkscrew Finale
Though the larger towers rise to roughly 900 feet, Ancient Art itself climbs almost 400 feet from base to a corkscrew-shaped summit that delivers a truly gravity-defying finish.
What the day feels like
What the Climb Feels Like
This is a concentrated technical outing: over roughly four hours you move from the approach at Fisher Towers onto the spire, then climb four pitches of the Stolen Chimney route to reach Ancient Art’s narrow, twisting summit—an experience that compresses rugged desert scenery and exposed climbing into a single focused objective.
Suitability
Who it's for
Who this climb suits — and who should look elsewhere.
Practical planner
Details to review before reserving
Typical outing duration is 4 hours.
Specific gear requirements are not provided in the source material; consult Windgate Adventures for the operator’s equipment list and recommendations.
Operated by Windgate Adventures; customized tours and group rates are available, and a 25% additional charge applies for chartered private tours.
Review cancellation policies before reserving.
Frequently asked questions
Planning Your Outing
How long is the trip?
The outing is described as a 4-hour adventure.
Where does the climb take place?
The climb is at Fisher Towers, near Moab, Utah.
What route is used to reach the summit?
The ascent follows the Stolen Chimney route, listed as 5.8 A0 or 5.10+, and consists of four pitches.
What skill level is required?
The climb is rated for intermediate to advanced climbers.
Are private or customized tours available?
Yes; customized tours and group rates are available, and a 25% additional charge applies for a chartered private tour.
How tall is Ancient Art relative to the Fisher Towers?
Ancient Art rises almost 400 feet from its base, while the larger towers in the area loft about 900 feet above.
How this guide was prepared
This field guide is synthesized using verified supplier specifications, route descriptions, and destination data. Some booking links may generate affiliate revenue for ADV Guides.
- Verified: 2026-08-10T12:55:25.237Z
Some booking links may generate revenue for ADV Guides or The Adventure Collective.
Availability, pricing, schedules and operating details can change.
Trip details and contextual sources were reviewed by ADV Guides Editorial.