MOAB HIKING FIELD GUIDE
Bow & Arrow Canyon: Four Ropes, Ancient Petroglyphs, and a Half‑Day Descent Above Moab
A half‑day, beginner‑friendly canyoneering descent near Moab featuring four rappels (the longest ~110 ft), rock art and a natural arch—this guide explains what to expect and who it’s best for.
Bow & Arrow Canyon: Four Ropes, Ancient Petroglyphs, and a Half‑Day Descent Above Moab.
Bow & Arrow is a compact, high‑value introduction to canyoneering in Moab: a half‑day route that combines a short slickrock approach, passage by ancient petroglyphs and fossilized dinosaur tracks, a striking natural arch, and a full canyon descent with four scenic rappels—up to about 110 feet—designed to be approachable for beginners and families.
Highlights
Outing Highlights
A compact slickrock approach into a sandstone playground
After a short hike across smooth slickrock you drop into a sandstone amphitheater that makes up the core of the route: sweeping views, ledges, and the four required rappels that complete the full canyon descent.
Petroglyphs and fossilized tracks en route
The approach passes ancient petroglyphs and fossilized dinosaur tracks, giving the descent a strong sense of context and history before the technical sections begin.
Four scenic rappels (up to ~110 ft)
This half‑day tour includes four rappels—designed to teach and build confidence—with the longest rappel reaching approximately 110 feet (33 meters).
What the day feels like
What the trip feels like
The outing moves deliberately: a short slickrock hike opens into a route threaded with rock art and natural features, then the group commits to a full canyon descent—four guided rappels that deliver you into a sandstone playground. The pace is instructional and scenic, meant to introduce first‑timers and families to rope work without rushing the experience.
Suitability
Who it's for
Who this trip works for—and who should think twice.
Practical planner
Details to review before reserving
This is a half‑day canyoneering tour lasting approximately 4–5 hours with four rappels (longest ~110 ft); participants should be prepared to spend several hours outside and be comfortable with heights, scrambling, and hiking uneven terrain.
Review cancellation policies before reserving.
Frequently asked questions
Planning Your Outing
Do I need prior canyoneering experience?
No—Bow & Arrow is beginner‑friendly and guides teach all necessary skills, including how to rappel safely.
Is this trip good for kids?
Yes—kids ages 10 and up are welcome if they’re adventurous and comfortable hiking and using a harness; the canyon includes rappels, scrambling, and sun exposure.
Will I have to do all four rappels?
Yes—Bow & Arrow is a full canyon descent and all four rappels are required to complete the route; there is no early exit once the descent begins.
How high is the tallest rappel?
The longest rappel is approximately 110 feet (33 meters); guides assist participants throughout each rappel.
How far is the trailhead from Moab?
About 15–20 minutes by car; exact location and GPS directions are included in your confirmation email.
Will I get wet on this trip?
No—Bow & Arrow is usually dry; you may encounter shallow puddles or damp rock depending on recent rain, but swimming is not required.
What if I’m afraid of heights?
Guides are trained to coach guests through each rappel and provide support; if you’re unsure, contact the operator before booking to discuss suitability.