MOAB HIKING FIELD GUIDE
Granary Canyon: A daylong descent through Moab’s remote slickrock and ancient granaries
A full-day, technically demanding canyoneering route descending over 2,000 feet that combines six rappels—including a final 200-foot drop—with sweeping views of arches and Puebloan granaries.
Granary Canyon: A daylong descent through Moab’s remote slickrock and ancient granaries.
Granary Canyon is a rugged, full-day canyoneering adventure outside Moab that threads narrow corridors, open slickrock and hidden alcoves as it drops more than 2,000 feet. The route blends hiking, scrambling and six technical rappels—culminating in a stunning 200-foot descent near the Colorado River—while expert guides coach rope skills and route technique through some of the region’s most remote terrain.
Highlights
Outing Highlights
A sustained, downhill canyoneering line
The canyon drops over 2,000 feet across roughly 6 miles of off-trail terrain, combining hiking and scrambling with technical rope work for a continuous descent through Moab’s backcountry.
Six rappels, including one massive final pitch
Expect six rappels—some substantial, with the longest at about 200 feet—offering repeated opportunities to practice rope skills under guide supervision on exposed sandstone.
Full‑day commitment with a tight guide ratio
This is a full‑day outing (typically 8–10 hours) run at a guide‑to‑client ratio of 1:6; logistics include roughly a 45‑minute drive from Moab to the access point.
What the day feels like
What the day feels like
The day unfurls as a steady descent: approaches across slickrock give way to tighter canyon corridors and alcoves where rappels break the route into focused technical segments. Between pitches you’ll move across open slabs and downscramble steep benches, punctuated by views of natural arches and ancient Puebloan granaries as guides teach rope work and route management.
Suitability
Who it's for
Who this trip suits—and who should think twice.
Practical planner
Details to review before reserving
This is a full‑day outing; expect 8 to 10 hours in the field.
The route includes six technical rappels (longest ~200 ft) and requires appropriate canyoneering preparation—confirm specific gear and any technical equipment requirements with the operator before the trip.
Roughly 6 miles of primarily off‑trail, downhill travel across slickrock, narrow corridors and alcoves.
Meeting location is TBD; plan for about a 45‑minute drive one‑way from Moab to the access point.
Review cancellation policies before reserving.
Frequently asked questions
Planning Your Outing
How long is the Granary Canyon trip?
The outing is a full‑day trip, typically lasting 8 to 10 hours.
What is the difficulty level?
The route is rated moderate to difficult, combining hiking, scrambling and technical canyoneering.
How much hiking and what kind of terrain is involved?
Expect roughly 6 miles of mostly off‑trail, downhill travel over slickrock, narrow corridors and alcoves.
How many rappels are there and how long is the biggest one?
The route includes six rappels, with the longest descent at about 200 feet.
What is the minimum age to participate?
The trip is suitable for ages 12 and up.
How long is the drive from Moab to the access point?
Plan for approximately a 45‑minute drive one way from Moab.