HANKSVILLE HIKING FIELD GUIDE
Through the Occulus: A Half‑Day Scramble Into the Navajo Sandstone of the San Rafael Swell
A half‑day hiking tour that threads slot canyons, ancient pictograph panels and a natural arch with an optional 90‑ft free rappel—this guide explains what to expect and how to prepare.
Through the Occulus: A Half‑Day Scramble Into the Navajo Sandstone of the San Rafael Swell.
Deep in the Navajo sandstone of the San Rafael Swell, the Occulus Canyon Tour is a half‑day hike that combines tight slot‑canyon scrambling, a dramatic summit with 360‑degree views, and a descent to a natural arch used in antiquity—offering an optional 90‑foot free rappel through the arch into a vast alcove.
Highlights
Outing Highlights
Slot Canyons to a High‑Point with Panoramic Views
The route threads an impressive slot canyon, climbs to the trip’s high point where you get sweeping 360° panoramas that include Robbers Roost, Canyonlands, Bears Ears, and the Henry Mountains, then descends toward the natural arch.
Ancient Pictographs and Desert‑Varnish Walls
Along the canyon walls you’ll pass towering surfaces of desert varnish and a notable Barrier‑style pictograph panel—evidence of the area’s long human history.
Optional 90‑Foot Free Rappel Through the Occulus
The tour culminates at a magnificent natural arch—the Occulus—where guests may choose to free‑rappel roughly 90 feet through the arch into the alcove below, a dramatic finish to the half‑day outing.
What the day feels like
What the Half‑Day Feels Like
This is a concentrated, kinetic outing: a hike and scramble through narrow Navajo sandstone channels, a climb to a high ridge for wide desert views, and a second canyon descent that delivers you to a dramatic natural arch with the option to descend by free‑rappel into a deep alcove once inhabited by Ancient Puebloan people.
THE ROUTE
Slot Canyons to a High‑Point with Panoramic Views
The route threads an impressive slot canyon, climbs to the trip’s high point where you get sweeping 360° panoramas that include Robbers Roost, Canyonlands, Bears Ears, and the Henry Mountains, then descends toward the natural arch.
THE HERITAGE
Ancient Pictographs and Desert‑Varnish Walls
Along the canyon walls you’ll pass towering surfaces of desert varnish and a notable Barrier‑style pictograph panel—evidence of the area’s long human history.
THE ADRENALINE
Optional 90‑Foot Free Rappel Through the Occulus
The tour culminates at a magnificent natural arch—the Occulus—where guests may choose to free‑rappel roughly 90 feet through the arch into the alcove below, a dramatic finish to the half‑day outing.
Suitability
Who it's for
Who this tour suits — and who should check with the operator.
Practical planner
Details to review before reserving
This is a half‑day tour operating in the San Rafael Swell; confirm seasonal availability and start times with the operator.
Refer to the operator’s gear guidance for specifics; confirm any required technical gear if you plan to participate in the optional rappel.
The tour meets on the San Rafael Swell in Utah—verify the exact meeting coordinates and arrival instructions with the outfitter.
Review cancellation policies before reserving.
Frequently asked questions
Planning Your Outing
How long is the Occulus Canyon Tour?
The outing is a half‑day tour.
Where does the tour meet?
The meeting location is on the San Rafael Swell in Utah; confirm exact directions with the operator.
Is there rappelling on the trip?
Yes—guests have the option to free‑rappel approximately 90 feet through the Occulus natural arch into the alcove below.
What will we see along the route?
Expect impressive Navajo sandstone slot canyons, desert‑varnish walls, a significant Barrier‑style pictograph panel, and wide views including Robbers Roost, Canyonlands, Bears Ears and the Henry Mountains.
Is the tour physically demanding?
The route involves hiking and scrambling through slot canyons and an optional technical rappel; check operator restrictions and suitability if you have mobility or health concerns.