Moab: Fins and Things Canyoneering Adventure tour

If you’re looking to add a bit of adventure to your Utah trip, the Moab Fins and Things Canyoneering Adventure might just be the right pick. While I haven’t personally tried this tour, I’ve spent enough time in Moab to know that exploring its striking rock formations up close is an experience worth considering. What makes this trip appealing is its combination of short rappels, scrambling through beautiful fins, and the chance to swim in natural pools—all in a manageable, 6-hour window. Plus, with a high provider rating of 4.8, it seems like a well-organized option for those new to canyoneering or looking for a laid-back day amidst Utah’s rugged beauty.

What I really appreciate about this tour is its beginners’ friendliness—no prior experience needed—and its focus on scenic exploration rather than technical difficulty. However, it’s worth noting that the tour is designed to be a “fun and mellow” day, which might not satisfy those seeking more intense or longer canyoneering adventures. It’s best suited for travelers who want a taste of Utah’s spectacular geology without diving into a full-day or multi-day challenge.

If you’re considering whether this tour fits your style, think about your comfort with water obstacles, scrambling, and rappelling. It’s great for families or solo travelers who enjoy light adventure, but be sure to wear season-appropriate clothing and closed-toe shoes. Overall, it offers a solid mix of natural beauty, light technicality, and fun—perfect if you want a memorable but manageable outdoor experience.

Key Points

• Beginner-friendly: No previous canyoneering experience required, making it accessible for most travelers.
• Stunning scenery: You’ll explore towering fins, ancient petroglyphs, and scenic creek corridors.
• Includes all gear: Everything you need, from technical equipment to snacks, is provided.
• Balanced activity: Combines scrambling, rappelling, and swimming without overdoing the technical challenge.
• Good value: At $257, it offers a well-rounded experience, especially considering it includes transportation and gear.
• Length and timing: Six hours usually in the morning, fitting easily into a day in Moab.

You can check availability for your dates here:

A Deep Dive into the Moab Fins and Things Canyoneering Adventure

Moab is famous for its otherworldly rock formations, and this tour offers a fantastic way to experience that landscape up close, without the need for advanced climbing skills. The Fins and Things Canyon is particularly striking, dotted with geologic fins—narrow, towering spires formed over thousands of years by water and wind carving the rock. We loved the way the guide described “scrambling through stunning geological fins,” because that phrase really captures the awe-inspiring scenery you’ll encounter.

The Itinerary

The tour kicks off with a pickup—transportation to the canyon is included, so you won’t need to worry about logistics. After a quick safety briefing and gear fitting, you’ll head into the canyon, which is designed to be accessible for most people. The primary activities include three cascading rappels, which are short and manageable, making this a good choice for beginners or those with some light adventure experience. The scrambling portions are fun and involve navigating around rock formations, which is a highlight for many.

One of the coolest features of this trip is the scenic creek corridor you hike through, offering a peaceful contrast to the more technical parts. At one point, there’s an option to swim in a natural pool—something many participants found refreshing and memorable, especially on warmer days. The guide may also point out ancient petroglyphs along the route, adding a touch of history and culture to the adventure.

What You’ll Do and Experience

The rock formations are the real star here—imagine walking through a landscape sculpted by time, with gigantic fins towering around you. The short rappels are described as fun obstacles rather than technical challenges, which means you’re likely to enjoy some adrenaline without feeling overwhelmed. According to reviews, “It’s a great introduction to canyoneering,” and “the guides do a good job of explaining each step, so even first-timers feel confident.”

The swimming opportunity is a favorite among many. The natural pools are crystal-clear, and the water can be surprisingly cold but invigorating. The waterfalls you might encounter provide a perfect photo op and a way to cool off after the scramble. Keep in mind that seasonality might affect water levels and swimming options—so, if swimming is a priority, check with the provider about the best time of year.

The Guides and Gear

All necessary technical gear—helmets, harnesses, backpacks—is provided, which simplifies what you need to pack. The small group size (though not specified, tours like this usually keep groups manageable) means you’ll get plenty of personalized attention, and the guides, who speak English, are experienced and friendly. They’re good at keeping things light-hearted but focused on safety.

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The Cost and Value

At $257 per person, this tour falls into the mid-range for guided canyoneering experiences in Moab. Considering that it includes all gear, transportation, snacks, and a sandwich, it’s a fair deal, especially for those who want a well-organized, all-inclusive experience. It’s worth noting that gratuities aren’t included, so if you liked your guide, a tip is appreciated.

Who is This Tour Best For?

This trip is ideal for beginners or travelers who want a light, scenic, and fun introduction to canyoneering. It’s suitable for ages 12 and up, making it accessible for families, but always check if younger kids meet the physical demands and safety considerations. If you’re someone who enjoys a little adventure with plenty of natural beauty, this would fit your style.

Final Thoughts

The Moab Fins and Things Canyoneering Adventure offers a genuinely enjoyable way to experience Utah’s iconic landscape without requiring technical expertise or intense physical effort. The combination of spectacular scenery, short rappels, and swimming makes it a memorable day out, especially if you’re after a light adventure that still provides plenty of fun.

While it might not be the best fit for thrill-seekers looking for a multi-day or very technical challenge, it hits the sweet spot for most casual outdoor lovers. The fact that it’s beginner-friendly and includes all gear and transportation makes it easy to recommend for those new to canyoneering or anyone wanting a relaxed but scenic experience in Moab.

If you love stunning views and want to get a taste of Utah’s incredible geology, this tour is definitely worth considering. Just remember to bring sunscreen, water, and comfortable closed-toe shoes—and you’re all set for a memorable adventure.

FAQ

Is this tour suitable for beginners?
Yes, no experience is necessary. It’s designed to be beginner-friendly, with guides helping you feel confident on short rappels and scrambling sections.

What should I bring?
Bring hiking shoes, sunscreen, and plenty of water. The tour provides gear, but seasonal clothing and comfortable, closed-toe shoes are recommended.

How long does the tour last?
It lasts about 6 hours, usually in the morning, making it a good fit for a half-day activity.

Is transportation included?
Yes, transportation to and from the canyon is part of the package.

Can children join this tour?
The minimum age is 12, but exceptions might be possible—it’s best to call and check if you’re traveling with younger kids.

Do I need to have any technical skills?
No, the tour is designed for beginners, and guides will give instructions throughout.

What about swimming?
There is an optional swim in a natural pool, which many find refreshing and fun. Water levels can vary by season.

What’s the price per person?
It’s $257, which includes gear, snacks, and transportation—worth it for a well-organized, scenic adventure.

Is gratuity included?
No, tipping is not included, so consider tipping your guides if you enjoyed the experience.

This tour offers a fantastic way to see Moab’s distinctive terrain in a relaxed, friendly setting. Whether you’re new to canyoneering or just want a scenic adventure, it’s a solid choice to add to your Utah itinerary.

You can check availability for your dates here: