Morning Glory Arch: Rappel and Climb

If you’re looking to add a splash of adventure to your Moab trip, the Morning Glory Arch: Rappel and Climb tour might just be what you need. This isn’t your average hiking or shuttle tour; it’s a true canyoneering experience that combines the thrill of rappelling through a stunning natural arch with the challenge of climbing out of a canyon on ropes. Led by seasoned local guides, this adventure promises a hands-on, immersive day that puts you directly in the landscape rather than just observing it from afar.

What makes this tour stand out? First, we love that it offers real climbing support — no fake shortcuts here, just full-on canyoneering. Second, the fact that it’s a small group experience (limited to 8 people) means you’ll get personalized guidance, making it ideal for those who want to learn some skills while still enjoying spectacular scenery. That said, a potential consideration is that this experience requires moderate physical fitness, so it’s not for everyone, especially if you’re looking for a more relaxed outing. Still, if you’re eager for an active, memorable adventure and aren’t afraid of heights or physical effort, this tour could be a fantastic fit.

This experience will appeal most to those who crave authentic adventure, enjoy a mix of canyoneering and climbing, and want to explore Moab’s iconic landscapes in a way that’s both challenging and rewarding. Now, let’s get into the details that can help you decide if this tour is right for you.

• True canyoneering combined with real climbing offers an engaging, hands-on experience.
• The scenic route includes rappelling through the stunning Morning Glory Arch.
• Tour is led by veteran local guides who emphasize safety and instruction.
• Small group size (up to 8 travelers) ensures personalized attention.
• The price point reflects a half-day adventure with high-value, immersive activities.
• Good weather is essential, as the tour is weather-dependent.

Starting Point and Duration

The tour begins at the Medieval Chamber Trailhead in Moab, a convenient location just minutes from town. It lasts approximately 4 hours, making it a perfect half-day activity if you want to explore more of Moab afterward or keep your schedule flexible. The tour has two daily start times, and you should confirm which slot (morning or afternoon) suits you best — this flexibility is handy, especially if you’re coordinating with other activities.

The Itinerary Breakdown

Once you meet your guide, the adventure kicks off with a scenic hike into the canyon. This isn’t just a walk; you’ll be traversing lush canyon floors dotted with natural springs — a tranquil contrast to the adrenaline rush awaiting you. The pace is manageable, but you should be prepared for some moderate physical exertion, especially on uneven terrain.

Rappelling through Morning Glory Arch

The highlight? Rappelling through the iconic Morning Glory Arch. This natural marvel is a sight you won’t forget — a large opening in the rock framing the sky, making for incredible photos and a real sense of achievement. The rappel is conducted with full safety gear, including helmets, harnesses, rappel devices, and backup safety systems. You’ll be supported every step of the way by your guide, who ensures you’re comfortable and secure.

Climbing Out

After descending, the challenge continues with a guided 200-foot climb out of the canyon. Using ropes and proper climbing techniques, you’ll ascend with the instructor’s full support. This isn’t just about brute strength; it’s about technique, trust in your guide, and enjoying the stunning views from above. The climb tests your skills but is designed to be accessible with the right guidance.

The Equipment and Support

All necessary safety gear — helmets, harnesses, rappel devices, and backup systems — are included. The guides are experienced and speak English fluently, making instructions clear and reassuring. You won’t need to worry about sourcing your own gear or feeling out of depth if you’re new to climbing or rappelling.

What’s Not Included

Keep in mind, this is a self-driven tour in terms of transportation — no shuttles or private transport are included, so plan to get to the trailhead on your own. Plus, meals and bottled water are your responsibility; bringing water is recommended, especially during hot days. This setup allows for flexibility but also means you should prepare accordingly.

At $102 per person, this tour offers a lot of bang for your buck. You’re paying for a full immersive experience — not just looking at the scenery but actively engaging with it. Given that it combines canyoneering and climbing with safety support, it’s a good deal compared to other adventure activities in Moab, especially since it’s a small group adventure, maximizing personalized attention.

Considerations on Price

You might find similar activities that are longer or more niche, but for a half-day adventure that combines two different skills with expert guidance, this is quite reasonable. Plus, the small group size enhances the overall experience, ensuring that you’ll have plenty of direct interaction with your guide.

While there are no reviews yet, the description and features suggest high-quality, safety-conscious guidance. The fact that tours are booked, on average, 12 days in advance indicates good demand, and the full refund policy offers peace of mind if weather cancels your plans.

Realistic Expectations

Be prepared for a physical workout. Travelers should have moderate fitness levels, as you’ll be engaging in climbing and rappelling. The fact that the experience is described as “full-value” suggests you’ll get plenty of hands-on time, not just a quick descent. The scenery, especially passing under Morning Glory Arch, is likely to be breathtaking and well worth the effort.

This is ideal for adventure seekers who want to try something truly hands-on in Moab. It’s perfect if you’re comfortable with heights and moderate physical activity, eager to learn climbing skills, or simply want a day of unique, memorable thrills. It’s less suited for those looking for a relaxed, sightseeing-only experience or travelers with mobility limitations.

Overall, if you want to combine the scenic beauty of Moab with the excitement of real climbing and rappelling, this tour offers a compelling and enriching option.

Do I need prior climbing experience?
Not at all. The tour is designed for a variety of skill levels, and guides provide full instruction and support to help you through each step.

What should I bring?
Bring water, comfortable clothing suitable for moderate physical activity, and any personal gear you prefer. The tour provides all the technical safety gear.

Is this tour suitable for children?
The description mentions a moderate physical fitness level but doesn’t specify age restrictions. It’s best suited for teens and adults comfortable with heights and physical exertion.

How long does the tour last?
Approximately 4 hours, including the hike, rappelling, and climbing. Exact timings depend on group size and pace.

What weather conditions are needed?
Good weather is essential. Tours may be canceled or rescheduled due to poor weather, with options for a full refund or a different date.

How many people are in each group?
A maximum of 8 travelers per guide ensures a personalized experience.

This tour is perfect for those who want to combine adventure with the iconic scenery of Moab. It’s a chance to get your adrenaline pumping while exploring one of Utah’s most famous natural landmarks. Whether you’re an experienced climber or a first-timer eager to face new challenges, this experience is designed to be memorable, safe, and deeply satisfying.