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Canyoneering Adventure at Poison Springs Canyons in Utah - Salt Lake City

Canyoneering Adventure at Poison Springs Canyons in Utah

Moabchallenging

Difficulty

challenging

Duration

4–6 hours

Fitness Level

Participants should be in good physical condition, capable of climbing and rappelling for extended periods.

Overview

Discover the thrill of canyoneering in Utah’s spectacular Poison Springs Canyons. Deep passages, stunning rock formations, and challenging descents await adventure lovers — get ready for an unforgettable day in the desert wilderness!

Moab, Utah

Poison Springs Canyons

Private Slot Canyon Tours | Difficulty: Moderate - Difficult

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Adventure Photos

Poison Springs Canyons photo 1

About This Adventure

Experience the thrill of canyoneering in the stunning Poison Springs Canyons, where deep, dark passages and dramatic rappels await. This private tour offers a unique blend of adventure and teamwork, with breathtaking views of the Utah desert. Perfect for those seeking a memorable day of exploration and excitement!

Deep, dark, narrow canyons with dramatic rappels and scenic narrows!


All tours are private - just your group and your guide!


Departure

6:30 AM


Duration

  • Canyon time: 7-9 hours
  • Drive time: 2.5 hours, one-way from Moab

Call or email to learn about ways to decrease this driving time!


Tour Highlights

  • Difficulty: Moderate - Difficult
  • Rappels: Dependent on chosen route, ranging from 40 to 200 feet Minimum Age: We suggest a minimum age of 12 for Poison Springs Canyon trips. Exceptions are sometimes made, so please give us a call or shoot us an email to discuss your options.
  • Multi-day Option: These canyons can be part of a Multi-day tour
  • Total Hiking Distance: 3 - 4 mi/5 - 6.5 km
  • Season: Spring, Fall, Winter

Tour Description

The Poison Springs Canyons offer some of the most dramatic and fun canyoneering that Southern Utah has to offer. These canyons are deep, dark, narrow and combine charming rappels with fun down-climbing to make a full day of canyon exploration that will leave you grinning from ear to ear.

We begin at the top of these canyons, but as we look out from the car park no canyons are in sight – nothing but endless rolling desert in every direction with a distant view of the Henry Mountains. After hiking in a seemingly random direction away from the vehicle, our canyon slowly comes into view below us. The flat world surrounding us begins to yield a minor drainage. After a rappel or two, it becomes apparent that the Poison Springs canyon system holds some of the deepest canyons around.

Admiring the smooth water polished walls, we continue downstream negotiating a few small downclimbs along the way. Depending on our chosen route, we may encounter a few more rappels or simply use a rope as a handline and practice our teamwork skills as we help each other navigate each drop.

Soon the canyon opens back up and we must make our way back up to the vehicle. Hiking up and over ancient sand dunes, we have a chance to look down into the canyon we’ve just spent the day descending.

These canyons are some of our favorites to guide. They’re packed full of fun and the views of the Utah desert don’t get any better.

Adventure Tips

Stay Hydrated

Bring plenty of water to stay hydrated during climbs and rappels in the desert heat.

Wear Appropriate Footwear

Sturdy, closed-toe shoes with good grip are crucial for navigating rocky surfaces safely.

Check Weather Conditions

Avoid canyoneering during rain or immediately after rain to prevent flash floods.

Bring a Headlamp

Use a headlamp or waterproof flashlight for navigating darker sections of the canyon.

Local Insights

Wildlife

  • Desert bighorn sheep
  • Roadrunners

History

The canyon has been a route used by Indigenous peoples for centuries and features petroglyphs near its entrance.

Conservation

The business follows strict Leave No Trace principles, ensuring minimal impact on this delicate desert ecosystem.

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Adventure Hotspots in Salt Lake City

Frequently Asked Questions

Recommended Gear

Helmet

Essential

Protect your head during rappels and scrambling over rocky terrain.

Wet Suit or Rash Guard

Helps prevent scrapes and provides some thermal protection against water.

spring;summer;fall specific

Climbing Harness

Essential

Essential for safe rappelling and climbing segments.

Gloves

Provides extra grip and protects hands during technical moves.