Canyoneering in Granary Canyon | Desert Highlights Adventure
Difficulty
challenging
Duration
6–8 hours
Fitness Level
Participants should be in good physical shape, comfortable with strenuous activity and technical rappelling.
Overview
Tackle six rappels and witness stunning natural arches in Granary Canyon, a prime desert adventure for thrill-seekers. Discover its unique geology and remote beauty on this challenging private tour.
Granary Canyon
Private Full Day Canyoneering | Difficulty: Moderate to Hard
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Adventure Photos
About This Adventure
Embark on an unforgettable adventure through Granary Canyon, featuring six exhilarating rappels and stunning natural arches. This private tour offers a thrilling mix of moderate to difficult challenges, perfect for adventurous spirits. Experience a breathtaking descent of over 2,000 feet while exploring a remote canyon filled with remarkable beauty.
Awesome wilderness canyon with many fantastic rappels and superb arches!
All tours are private - just your group and your guide!
Departure
7:00 AM or 8:00 AM - Depending on the season.
Duration
8 - 10 hours
Tour Highlights
- Physical Difficulty: Moderate to Difficult
- Technical Difficulty: Moderate to Difficult
- Minimum Age: We suggest a minimum age of 12 for Granary Canyon trips. Exceptions are sometimes made, so please give us a call or shoot us an email to discuss your options.
- Rappels: 6 - (20ft/6m, 70ft/21m, 60ft/18m, 40ft/12m, 15ft/5m, 200ft/60m)
- Climbing: Several short fourth class and fifth class obstacles. Ropes are used for handlines, pack lowers, protecting traverses, etc.
- Total Distance: 6mi/10km
- Total Ascent: 229 ft/70m
- Total Descent: 2020 ft/616m
- Min & Max Elevation: 3978 ft/1212m & 5790 ft/1765m
Tour Description
Very few day hikes contain as many exquisite natural arches as the journey through Granary Canyon. And what a journey it is! Six fantastic rappels and a lot of tricky scrambling are encountered within the depths of this remote canyon, which houses at least seven major arches and scores of smaller ones. Over the course of this one-way hike we'll descend over 2,000 feet! And despite the day's numerous rappels, this hike is within reason for adventurous first-time rappellers. Are you ready?
Adventure Tips
Carry plenty of water
Hydrate well before and during the trip to stay energized in the desert heat.
Wear sturdy footwear
Use boots with good grip suitable for uneven canyon terrain and rock scrambling.
Check weather conditions
Avoid flash floods by verifying weather reports before your trip.
Bring a helmet and harness
Necessary safety gear for rappelling and climbing sections.
Local Insights
Wildlife
- Desert bighorn sheep
- Canyon swifts
History
Granary Canyon’s geological formations date back millions of years, shaped by wind and water erosion into striking archways and cliffs.
Conservation
Leave No Trace principles help preserve the delicate desert landscape, ensuring future generations can enjoy its rugged beauty.
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Adventure Hotspots in Flagstaff
Frequently Asked Questions
Recommended Gear
Climbing helmet
Protects against falling debris and during rappels.
Rope and harness
Essential for rappel sections to ensure safety and control.
Quick-drying layers
Helps regulate body temperature during physical activity.
Sun protection
Includes sunscreen, sunglasses, and a hat to guard against desert sun.