Canyoneering · Rock of Ages
Rock of Ages: Moab's Premier Full Day Canyon Adventure
Six rugged miles. Three rappels. A tight slot, sculpted potholes, and hidden arches that never appear on a postcard. Rock of Ages is the big day out for travelers who want to go deeper into the desert than any half day trip can take them — and come home with the stories to prove it.
- No rope experience needed
- All technical gear provided
- True backcountry solitude
- For fit, adventurous hikers
Suggested: canyoneer rappelling into rugged terrain with vast empty desert stretching behind
Why Rock of Ages
Where the Crowds End and the Real Desert Begins
Half day canyons are a taste. Rock of Ages is the full meal — a long, varied route that strings together everything canyoneering has to offer, in country so remote you may not see another soul all day.
Hidden Arches, Earned the Hard Way
The route rewards your effort with sandstone arches tucked deep in the backcountry — including the area around Pool Arch, the trip's namesake prize. No parking lot, no crowds, no shortcut. Just you and formations most Moab visitors will never know exist.
Every Kind of Canyon in One Day
Three rappels, a tight slot, sculpted potholes, scrambling, and long stretches of wild desert travel — Rock of Ages packs the full canyoneering skill set into a single route. By the end you won't just have done a canyon; you'll understand them.
A Real Sense of Accomplishment
Roughly six rugged miles separate the trailhead from the finish, and every one of them feels like an expedition. This is the trip for travelers who'd rather earn their views than queue for them.
What to Expect
How Your Full Day on Rock of Ages Unfolds
Early Start From Moab
Full day routes start early. Meet your guide, gear up, and head out while the desert is still cool and the light is at its best.
Trek Into the Backcountry
The route pushes into remote terrain far from any trailhead crowd — open slickrock, sandy washes, and big desert views in every direction.
Rope Up and Descend
Three rappels punctuate the day, each one taught and managed by your guide with a backup safety line. Between drops, you'll scramble and downclimb like a seasoned canyoneer.
Navigate the Slot and Potholes
A tight slot and a series of sculpted potholes are the route's signature puzzles — depending on recent rains, some may hold water, which only adds to the adventure.
Finish Among the Arches
Hidden arches mark the home stretch, and the hike out gives you time to let the day sink in. Back in Moab, dinner has never tasted better.
Suggested: canyoneer navigating a sculpted pothole, or a hidden arch with a tiny human figure for scale
Local tip: Rock of Ages is the canyon we recommend saving for your second Moab canyoneering trip — or your first if your group already hikes hard at home. If you crushed Bow and Arrow or Medieval Chamber and found yourself wanting more, this is the "more" you were looking for.
Big Days Book Up First
Full day trips run less frequently than the half day canyons, and small group sizes keep each departure intimate. If Rock of Ages is on your list, lock in your date early — especially for spring and fall.
Check Dates & Reserve Your SpotFree cancellation available on most bookings — reserve now, decide later.
The Route
What Rock of Ages Looks Like
Rappel with vast backcountry desert behind
Pool Arch or another hidden arch on the route
The tight slot section
Sculpted potholes in the sandstone
Tired, happy group on the hike out at golden hour
Trip Details
What's Included and What to Bring
Included in Your Tour
- Professional local guide
- Harness, helmet, and all rappelling gear
- Ropes, anchors, and safety systems
- Route finding and full day trip logistics
- Instruction that turns hikers into canyoneers
What You Should Bring
- Sturdy closed toe shoes with good grip
- 3+ liters of water per person — this is a long day
- Lunch and plenty of snacks
- Sun protection: hat, sunscreen, sun shirt
- A backpack that fits it all comfortably
Exact inclusions, meeting point, and departure times are confirmed on the booking page. Always check the listing for the most current details.
Timing Your Tour
Best Time to Do Rock of Ages
On a long, exposed route, season matters more than on any half day trip. Pick your window wisely.
| Season | Conditions | Our Take |
|---|---|---|
| Spring (Mar – May) | Mild temps, long days, possible water in the potholes | Prime time for the full route — book well ahead |
| Summer (Jun – Aug) | Serious heat and little shade over six miles | Only with a very early start and strong heat tolerance — ask your guide |
| Fall (Sep – Nov) | Cooler days, golden light, stable weather | The connoisseur's window — arguably the best conditions of the year |
| Winter (Dec – Feb) | Short days and cold snaps on a long route | Possible on mild days for hardy groups — confirm conditions when booking |
Common Questions
Rock of Ages Tour FAQ
How fit do I need to be for this trip?
Do I need rappelling experience?
How is this different from the half day canyons?
Will I get wet?
What's the minimum age?
What should I eat and drink during the day?
What happens if the weather turns bad?
Ready to Earn Your Arches?
Check live availability for the Rock of Ages full day canyoneering tour, pick your date, and book in about two minutes. Most bookings include free cancellation, so there's no risk in reserving your spot now.
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Disclosure: Moabing may earn a commission when you book through links on this page, at no additional cost to you. We only recommend tours we'd send our own friends and family on.
Looking for a different adventure? Compare all five of our favorite canyons on the Moab canyoneering guide.