From Moab: Rock of Ages Moderate Rappelling Obstacle Course

Discover the Rock of Ages Moderate Rappelling Obstacle Course in Moab

This 7-hour tour from Moab, Utah, offers an exciting blend of rugged terrain, stunning vistas, and adrenaline-pumping activities. Led by NAVTEC Expeditions, the experience is perfect for those eager to explore areas inaccessible on their own while trying out three exhilarating rappels. The tour is rated 5 out of 5 based on three reviews, highlighting its reputation for fun and safety.

The adventure begins with a hotel pickup in Moab, followed by a 4×4 ride across 5 miles of Pritchett Canyon. As part of the journey, travelers see iconic landmarks like Chimney Arch and Pool Arch with a 90-foot-high opening. The experience culminates in two rappels, including a 50-foot descent through a slot canyon and a 100-foot rappel leading to a picturesque grotto. After the thrill, a scenic return ride concludes the day.

While the adventure promises significant excitement, it is suited best for individuals comfortable with moderate physical activity and outdoor exposure. The tour’s structure ensures a well-paced experience, with safety and guide expertise at the forefront.

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Key Points

• 7-hour guided adventure in Pritchett Canyon, Utah
• Three rappels, including 50-foot and 100-foot descents
• Led by professional guides from NAVTEC Expeditions with small groups capped at 12
• Includes hotel pickup and 4×4 transportation through rugged terrain
• Suitable for moderate technical difficulty requiring basic hiking and rappelling skills
• Bring water, hiking shoes, and a daypack, as sandals, flip flops, and pets are not allowed

Starting with Moab: The Hotel Pickup and Transportation

The tour kicks off with hotel pickup in Moab. Guides will wait in the lobby or near the front entrance at your accommodation, ensuring a smooth start. Once everyone is assembled, the group boards a 4×4 vehicle that takes you on a 5-mile trek through the challenging landscape of Pritchett Canyon.

This initial ride sets the tone for the day, offering views of fin formations and petrified dunes that are part of the area’s prehistoric scenery. The terrain is rugged but manageable for most, providing anticipation for the adventure ahead. The small group size limits to 12 participants, maintaining a personal and safe atmosphere.

Exploring Pritchett Canyon: Chimney Arch and Pool Arch

After departing Moab, the journey continues into Pritchett Canyon, famed for its geological features and dramatic vistas. The guides highlight Chimney Arch, a notable natural formation, and then progress toward Pool Arch with its 90-foot-high opening—a perfect photo opportunity.

Travelers get to see these landmarks up close, with guides explaining their formation and significance. The landscape’s unique fins and dunes make this area stand out, offering a prehistoric backdrop to the adventure. The terrain may require some navigation around potholes, adding an element of challenge.

Navigating the Slot Canyon and the 50-Foot Rappel

Next, the tour ventures into a slot canyon, a narrow passage carved by natural forces. Here, participants may need to navigate through potholes, which adds a moderate level of difficulty but also increases the adventure’s thrill.

The climb culminates in a 50-foot rappel at the end of this section. Guides provide safety instructions and gear orientation, ensuring everyone feels confident before descending. The rappel is designed to be exciting yet manageable for those with basic rappelling experience, thanks to the professional guidance.

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The 100-Foot Rappel and the Grotto

The most adrenaline-fueled part of the tour is the 100-foot rappel that leads to a beautiful grotto below. This descent marks the climax of the day’s activities, offering stunning views from the top and an unforgettable experience of controlled descent.

Guides assist with gear and safety throughout, emphasizing proper techniques. The grotto provides a peaceful, scenic spot after the descent, making it a perfect place for photos and reflection. The entire process is overseen by experienced professionals, ensuring safe and enjoyable rappelling.

Scenic Return and Post-Adventure Relaxation

After the final rappel, the adventure concludes with a ride back in the 4×4 vehicle to Moab. The return journey offers more scenic views of the canyon’s formations and the surrounding desert landscape. The day wraps up after approximately 7 hours of activity, leaving plenty of time to explore Moab further or relax after an exhilarating outing.

Guides are available with ice and coolers if participants wish to bring soft drinks, helping to stay refreshed during the day. The tour’s pacing allows for breaks and photo stops, making sure participants enjoy the scenery without feeling rushed.

Practical Details: Booking, Cancellation, and Requirements

This tour offers the flexibility of free cancellation up to 24 hours in advance, ideal for spontaneous trip planning. It also provides the option to reserve now and pay later, keeping your schedule adaptable.

Participants should bring water, a daypack, and hiking shoes. Sandals, flip flops, and pets are not permitted for safety reasons. The experience is rated moderate in difficulty, suitable for those comfortable with outdoor activities and some physical exertion.

Guides and Group Experience

NAVTEC Expeditions leads this tour with professional guides who are knowledgeable about the area’s geology and safety protocols. The small group size ensures personalized attention, making it easier to learn and ask questions about the landscape and rappelling techniques.

Reviews praise the guides for their professionalism, humor, and ability to make participants feel safe while still providing an exciting adventure. Wyatt, Monet, and Mike are mentioned as knowledgeable and personable guides who enhance the overall experience.

Unique Features of the Rock of Ages Obstacle Course

What makes this tour stand out is its combination of scenic exploration and technical rappelling in a landscape that visitors can’t reach on their own. The petrified dunes and fins provide a prehistoric feel, adding a sense of connection to ancient natural forces.

The three rappels—especially the 100-foot descent—offer a substantial adrenaline rush that differentiates this experience from simpler canyon hikes. The inclusion of free ice and coolers is a nice touch for staying refreshed in the desert heat.

Who Will Enjoy This Tour Most

This experience is ideal for those with moderate outdoor experience and an interest in adventure activities like rappelling. It suits families with children aged 11 and above, provided they are comfortable with heights and physical activity. The small group setting makes it appropriate for travelers seeking a more intimate and guided adventure.

It may not be suitable for anyone with mobility issues or those not comfortable with heights, as the tour involves navigating potholes and rappelling down cliffs.

Final Thoughts on the Rock of Ages Rappelling Adventure

The Moab Rock of Ages Moderate Rappelling Obstacle Course offers a compelling mix of scenic beauty and adrenaline. The expert guides and well-maintained equipment ensure safety while highlighting the area’s geological marvels.

The 7-hour format balances active exploration with ample time for rest and photo opportunities. It’s a value-packed option for travelers who want to experience Utah’s rugged landscape and test their limits with multiple rappels.

While not for complete beginners, this tour provides accessible excitement for those with some outdoor experience and a good sense of adventure. The small group size means personalized attention, and the scenic vistas make it a memorable highlight of any Utah trip.

Frequently Asked Questions

What is included in the tour price?
The tour includes hotel pickup in Moab, 4×4 transportation, and guides. Rappelling gear and safety equipment are provided.

How physically demanding is this experience?
The tour is rated as moderate difficulty. It involves some hiking, pothole navigation, and rappelling, so participants should be comfortable with outdoor activities.

What should I bring on the day of the tour?
Bring water, a daypack, and hiking shoes. Avoid sandals, flip flops, and pets, as they are not allowed.

Can I cancel the tour if my plans change?
Yes, you can cancel up to 24 hours in advance for a full refund.

Is this tour suitable for children?
Yes, children aged 11 and above can participate, provided they are comfortable with heights and physical activity.

What are the guides like?
Guides like Wyatt, Monet, and Mike are praised for their professionalism, humor, and knowledge, making the experience both safe and enjoyable.

What scenic features will I see?
Participants see Chimney Arch, Pool Arch, and the petrified dunes that form the landscape’s prehistoric appearance.

Is the tour weather-dependent?
Yes, outdoor activities like this are best enjoyed in clear weather. Confirm availability and check weather conditions before booking.

How long is the drive to the canyon?
The 4×4 ride covers about 5 miles into Pritchett Canyon, offering scenic views en route.

What makes this tour different from other Moab adventures?
Its focus on multiple rappels combined with unique geological features like fins and petrified dunes distinguishes this experience, providing both scenic beauty and adrenaline rushes.

You can check availability for your dates here: More Great Tours Nearby