Bow & Arrow Canyon Canyoneering

About This Adventure

Named for the natural arch formation visible at the canyon's entrance — a stone bow strung against the rim — Bow & Arrow threads through Wingate sandstone narrows with moderate rappels and afternoon light that turns the walls deep burgundy. Local guides have been bringing guests here for decades, and the canyon hasn't tired of impressing anyone.

Rappels are manageable from age ten, making this one of the more accessible technical routes in the area without sacrificing any of the drama. Your guide covers anchor technique and canyon reading throughout, and the formations along the way — streaked, sculpted, constantly changing in the light — make this one of the most photogenic routes in the Moab canyon country. Guided; 4–5 hours; all gear provided.

Highlights

Before You Go

What's Included

• All technical canyoneering gear
• Harness & helmet
• Expert guide

What to Bring

• Athletic clothing
• Sturdy closed-toe shoes
• Sunscreen
• Snacks
• Water

Meeting Point

Cancellation Policy

Free cancellation up to 48 hours after booking. Cancellations within 48 hours of your experience are subject to a 50% charge. No-shows are non-refundable.

Frequently Asked Questions

• Do I need prior canyoneering experience for Bow & Arrow Canyon?+

  No experience is necessary. Our guides provide detailed instruction and backup safety systems so even first-timers can rappel with confidence.

• How many rappels are on this tour?+

  You’ll tackle four rappels. We’ll start with a short warm-up rappel of just 15 feet, or an alternative rappel of 100 feet if the group wants something more exciting. The second rappel is 120 feet with an incredible view of the canyon. The third rappel is 70 feet which is mostly low angle with just 10 feet of vertical. The fourth rappel is 60 feet and ends right next to our pickup location. Each one builds your confidence and keeps the adventure exciting.

• What makes Bow & Arrow different from Morning Glory?+

  Bow & Arrow Canyon includes more rappels and a longer, steeper hike. Along the way, you’ll see ancient petroglyphs and even fossilized dinosaur tracks. It’s ideal for adventurous hikers who want variety and discovery. Morning Glory, by contrast, features two dramatic rappels and is generally better for families or first-time canyoneers.

• Is the Bow & Arrow tour family friendly?+

  Yes, children 10 and up are welcome. The hike is slightly more adventurous than the Morning Glory Canyoneering Adventure with more elevation gain, but shorter distance (2.5 miles for Bow & Arrow vs 3.5 miles for Morning Glory). Teens and active families often love the extra challenge.

• How strenuous is the hike?+

  The hike into Bow & Arrow Canyon is 2.5 miles. It involves about 400-450 feet of elevation gain and a little scrambling down rocky terrain. Most reasonably fit guests can complete it, but it’s a slight step up in difficulty compared to Morning Glory’s canyon exit.

• Will I see any unique features on this route?+

  Yes. In addition to the rappels and sweeping desert views, Bow & Arrow Canyon passes ancient petroglyphs left by the Ancestral Puebloans and includes an opportunity to see fossilized dinosaur tracks as well as long bow arch—something you won’t find on the Morning Glory tour.

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