Zig Zag Canyon Canyoneering

About This Adventure

Zig Zag unfolds through switchbacking passages, multi-pitch rappels, and potholes that require full commitment to cross — the kind of route that only makes sense once you're already inside it. The name is accurate. Every turn opens into something new: a deeper drop, a tighter squeeze, a chamber so still it feels architectural.

This is a route for guests who've already been bitten by the canyoneering bug and want more technical challenge. The sculpted sandstone at the bottom makes every obstacle worth the effort, and your guide has run the route enough times to call each move before you reach it. Full day; all technical gear included.

Highlights

Before You Go

What's Included

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

What to Bring

• Athletic clothing
• Sturdy hiking shoes
• Sunscreen
• Lunch
• Plenty of water

Meeting Point

Cancellation Policy

Groups of less than 10 people: All of your money (including your $20/person deposit and all other payments) will be refunded if you cancel prior to two weeks before your trip date. If you cancel within two weeks of your trip (and have a note from your mother) all of your money will be refunded less the $20/person deposit, except for cancellations made within 48 hours of the trip. If you cancel within 48 hours of your trip, no money will be refunded (regardless of note from mom). Groups of 10 or more: A 10% deposit is required at the time of booking. This is non-refundable unless our guides cancel due to weather. The remaining balance is due within 48 hours of the trip date. Late Arrivals: Although our tours are private, and we will accommodate late arrivals as we can, occasionally a late arrival can cause tours later in the day and/or shuttle logistics to be affected. Because of this, we reserve the right to cancel your tour if you arrive more than 30 minutes after your scheduled reservation time. If a tour is canceled because of a late arrival, a refund will not be issued. Weather: Full refunds are given if your trip is cancelled due to bad weather. Our guides will make the final “go/no go” decision based on the weather. We’ll often go ahead with a trip even if it’s raining lightly in the morning since most canyons we go into have little flash flood risk. Also, weather around here changes quickly and more often than not the day’s weather turns out great despite a dreary morning. We assume that you’ll arrive with rain gear that makes light rain and winds tolerable. If you decide not to go on a trip even if the guides make a “go” decision, you will not receive a refund. If it’s raining cats and dogs when you show up in the morning and the weather does not appear to become tolerable or safe that day, we’ll probably cancel the trip in which case you’ll receive a full refund. If your trip does go out the door, yet gets cancelled or modified in some way mid-trip due to a change in weather, we will negotiate a fair refund with you. Please realize that safety is our primary concern in regards to the weather (remember, we’re in the canyon with you, too!). We’re not even remotely interested in taking a chance with bad weather if our safety will be in question. Do realize, however, that we make “go/no go” decisions based on whether or not it’s safe to go, not necessarily based on whether or not it will be the most pleasant to go. If the weather is so-so, yet safe enough to go, just be sure to bring rain gear and we’ll have a fun trip regardless. If you decide to cancel because of uncomfortable weather, our standard cancellation policy will apply. If you have a trip booked with us and do not show up because you’ve booked the wrong date on accident, you will be charged in full. If we are able to switch your booking to another date, you will still be charged a $40 fee that goes directly to our guide who showed up to work on time and ready for your trip. Travel Insurance: If you believe there is a chance that you will have to cancel your tour within the non-refundable 24-hour cancellation period, we strongly encourage you to purchase travel insurance. We are not affiliated with any insurance companies, but can recommend www.travelexinsurance.com.

Frequently Asked Questions

• Why is this canyon considered moderate?+

  The hike is a loop requiring uphill, off-trail scrambling using hands and feet. Techniques include downclimbing, handlines, and chimneying (feet on one wall, back on the other).

• What should I wear?+

  Standard hiking attire appropriate for weather conditions; closed-toe shoes are mandatory for all canyoneering tours.

• I've never rappelled before — is that OK?+

  Yes. Private tours allow plenty of time at each rappel for technique instruction. You are backed up with a second rope for safety, learning to control your own speed while never fully alone.

• What about the rock art?+

  The tour includes viewing two historic petroglyphs pecked and carved into rock by ancestral native groups 700 to 1,500 years ago.

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