What should I bring for the Upper Water Canyon tour?

Wear sturdy hiking or approach shoes with excellent grip and ankle support. Bring a small backpack with at least two liters of water, high-energy snacks or lunch, sun protection (hat, sunscreen, sunglasses), and quick-dry or synthetic clothing. A lightweight jacket may also be useful in changing conditions.

What’s included in this private canyoneering tour?

All technical gear is provided, including helmets, harnesses, and ropes. You'll be guided by an experienced professional who handles all safety systems, offers instruction, and customizes the experience to your group’s pace and comfort level. Permits are not needed for this route, and all trip logistics are covered.

Where does the Upper Water Canyon tour begin?

The adventure starts at the Water Canyon Trailhead, located outside Hildale, Utah, in Southern Utah’s remote canyon country. Your exact meeting time and directions will be sent after booking to align with your travel plans.

Are restrooms or other facilities available?

There are pit toilets at the Water Canyon trailhead, but no running water. We recommend using facilities in town before your hike begins. Your guide will carry basic supplies to help ensure your comfort during the tour.

What can I expect during this full-day adventure?

This is a strenuous 9-hour canyoneering experience that begins with a 5-mile uphill approach, gaining 1,200 feet in elevation. After reaching the canyon head, you'll rappel more than 10 times, including a thrilling 150-foot descent. The route features rugged terrain, slickrock shelves, and stunning scenery with few crowds.

Is this tour beginner-friendly?

Upper Water Canyon is suitable for adventurous beginners who are physically fit and ready for a challenge. You do not need prior rappelling experience, but you should be comfortable with strenuous hiking and following close instruction in technical terrain.

Is this a private or group experience?

All Upper Water Canyon tours are private. You'll enjoy a fully personalized experience with just your group and a dedicated guide focused on your safety and enjoyment.

Upper Water Canyon Canyoneering Tour: 10+ Rappels

Upper Water Canyon is one of the most strenuous and rewarding canyoneering day trips we offer. This adventure is ideal for fit, adventurous guests who are ready to work hard and experience some of the best technical terrain in Southern Utah. The day begins with a 5-mile (8 kilometer) uphill hike including 1,200 feet (365 meters) of gain to reach the head of the canyon. This challenging climb includes significant elevation gain and offers sweeping views along the way.

Once at the top, you'll gear up and begin a descent through a wild and scenic canyon that includes 10+ rappels. These range in height from short drops to a thrilling 150-foot (45 meter) vertical rappel. Between rappels, you'll travel along slickrock shelves, sandy drainages, and occasional pools. Most of the canyon is open to the sun, though there are a few narrow sections that add variety and beauty to the route.

This is a technical descent that is accessible to adventurous beginners who are ready for a challenge and able to follow close instruction. Anchors are well maintained and positioned for safe and efficient rope work. Your guide will handle safety systems, provide instruction as needed, and adjust the pace based on your group’s ability and goals.

Although this canyon is outside Zion National Park and does not require a permit, it offers the same dramatic scenery and sense of adventure, without the crowds. Expect a long day with plenty of physical effort, unforgettable views, and the satisfaction of completing one of the region’s most iconic technical canyons.

"The hike was tough but so worth it. We felt safe and supported the whole way. Easily one of the best experiences of my life." Nick H., Arizona (Tripadvisor)

"You can tell they take safety seriously, and they made it fun, even when the terrain was really challenging."Katie M., Colorado (Google)

"This was an epic adventure that pushed us physically and mentally, but in the best way possible. We’ll be talking about this for years."Jared L., California (Tripadvisor)

"Our guide gave us the confidence to do things we didn’t think we could do. The canyon was absolutely stunning from start to finish."Erin T., Washington (Google)

"An incredible private adventure. The views, the rappels, the challenge—it was everything we hoped for and more."Ben S., Utah (Tripadvisor)

"The hike was tough but so worth it. We felt safe and supported the whole way. Easily one of the best experiences of my life." Nick H., Arizona (Tripadvisor)

"You can tell they take safety seriously, and they made it fun, even when the terrain was really challenging."Katie M., Colorado (Google)

"This was an epic adventure that pushed us physically and mentally, but in the best way possible. We’ll be talking about this for years."Jared L., California (Tripadvisor)

What should I bring for the Upper Water Canyon tour?
Wear sturdy hiking or approach shoes with excellent grip and ankle support. Bring a small backpack with at least two liters of water, high-energy snacks or lunch, sun protection (hat, sunscreen, sunglasses), and quick-dry or synthetic clothing. A lightweight jacket may also be useful in changing conditions.
What’s included in this private canyoneering tour?
All technical gear is provided, including helmets, harnesses, and ropes. You'll be guided by an experienced professional who handles all safety systems, offers instruction, and customizes the experience to your group’s pace and comfort level. Permits are not needed for this route, and all trip logistics are covered.
Where does the Upper Water Canyon tour begin?
The adventure starts at the Water Canyon Trailhead, located outside Hildale, Utah, in Southern Utah’s remote canyon country. Your exact meeting time and directions will be sent after booking to align with your travel plans.
Are restrooms or other facilities available?
There are pit toilets at the Water Canyon trailhead, but no running water. We recommend using facilities in town before your hike begins. Your guide will carry basic supplies to help ensure your comfort during the tour.
What can I expect during this full-day adventure?
This is a strenuous 9-hour canyoneering experience that begins with a 5-mile uphill approach, gaining 1,200 feet in elevation. After reaching the canyon head, you'll rappel more than 10 times, including a thrilling 150-foot descent. The route features rugged terrain, slickrock shelves, and stunning scenery with few crowds.
Is this tour beginner-friendly?
Upper Water Canyon is suitable for adventurous beginners who are physically fit and ready for a challenge. You do not need prior rappelling experience, but you should be comfortable with strenuous hiking and following close instruction in technical terrain.
Is this a private or group experience?
All Upper Water Canyon tours are private. You'll enjoy a fully personalized experience with just your group and a dedicated guide focused on your safety and enjoyment.

Private Upper Water Canyon Canyoneering Tour: 10+ Rappels, Big Views, and a Serious Challenge Near Zion

Tackle One of Southern Utah’s Most Demanding and Rewarding Slot Canyon Adventures

Canyoneering & Rappelling: Upper Water Canyon at a Glance

Canyoneering & Rappelling: Upper Water Canyon Gallery

Epic Rappels, Big Gains, and Stories Worth Sharing

Frequently Asked Questions