Moab: Medieval Chamber Rappelling & Morning Glory Bridge

Summary

Rappel into Moab’s wild canyons then hike beneath Morning Glory

You’ll rappel deep into Medieval Chamber slot canyon near Moab with a local guide beside you, then dangle next to Morning Glory Bridge before hiking Grandstaff Canyon’s sandy trail toward the Colorado River. Expect shaky legs, laughter, and moments where silence feels huge — it’s not just about adrenaline here.

What’s the experience like?

“Don’t look down,” I muttered, but of course I did — you kind of have to when you’re standing at the lip of that first drop into Medieval Chamber. Our guide, Jake (he’s got that sunburned Utah smile), double-checked my harness and told me to trust the rope. The sandstone felt cool under my palm, gritty but almost soft somehow. I could smell juniper on the wind and hear someone behind me nervously humming. Then it was just me and the echo in that narrow slot, lowering myself inch by inch. My knees shook way more than I’ll admit out loud.

The light down there is strange — gold and pink stripes across rock walls that look like they’ve been painted by water over centuries. Jake pointed out some lizard tracks in the sand; he called them “sidewinders” though I’m pretty sure he meant snakes? We laughed about it later while waiting for everyone else to make their way down. The quiet in that canyon is something else — muffled, like being underwater but dry. If you do this day trip from Moab, bring more water than you think you need; desert air steals it fast.

I thought the first rappel was wild until we reached Morning Glory Natural Bridge. That second drop is free-hanging — 120 feet next to this enormous arch that just hovers above you. My hands were shaking so bad I nearly forgot to look around, but Jake yelled up, “You’ll regret not seeing it!” So I did, and yeah… still think about how small I felt swinging next to all that ancient stone. Afterward there’s this long walk out through Grandstaff Canyon toward the Colorado River — cottonwoods rustling overhead, boots crunching on red sand. Someone spotted a raven circling above us and we all just stopped for a second because it felt right.

Step-by-step itinerary

Day 1 — Hike and rappel in Medieval Chamber

• Hike 1 mile on rock fins
• Rappel into Medieval Chamber slot canyon
• Walk through sandstone layers
• Rappel 120 feet by Morning Glory Bridge
• Hike 2.5 miles down Grandstaff Canyon

Top questions

How long is the hike for the Moab rappelling adventure?

The initial approach hike is about 1 mile on rock fins; after rappelling, there’s a 2.5 mile hike through Grandstaff Canyon toward the Colorado River.

Is transportation included for this Medieval Chamber slot canyon tour?

Yes, transportation to and from the canyon is included in your booking.

Do I need previous experience to go rappelling in Moab?

No prior experience is needed, but travelers should have at least moderate physical fitness.

What equipment do I need to bring for this day trip from Moab?

All rappelling equipment is provided; just bring your own personal water bottle.

How high are the rappels on this tour?

The first rappel drops you into Medieval Chamber slot canyon; the second is a free-hanging 120-foot descent beside Morning Glory Natural Bridge.

Is lunch included on this adventure?

No lunch is included; only water (bring your own bottle).

Are there any health restrictions for this tour?

This activity isn’t recommended for travelers with poor cardiovascular health or low fitness levels.

What’s included

Your day includes pickup and return transport from Moab, all professional-grade rappelling equipment set up by your licensed local guide (so no guesswork), plus plenty of cold water along the way — just remember your own bottle for refills before heading out onto those red rocks.