Phoenix: Canyoneering Adventure with Rappelling & Water Slides

Rappel into desert pools scramble on sun-warmed rocks and laugh with your group

You’ll rappel into cool canyon pools just outside Phoenix, scramble over sun-baked rocks, and share lunch with your group under open sky. Expect laughter, cold splashes, expert guidance—and that lingering feeling of “did I really just do that?” when you’re back in dry clothes.

Step-by-step itinerary

Canyoneering adventure and activities

• Meet guide at central location
• Travel to canyon
• Hike short distance
• Enjoy rappelling and water slides
• Stop for lunch and photos
• Complete activities and return by dark

The Experience

I didn’t think I’d be nervous until we reached the edge of that first drop. The canyon outside Phoenix looked almost gentle from above—warm rock, a few scraggly trees—but then our guide, Mike, just grinned and clipped us in. My hands were shaking a bit (don’t tell my friends), but he talked us through every step. There’s something about hearing water echo off stone while you’re halfway down a rope that makes you forget about everything else for a second.

The best part? I completely underestimated how fun it’d be to slide down a natural chute and splash straight into a pool. You get soaked—no way around it—and the water is colder than you expect even in June. Lunch was simple: sandwiches and chips perched on a sun-warmed boulder, everyone comparing bruises and laughing about who slipped where. Mike told us stories about other groups (someone once lost a shoe to the current) and pointed out little lizards darting between cracks. It felt like nobody was in any rush; we could go slow or fast as we wanted.

Honestly, I still think about that moment when I let go and just dropped into the water—my heart pounding, sun on my face, everyone cheering from below. By the time we hiked out (soaked socks squishing), Phoenix felt miles away. If you’re up for some scrambling and don’t mind getting wet, this canyoneering tour is worth every awkward slide and cold splash. And yeah, I slept like a rock that night.

What’s included

Your day includes all necessary gear and safety training from local guides, bottled water throughout the adventure, plus snacks and lunch shared at a scenic spot in the canyon. Pickup from your hotel or meeting at a central location is available before heading out—and after hours of rappelling and swimming you’ll return to Phoenix before dark.

Good to know

Moderate physical levelPets welcomeNot for pregnant travelersNot for back problems

Operated by Epic Adventures AZ

Traveler reviews

5.00★★★★★★★★★★

95 verified traveler reviews

5 ★95

4 ★0

3 ★0

2 ★0

1 ★0

Read all the reviews ›

Top questions

How long does the Phoenix canyoneering adventure last?

The tour lasts most of the day—you’ll be back by dark after starting in the morning.

Is lunch included on this canyoneering day trip?

Yes, lunch and snacks are provided during the tour.

Do I need previous experience for this canyoneering tour?

No experience needed—guides provide all gear and safety training before activities begin.

Is hotel pickup available for this Phoenix canyoneering trip?

Yes, hotel pickup is available if arranged in advance; otherwise meet at a central location.

What should I bring for the canyoneering adventure near Phoenix?

You should bring swimwear, sturdy shoes you don’t mind getting wet, sunscreen, and a sense of adventure.

Is swimming required on this tour?

You must be able to swim through short pools during wet season (May–September).

What’s the minimum age for participants?

The minimum age is 10 years old for this tour.

Are service animals allowed on this canyoneering trip?

Yes, service animals are allowed according to the tour details.