Nestled in the heart of Canyonlands National Park, Horseshoe Canyon offers a unique chance to explore the region’s ancient history. This one-day tour from Moab guides adventurers on a 7-mile hike, descending into the canyon to witness the stunning Great Gallery – a collection of well-preserved rock paintings dating back over a millennium. Beyond the canyon’s captivating rock art, the journey also takes participants through the Maze District, showcasing the area’s iconic sandstone and slickrock formations. With an experienced guide leading the way, this small-group tour promises an immersive exploration of this remarkable natural wonder. Just what lies in store for those who accept the challenge?
Key Points
- Explore Horseshoe Canyon in Canyonlands National Park on a 10-hour small-group tour from Moab.
- Witness the striking Great Gallery, a collection of ancient rock paintings created between 400-1100 AD.
- Trek through the Maze District, marveling at the iconic red Carmel sandstone and Navajo slickrock formations.
- Discover outlaw hideouts used by Butch Cassidy during a 7-mile roundtrip hike descending 650 feet into the canyon.
- Enjoy a buffet-style lunch and National Park entrance fee as part of the inclusive tour package.
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Tour Details
From Moab: 1-Day Horseshoe Canyon Exploration
Tour Details:
The tour lasts 10 hours and is a small-group experience with a maximum of 12 participants, offering an English-language exploration of Horseshoe Canyon. Hotel pickup from Moab is included, ensuring a hassle-free start to the day.
Travelers will venture into Canyonlands National Park to discover the Great Gallery, a striking collection of ancient rock paintings, and journey through the Maze District, marveling at the region’s iconic red Carmel sandstone and Navajo slickrock formations.
A buffet-style lunch with ice water and lemonade is provided, and an experienced, licensed guide leads the way throughout the 7-mile round-trip hike 650 feet down into the canyon.
Tour Highlights
From Moab: 1-Day Horseshoe Canyon Exploration
Tour Highlights
The tour highlights an exploration of the Horseshoe Canyon in Canyonlands National Park, where visitors can see the striking Great Gallery – a collection of ancient rock paintings.
Travelers will also journey through the Maze District, marveling at the region’s iconic red Carmel sandstone and Navajo slickrock formations. Along the way, guests will discover the hideouts used by legendary outlaws like Butch Cassidy.
The 7-mile roundtrip hike down into the canyon, 650 feet below the rim, provides an opportunity to take in the area’s rugged beauty and rich history.
With a licensed guide leading the way, this small-group tour offers an unforgettable adventure in one of Utah’s most stunning natural wonders.
Inclusions
The tour includes a buffet-style lunch with ice water and lemonade, along with a licensed and experienced guide and the National Park entrance fee. This ensures your day is filled with the essentials, allowing you to focus on the incredible sights.
| Inclusions | Details |
|---|---|
| Lunch | Buffet-style with ice water and lemonade |
| Guide | Licensed and experienced |
| Fees | National Park entrance |
With these key items taken care of, you’re free to learn about the beauty of Horseshoe Canyon and the Maze District, discovering the hidden gems of this stunning landscape.
Activity Details
From Moab: 1-Day Horseshoe Canyon Exploration
Activity Details
Visitors on this tour will hike 7 miles roundtrip down into Horseshoe Canyon, descending 650 feet below the rim.
During this journey, they’ll discover the hiding spots once used by notorious outlaws like Butch Cassidy and admire rock paintings created between 400-1100 AD by the Desert Archaic culture. These ancient artworks, known as the Great Gallery, feature a striking collection of preserved rock art.
Trekking through the Maze District, guests will also marvel at the incredible rock formations, including the vibrant red Carmel sandstone and Navajo slickrock that define the landscape of Canyonlands National Park.
Booking and Cancellation
From Moab: 1-Day Horseshoe Canyon Exploration
Travelers can reserve their spots on the Horseshoe Canyon Exploration tour now and pay later. Cancellations are free up to 24 hours in advance, though the tour requires a minimum number of participants.
This policy offers flexibility for those planning their Moab adventure.
The key booking details include:
- Reserve now, pay later.
- Free cancellation up to 24 hours prior.
- Tour requires a minimum number of participants.
With these convenient booking options, guests can confidently secure their spot on this 10-hour exploration of Horseshoe Canyon’s stunning rock art and landscapes.
Explore Horseshoe Canyon
From Moab: 1-Day Horseshoe Canyon Exploration
Explore Horseshoe Canyon
Guests embarking on the Horseshoe Canyon Exploration tour will explore a captivating landscape steeped in history and natural wonders. The 7-mile roundtrip hike into the canyon offers breathtaking vistas, culminating in the remarkable Great Gallery – an awe-inspiring collection of ancient rock paintings. Along the way, explorers will discover where notorious outlaws like Butch Cassidy sought refuge, gaining insights into the region’s rich heritage. This immersive journey promises to leave a lasting impression, as guests witness the timeless beauty and captivating stories that Horseshoe Canyon has to offer.
| Activity | Distance | Duration | Difficulty | Highlights |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Hike Down to Horseshoe Canyon | 3.5 miles | 2-3 hours | Moderate | Stunning rock formations, ancient rock art |
| Explore the Great Gallery | 1 mile | 1-2 hours | Easy | Striking collection of rock paintings |
| Hike Back Up from Canyon | 3.5 miles | 2-3 hours | Moderate | Panoramic views of the desert landscape |
| Discover Outlaw Hideouts | Varies | 30-60 minutes | Easy | Learn about the region’s fascinating history |
| Enjoy Scenic Lunch Break | N/A | 30-60 minutes | Easy | Refuel with a delicious buffet-style meal |
Discover Rock Paintings
The hike down into Horseshoe Canyon unveils one of the tour’s crown jewels – the captivating Great Gallery, a striking collection of rock paintings created between 400-1100 AD by the Desert Archaic culture.
Explorers will marvel at the vivid depictions of human and animal figures adorning the sandstone walls, providing a window into the artistic traditions and spiritual beliefs of the region’s ancient inhabitants. These remarkable paintings showcase:
- Life-sized human-like figures with intricate geometric designs
- Depictions of animals like bighorn sheep and birds
- Mysterious anthropomorphic figures with supernatural qualities
Immersed in the canyon’s timeless beauty, visitors will gain a deeper appreciation for the rich cultural heritage that has shaped this remarkable landscape.
Journey Through the Maze
After exploring the captivating rock paintings, the tour delves deeper into the Maze District, an intricate network of canyons and plateaus. Hikers traverse the rugged terrain, marveling at the towering sandstone formations and the sheer scale of this geological wonder.
| Feature | Description |
|---|---|
| Canyons | Carved by millions of years of erosion, the Maze’s canyons wind through the landscape, creating a maze-like environment that challenges and intrigues visitors. |
| Plateaus | Towering above the canyons, the Maze’s vast, flat-topped plateaus offer stunning views and a sense of the region’s immense scale. |
| Solitude | The remoteness of the Maze District provides a sense of isolation and solitude, allowing visitors to fully enjoy the natural wonder around them. |
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Frequently Asked Questions
What Is the Minimum Age Requirement for This Tour?
The tour does not specify a minimum age requirement. However, given the 7-mile hike and remote nature of the canyon, it may be most suitable for children aged 8 and above who can comfortably complete the trek.
Are There Any Accessibility Options for Those With Mobility Issues?
The tour may not be suitable for those with mobility issues as it involves a 7-mile hike down into Horseshoe Canyon, which is 650 feet below the rim. There aren’t any wheelchair-accessible options available for this tour.
Can Participants Bring Their Own Food and Drinks on the Hike?
Participants are welcome to bring their own food and drinks for the hike, but a buffet-style lunch with water and lemonade is provided as part of the tour. Bringing additional snacks or beverages is optional.
Is There an Option to Customize the Tour for Private Groups?
The tour company offers private group options for this Horseshoe Canyon exploration. Guests can customize the experience by selecting their preferred group size and tour length. Additional fees may apply for private bookings.
What Should Participants Bring to Ensure a Comfortable Experience?
Participants should bring sturdy hiking boots, sun protection, plenty of water, snacks, and layers for changing weather. Plus, a small daypack is recommended to comfortably carry personal items throughout the hike.
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Recap
This one-day tour from Moab offers an immersive exploration of Horseshoe Canyon in Canyonlands National Park.
Participants will hike to the stunning Great Gallery, witness ancient rock paintings, and journey through the Maze District‘s iconic red rock formations.
The tour includes a buffet-style lunch and is led by an experienced guide, providing a small-group experience.