Looking Glass Arch: Climb and Rappel

If you’re looking for a way to turn your Moab trip into an adrenaline-filled adventure, the Looking Glass Arch: Climb and Rappel tour offers a unique blend of breathtaking scenery and daring activity. While it’s not your typical sightseeing tour, it’s perfect for those who crave a hands-on experience that challenges both body and mind.

What makes this experience stand out? First, the immense views you’ll get from 350 feet up, overlooking the La Sal and Abajo Mountains. Second, the exhilarating 115-foot rappel that drops you inside the arch’s dome — an experience that’s both visually spectacular and a real confidence booster. Our favorite part? That optional rope swing from an inner ledge, adding a dash of fun for the brave.

One potential caveat is that this tour requires a moderate level of physical fitness and a willingness to face heights. It’s accessible to beginners, but you should be comfortable with climbing and rappelling. This makes it ideal for adventurous beginners or experienced hikers looking to add a vertical twist to their Moab visit.

This tour is best suited for those with a sense of adventure, who aren’t afraid to get a little dirty and enjoy spectacular panoramic views. If you’re after an experience that combines physical activity with stunning scenery, this climb and rappel will hit the mark.

Key Points

• Stunning panoramic views from the top of Looking Glass Arch provide a memorable backdrop for photos.
• Accessible for beginners but still offers enough challenge and excitement for experienced climbers.
• Includes expert guidance and safety gear—a reassurance for first-timers.
• A 4-hour activity that packs in climbing, rappelling, and optional swinging.
• Limited group size (up to 7 travelers), ensuring personalized attention.
• Free cancellation available, adding flexibility to your plans.

An In-Depth Look at the Looking Glass Arch Climb and Rappel

When considering a tour like this, it’s important to understand what you’ll actually experience and how it fits into your travel plans. The Looking Glass Arch: Climb and Rappel is a relatively short, four-hour adventure based in the stunning landscape just south of Moab. Priced at $150 per person, it offers an engaging way to combine physical activity with jaw-dropping scenery.

The Setting — Why the Location Matters

Moab is famous for its striking red rock formations and outdoor adventures. The Looking Glass Arch is no exception. Perched atop a prominent rock formation, it offers a spectacular vantage point that provides expansive views of the La Sal and Abajo Mountains. The landscape around it is rugged and dramatic, perfect for those who want more than just a walk on flat terrain.

The Itinerary — What to Expect

The tour begins at the designated meeting point on Looking Glass Road, where you’ll meet your expert guide and receive all necessary safety gear: harness, helmet, gloves, and a rappel device. The group size is capped at 7, which means you’ll get personalized attention and clear instructions.

Once geared up, it’s a short hike to the base of the arch. From here, the real fun begins. You’ll start your rock climb up the steep slopes, ascending about 350 feet to reach the top of Looking Glass Arch. The climb isn’t overly technical but does require a moderate physical fitness level — it’s a good workout but not an advanced climb.

Reaching the summit, you’ll be rewarded with an unmatched view of the surrounding mountains and the unique shape of the arch itself. The photo opportunities are endless, and the sense of achievement is palpable.

Next, comes the highlight: a 115-foot free-hanging rappel inside the arch dome. This isn’t a controlled descent; you’ll be lowering yourself down the face of the rock, feeling that exhilarating sense of flight as you descend inside the arch. The guide ensures safety throughout, but this is the core thrill of the experience.

For those feeling particularly daring, there’s an optional rope swing from an inner ledge, adding a playful element to the adrenaline rush. This is a moderate-sized rope swing, perfect for adding a memorable twist.

Finally, the descent retraces your climb, and you’re back at the meeting point in about four hours total.

The Experience — Why Travelers Love It

Feedback from adventurers highlights the “stunning landscape views” as a major draw. Many mention that the climb itself is accessible and well-guided, making it suitable even for beginners willing to face heights. The trustworthy safety gear and expert guides provide peace of mind, especially for first-timers.

The scenery is often described as breathtaking, with comments like, “the best views of any tour we offer” echoing the sentiment that this experience offers a visual payoff unmatched by typical sightseeing.

Some guests appreciate the combination of physical activity and awe-inspiring scenery, making it feel like a true accomplishment. Others mention that the optional rope swing adds fun and a sense of playfulness to an otherwise serious adventure.

The Practical Aspects — What You Should Know

The price of $150 represents a reasonable value considering the combination of climbing, rappelling, guidance, and safety equipment. Given the personalized attention (max group size of 7), it’s a more intimate experience than larger, less specialized tours.

Being a 4-hour activity, it fits well into a full day of exploring Moab’s other attractions. You don’t need prior climbing experience, but moderate fitness is recommended. The tour is available with mobile tickets, making last-minute bookings easier, though it’s best to book about 37 days in advance on average.

Cancellation policy is flexible—full refunds are available if canceled 24 hours in advance—which adds peace of mind if weather or plans change.

What Travelers Should Consider

While the experience is accessible, it does involve heights and physical exertion. If you’re uncomfortable with heights or have mobility issues, this may not be suitable. The tour is best for those who enjoy a physical challenge and are eager for a unique, active adventure.

Weather plays a role, as poor conditions could lead to cancellations with a full refund or rescheduling. So, always check the forecast and be prepared for possible changes.

Who Should Consider This Tour?

This adventure suits adventurous beginners eager to try climbing and rappelling in a safe environment, as well as experienced outdoor enthusiasts looking to add a vertical component to their Moab trip. It’s also great for groups seeking a shared, memorable experience that combines beautiful scenery with a dose of adrenaline.

If you’re traveling with friends or family who appreciate outdoor challenges and stunning vistas, this tour delivers on both fronts.

The Sum Up

The Looking Glass Arch: Climb and Rappel is a compelling choice for those who want more than just sightseeing — it offers a hands-on, memorable experience that combines stunning views with real adventure. With expert guidance, safe equipment, and a manageable group size, it’s a safe yet exhilarating activity that lets you feel truly accomplished.

It’s especially well-suited for travelers craving a physical challenge with a rewarding payoff, and those who appreciate authentic outdoor experiences in the rugged terrain of Moab. The combination of climbing, rappelling, and optional swinging ensures that each participant leaves with stories to tell—and perhaps a little more confidence in their own abilities.

Whether it’s your first time climbing or you’re a seasoned hiker looking for a new thrill, this tour promises to be a highlight of your Moab trip.

FAQ

Is this tour suitable for beginners? Yes. While it involves climbing and rappelling, the guides provide safety gear and instructions, making it accessible for those with moderate fitness levels and some outdoor experience.

How long does the tour last? The activity takes around 4 hours from start to finish, including climbing, rappelling, and meeting back at the start point.

What is the maximum group size? Up to 7 travelers, ensuring personalized guidance and safety.

What should I wear? Comfortable outdoor clothing suitable for physical activity, and closed-toe shoes. Bring layers if weather is unpredictable.

Is prior climbing experience necessary? No, beginners are welcome, but a moderate fitness level is recommended.

What is included in the price? Expert guide, safety gear (harness, helmet, gloves, rappel device), and all instructions.

Can I cancel if I change my mind? Yes, full refunds are available if canceled at least 24 hours before the activity.

What if the weather is bad? The tour requires good weather. Cancellations due to poor conditions are fully refunded or can be rescheduled.

Is the optional rope swing safe? It is designed to be moderate in size and safe when used as instructed, but it’s optional for those who want an extra thrill.

This climb and rappel experience offers a mix of adventure, stunning scenery, and personal achievement, making it a standout activity for your Moab visit.