Why Southern Utah Is an Ideal Destination for Canyoneering

Though I generally handle heights well, this moment feels different: I'm perched on the edge of a 140-foot cliff, relying solely on a rope and harness to prevent a terrifying fall. It's akin to hanging off the top of a 14-story building, and a wave of anxiety washes over me as I prepare for what’s ahead.

Standing on a rugged sandstone cliff in southwestern Utah, I'm mustering the courage to make a thrilling rappel, the grand conclusion of a full day of canyoneering.

This area is renowned for Zion National Park, attracting adventurers worldwide with its massive, picturesque red boulders and breathtaking canyons. Yet, the stunning geology stretches beyond the park's boundaries into Bureau of Land Management (BLM) lands—public spaces for various outdoor activities like rock climbing, UTV riding, and mountain biking, all without the strict permits and long wait times of the national park.

Just an hour from the Zion Canyon Visitor Center lies a piece of BLM land in Dammeron Valley, a vertical playground for thrill-seeking climbers. My guide, Todd Perkins of Southern Utah Guiding, has brought me to his hidden collection of boulders and slot canyons, away from the bustling crowds of the greater Zion area.

“Just tag it ‘Zion,’ so it stays off the radar,” Todd quips, aiming to keep our spot hidden.

I've relished every moment leading to this final descent: navigating through tight slots, hopping from boulder to boulder, crawling through natural tunnels, and even rappelling down 50-foot drops. Yet, none of those obstacles feels as daunting as the chasm in front of me now.

“Lean back and take your time,” Todd advises.

I remind myself that he has me securely on belay, then I cautiously hop over the edge, carefully finding my footing with each small step. Gradually, I take bolder leaps—it helps that I avoid looking straight down. The view toward the horizon is far more breathtaking, with the vibrant blue sky contrasting against the dusty beige sand dotted with green desert shrubs. Suspended between earth and sky, my perspective shifts compared to when I was at the top or standing on solid ground earlier in the day. Here, I feel as if I'm floating in a state of limbo, both physically and metaphysically.

Once I touch down, I shake off the lingering tension in my legs—and my spirit. I then glance up to see Todd, an experienced canyoneer, bouncing down like a rubber ball. He even performs some flips, demonstrating just how exhilarating and swift the rappel can be.

However, I realize from my gradual descent that taking my time offers its own rewards: an unparalleled, otherworldly view of the high desert's splendor. Just don’t let Todd know I spilled the beans about it. #Zion