Alcatraz Canyon

Alcatraz is one of the most iconic and demanding slot canyons in southeastern Utah—a deep, dark, and relentlessly narrow canyon that delivers a true intermediate canyoneering experience. Known for its dramatic entrance rappel and sustained technical character, Alcatraz is only for experienced beginners and above and should be taken seriously by anyone entering its depths.

The canyon begins with an unforgettable 165-foot rappel directly off the slickrock rim, often rigged from a vehicle or solid natural anchor. This “go big” start immediately sets the tone for what follows. Once on the canyon floor, Alcatraz quickly slots up into a twisting, sinuous corridor of shadowed sandstone where progress is slow, physical, and highly engaging.

The narrows are very tight in places, requiring sustained stemming, chimneying, squeezing, and climbing over constrictions. Packs must stay small, movement is deliberate, and the canyon demands both endurance and problem-solving. While the technical rappels after the entrance are shorter, the overall difficulty comes from the canyon’s physical nature rather than rope work alone.

Alcatraz earned its name from early descents that questioned whether the canyon was even passable. Today, it remains a classic intermediate canyon with a reputation for humbling canyoneers. Larger-framed participants may need to climb high above the canyon floor in tight sections, increasing both difficulty and fatigue.

Alcatraz is best suited for advanced-beginner canyoneers who are comfortable with exposure, tight spaces, sustained physical movement, and committing terrain. This is a serious canyon that rewards those prepared for it with one of the most memorable slot canyon experiences in the region.

Canyon Country Adventures Rating

  • CCA Rating: 5 Stars

  • Skill Level: Advanced Beginner (3A/B)

  • Fun Index: High

  • Learning Value: High

  • Emotional Impact: High

  • Traffic Level: Low

  • Total Time Required: 4–7 hours (not including travel)

Highlights

  • Extremely tight, classic slot canyon terrain

  • Deep, dark, sculpted slots

  • Massive rappel off vehicle

Prerequisites

  • Recommended Age: 13-75

  • Under 175lbs

  • Ability to hike ~5 miles in steep terrain

  • Comfortable with tight spaces

  • Must be comfortable with cold water

What to Bring

  • Snacks or lunch

  • 1–3 liters of water

  • Small day pack

  • Season-appropriate clothing

  • Sturdy hiking shoes

Additional Details

  • Season: Spring through Fall

  • Travel Time from Moab: ~3 hours

Pricing

  • 4+ people: $200 per person

  • 3 people: $225 per person

  • 2 people: $250 per person

  • 1 person: $350

Additional 9.75% sales tax and permit fees added at checkout.

Payment Methods

  • Cash (5% discount)

  • Venmo

  • PayPal