Epic Travel → North America → Mountain States → Utah → Zion National Park → ⊗ Mystery Canyon

  ⊗ Technical Route ⊗
♦ Intrepid Top Pick!

 Warning: Do Not Attempt Without Proper Training – click here for details

Location: Eastern Region (near Zion Ponderosa Ranch), Zion National Park, Utah

Distance: 5 miles total, various technical sections

Elevation Descent: 2100 feet

Time Required: 5-8 hours

Rappels: Approximately 15, lengths up to 120 feet

Red Tape/Notes: Permit required – visit the Zion Permits website; shuttle required – most popular route runs from the East Mesa Trailhead to the Temple of Sinawava Shuttle Stop (shuttles to the East Mesa Trailhead are offered by various outfitters like Zion Adventure Company). For more info on this route (and others in Zion and around Utah), visit the Canyoneering USA website.

What’s Nearby?: Observation Point, Orderville Canyon, The Narrows, Riverside Walk

Tom visited Zion with his family when he was young, and they witnessed people rappelling into The Narrows down a 120 foot waterfall. He added it to his mental “life goals” list at that moment, not even knowing what the descent was associated with. It was, of course, Mystery Falls – the final rappel of Mystery Canyon (otherwise why would I be telling this story in this post??). Having now done this route, we would both tell you that this rappel is not even close to the best part of this canyon. Mystery really does have it all – great views (especially if you take a quick side trip to Observation Point) on the way in, an entertaining approach, soaring canyon walls, varied terrain, multiple rappels (one of which is an exposed long rappel into a pool), some fun wades/swims, and of course an ending with an audience. Only 12 people per day are allowed permits, but if you get one, what a day! So good.

Epic Travel → North America → Mountain States → Utah → Zion National Park → ⊗ Mystery Canyon