Guided Looking Glass Arch Climb in Moab

Beginner multi pitch instruction

Looking Glass Arch is an incredible and often overlooked climbing objective that rises alone from the desert south of Moab. With its clean lines, open exposure, and sweeping views, this formation offers a memorable guided multi-pitch rock climbing experience that feels adventurous without being overwhelming. The climb follows a mostly ramped face with just a few technical moves at the start, making it an excellent introduction to multi-pitch climbing for those looking to build confidence in a stunning desert setting.

The route consists of three pitches of delicate slab climbing, requiring balance, trust in your feet, and steady movement rather than brute strength. As you climb higher, the exposure builds gradually, rewarding careful movement with expansive views in every direction. The large summit provides 360-degree panoramas of the southern Utah desert, making it a perfect place to pause, take photos, and soak in the vastness of the landscape.

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While the climbing itself is enjoyable and engaging, many climbers find that the rappel is the true highlight of the day. The descent features a unique and memorable entry, where you shimmy through a small opening before stepping into a free-hanging 150-foot rappel back to the desert floor—a thrilling and unforgettable way to finish the climb.

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What to Expect on the Looking Glass Arch Climb

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The drive from Moab takes approximately 40 minutes, and one of the best parts of this outing is that no hiking approach is required. We park directly at the base of the climb, making this an efficient option for those who want a big experience without a long approach.

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Before starting the climb, your guide will lead a thorough safety briefing, covering the fundamentals of multi-pitch climbing, belaying, communication, and movement on slab terrain. Once everyone is comfortable, we’ll begin the ascent, climbing pitch by pitch and stopping at each belay station. The follower will clean the quickdraws from the route as they climb, offering hands-on experience with real multi-pitch systems under professional guidance.

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After reaching the summit, we’ll carefully descend a short ramp to the rappel station. Here, your guide will review rappelling technique and safety systems before each participant makes their descent. Every rappel is backed up with a belay, ensuring a controlled and confidence-building experience for climbers new to longer rappels or exposure.

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A Great Introduction to Multi-Pitch Climbing in Moab

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Looking Glass Arch is well-suited for climbers who want to step into multi-pitch climbing without committing to harder crack systems or long approaches. The climbing includes a few 5.8 moves at the start, followed by easier slab climbing that emphasizes technique, balance, and efficiency. This makes it an excellent choice for climbers who are comfortable on single-pitch routes and ready to expand their skill set in a supportive, guided environment, or newer climbers who are looking for a leveled up adventure. 

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Duration & Trip Details

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This trip typically takes 4–5 hours town to town, depending on group size, pacing, and time spent at belays and the summit. The relaxed pace allows time for instruction, photos, and enjoying the setting without feeling rushed.

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What to Bring

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Please bring close-toed hiking shoes, 3–4 liters of water per person, lunch and snacks, a hat, sunglasses, and clothing appropriate for the day’s weather. Sun protection such as a sun shirt, sunscreen, and chapstick is essential. A small 10–15 liter backpack is optional but recommended if you’d like to carry water, snacks, and an extra layer on the climb.

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Gear Provided

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We provide all technical climbing equipment, including ropes, harnesses, helmets, rappelling devices, and climbing shoes. If you prefer to use your own equipment, you’re welcome to do so—we’ll just need to inspect it to ensure it meets our safety standards.

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If you’re looking for a guided multi-pitch rock climbing experience in Moab that combines approachable climbing, incredible views, and an unforgettable rappel, Looking Glass Arch is a fantastic choice.