Johnson Arch Canyon

Johnson Arch Canyon

Southern Utah I-15 & Arizona Strip—Snow Canyon State Park (permit required)

The fastest approach to Johnson Arch Canyon is to have someone drop you off (or leave a second vehicle) at the pull-out just south of the small rural neighborhood on the west side of Highway 18 (south of The Ledges exit) and hike west cross-country to the dirt road, and then north. If your map shows Newspaper Rock, hike to that and start there. Please don't start at/in that neighborhood as there are "No Parking" and "No Trespassing" signs all over the area.

Most will likely find the nearly 200-foot final rappel very intimidating, not just for the height, but for the start. Depending on how you rig your ropes, It can be difficult to begin the rappel with the anchor weighted until you are actually off the ledge.

What to Expect
3B III** ACA Canyon Rating
  • This route requires standard technical gear.
  • You can usually expect at least some pools or water with little or no current.
  • Competent and smaller groups (4±) typically complete the route in 5–8 hours
In my opinion, this route was pretty good and is worth doing again.
Other Details
Skill Level:
Very confident rappellers
Seasons:
Spring, Fall, Winter—September 14–March 15
Rappels:
6 to 197 ft
Anchors:
Bolted
Additional Gear:
Wetsuits in cool/cold conditions
Water:
Can be several pools
Flash Flood Risk:
Moderate
Group Size:
Maximum 6 per permit (separating larger groups into multiple permits is prohibited)
Expected Time:
5–7 hours
Notes:
  • Closed March 16–September 13 due to bird nesting
Nearby Routes:
Island in the Sky

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