IN THIS MODULE
05 ACCESS CHECK, BEFORE YOU GO
06 REMEMBER
12 Canyon Access & Land Types
Canyoneering access depends heavily on who manages or owns the land. Regulations can change from one place to another, even when two canyons are only a short drive apart. Before a trip, identify the land area and understand what is required for that specific route.
FEDERAL
Includes lands managed by agencies such as the Bureau of Land Management, U.S. Forest Service, and National Park Service.
STATE
Rules vary by state and by individual park or recreation area. Some locations require fees, permits, or special access.
PRIVATE
Owned by an individual, family, business, or other entity. Permission is required. Do not assume access simply because other people have been there.
01 Federal Lands Are Not All the Same
BLM / FOREST SERVICE
• BLM lands have route-specific rules for access, camping, permits, closures, and fixed anchors. Verify the relevant field office’s current requirements.
• Forest Service access varies by location. Research the specific district or area before the trip.
• Do not assume “federal land” automatically means unrestricted access.
NATIONAL PARKS
• Permits are commonly required in heavily managed canyon areas.
• Zion and Arches are examples.
• Permit violations can result in citations, fines, and other consequences.
• Some NPs keep track of usage but grant canyoneering access for free.
02 State Parks
State Park rules vary widely. Goblin’s Lair in Goblin Valley State Park requires a canyoneering permit in addition to applicable park entry requirements. Check the current process and fees with the park.
03 Private Land
Private property is simple: get permission. Trespassing does more than put you personally in the wrong. It can damage relationships with landowners and permanently close access for everybody who comes after you.
“One careless group can lose access for an entire community.”
04 Respect Keeps Canyons Open
Some incredible canyons cross or begin on private property. Respectful outreach matters. Follow gates, parking instructions, permit rules, seasonal closures, group-size restrictions, and whatever agreements are in place. If access is unclear, stop and research it instead of assuming. After learning that information, please feel invited to share that online within the Canyoneering circles.
05 Access Check, Before You Go
• Who owns or manages the land?
• Is a permit required?
• Is there a fee, reservation, lottery, or group-size restriction?
• Are there seasonal closures or access limitations?
• Does the approach or exit cross private property?
• Where are you legally allowed to park and camp?
Coalition of American Canyoneers — access, conservation, education, and safety.
I encourage supporting the Coalition of American Canyoneers and to read more about them at www.AmericanCanyoneers.org for canyon access and preservation efforts.
06 Remember
Access is not something to “figure out when you get there.” It belongs in the same pre-trip planning conversation as weather, ropes, water, and your group.