Cool, green,
and alive.
Mary Jane Canyon is unlike any hike near Moab — a lush slot canyon with pools, hanging gardens, and a 40-foot waterfall tucked into sandstone walls. Your private guide takes you there and back in half a day.
Not the Moab
you expected — better.
Tucked into a quiet corner of Professor Valley, Mary Jane Canyon is one of the most surprising hikes near Moab. What begins as a wide sandy wash gradually transforms into a lush, shaded canyon with pools, trickling water, hanging gardens, and a 40-foot waterfall spilling over a fern-covered alcove.
This is not the red, dry desert most people expect. This is cool, green, and alive — a side of canyon country that even repeat Moab visitors rarely find on their own.
Your guide leads you up-canyon through shallow water, smooth slickrock, and cottonwood shade as the walls narrow and the sound of running water grows louder. The final approach calls for some fun scrambling and light route-finding before you arrive at the waterfall and grotto. We take our time, explore side features, and make the most of the canyon environment before returning the way we came.
Because of the water, shade, and variety of terrain, Mary Jane is one of the best warm-weather hikes in the Moab area — a favorite for families, photographers, and anyone wanting something genuinely off the beaten path.
40-Foot Waterfall
The canyon's centerpiece — a sandstone grotto where water drops into a cool, fern-lined pool. Worth every step of the approach.
Hanging Gardens
Seeping canyon walls host rare desert plant communities — columbine, maidenhair ferns, and mosses clinging to the rock.
Wading & Pools
Expect wet feet — the canyon floor is shared with a seasonal creek. In warm months, it's genuinely refreshing.
Photographer's Dream
Narrow walls, dappled light, reflections in still pools — Mary Jane Canyon rewards anyone with a camera (or just eyes to appreciate it).
Cottonwood Shade
Unlike exposed desert hikes, much of the route runs through shaded wash with old-growth cottonwoods — a rare comfort in summer.
What you'll do
No two trips are identical — your guide tailors the pace and exploration to your group. Here's how a typical half-day unfolds.
Meet Your Guide
We meet in Moab, go over the plan, check gear, and answer any last questions before heading out to Professor Valley.
Enter the Wash
The hike begins in a wide sandy wash — open sky, sandstone walls, and the quiet of canyon country before the crowds.
The Canyon Narrows
Walls tighten. Water appears. Shade takes over. The character of the canyon shifts completely as we move up-canyon.
Scramble to the Falls
Light hands-on scrambling and route-finding lead to the waterfall grotto — the moment that makes this hike unforgettable.
Explore & Relax
We spend time at the grotto — exploring side alcoves, taking photos, and soaking it in — before returning the way we came.
Great fit if you love
Good to know before you go
Adventure hike,
moderate effort
This is a true adventure hike rather than a maintained trail, and that's exactly what makes it memorable. You should expect to get your feet wet, walk on slickrock and sand, and use your hands occasionally for balance as you move up-canyon. We take our time — there is no rush.
Moderate — comfortable hiking fitness is all you need. No technical skills required. Your guide handles route-finding and decision-making throughout.
What to bring
Pack light and practical. Mary Jane Canyon rewards those who come prepared to get a little wet and stay comfortable in a canyon environment.
Although not required, guide gratuities are customary and always appreciated.
Good to know
Reservations & cancellations
How Booking Works
- 20% of the trip cost is due at the time of booking to secure your date.
- The remaining balance is due 48 hours before your trip departure.
- Once your deposit is received, your guide will reach out with meetup details and any last-minute prep info.
Cancellation & Rescheduling
- We require at least 14 days notice for cancellations or rescheduling.
- With 14+ days notice: we'll reschedule to a new date, or provide a partial refund if you need to cancel entirely.
- Cancellations inside 48 hours of departure, or no-shows, are non-refundable. Rescheduling is possible but requires full payment again.
Weather-related rescheduling is handled separately and at our discretion — we'll always work with you to find a solution.
Your waterfall
is waiting.
Private half-day guided hiking to Mary Jane Canyon — tailored to your group, your pace, and your version of a perfect half-day in canyon country.
📞 Call Today · 435.260.7066Private tours only · Certified guides · Fully permitted · Moab, Utah