The world is complex…stressful…demanding…and…well, we all know what it’s like. We dream of breaking away – somehow. We yearn for simplicity. We desire to find a place with fewer demands, where time passes at the same pace as geologic eons.
If you long for that feeling of escaping to another world, then you need to explore the slot canyons of Southern Utah. Imagine a world where the hues of sunsets are painted onto sandstone. A world where sunlight dances through narrow slits in the earth, creating a place where time freezes in the embrace of stone. It’s a hiking experience that will leave an impression on your heart.
Here at Zion Gateway, we want you to have the best Southern Utah experience you can. In this guide, we’ve picked out our top ten favorite slot canyons, from easy, family-friendly canyons to technical hikes. There are few outdoor adventures that compare to navigating slot canyons.
Little Wild Horse Canyon
- Location: South-central Utah near Goblin Valley
- Distance: 8 miles for the full loop, but many hike a ways before turning back
- Best for: Ideal for families, but fun for all
- Best time to go: Spring and fall
Little Wild Horse Canyon, not too far from Goblin Valley, is like an 8-mile choose-your-own-adventure loop. Perfect for families, you can explore as deep into the canyon as you and your little ones dare before turning back. The trail is flat and manageable, so even your grandma can join the fun. The sandstone walls, shaped by millennia of erosion, create a maze of sunlit passages. It’s like nature’s own escape room! Whether you’re a seasoned hiker in search of solitude or a family seeking thrills, Little Wild Horse Canyon is the place to be.
Wire Pass to Buckskin Gulch
- Location: Along the Utah/Arizona border, near Kanab.
- Distance: 3.5 miles
- Best for: Great for families as well
- Best time to go: Spring and fall are ideal, but you can hike here year-round.
- Permit Require: Click Here
Welcome to Buckskin Gulch, a hidden gem tucked away on the Utah/Arizona border. The canyon stretches a whopping 20 miles, a labyrinth of towering walls and narrow passages that seem to defy reality. The further you venture in, the canyon narrows to a point where the walls close in until they’re close enough to touch. The rock formations are a sight to behold, their layers revealing millions of years of geological history.
Families with older kids can enjoy parts of this awe-inspiring trail, but be warned, it’s not a playground for the little ones. Obstacles abound, and at times, high water levels might require a bit of impromptu swimming. But if you’re game for an adventure, Buckskin Gulch offers an experience like no other. Far from the hustle and bustle of city life, it’s a haven of natural beauty and peaceful solitude. Here, you’re not just observing nature – you’re truly a part of it.
Peekaboo Trail
- Location: On Hole-in-the-Rock Road, 26 miles south of the town of Escalante.
- Distance: 3.5 miles
- Best for: Adults and older, robust children, anyone not afraid of tight curves and a few drop-offs
- Best time to go: Year-round
- Overnight permit required: Click Here
This hike is not your average stroll in the park – it’s a jaunt into the heart of a slot canyon that will have your adrenaline pumping and your eyes feasting on the raw, rugged beauty of Utah. The trail takes you through a labyrinth of narrow passages that twist and turn, each bend revealing a new spectacle of geological wonder. Expect to see towering walls etched with time, their sandstone surfaces casting a warm glow under the desert sun.
This 6-mile loop trail, considered challenging by many, is a playground for those who love a bit of a scramble. You’ll need to conquer a 12-foot climb just to gain entry into Peek-A-Boo Gulch, but don’t worry – the reward is well worth the effort. Once inside, you’re met with a sight of natural architecture that’s nothing short of breathtaking.
This trail is best suited for seasoned hikers who relish overcoming obstacles and don’t mind getting a little sand in their boots.
If you’ve got a thirst for adventure and a love for the wild, untamed beauty of the desert, the Peekaboo Trail is calling your name. Just remember to pack plenty of water, a sense of humor, and an appetite for awe-inspiring views.
The (Zion) Narrows
- Location: Zion National Park
- Distance: Variable up to 16 miles
- Best for: Some hiking experience and endurance are required to do the whole thing top-down.
- Best time to go: Later spring and summer yield lower water levels in the river.
- Permit require: Click Here
Welcome to the granddaddy of all desert slot canyons – the Zion Narrows. This isn’t just a hike; it’s a love letter to the adventurous spirit, penned by Mother Nature herself. Picture this: walls a thousand feet tall, closing in until they’re a mere 30 feet apart. The river beneath your feet is the trail, guiding you through a canyon so narrow, it makes a supermodel look curvy.
This 16-mile trek isn’t for the faint-hearted or suede-booted. You’ll be wading, swimming, and potentially dodging flash floods (talk about a full-body workout!). If you’re the kind of hiker who prefers their trails wild and their experiences unforgettable, the Zion Narrows is calling your name. Pack your waterproof boots, your sense of adventure, and prepare to be dazzled. Just remember, in this slot canyon, it’s not about the destination; it’s about the journey.
Willis Creek Slot Canyon
- Location: Grand Staircase–Escalante National Monument, near Cannonville
- Distance: About 3 miles out and back
- Best for: Everyone
- Best time to go: April to October. Summer is very hot
Buckle up for adventure in the Grand Staircase-Escalante National Monument – Willis Creek Slot Canyon. This isn’t your typical run-of-the-mill canyon. It’s more like a natural catwalk showcasing Mother Nature’s haute couture: intricately carved rock formations that make Picasso look like a beginner, narrow corridors that play a perpetual game of hide-and-seek with the sun, and views so stunning, they’ll make your heart skip a beat.
However, don’t let its jaw-dropping beauty overcome you. Willis Creek Slot Canyon is as welcoming as it is breathtaking. With no vertical obstacles, it’s perfect for families, newbie hikers, and those of us who prefer to keep our adrenaline levels on the milder side. So whether you’re an adventure junkie needing a day off from the thrills or a family looking to create some unforgettable memories, Willis Creek has got you covered.
Keyhole Canyon
- Location: Zion National Park
- Distance: 2.1 mile canyon
- Best for: Experienced hikers with canyoneering skills
- Best time to go: during summer months the water is warmer
- Equipment: Rappelling ropes and gear and wetsuits.
- Permit is required: Click Here
It’s time to delve into the lesser-known, yet equally spectacular, Keyhole Canyon in Zion National Park. This slot canyon is like the secret menu of the park – not everyone knows about it, but once you find it, you’re in for a treat. Picture this: narrow, sinuous chasms carved by eons of water and wind erosion, walls adorned with mysterious ancient petroglyphs, and a silence so profound, you can hear your own heartbeat.
The Keyhole isn’t just a hike. With its combination of rappelling, swimming, and scrambling, it’s suited to those who like their trails with a dash of the unexpected and a sprinkle of spelunking.
The beauty of Keyhole Canyon can be deceptive. Weather conditions often change rapidly, turning your idyllic adventure into a life-threatening situation. So plan and prep accordingly. But if you’ve got the grit, the gumption, and the right gear, this trail will reward you big time. Remember, the best stories aren’t found in books or on screens; they’re made in places where Wi-Fi is weak but the connection with nature is strong.
Kanarra Falls
- Location: Kanarraville
- Distance: 3.6 miles
- Best for: Moderate to strenuous hike
- Best time to go: summer months warm up the water
- Permit is required: Click Here
Unlike any other canyon in the region, Kanarra Falls boasts a mesmerizing series of cascading waterfalls. Imagine hiking through a series of red walls, with every step revealing a new cascading waterfall, each more breathtaking than the last. It’s a sensory overload that will have you questioning if you’ve stumbled into a dream.
But here’s the twist that sets Kanarra Falls apart from the rest: the hike involves wading through knee-deep water and navigating steep drops with the help of sturdy ladders and ropes. This is definitely not your grandma’s Sunday stroll. The rugged terrain and heart-pounding drops calls for hikers with a taste for adventure and a good dose of courage. If you’re up for the challenge, this hike will reward you with memories that will last a lifetime.
Zebra Slot Canyon
- Location: Grand Staircase-Escalante National Monument
- Distance: 5.3 miles out and back
- Best for: Moderate to more experienced hikers
- Best time to go: April to November
Brace yourself for an unforgettable experience as you venture into the enchanting depths of Zebra Slot Canyon, nestled within the vast and awe-inspiring landscape of Grand Staircase – Escalante National Monument. This masterpiece of nature reveals sandstone features that will leave you in awe.
As you venture deeper into the canyon, you’ll be enveloped by the sheer beauty of the rocks, their curves and crevices forming striated patterns only Mother Nature could create. Every twist and turn in the trail presents a new challenge, keeping you on your toes and your senses heightened. This hike requires a moderate level of skill and experience. The terrain can be slippery, and some sections may require scrambling and maneuvering through narrow passageways.
The best time to visit Zebra Slot Canyon is during the spring or fall, when the temperatures are milder and the crowds are thinner. However, if you’re looking for a more adventurous experience, consider going in the summer months when flash floods can transform the canyon into an exhilarating aquatic playground. Just make sure to check weather conditions before embarking on your journey.
Leprechaun Canyon
- Location: North Wash, near Hanksvile
- Distance: 2.2 miles out-and-back
- Best for: Those with canyoneering experience
- Best time to go: spring and fall when weather is cooler
- Equipment: Rappelling ropes and gear and wetsuits.
Welcome to the enchanting realm of Leprechaun Canyon, a slot canyon hidden in the stunning landscapes of Utah. This canyon is a must-visit for adventure seekers and nature lovers alike. Made of sandstone walls with intricate patterns carved by centuries of erosion, Leprechaun Canyon is accessible even for those with limited canyoneering experience.
But what sets Leprechaun Canyon apart from the rest? Besides its whimsical name, this slot canyon is a combination of enthralling natural beauty and exploration. You’ll find yourself navigating through reeds, clambering over small obstacles, and soaking in the sheer wonder of this geological wonderland. But the effort is well worth it. The unique formations, the interplay of light and shadow, and the sense of adventure will leave you yearning for more.
The Subway (Top Down Approach)
- Location: Zion National Park
- Distance: 9.5 miles
- Best for: Experienced climbers. Involves canyoneering
- Best time to go: Later summer through early October
- Equipment: Rappelling ropes and gear and wetsuits.
- Permit is required: Click Here
This natural wonder is a unique blend of challenges and rewards. As you navigate through the narrow canyon walls, be prepared for stunning sights and extraordinary formations. Imagine being surrounded by tubular subway-like structures, creating a breathtaking backdrop for your journey. Get your cameras ready because this place is a photographer’s dream.
However, The Subway isn’t for the faint of heart. It demands endurance, rappelling skills, and extensive route-finding experience. You’ll need to bring your A-game and come prepared with a 60-foot rope to conquer this trail. Conquering this slot canyon will reward you with a canyoneering experience like no other.
So if you’re ready to dive into the depths of one of Utah’s most beautiful and diverse slot canyons, the Subway is calling your name. Just remember, permits are hard to come by, so make sure to plan ahead and secure yours. The Subway Slot Canyon awaits, and it’s time to embark on this epic journey through the heart of Zion National Park!
Gateway Luxury RV Resort – Your Slot Canyon Base
Attention all adventurers and nature enthusiasts! Get ready to experience the ultimate outdoor getaway at Gateway Luxury RV Resort. Situated in the heart of southern Utah, this resort is a gateway to a world of awe-inspiring beauty and thrilling exploration. Nestled in close proximity to the renowned slot canyons of Zion National Park and Grand Staircase – Escalante National Monument, it offers the perfect basecamp for your epic adventures.
At Gateway Luxury RV Resort, you’ll find top-notch amenities that cater to both comfort and adventure. From spacious and well-equipped RV sites to cozy cabins, they have accommodations to suit every traveler’s needs. Imagine waking up to breathtaking views of towering red cliffs and majestic landscapes right at your doorstep. The resort also boasts modern facilities including clean showers, laundry facilities, and a friendly staff to ensure your stay is nothing short of exceptional.
Plan your vacation and book now.
