The Top 10 Must-See Slot Canyons in Southern Utah

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. View the Trail 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. View the Trail 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. View the Trail 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. View the Trail 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

Discover Zion Vineyards: A Hidden Gem in Southern Utah

Located among the towing red rocks near the town of Leeds, Zion Vineyards offers an exceptional wine-tasting experience in the heart of Southern Utah. This picturesque winery is a must-visit destination for wine enthusiasts and travelers exploring the stunning landscapes of Zion National Park and its surroundings. Here’s everything you need to know about Zion Vineyards, from its award-winning wines to the unique experiences it offers. A Brief History of Zion Vineyards Zion Vineyards was established in 2013 and quickly gained recognition for its high-quality wines. Located in an area with volcanic soils, high altitude, and a climate similar to renowned wine-producing regions like Southern Italy and Spain, Zion Vineyards benefits from ideal grape-growing conditions. The combination of warm days, cool nights, and a long growing season produces grapes with intense flavors and robust tannins. Award-Winning Wines Zion Vineyards has earned multiple awards at the Utah Wine Festival, solidifying its reputation for producing exceptional wines. Some of their standout varieties include:   Tempranillo: A full-bodied red with complex flavors, this wine won a gold medal at the 2022 Utah Wine Festival. Cabernet Sauvignon: Known for its depth and bold character, the 2020 vintage is a favorite among visitors. Syrah: A rich and aromatic red, perfect for pairing with hearty meals. Visiting the Tasting Room Opened in May 2023, the tasting room at Zion Vineyards offers a welcoming and laid-back atmosphere. Here’s what you can expect: Tasting Experience: For $25, guests can enjoy five 1-ounce pours of their choice. The tasting room is open seven days a week, and while walk-ins are welcome, larger groups are encouraged to make a reservation. Vineyard Tours: Explore the scenic vineyard with guided tours that provide insight into the winemaking process and the region’s unique terroir. Special Events: Zion Vineyards hosts a variety of events, including wine yoga sessions and seasonal celebrations, making it a lively spot for both locals and tourists. Why Zion Vineyards Stands Out From unparalleled landscapes to uniqueue offerings, here are a few reasons why Zion Vineyards stands out from the rest: Scenic Location: Situated near Zion National Park, the vineyard offers breathtaking views of the rugged Utah landscape. Visitors can enjoy their wine while taking in the stunning scenery. Expert Craftsmanship: Owner Michael Jackson (yes, that’s his real name) and winemaker Robert Cec are dedicated to producing wines with bold flavors and a depth of character. Their passion for winemaking is evident in every bottle. Unique Experiences: Beyond wine tasting, Zion Vineyards offers a range of activities that cater to diverse interests, from educational tours to relaxed, casual tastings. Planning Your Visit When planning your visit to Zion Vineyards, consider these tips: Best Time to Visit: Spring and fall are ideal for visiting, offering pleasant weather for outdoor activities and vineyard tours. Reservations: Make reservations for larger groups or special events to ensure a seamless experience. Local Attractions: Combine your vineyard visit with a trip to Zion National Park, where you can explore hiking trails, scenic drives, and stunning vistas. Stay at Gateway Luxury RV Resort For a complete and comfortable stay in Southern Utah, book your accommodations at Gateway Luxury RV Resort. Located just a short drive from Zion Vineyards, our resort offers: Spacious RV Sites: Equipped with modern amenities and stunning views. Luxury Facilities: Enjoy access to pools, fitness centers, and recreational areas. Convenient Location: Proximity to Zion National Park, local restaurants, and other attractions. A trip to Zion Vineyards paired with the comfort of Gateway Luxury RV Resort is the perfect combo. Prepare to create unforgettable memories in one of the most beautiful parts of the country while enjoying locally-grown wines. Whether you’re a wine connoisseur or a nature lover, this trip promises an enriching and relaxing experience for any kind of traveler. Book your stay today!

Utah Helicopter Tours of Zion National Park

Hitching a ride on a helicopter tour is one of the most unique and coolest ways to see Zion National Park. Instead of needing to climb up Observation Point, you can effortlessly fly up and get the perfect view of the canyon walls and green valley below. So how do you get a helicopter adventure organized? It’s actually fairly simple. You just need to visit the tour company’s website you’re interested in, pick a date and time for your excursion, and show up at the right time! Need more info about the ride? We’ll help you out with this Zion Helicopters guide. Are helicopter tours safe? There will always be risks associated with flying high in the sky, but helicopters are actually safer than people realize. While there is a higher risk in riding a helicopter than in a commercial plane, helicopters are considered safer than riding in a car or truck. The dryer and more predictable climate of southern Utah makes storms less common and easier to plan around, which would be the main problem  What should I bring? Every tour lasts roughly an hour to two hours, so you shouldn’t need to bring much. However, if you’d like a packing list with suggestions, we can give you some! Jackets, Jeans, Closed Toed Shoes, Long-Sleeve Shirts (remember it gets cold at high altitudes!) Binoculars Camera or Phone (why not take iconic pictures of your own?) Snacks or Lunch (if you’re staying on the butte for the allotted 30 minutes) How much are the tours? Tours range in price from $99 to $650 depending on the group, the time of year and day, and where you plan on flying. We recommend you take a look at the specific tour websites below for specific pricing options. What’s the best time of day to go? While it ultimately depends on when you’d like to go, many guests like to get a helicopter tour done early in the morning. Alternatively a sunset helicopter tour with the one that you love could set the stage for a romantic proposal or celebration during a special anniversary. Zion Helicopters Address: 3050 East, UT-9, Virgin, UT Hours: 9AM – 6PM Phone: 435-668-4185 As you drive to Springdale, you’ll see Zion Helicopters on your right. Its convenient location makes it a prime tour company to work with, as they are not only a hop, skip, and a jump from the gates of Zion, but they are fairly close to Bryce Canyon as well. Prices may fluctuate with the times, so we ask everyone to look at their website for the most accurate info. Zion Helicopters offers a few different adventure options—each highlighting a different section of Zion. These are just a few of the tours they offer, so check out their site for other tour information. 15 Mile Zion Panoramic Flight This basic 10-minute experience has stunning views of Zion National Park with pilot narration throughout the experience. 35 Mile Zion Panoramic Flight This is a 20-minute experience that gives you a glimpse into Zion and Red Butte Mountain. 55 Mile Zion Canaan Cliffs Tour The tour company offers a stunning aerial view of the Kolob Canyons, West Zion, and Smith Mesa for a half-hour. 100-Mile Tour This package is the real deal! Enjoy seeing Zion National Park, the Canaan Mountain Wilderness, and a Private Butte hangout for a half-hour with a picnic table (perfect for engagements.) This full-fledged tour lasts 1 ½ hours, and will make your trip all the more special. Where should I stay? For an elegant stay after an elegant experience we highly recommend you visit Gateway Luxury RV Resort! We are one of the best resorts near Zion National Park, and have tons of excellent activities and amenities onsite for you to enjoy.

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