East Zion: Horseback Ride & Slot Canyon Small-Group Tour

Summary

Horseback riding white mountain slot canyon east zion tour

You’ll ride real horses with a local guide through East Zion’s quieter trails before exploring a beautiful slot canyon on foot—no big crowds or touristy rush here. Expect cold air in fall or winter and friendly help for beginners. You’ll remember the silence of those canyon walls long after your boots are dusty again.

What’s the experience like?

The first thing that happened was my hat nearly flew off as we saddled up at the stables in East Zion. The wind was colder than I’d guessed—should’ve listened about those gloves. Our guide, Josh, handed me a pair he had in his bag (I think they were his backup ones), and told me not to worry about being a beginner. He introduced us to our horses—mine was called Daisy, who seemed more interested in sniffing my coat than anything else. The horses looked well cared for, and Josh checked every strap twice before we set off.

The trail started out easy, just crunching along underfoot with that dry Utah smell—like dust and pine needles mixing together. We could see the White Mountain ahead, pale against the sky. There weren’t any crowds here, just our small group and the occasional hawk overhead. Josh pointed out some marks on the rock walls where water had carved its way through over years; he said something about how these slot canyons are what people come to Zion for, but this one stays pretty quiet since it’s away from the main park traffic. I liked that part more than I expected.

After maybe 25 minutes (I lost track), we left the horses tied up by some scrubby trees and started into the slot canyon on foot. The air changed right away—cooler, almost echoey between the stone walls—and you could smell wet earth even though it hadn’t rained in days. There were a few spots where you had to squeeze sideways or climb over smooth boulders; nothing too wild, but enough to make you feel like you’d earned it. Someone slipped (not me this time), and everyone laughed except for Daisy who just waited patiently outside chewing on something. On the way back I kept thinking about how quiet it was out there—no cars, no crowds—just hoofbeats and our voices bouncing around those narrow walls.

Step-by-step itinerary

Day 1 — Horseback ride and slot canyon walk

• Attend riding lesson at stables
• Ride horses toward slot canyon
• Dismount and walk up narrow canyon
• Navigate small obstacles on foot
• Return to stables on horseback

Top questions

Is there a weight limit for the East Zion horseback tour?

Yes, there is a strict 220lbs weight limit for all guests.

Do I need horseback riding experience for this tour?

No experience is needed; a brief riding lesson is included at the stables.

How long do we spend riding versus walking?

You ride for about 25 minutes each way and walk through the slot canyon after dismounting.

Are guides included on this East Zion horseback & slot canyon tour?

Yes, local guides lead both the horseback ride and canyon walk.

What should I wear for an East Zion horseback ride in winter?

Bring hats, gloves, coats—layers are important due to cold weather conditions.

Is this tour suitable for people with health issues?

This activity isn’t recommended for pregnant travelers or those with spinal or cardiovascular issues.

Are animals and equipment provided?

Yes, all necessary animals (horses) and equipment are provided by the operator.

What’s included

Your day includes all animals and equipment needed for horseback riding plus guidance from experienced locals throughout both the ride and canyon walk—you just show up ready to ride (and maybe bring your own gloves if it’s cold).