East Zion Slot Canyon UTV Tour & Guided Crimson Hike

Summary

Slot canyon adventure in Utah’s wild backcountry with private access

You’ll ride off-road from Orderville in a UTV with your local guide, heading into East Zion’s private slot canyons far from crowds. Climb over boulders inside crimson sandstone walls, see ancient Native American writings, and learn how these canyons formed — all before bouncing back through Utah’s wild country. It’s gritty, hands-on adventure you’ll remember.

What’s the experience like?

The first thing I noticed was the red dust — it got everywhere, even before we climbed into the UTV. Our guide, Jake (he grew up around here), grinned and handed me a bandana. “You’ll want this,” he said, and yeah, he was right. The ride out from Orderville was loud and bumpy, but honestly kind of addictive — you could smell sage and that dry mineral scent you only get out West. We bounced along for maybe 20 minutes, passing nobody except a couple of cows that didn’t care at all about us.

When we pulled up to the slot canyon entrance, it felt like stepping onto another planet. The walls were so close together in places I had to turn sideways, and the light kept changing — sometimes all gold and then suddenly cool and blue. Jake pointed out some old Native American markings on the rock; I tried to pronounce what he called them (petroglyphs?), but he just laughed and told me not to overthink it. There was this one spot where you have to scramble up a boulder almost twice my height — Jake gave me a hand, no judgment when I hesitated. My heart was pounding for a second there.

I didn’t expect how quiet it would be inside the canyon. Even our group hushed up after a while — just boots scraping sandstone and someone’s nervous laugh echoing off the walls. It’s not an easy walk; you need to be able to haul yourself over some big rocks (I’m still sore), but I liked that about it. Felt realer somehow than those crowded trails near Zion proper. On the way back, my shoes were full of sand and my hair was wild, but I couldn’t stop grinning. Still think about that silence sometimes.

Step-by-step itinerary

Day 1 — UTV ride and slot canyon hike

• Depart from Orderville in UTV
• Traverse rugged backcountry trail
• Enter private access slot canyon
• Hike into narrow sandstone canyon
• Climb over 8-10ft boulders
• View ancient Native American writings
• Learn about canyon formation
• Take photos inside canyon
• Return to UTV and starting point

Top questions

How long is the East Zion slot canyon UTV tour?

The tour includes travel from Orderville by UTV plus hiking in the slot canyon; plan for several hours total.

Is this tour suitable for beginners?

No—travelers need moderate fitness and must climb 8-10 foot boulders inside the canyon.

Where does the tour start?

The adventure begins in Orderville, Utah.

Will there be water or cold weather in the canyon?

Sometimes there’s standing water or cold weather; guides adjust routes as needed for safety.

Are guides included on this East Zion hike?

Yes—a licensed local guide leads both the UTV ride and canyon hike.

What should I bring for this slot canyon adventure?

Wear clothes you don’t mind getting dusty or sandy; bring layers for possible cold weather.

Can pregnant travelers join this UTV & hike tour?

No—the tour isn’t recommended for pregnant travelers or those with spinal/cardiovascular issues.

What’s included

Your day includes a guided off-road UTV ride from Orderville into private-access slot canyons of East Zion, all led by a licensed local guide who helps you navigate boulder climbs and shares stories about Native American rock art along the way—then brings you safely back after your hike.