Canyoneering and Rappelling in Zion National Park

Three rappels through a slot canyon that twists and turns

Canyoneering and rappelling in Zion National Park combines a jeep ride through Southern Utah's rough terrain, a hike along red rock to a slot canyon rim, and three rappels down through the canyon's narrow passages with a certified guide managing the ropes. The activity runs 3 to 4 hours and suits families with children from age 8 who have at least moderate fitness. A live English-speaking guide leads throughout.

Step-by-step itinerary

Jeep ride and canyoneering adventure

• Ride jeeps through rough mountains
• Hike along red rock to slot canyon
• Harness up with certified guide
• Rappel down into slot canyon
• Explore canyon twists and turns
• Complete two more rappels
• Learn about unique rock formations

The experience

The day starts with a rugged jeep ride through the mountains of Southern Utah, descending into sandy washes and climbing rough terrain to reach the base of the slot canyon. From there, a hike along red rock takes you to the top of the canyon where the rappelling begins. Your certified guide sets up the ropes and harnesses before you make your first descent into the canyon walls.

Once you're harnessed in, you rappel down and work your way through the canyon's twists and turns: the walls narrow and shift as you descend. You'll make two more rappels through the secluded slot canyon, each one revealing different rock formations. The guide leads you through the obstacles, managing the rope setup and explaining the unique geology of the canyon as you move through it. The canyon's isolation means you're away from crowds, seeing formations most people only see in pictures.

Bring warm layers if you're going in fall or winter: hats, gloves and coats make a real difference in the canyon. The activity requires at least moderate fitness and involves climbing, rappelling and navigating tight spaces, so it's not a passive experience. Children from age 8 can join, though they need to manage the physical demands alongside adults.

What’s included

• Jeep ride through Southern Utah terrain.
• hike along red rock to the canyon rim.
• three rappels with rope setup and harness management by a certified guide.
• canyoneering equipment.

Information

Lasts 3h–4h, from US$ 201.42 per person, with a live guide in English, in groups of up to 5 and with free cancellation up to 24 h before.

Days and timesNext departure: 1 Mar 20279 departing soon ›

GroupUp to 57 private ›

Live guideEnglishOther languages ›

Meeting point and pickupNo hotel pickup: you go to the meeting point. Ends back at the starting point.3 with pickup ›

Book up to12h before

AgesAdult (18 to 75 years) · Youth (8 to 17 years) · Under 8: can't be booked

Cancellation and refundsFree cancellation up to 24 h before the start. After that, no refund.It may be canceled due to bad weather. If that happens, you're offered another date or a refund.

Prices and times updated 2 days ago

Good to know

Moderate physical effortNot recommended during pregnancyNot recommended with heart problemsNot recommended with back problems

Operated by East Zion Adventures

Is this one for you?The live English-speaking guide manages all rope setup and leads you through the canyon's obstacles, so you focus on the rappelling itself rather than the technical work: a setup that works for families and first-time rappellers who want instruction without doing the rigging.

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Top questions

Can children come?

Yes. Ticket types: Youth (8 to 17 years). Children under 8 can't be included in the booking.

What happens if it rains?

It may be canceled due to bad weather. If that happens, you're offered another date or a refund. Free cancellation up to 24 h before the start.

What does the jeep ride involve in this canyoneering activity?

The jeep ride takes you through the rough mountains of Southern Utah, summiting terrain and descending into sandy washes to reach the base of the slot canyon where the hike and rappelling begin.

How many times do I rappel in Elkheart Canyon?

You make three rappels total: the first after hiking to the canyon rim, then two more as you work your way through the slot canyon's passages.

What's included in the canyoneering equipment?

The activity includes harnesses, ropes and all gear your certified guide sets up and manages for the rappels. You don't bring or assemble any of it yourself.

Is this activity suitable for my 10-year-old?

Children from age 8 are welcome, though they need at least moderate physical fitness to handle the jeep ride, hike and rappelling.

What should I wear for a winter canyoneering trip?

Bring hats, gloves and warm coats: the canyon stays cold in fall and winter months, and you'll be in the shade between narrow walls.