Kanab: Red Canyon Off-Road Jeep and Hiking Tour

Imagine a breathtaking drive into a landscape more like Mars than Utah — rugged, dusty, and streaked with vibrant reds. That’s what you get with the Red Canyon Off-Road Jeep and Hiking Tour, based just outside Kanab. For $198 per group (up to 2 people), you’ll spend about 1.5 hours exploring the striking Peek-a-Boo Canyon, with a bit of off-road adventure and a leisurely hike thrown in.

What makes this trip worth considering? First, the guided Jeep ride is a chance to sit back and enjoy the spectacular scenery without the fatigue of a long hike. Second, the friendly, knowledgeable guides keep the experience informative and engaging, making it more than just a scenic drive. That said, it’s a short tour, so if you’re craving a full-day adventure or multiple canyon explorations, you might look elsewhere.

This experience suits travelers who appreciate easy outdoor activities, want to see stunning landscapes without strenuous effort, and enjoy hearing stories about the land from local guides. It’s ideal for families with kids, couples, or solo travelers who want a personalized and authentic taste of Utah’s red-rock country.

Key Points

• Comfortable, guided off-road Jeep ride into Red Canyon, with insightful commentary
• Easy hike available for all ages, perfect for a relaxed exploration
• Stunning canyon walls and dusty landscape provide excellent photo opportunities
• Small group setting (limited to 4 participants) for a more personal experience
• Flexible booking options with free cancellation up to 24 hours in advance
• Value for money with included transportation, guide, bottled water, and the scenic drive

You can check availability for your dates here:

The Experience in Detail

The tour starts at the Moqui Cave Natural History Museum, a quirky but convenient meeting point just off Highway 89, about six miles north of Kanab. Once you check in, your guide — often a local with a wealth of stories — will load your group into a customized Jeep. The ride into Red Canyon feels like entering another world. Expect bumpy, dusty trails that wind through Mars-like landscapes—a landscape that’s as photogenic as it is surreal.

The drive itself is a highlight. As you bump along the red terrain, your guide provides commentary about the geology, history, and formation of the canyon. Several reviews praise guides like Tim, Mike, Tyson, and others for their informative narration and friendly demeanor. One traveler appreciated how “our guide, Mike, was very informative and pointed out a ton of things we would have missed without him.” These guides not only tell stories but also help you find the best spots for photos.

At the end of the Jeep ride, you’ll step out into the red sands for an easy hike. The trail through the canyon is suitable for all ages, with just a few minor obstacles like a small ladder and logs to climb over. The canyon walls rise in towering, sculpted formations — perfect for capturing stunning photos. One reviewer raved, “Lots of time to take pictures and enjoy the natural beauty,” emphasizing how relaxed and unhurried this part of the tour can be.

The hike’s pace is leisurely, so you don’t need to be an experienced hiker to enjoy it. Your guide might point out interesting features and formations, enriching your understanding of the landscape. The reviews confirm this: “He shared a lot of interesting facts and was very friendly,” says one happy visitor.

The tour concludes with a comfortable ride back to the start point, where bottled water is provided — a simple but appreciated touch on hot days.

What We Love About This Tour

One of the best parts is the combination of off-road adventure with light hiking. You get the thrill of a Jeep ride over rugged terrain and a chance to stretch your legs in the canyon. The small group format makes it feel intimate, allowing for personalized interaction and plenty of photo opportunities. The guides’ knowledge adds a layer of richness to the experience — they’re eager to share facts, answer questions, and help you take memorable photos.

Another highlight is the stunning scenery. The canyon’s towering red walls and dusty landscapes evoke the kind of scenery that makes Utah famous. Multiple reviews mention the natural beauty and how it exceeds expectations. One guest noted, “It exceeded my expectations. The canyon is beautiful and worth every penny,” reflecting the value many feel they get from this guided outing.

Possible Drawbacks or Considerations

While many reviews rave about the experience, it’s worth noting that the tour is relatively short at 1.5 hours. If you’re after a full-day adventure or multiple canyon visits, this might feel limited. Also, the off-road driving can be bumpy, which might not suit everyone — especially pregnant women or those with back problems. The terrain is rugged, so expect a fun yet bouncy ride.

The hike, while easy, does involve minimal climbing and uneven surfaces, so good footwear is recommended. Lastly, the tour does not include snacks, so bringing your own or planning for a meal afterward is sensible.

Is This Tour for You?

If you’re visiting Kanab and want a short, scenic adventure with a knowledgeable guide, this tour ticks many boxes. It’s perfect if you’re traveling with kids or older family members who prefer a manageable hike but still want to see impressive canyon walls. It’s also great for photographers seeking unique shots of the red landscape with minimal effort.

On the other hand, if you’re looking for a longer, more strenuous adventure or a full exploration of multiple canyons, you might want to consider other options. But for a quick, high-value taste of Utah’s iconic scenery, this tour offers an excellent introduction.

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The Itinerary Breakdown

• Meet at Moqui Cave — the quirky starting point that’s easy to find and has a bit of local flavor
• Jeep ride into Red Canyon — about 15-20 minutes of bumpy, scenic driving through striking terrain, with commentary from your guide
• Stop for exploration — hop out and stroll through the spectacular canyon walls, with plenty of photo opportunities
• Leisurely hike — a flat, accessible trail through the canyon, suitable for all ages with minimal obstacles
• Return to the start point — after absorbing the scenery and snapping photos, hop back onto the Jeep for the short ride back, with bottled water included

This straightforward flow ensures you get plenty of remarkable views without feeling rushed, making it a perfect fit for families, couples, or solo travelers wanting a taste of Utah’s natural beauty.

Authentic Insights from Travelers

Many reviews highlight the personal touch of the guides. One customer remarked, “Jc was a very knowledgeable guide. I hope he received our tip,” reflecting the genuine connection and appreciation felt during these small-group excursions. Others appreciated the capturing of their memories — guides often offered to take photos, making sure you leave with great pictures.

The scenery consistently comes up as a major highlight, with one visitor noting, “The canyon is beautiful and has a lot of history,” emphasizing that this isn’t just a scenic drive but an opportunity to learn about the area’s natural features.

The Sum Up

This Red Canyon Off-Road Jeep and Hiking Tour offers a compact, visually stunning adventure that combines rugged off-road driving with a relaxed walk through some of Utah’s most photogenic scenery. The small group size and knowledgeable guides elevate the experience from just sightseeing to a memorable story-sharing outing.

It’s particularly suited for those who want an authentic outdoor experience without the physical toll of a strenuous hike or long day. It’s an ideal choice for families, couples, and solo travelers eager to see Utah’s iconic red landscape while enjoying personal attention and expert insights.

For a short but memorable taste of Utah’s striking terrain, this tour delivers great value, beautiful views, and the chance to capture photographs that will keep memories alive long after your trip ends.

FAQ

Is this tour suitable for children?
Yes, the hike is described as suitable for all ages, making it a family-friendly activity that combines fun with stunning scenery.

How long does the tour last?
The total experience runs about 1.5 hours, including the Jeep ride and the walk through the canyon.

Where do I meet my guide?
At the Moqui Cave Natural History Museum, located just off Highway 89, six miles north of Kanab. Look for the ROAM sign on the fence.

What should I bring?
While bottled water is provided, it’s a good idea to wear comfortable shoes suitable for walking on uneven terrain. Snacks are not included, so bring your own if desired.

Is the tour physically demanding?
No, the hike is easy, and the jeep ride, while bumpy, is manageable for most travelers. However, it’s not recommended for pregnant women or those with back problems.

Can I cancel if my plans change?
Yes, you can cancel up to 24 hours in advance for a full refund, offering flexibility if your schedule shifts.

Are the guides knowledgeable?
Absolutely. Many reviews praise guides like Tim, Mike, Tyson, and others for their informative and friendly approach, adding depth to the experience.

Is this tour good for photographers?
Yes, the scenery offers great photo opportunities. Guides are often willing to assist with capturing your best shots.

Does the tour include transportation?
Yes, round-trip transport from Moqui Cave is included, saving you the hassle of navigating yourself to the canyon.

With its combination of easy accessibility, stunning views, and a personal touch, the Kanab Red Canyon Jeep and Hiking Tour is a fantastic way to experience Utah’s iconic red-rock landscapes without overextending yourself. Whether you’re a first-timer or a seasoned outdoor lover, you’ll find plenty to love about this small-group adventure.

You can check availability for your dates here: