East Zion: Crimson Slot Canyon Exploration and UTV Tour
If you’re visiting Utah’s East Zion and craving a mix of adventure, scenery, and learning, the Crimson Slot Canyon tour could be perfect. For just $109 per person, you get about two hours of excitement—starting with a thrilling UTV ride and ending in a stunning hike through narrow, towering sandstone canyons. Led by knowledgeable guides, this outing offers a rare chance to explore remote backcountry far from the crowds that often swarm Zion National Park’s main attractions.
What makes this tour stand out? First, the diverse terrain means you’ll experience off-road riding in a customized UTV, and then switch to a more intimate walk through spectacular red canyon walls that reach over 100 feet high. Second, the guides are praised for their expertise and friendliness, making the experience both safe and fun. We particularly like that it combines adventure with education, as guides share Native American history and geological insights.
One possible consideration is that the hike involves climbing over large boulders up to 10 feet tall, so some physical exertion and agility are required. If you’re not in good shape or have mobility restrictions, this might be less suitable. Still, for active travelers eager to step off the beaten path and into the stunning scenery of East Zion, this tour offers excellent value and authentic adventure.
This tour is especially well-suited for adventure seekers, families with older kids, and anyone wanting a behind-the-scenes look at Zion’s less-visited corners. It’s not just sightseeing—it’s an active day in one of Utah’s most beautiful landscapes.
You can check availability for your dates here:Key Points
- Unique combination of UTV off-roading and a hiking experience through slot canyons
- Expert guides who provide educational insights and photography tips
- Remote, less crowded locations far from Zion’s busier areas
- Physically moderate but includes some scrambling over boulders
- Great value for the price, with small group sizes for personalized attention
- Suitable for active, mobile travelers interested in geology, Native American history, and adventure
Planning more time in Orderville? We've covered other experiences worth considering.
Detailed Review of the Crimson Slot Canyon Tour
The Itinerary: What to Expect
From the moment you arrive at the meeting point—a cozy coffee shop attached to a Sinclair Gas Station in Orderville—you’ll sense this is a laid-back but well-organized adventure. Check-in is straightforward, with friendly staff, and it’s easy to get directions and any last-minute questions answered.
The first part of the tour involves hopping into a customized UTV, a side-by-side vehicle designed for off-road terrain. Our guides, Lonnie and Mark, or others like them, lead the way, narrating the journey and pointing out interesting features along the way. The ride to the canyon is part of the fun—expect bumpy patches, dust, and a sense of exploration as you navigate through dirt roads and rocky paths. Several reviews highlighted how much fun the ride itself is, with one guest noting, “The ATV ride is fun in itself.”
Once at the canyon, the real adventure begins. The slot canyon is a narrow, winding passage with red sandstone walls that tower above you, sometimes only 6-10 feet apart. The climb over large boulders—8 to 10 feet tall—adds a physical element, but guides are there to help. If you’re worried about maneuvering through tight spaces or climbing, it’s good to know that participants should be physically capable of this kind of activity. Several reviews echoed this, with one saying, “You do need to be in decent physical shape for this,” but also noting that guides are very encouraging.
As you hike deeper into the canyon, you’ll learn about Native American writings and the natural forces that carved these formations. Our guide pointed out Native American historical writings, and the storytelling added a meaningful layer to the scenery. The canyon’s red and orange hues make for incredible photographs, so bring a camera or smartphone with plenty of storage.
Highlights and Special Features
The Off-Road UTV Ride: The ride is a highlight because it offers access to hard-to-reach remote areas. It’s also a fantastic way to cover more ground than on foot alone. The customized vehicles are comfortable, and the guides are skilled at making the ride safe and exciting.
The Slot Canyon Hike: Walking through the tight, winding passages is both exhilarating and humbling. The canyon walls, sometimes only a few feet apart, create a sense of being inside a natural sculpture. The height of the walls and their vivid colors evoke a feeling of stepping into a natural cathedral. According to reviews, the guides excel at teaching techniques for climbing and maneuvering over boulders, which adds an element of skill-building.
Native American Writings and Geology: The guides’ storytelling adds depth to the experience, helping you appreciate the cultural significance of the area. They also explain the geological processes that shaped the canyons, giving you a better understanding of these stunning formations.
Stunning Photography Opportunities: Guests frequently mention capturing amazing photos—from wide shots of canyon walls to close-ups of textured sandstone. Guides often act as photo assistants, helping guests find the best angles.
More Great Tours NearbyThe Experience: Pros and Cons
What We Love
First, the personalized attention from guides like John, Lonnie, and Tate. Their enthusiasm and knowledge make the experience engaging and educational. One review summed it up, saying, “John was hilarious and informative,” which shows how much personality these guides bring to the tour.
Second, the quality of scenery—the canyons are breathtaking, with vivid red hues and towering walls. Guests consistently described their awe at the natural beauty, with one calling it “more than I ever expected,” and another noting how “the canyon is so cool.”
A Consideration
The main limitation is the physical aspect of the hike—climbing over large boulders, sometimes in water, might not suit everyone. Several reviews pointed out that you need to be in decent shape and prepared for some strenuous activity. Water in the canyons can also be present during certain months, requiring waterproof shoes or quick drying gear.
Value for Money
At $109, this tour offers a lot of adventure for a reasonable price. The small group size—limited to five participants—means more personalized guidance and better photo opportunities. It’s also a great introduction to Zion’s lesser-visited areas, often missed by larger tours or day-trippers.
Why This Tour Works Well
It’s ideal if you’re a traveler who craves active experiences, appreciates learning about geology and Native American history, and wants to explore Zion’s more secluded spots. Families with older children and those comfortable with some physical activity will find this especially rewarding. It’s not suited for pregnant women or those with mobility issues, given the climbing involved.
Practical Tips
- Bring hiking shoes, water, snacks, and weather-appropriate clothing.
- Wear grippy shoes if water is present.
- Be prepared for some physical exertion—bouldering, climbing, and possibly wading in water.
- Check the season—certain months may have standing water, prompting an alternate canyon route.
- Arrive on time at the meeting point, and remember the tour operates in Mountain Daylight Time.
The Sum Up
The East Zion Crimson Slot Canyon tour offers a rare mix of adventure, natural beauty, and educational storytelling. It’s perfect for travelers who want to actively explore Zion’s hidden corners while learning about the area’s geology and Native American history. The small group size and expert guides ensure a personal, memorable experience, especially for those comfortable with some climbing and water crossings.
If you’re looking for value and authenticity in a Zion tour, and don’t mind a bit of physical activity, this outing delivers. It’s a wonderful way to see less-crowded scenery, capture spectacular photos, and gain a deeper appreciation for the natural forces shaping the canyon landscape.
For those seeking a dynamic, hands-on adventure with friendly guides and stunning vistas, this trip in East Zion is well worth the time—and a genuine highlight of a Utah trip.
FAQ
Is this tour suitable for kids?
If children are older and comfortable with physical activity and climbing, they might enjoy it. Check with the tour provider for age restrictions.
How long does the UTV ride last?
The entire experience lasts about 2 hours, including both the ride and hike.
What should I bring?
Bring hiking shoes, water, snacks, weather-appropriate clothing, hat, jacket, gloves, and a camera. Waterproof shoes are recommended if water is present in the canyon.
Is the tour physically demanding?
Yes, it involves climbing over large boulders and maneuvering through narrow spaces. Participants should be in decent physical shape.
Can I cancel if my plans change?
Yes, you can cancel up to 24 hours in advance for a full refund.
Do I need to pay upfront?
You can reserve and pay later, giving you flexibility to plan your trip.
What language is the tour guided in?
The tour is conducted in English.
Are pets allowed?
No, pets are not permitted on this tour.
What if there’s standing water during the trip?
The guides will take an alternate route to a second canyon to keep everyone safe and dry.
Is this suitable for pregnant women or those with mobility issues?
No, it’s not recommended for pregnant women or individuals with mobility impairments due to the climbing and strenuous parts of the hike.
How many people are in each group?
The tour is limited to 5 participants, ensuring a small, personalized experience.