Zion National Park is famous for its dramatic sandstone cliffs, winding trails, and vibrant landscapes. It’s a place where nature’s artistry is on full display, and it’s no wonder that tours in Zion draw travelers eager to experience its grandeur firsthand. Whether you’re into rugged slot canyon hikes like East Zion Crimson Canyon Hike & UTV Adventure, or prefer a scenic Jeep sunset tour, Zion’s variety of experiences offers something for every adventurer. Personally, I’m particularly drawn to the canyoneering tours, which let you rappel into some of the park’s most secluded and stunning canyons, giving a true sense of exploration.
In this list, we’ve gathered the 16 best tours in Zion, covering everything from family-friendly horseback rides to extreme via ferrata adventures. Each offers a unique way to see the park’s iconic landscape, with detailed descriptions to help you pick just the right excursion. Whether you’re looking for a quick thrill or a full-day deep dive into Zion’s rugged backcountry, this guide will help you choose the perfect tour.
Quick Overview of Zion Tours
Zion’s tours cover a broad spectrum—from 2-hour slot canyon hikes like Guided Hike through Peek-a-Boo Slot Canyon to full-day canyoneering adventures like East Zion 4 Hour Slot Canyon Canyoneering UTV Tour. Many tours feature private options, such as the Peek-A-Boo Slot Canyon Tour UTV Adventure, perfect for those wanting a personalized experience. For thrill-seekers, the via ferrata in East Zion Via Ferrata / Rappel Adventure offers a unique dose of adrenaline, while families may prefer the horseback ride through East Zion (https://happytovisit.com/small-group-east-zion-white-mountain-horseback-ride/).
Below, we detail each of these top tours, highlighting what makes them special and helping you find the best fit for your Zion adventure.
1. East Zion Crimson Canyon Hike & UTV Adventure
This small-group tour offers a fantastic taste of Zion’s secret backcountry, combining a UTV ride with a hike into a private slot canyon. Led by an experienced guide, you’ll venture into rugged terrain, climb obstacles reaching 10 feet high, and admire towering sandstone walls, all with minimal crowds. The personalized size of just five guests makes it feel more like a day with friends than a tour. Reviewers praise Don, the guide, for sharing rich landscape insights and making the climb fun. At just about $130 per person, the experience offers excellent value for a two-hour adventure that captures Zion’s wild beauty. Perfect for those who want a quick, immersive canyon experience away from busy trails.
Bottom line: A great choice for thrill-seekers and canyon lovers looking for a personalized, off-radar adventure.
2. Peek-A-Boo Slot Canyon Tour UTV Adventure (Private)
This private UTV tour whisks you into a less-trafficked Zion spot, ending with a short hike into the stunning Peek-A-Boo Slot Canyon. The private setting ensures your party’s safety and relaxed pace, with a guide sharing geological and historical insights. The optional sandboarding adds extra fun, making it a versatile outing. For about $129, the tour’s exclusivity and personalized attention make it a standout. Guests rave about the exciting UTV ride through sandy trails and the breathtaking canyon views. It’s suited for families, couples, or groups wanting a memorable, intimate Zion experience.
Bottom line: Perfect for travelers who value privacy and want a mix of adventure, scenery, and learning.
3. East Zion 4 Hour Slot Canyon Canyoneering UTV Tour
For around $174, this half-day canyoneering immerses you in Zion’s iconic red rock landscapes through hiking, rappelling, and UTV rides. It’s ideal for active travelers comfortable with steep terrain. Guides set up rappelling gear at six or seven locations, including Ladder Canyon near Sugar Knoll, where you’ll descend into spectacular narrow canyons. The tour is praised for personalized guidance and top-notch safety. Reviewers mention the amazing scenery and knowledgeable guides. This experience suits those with a moderate fitness level who want a full immersion into Zion’s canyonland.
Bottom line: A fantastic, action-packed option for canyon lovers who don’t mind a workout.
4. Guided Hike through Peek-a-Boo Slot Canyon (Small Group)
This 2-3 hour guided hike takes you into one of Zion’s most scenic Navajo Sandstone slot canyons. With a maximum of ten participants, it offers an intimate experience of the quiet and serene Peek-A-Boo Canyon. Your guide shares insights about the geology and history of the area, making it educational as well as beautiful. The hike is easy enough for most ages and fitness levels, making it ideal for families or casual hikers. Reviewers call it a “must-do” experience and appreciate the small group size, which keeps it personal and relaxed. For $69.50, it’s good value for the opportunity to explore Zion away from crowds.
Bottom line: An excellent, accessible tour for those wanting a peaceful, scenic hike with good company.
5. UTV Dune Cruise and Surf at Coral Pink Sand Dunes
This 2-hour adventure combines a UTV ride around Coral Pink Sand Dunes with sandboarding or sledding. For just $139, you get to explore the dunes and try your hand at sand surfing, with plenty of photo opportunities. Guides share stories about the area’s history and ecology, making it both fun and educational. The beginners-friendly activity is perfect for families or those wanting a more relaxed outdoor experience with a thrill. Reviewers love the fun ride and spectacular scenery, especially during sunset. It’s a different kind of Zion experience, more about dunes and fun than canyons, but equally memorable.
Bottom line: Ideal for families and adventure fans seeking a mix of dune riding and sandboarding.
6. East Zion Canyoneering: Elkheart Canyon & UTV Tour
This 4- to 3-hour canyoning experience combines rappelling, off-road driving, and a hike through Zion’s Elkheart Canyon. It’s for fit travelers who want a full-on adventure, including multiple rappels at various locations. The small-group size of ten ensures personalized attention, and reviewers praise the professional, friendly guides. The tour is especially suitable for those curious about Utah’s geology and rock formations. It costs about $201, reflecting its comprehensive nature and the specialized skills involved.
Bottom line: For thrill-seekers eager to rappel into Zion’s most picturesque canyons, this is a top pick.
7. Great Chamber/Peekaboo Slot Canyon UTV Tour 4hrs
At number 7, this 4-hour UTV tour offers a half-day adventure exploring Zion’s wild landscapes. It includes a half-mile walk through the canyon, visits to the Great Chamber, and a hidden lake inside a cave. The small group size enhances the experience, and the tour is suitable for active families with kids. Reviewers mention “outstanding scenery” and a “thrilling ATV ride” that makes this tour stand out. It costs $155 per person, which covers both the exploration and the scenic ride, making it a good value for a diverse experience.
Bottom line: Perfect for families or those wanting a mix of hiking and off-road fun.
8. Red Rock Slot Canyon
This 2-hour tour offers a close-up look at Zion’s spectacular slot canyons in a small group of just five people. You’ll explore two canyons with plenty of time for photos and enjoy an easy ATV ride through the region’s rugged terrain. The tour is especially friendly for families with kids or less active visitors. Reviewers describe it as “highly enjoyable” and praise guides for personalized attention. Starting at around $106, it’s an affordable way to experience Zion’s rock formations without the crowds, with options for morning or afternoon trips.
Bottom line: Great for those seeking a short, scenic, and intimate adventure.
9. YOU DRIVE! 4 People, 4 Hrs! Ultimate Peekaboo and Hog Canyon Tour
This group ATV tour—for up to four people—puts you behind the wheel of your own ATV for a 4-hour ride. Starting in Kanab, you’ll explore sand trails, drive into Hog Canyon, and visit the famed Peekaboo Slot Canyon. The self-driving aspect makes it extra fun, especially if you like a sense of control and adventure. Reviewers mention the stunning scenery and the expert guidance that keeps everyone safe. For $650 per group, it’s a premium experience suited for families or groups of friends looking for a personalized, off-road day.
Bottom line: Best for those who want to drive their own ATV and enjoy a flexible, hands-on Zion adventure.
10. Zion Sunset Jeep Tour
Cap off your day with this sunset Jeep tour, lasting just about 90 minutes. Starting at Zion’s East Zion area, your guide transports you to one of the highest points for breathtaking sunset views over Zion and Bryce. The relaxed pace, combined with snacks, blankets, and chairs, creates a cozy way to absorb Zion’s beauty. Reviewers highlight the “beautiful views” and the knowledgeable guides making the experience memorable. At $81, it’s a great budget-friendly option for a romantic or family sunset.
Bottom line: Ideal for travelers wanting a short, scenic, and comfortable end to their Zion day.
11. East Zion 2.5 Hour Slot Canyon Canyoneering UTV Tour
This family-friendly canyoning adventure lasts about 2.5 hours and features rappelling in a slot canyon near Zion. It’s tailored for those wanting hands-on canyoneering support with a small group of 10. The moderate itinerary includes practicing rappelling, exploring caves, and enjoying scenic views. Reviewers mention how much the kids loved it, and the friendly guides help everyone feel safe. At $119 per person, it offers a balanced mix of activity and scenery. Best suited for families or beginners eager to try canyoneering in a manageable setting.
Bottom line: A great choice for families wanting a hands-on, active Zion outing.
12. Small-Group East Zion White Mountain Horseback Ride
This 1-hour horseback ride combines Zion’s stunning slot canyons with a gentle ride suitable for all skill levels. The small-group format ensures a personal experience, and reviewers mention friendly guides and beautiful scenery. The horses are described as well-cared-for and calm, making it friendly for beginners. It’s an ideal way to see Zion’s landscape on horseback without the commitment of a full day. For $70, it’s a reasonably priced way to enjoy Zion’s natural beauty with a family or solo.
Bottom line: Perfect for those seeking a relaxed, scenic ride with a personal touch.
13. Peekaboo Slot Canyon 4WD Tour
This 3-hour tour uses a 4WD vehicle to access the Peekaboo Slot Canyon, avoiding the need for a strenuous hike. The guide, a local with deep knowledge, explains the geology and history, while you enjoy photo stops and explore Aneasazi Moqui Steps when time allows. The bumpy ride is part of the fun, and reviews praise the friendly guides and beautiful scenery. At $130, it’s a great way to reach Zion’s most photogenic canyons comfortably.
Bottom line: Best for those wanting easy access to Zion’s iconic slot canyons and local insights.
14. East Zion East Rim Jeep Tour
For a quick but scenic overview, this 1-hour Jeep ride covers key viewpoints like Checkerboard Mesa and Jolley Gulch. It’s a personalized experience limited to eight travelers and perfect for travelers short on time. Reviewers appreciate the friendly guides and spectacular vistas. The tour is budget-friendly at around $58 per person and offers a relaxed way to see Zion’s impressive east rim from above.
Bottom line: Ideal for a brief, scenic overview for travelers with limited time.
15. Via Ferrata / Rappel Adventure in East Zion
Combine scenic ATV riding with conquering the Via Ferrata in this 2.5-hour adventure. You’ll climb an iron path up Cave Lakes Canyon before rappelling 180 feet back down, with guides tossing you a cold drink at the top. The tour is suitable for those with a sense of adventure and some physical fitness. Reviewers mention Wyatt’s outstanding coaching and the thrill of rappelling. The $119 price includes gear, instruction, and the adrenaline rush of free-fall rappel.
Bottom line: Perfect for adrenaline junkies eager for a combination of scenic views and technical challenge.
16. Slot Canyon Tour & Sandboarding UTV Adventure
This tour blends sandboarding in Utah’s dunes with a UTV ride to Peekaboo Canyon. For $129, you’ll slide down dunes on boards, then explore Zion’s spectacular slot canyon. Reviewers love the balance of outdoor fun and scenic exploration. It’s suitable for most family members, with plenty of opportunities for photos and excitement. The combination of adventure and sightseeing makes this an attractive choice for those seeking a full outdoor experience.
Bottom line: An active, fun-packed option for families or groups wanting multiple outdoor pursuits in one tour.
How to Choose the Best Zion Tour for You
When choosing a Zion tour, consider your fitness level, interests, and time constraints. If you want an adrenaline rush with rappelling and canyoning, tours like East Zion 4 Hour Slot Canyon Canyoneering or the Via Ferrata adventure are excellent options. For those seeking a more relaxed experience, the Sunset Jeep Tour or horseback rides (small-group East Zion White Mountain Horseback Ride) may be perfect.
Budget is another factor—many tours offer good value for the experience, especially private or small-group options. Booking early is advisable, especially in peak seasons, to secure spots on popular experiences like the Red Rock Slot Canyon or the Peek-A-Boo Canyon UTV.
In Summary
Zion offers a wide variety of tours that showcase its breathtaking scenery and rugged terrain. For a full-day adventure, try the canioneing tours like the East Zion 4 Hour Slot Canyon Canyoneering. If you prefer a shorter, scenic escape, the Sunset Jeep Tour or a horseback ride will suit you well. For families or those who want a more relaxed outdoor adventure, options like the Red Rock Slot Canyon or sandboarding at Coral Pink Dunes provide plenty of fun.
Whatever your interests, Zion has a tour that will deepen your appreciation of this stunning national park. Be sure to book early, plan around the weather, and choose the experience that best fits your style. With so many options, your Zion adventure is guaranteed to be unforgettable.