East Zion: Crimson Slot Canyon Exploration and UTV Tour

The East Zion: Crimson Slot Canyon Exploration and UTV Tour offers an exciting blend of off-road adventure and scenic hiking in Utah’s renowned Zion backcountry. For $109 per person, travelers enjoy 2 hours of exploration led by knowledgeable guides. This tour stands out for its combination of a thrilling UTV ride through diverse terrain and an up-close hike into striking slot canyons that reach over 100 feet high. With a highly impressive rating of 4.9 based on 666 reviews, it’s clear that many visitors find this experience both fun and memorable.

While the tour provides incredible scenery and expert guidance, participants should be aware of the physical activity involved. Climbing over 8-10 foot boulders makes this tour more suitable for those in good shape, and it may not be ideal for pregnant women or people with mobility impairments. Still, for those craving an active, engaging outdoor adventure, this tour proves to be excellent value and superbly guided.

Key Points

• Two-hour adventure combining UTV off-roading and slot canyon hiking
• Expert guides like Lonnie, John, and Paige bring local knowledge and safety
• Stunning scenery with walls over 100 feet tall and narrow passages
• Native American writings and geological features are part of the experience
• Small groups limited to 5 participants enhance personalization
• Meeting point at the Sinclair Gas Station in Orderville, UT, with check-in inside the attached coffee shop

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Exciting UTV Ride Into the Backcountry of East Zion

The tour begins with an adrenaline-pumping UTV ride into the rugged backcountry of East Zion. Custom-built off-road vehicles lead you through diverse terrain, far from paved roads and crowds, providing an authentic off-the-beaten-path experience. The guides, including familiar names like Lonnie, John, and Paige, expertly navigate the vehicle through rocky stretches, offering safety tips and stories along the way.

This ride not only sets the tone for adventure but also makes reaching the slot canyons feasible without a strenuous hike from distant parking areas. The UTV ride is often praised as a blast, with many reviews highlighting how much fun it is to steer through the terrain or simply enjoy the view from the vehicle.

Hiking Through the Crimson Slot Canyons

Once at the canyon’s entrance, the tour shifts to an awe-inspiring hike. The red sandstone walls, which stretch over 100 feet high, create a narrow corridor that hovers between 6 to 10 feet wide. The hike involves climbing over large boulders that require 8-10 foot climbs, often with assistance from the guides.

Traveling deeper into the canyon reveals Native American writings and stunning geological formations. The route is designed to be strenuous at times, and participants should be physically capable of ascending and navigating boulders. The guides help with techniques and support, making the experience accessible for those prepared for some physical exertion. Photographers find ample opportunity to capture gorgeous sandstone textures and narrow passages.

Native American Writings and Geological Highlights

As you explore the slot canyons, the Native American historical writings etched into the canyon walls add a layer of cultural significance to the natural beauty. The geology of the area also fascinates, with guides explaining how Mother Nature carved these intricate formations over thousands of years.

The sandstone walls, with their vibrant reds and deep shadows, create a striking visual contrast that makes for spectacular photographs. If you’re into geology or history, this tour offers insights into the cultural and natural forces that shaped Zion’s landscape.

The Guides: Knowledgeable and Personable

The tour’s success heavily depends on the guides’ expertise and friendly approach. Reviewers frequently mention Lonnie, John, Paige, Tate, and others as guides who combine safety with storytelling. They teach climbing techniques, help with obstacle navigation, and share local stories that enrich the experience.

Many reviews highlight how guides encourage participants, making even challenging sections feel doable. They also capture fantastic photos of the canyon and groups, ensuring visitors leave with memorable images. The guides’ patience and knowledge are major factors in the tour’s high ratings.

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Meeting Location and Practical Information

The tour departs from the Sinclair Gas Station in Orderville, UT, with check-in inside the attached coffee shop. The small group size—limited to 5 participants—helps ensure personalized attention. The tour usually runs in both morning and afternoon sessions, giving flexibility for planning.

Participants should bring hiking shoes, water, snacks, warm clothing, a hat, gloves, and a jacket. The activity does not include hiking apparel and pets or large luggage are not allowed. The tour is roughly 2 hours, so packing appropriately is key for comfort and safety.

What To Expect During the Adventure

The experience involves a combination of scenic driving and physical hiking. The UTV ride is designed to be exciting and scenic, leading to the slot canyon entrance where the real adventure begins. The hike challenges include navigating large boulders and narrow passages, with guides providing support.

Depending on the time of year, the canyons may contain standing water, prompting the guides to take alternate routes to ensure safety and dryness. This flexibility helps prevent delays or discomfort, ensuring a smooth experience.

Physical Requirements and Suitability

This tour is not suitable for pregnant women or those with mobility impairments. The climbing and obstacle navigation demand good physical condition. Reviewers often mention the challenging but rewarding nature of the climb, emphasizing that participants should be prepared for some exertion.

However, the guides’ helpful instructions and encouragement make it accessible for most who are in decent physical shape, and the spectacular scenery makes the effort worthwhile.

Safety and Water Conditions

In certain months, standing water in the canyons is common, and the guides will reroute to avoid wet areas. The tour emphasizes safety, especially in water or challenging terrain, so participants should listen closely to guide instructions.

The activity involves climbing over rocks and wading through water at times, so sturdy, grippy hiking shoes are recommended for better footing and safety.

The Experience Value and Customer Satisfaction

Rated 4.9 out of 5 stars from 666 reviews, this tour is highly valued by past participants. The small group size, knowledgeable guides, and breathtaking landscapes consistently earn praise. Many reviewers mention the guides’ friendliness, expertise, and willingness to teach.

The price of $109 is considered excellent value for a two-hour adventure that combines off-road fun with a scenic hike into some of Zion’s most beautiful slot canyons.

The Sum Up: A High-Quality, Active Zion Adventure

The East Zion: Crimson Slot Canyon Exploration and UTV Tour offers a well-rounded experience for those eager for outdoor activity and stunning scenery. Its combination of exciting UTV rides and a challenging yet rewarding canyon hike makes it stand out in Zion’s tour offerings.

This tour is best suited for active travelers who enjoy a bit of climbing and exploration, and who want to avoid the crowds of Zion’s more popular spots. The expert guides and spectacular geology ensure a safe, informative, and memorable adventure. While not suitable for everyone physically, the tour’s value, beauty, and fun make it an experience worth considering for adventure lovers.

Frequently Asked Questions

What is the duration of the tour?
The tour lasts approximately 2 hours.

Where does the tour start?
The meeting point is inside the coffee shop attached to the Sinclair Gas Station in Orderville, UT.

Is this tour suitable for children?
It depends on the child’s physical ability. The tour demands climbing over large boulders, so children should be fit and comfortable with active movement.

What should I bring for the tour?
Participants should bring hiking shoes, water, snacks, warm clothing, a hat, a jacket, and gloves.

Can I cancel the tour?
Yes, cancellations are free up to 24 hours in advance.

Are guides experienced and friendly?
Yes, reviews consistently praise the knowledgeable and personable guides like Lonnie, John, and Paige.

Is water present in the canyons year-round?
In certain months, standing water may be present, and guides will take alternate routes for safety.

What physical condition is recommended?
Participants should be in decent physical shape and comfortable with climbing and maneuvering over rocks.

Are pets allowed on the tour?
No, pets are not permitted.

What makes this tour stand out?
The combination of a scenic UTV ride, breathtaking slot canyon hikes, and expert guides creates a genuinely engaging Utah adventure experience.

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