Buckskin Gulch Day Hike

Key Points

• Guided hike into Buckskin Gulch lasts approximately 7 to 10 hours with all food and snacks provided
• Price of $200 per person includes pickup from Page, USA, and mobile ticket access
• Limited group size of 8 travelers ensures a personalized experience
• Perfect for physically fit, experienced hikers due to steep scrambles and long distances of up to 10 miles (16 km)
• Enjoy solitude in the longest slot canyon in the world with fewer crowds than Antelope Canyon
• Flexible cancellation policy allows free cancellations 24 hours in advance

Buckskin Gulch: A Remote Adventure for Serious Hikers

The Buckskin Gulch Day Hike offers a unique experience that sets it apart from other popular slot canyon tours. Priced at $200 per person, this guided expedition takes between 7 and 10 hours and covers up to 10 miles (16 kilometers) of rugged terrain. The tour departs from Page, USA, with convenient pickup included, making it easy to start your adventure without worrying about additional transportation arrangements.

What makes this tour especially appealing is its focus on solitude and natural beauty. Unlike crowded Antelope Canyon, Buckskin Gulch remains a less visited, awe-inspiring location that offers peaceful exploration. The small group size of up to 8 travelers guarantees a more intimate experience, led by knowledgeable guides such as Wagner, Alex, and Tom, who are praised for their expertise and support.

What’s Included in the Price?

The price of $200 per person covers all logistical needs. You receive hotel pickup at the meeting point, a mobile ticket, and lunch and snacks provided during the hike. This all-inclusive approach means you can focus fully on the experience without worrying about bringing additional food or gear. The tour ends back at the initial meeting point, making logistics straightforward.

The Route: Into the Heart of Buckskin Gulch

This tour takes you into the longest slot canyon in the world, carved through Navajo sandstone. The adventure begins at the Paria Contact Station, located at 2040 Long Valley Rd, Kanab, UT 84741. From there, the guide leads the group into the canyon, bypassing a long initial hike with a steep scramble to access the labyrinth of narrow, winding passages.

Once inside, the pace is leisurely, allowing ample time to explore the stunning walls and formations without the crowds that often fill popular canyons. The labyrinth of Buckskin Gulch reveals incredible natural sculptures and hidden alcoves, with some sections requiring careful navigation. The guides are skilled at helping participants safely manage the steep climbs and terrain.

The Highlights of Buckskin Gulch Exploration

One of the main advantages of this tour is the absence of large crowds, which allows for a more immersive and peaceful experience. The guides provide detailed explanations about the geology and natural history of the canyon, enhancing the appreciation of the landscape.

The views are truly breathtaking—the towering walls and winding passages create a feeling of stepping into a natural cathedral. The challenging terrain, including steep scrambles and narrow sections, makes this hike suitable for advanced hikers who are comfortable with physically demanding activities. The lunch and snacks keep energy levels high for the entire day.

Guides: Knowledgeable and Supportive Leaders

The tour has received high praise for its guides, who are described as knowledgeable, energetic, and resourceful. Wagner, Alex, Tom, and Tabatha Conteras stand out for their supportive attitude and ability to motivate hikers through tough sections. Their expertise ensures safety while making the experience enjoyable.

Guides also excel at sharing insights about the area, from geological features to environmental history. Many reviews highlight the guides’ patience and adaptability, especially when weather or terrain requires dynamic planning.

Physical Demands and Suitability

This is a challenging hike best suited for strong, physically fit individuals. The itinerary involves steep scrambles, long distances, and some elevation changes—not recommended for those with a strong fear of heights. Hikers should be prepared for up to 10 miles of walking and navigating narrow passages.

Participants should have a good fitness level to handle the tough terrain comfortably. The tour’s small group size allows guides to provide personal attention, but it remains a demanding undertaking that rewards those prepared for it.

Flexibility and Weather Considerations

The cancellation policy offers free cancellation if made 24 hours in advance, which provides some peace of mind. The tour depends on good weather, and if canceled due to poor conditions, travelers are offered alternative dates or full refunds. Weather can influence the pace and safety of the hike, so check forecasts accordingly.

Why Choose this Buckskin Gulch Hike?

This tour stands out for its intimate experience in a remote canyon, far from the crowds of more popular sites. The 7 to 10-hour itinerary balances physical challenge with breathtaking scenery, making it ideal for experienced hikers seeking solitude. The all-inclusive package with lunch, snacks, and pickup simplifies planning.

While it’s a more strenuous option, the positive reviews underscore the safety, support, and knowledgeable guidance provided. It’s perfect for those who want an authentic, rugged adventure into one of the most spectacular slot canyons in the world.

Buckskin Gulch Day Hike: An Adventure for the Adventurous

The Buckskin Gulch Day Hike offers an unmatched natural spectacle paired with expert guiding and comprehensive logistics. It’s an excellent choice for experienced hikers eager to explore the longest slot canyon in a peaceful, private setting. The limited group size ensures a personalized experience that emphasizes safety and enjoyment.

This tour truly delivers stunning views, challenging terrain, and a sense of solitude that’s hard to find elsewhere. It’s a significant commitment in terms of fitness and time, but one that leaves a lasting impression for those ready to embrace its demands.

Frequently Asked Questions

What is the cost of the Buckskin Gulch Day Hike?
The tour costs $200 per person, including pickup, snacks, lunch, and all logistics.

How long does the hike last?
The itinerary lasts 7 to 10 hours, covering up to 10 miles of hiking.

What is the maximum group size?
The hike is limited to 8 travelers, ensuring a personalized experience.

What are the physical requirements?
Participants should have strong physical fitness, be comfortable with steep scrambles and long distances, and not have a strong fear of heights.

Is food provided?
Yes, lunch and snacks are included, so no need to bring extra food.

Where does the tour start and end?
The tour begins at Paria Contact Station at 2040 Long Valley Rd, Kanab, UT and ends back at the same location.

Can I cancel the tour?
Yes, free cancellation is available 24 hours in advance.

Is this tour suitable for beginners?
No, this is best suited for advanced hikers due to the challenging terrain.

What makes this tour different from other slot canyon tours?
Its emphasis on solitude, less crowded environment, and personalized guiding set it apart from more commercialized options.

Do guides offer safety support?
Absolutely—guides are praised for their supportive, knowledgeable, and safety-conscious approach throughout the hike.