2.5hr Willis Creek/Sunset Tour Paria Valley

If you’re looking to experience some of Utah’s most captivating scenery without spending an entire day on the trail, the Willis Creek/Sunset Tour in Paria Valley could be just what you need. Offered by Open Country Adventures, this private tour combines the thrill of exploring a beautiful slot canyon with the peaceful magic of a sunset in the desert, topped off with marshmallows around a campfire. It’s a solid choice if you’re after a mix of adventure, relaxation, and storytelling, all tailored to your group.

What we love about this tour is how it balances stunning natural scenery with personalized storytelling from a guide who’s been hiking in the area his whole life. Plus, the experience includes some great photo opportunities — especially during the sunset. On the flip side, it’s a relatively short outing, so if you’re craving an all-day adventure, this might feel a bit limited. Still, for most travelers, this tour hits a sweet spot—especially if you value intimate, relaxed experiences over crowds or long hikes.

This experience suits travelers who want a taste of Utah’s renowned landscapes without a strenuous schedule. It’s also ideal for those who enjoy a good story, some cozy campfire moments, and the chance to see a remarkable canyon up close. If you’re traveling with family, friends, or just looking for a memorable evening, this tour offers a well-rounded, enjoyable outing.

Key Points

• Beautiful Water Features: Exploring Willis Creek provides scenic views and photo-worthy water formations.
• Expert Storytelling: Jerry, the guide, shares stories and insights that deepen the connection to the landscape.
• Sunset Views: Watching the sunset over the pink amphitheater hoods is an unforgettable highlight.
• Comfort & Convenience: The tour is private, so your group gets personalized attention and a tailored experience.
• Includes Snacks & Campfire: Enjoy s’mores, bottled water, and the cozy ambiance of a campfire.
• Good Value for the Price: At $145 per person, the experience offers a mix of scenery, storytelling, and relaxation.

In-Depth Look at the Tour Experience

Starting Point & Timing

The tour begins at the Cannonville Historic Grade School Town Park at 5:00 pm. Arriving at this central spot makes getting to the tour easy for most visitors. From there, your journey starts with a drive to Willis Creek, giving you time to settle in and get excited about what’s ahead.

Exploring Willis Creek Slot Canyon

The first stop is Willis Creek Slot Canyon, where you’ll spend about an hour wandering through the water-carved narrow passageways. We loved the way the water features add a dynamic element — the way light reflects off the wet surfaces, the textures in the canyon walls, and the quiet serenity of the water pooling in some areas. It’s a really photogenic spot, perfect for snapping shots of the winding canyon walls and the playful water features.

According to reviews, this part of the tour is free of admission costs, so the value here is primarily in the experience and the guide’s narration. One reviewer, Cindy_J, called it “a MUST SEE TOUR” and appreciated the stories Jerry shared, which made the trip even more memorable. For those who love geology, water features, or simply want great photos, Willis Creek is a genuine highlight.

Scenic Drive & Car Smashed in Canyon Walls

Next, the group drives past a deep canyon and sees a car that’s been smashed into the canyon walls — a bit of local curiosity that adds a dash of rugged adventure to the journey. This drive-by is quick but gives you a sense of the raw, untamed nature of the area.

Skutumpah Road & Sunset Viewing

The Tour continues along Skutumpah Road, which offers a scenic route past Bull Valley Gorge and onto a private property. Here, you’ll settle in to watch the sunset with pink amphitheater hoods in the background, a truly striking sight. The setting is described as peaceful and perfect for relaxing around a campfire.

During this part, you’ll enjoy bottled water, snacks, and s’mores, making the experience feel cozy and inviting. The sunset time varies depending on the season, but being there in the evening means you’ll get to enjoy the transition from daylight to twilight, with the landscape transforming in warm hues. As ESTELLE_F pointed out, the non-busy, tranquil environment makes it a perfect spot for photos and unwinding.

Campfire & Reflection

The tour concludes with a campfire experience, where you can toast marshmallows and swap stories. Jerry’s background as a lifelong hiker means you’re in good hands — his storytelling is a highlight for many, making the experience richer and more personal. This relaxed moment is ideal for soaking in the scenery and sharing a quiet moment with your group.

How Does It Value Up?

At $145 per person, this tour offers a lot of bang for your buck when you consider the private setting, the guided storytelling, and the included snacks. It’s not a full-day adventure with multiple hikes, but it’s a well-curated experience that balances scenery, comfort, and storytelling beautifully.

The fact that it’s booked well in advance (an average of 109 days ahead) shows how popular it is — and for good reason. The reviews consistently praise the guide’s local knowledge and storytelling ability, which adds a personal touch to what might otherwise be just another canyon experience.

What’s Not So Great?

While most reviews are glowing, it’s worth noting that the tour is relatively short — about 2.5 hours in total. If you’re after an all-day adventure or longer hikes, this might not satisfy that craving. Also, the sunset timing depends heavily on weather conditions and the season, so it’s worth checking the schedule ahead of time.

Another minor consideration is gratuity, which is not included. Though most guided tours expect tips, it’s good to budget a little extra if you enjoyed the experience.

Who Should Consider This Tour?

This tour is perfect for travelers who appreciate small, private experiences and want a relaxed way to see some of Utah’s highlights. It works well for those interested in photography, landscape scenery, or simply enjoying a peaceful evening in nature. If you’re traveling with friends or family who enjoy storytelling and scenic drives, this tour will resonate.

It’s also suited for those who prefer guided insight from a local expert. However, if you’re after more strenuous hiking or multiple stops, you’ll want to look elsewhere.

FAQ

Is this tour suitable for children?
Yes, most travelers can participate, and it’s a gentle, scenic experience suitable for families, though it’s best to consider the age of children as the tour involves some walking and a short drive.

What should I bring?
Comfortable shoes are recommended for walking in the canyon, and don’t forget your camera. The tour provides bottled water and snacks, including s’mores, so you’re set in that regard.

How long is the drive to Willis Creek?
The total experience lasts about 2.5 hours, starting from Cannonville and including driving, exploring, and the sunset campfire.

Is the tour private?
Yes, it’s a private tour, so only your group participates, making for a more personalized experience.

What if the weather is bad?
The experience requires good weather. If canceled due to poor conditions, you’ll be offered a different date or a full refund.

What’s included in the cost?
Your fee covers the guided exploration of Willis Creek, the scenic drive, bottled water, snacks, and s’mores around the campfire.

Do I need to book far in advance?
Yes, the tour is quite popular and typically booked about 109 days ahead on average, so planning early is a good idea.

Where does the tour start and end?
It begins at Cannonville Historic Grade School Town Park and ends back there, making logistics straightforward.

Is there any additional cost I should know about?
The only extra costs might be gratuities, as they are not included in the price.

Final Thoughts

The Willis Creek/Sunset Tour offers a peaceful yet engaging way to experience some of Utah’s best landscapes without the commitment of a full-day adventure. It’s perfect if you’re looking for a scenic, story-rich outing that combines natural beauty with personal touches from a knowledgeable guide. The sunset views, water features, and campfire moments make it especially memorable, as echoed by happy travelers who appreciated the quiet beauty and Jerry’s storytelling.

If you enjoy intimate, scenic experiences with a relaxed vibe and friendly guide, this tour will likely delight you. Just keep in mind the short duration and plan accordingly if you’re craving a longer adventure. Overall, it’s a charming, well-reviewed choice for a peaceful evening in Utah’s incredible landscape.