East Zion: Cliffs Sunset and Backcountry Off-Road Jeep Tour

If you’re planning a trip to Zion National Park and want to see its rugged beauty from a different angle, this East Zion: Cliffs Sunset and Backcountry Off-Road Jeep Tour might just be worth considering. While I haven’t personally taken this tour, plenty of travelers have raved about it, giving it a solid 4.8 rating based on over 100 reviews. The idea of hopping into a 4×4 Jeep and heading to a quiet spot with a commanding view of the sunset sounds pretty tempting, doesn’t it?

What really jumps out is how many people mention the knowledgeable guides and the spectacular sunset views. These are the big wins here. On the flip side, if you’re the kind of traveler who prefers more flexibility or has specific needs like hotel pickup, you’ll want to consider the limitations. This tour seems best suited for those who want a laid-back, scenic adventure in a small group—perfect for couples, friends, or anyone looking for a peaceful escape from Zion’s busier areas.

Key Points

• Small Group Experience: Limited to 8 participants, ensuring personalized attention.
• Expert Guides: Guides are praised for their knowledge, making the ride informative as well as scenic.
• Incredible Views: Stop at viewpoints free from crowds, offering perfect photo ops of Zion’s iconic features.
• Timing and Flexibility: Usually available in the afternoon and evening, just before sunset.
• Price and Value: At $79 per person, it offers a memorable experience at a reasonable cost.
• Weather Preparedness: Takes place rain or shine, but be aware in case of extreme weather.

You can check availability for your dates here:

What Is This Tour All About?

This guided off-road Jeep adventure takes you into the quieter, less accessible parts of East Zion, about an hour from Springdale. You’ll ride in a sturdy 4×4 vehicle, expertly driven as your guide navigates rugged trails. It’s not just about the ride—it’s about soaking in spectacular views of Zion’s cliffs and landmarks from spots most travelers don’t get to see.

The highlight, of course, is catching the sunset from a special viewpoint, perched above the park’s backcountry. You’ll leave just before sunset, giving you plenty of time to relax, take photos, and enjoy the scenery. The tour ends back at the Thunderbird Lodge, a convenient starting point.

What Makes This Tour Stand Out?

The real strength of this experience lies in its combination of scenic beauty and expert guidance. Many reviews mention guides who are not only knowledgeable about Zion’s geography but also eager to share interesting facts and stories. For example, some reviewers appreciated guides like Tate and Brian, who are described as friendly, well-informed, and attentive to safety and comfort.

The views during sunset are described as breathtaking. You’ll get sweeping vistas of Zion’s West Temple, Parunuweap Canyon, Elephant Gap, and other major landmarks—all from a vantage point away from the crowds. That quiet backcountry feel adds a sense of adventure and exclusivity.

What to Expect During the Tour

Your journey begins with a brief drive on the highway, then the off-road adventure kicks off. As the Jeep bumps along rugged trails, your guide will point out natural features and share local insights, making the ride both fun and educational.

The stops at viewpoints are carefully chosen for their unobstructed views, perfect for photos. Reviewers often mention the beautiful sunset scenery—some even describe it as magical. After a second viewpoint and some time to soak it all in, the tour wraps up with a scenic ride back to the starting point.

This tour generally lasts about 2 hours, making it an easy addition to a day in Zion. It’s available in the late afternoon and evening, so you get to enjoy the fading light and cooler temperatures in the backcountry.

What’s Included and What’s Not?

You’ll get a guide, a light snack, and bottled water—simple but thoughtful touches that keep you comfortable during your ride. The tour price is $79 per person, which is quite reasonable considering the personalized experience and the stunning views.

However, keep in mind that hotel pickup and drop-off are not included. You’ll need to meet at the Best Western East Zion Thunderbird Lodge, which is straightforward if you’re staying nearby or happy to drive there.

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The Downside? Considerations Before Booking

While many rave about this tour, a few points are worth noting. First, weather can impact the experience—the tour runs rain or shine, but in extreme weather conditions, it might be canceled. Also, it’s not suitable for pregnant women or those with back problems, given the bumpy trail.

Plus, it’s a small group tour, limited to 8 people, which is great for intimacy but means spots can fill quickly. Booking in advance is a good idea if you’re set on going.

Real Travelers’ Perspectives

From the glowing reviews, several themes emerge. Many mention how knowledgeable and friendly the guides are, making the ride more engaging and personal. For example, one reviewer said, “Mr. Brian was awesome and knowledgeable of the Zion Park Region,” and others praised guides like Tate for sharing interesting facts.

The views during sunset seem to be the star of the show, with comments like “It was a great experience… the views were amazing and watching the sunset was magical.” Others appreciated the quiet, crowd-free backcountry, which makes the whole experience feel more special.

Some reviews highlight the photography opportunities—guides are often good at capturing moments, helping you get memorable photos of the sunset and landscape.

Who Is This Tour Best For?

This adventure is ideal for those who love scenic drives, natural beauty, and peaceful moments away from busy crowds. It’s suited for travelers who enjoy guided tours with a small group and are comfortable with bumpy terrain. If you’re keen on capturing stunning sunset views and learning about Zion from friendly guides, this could be a perfect fit.

It’s less suitable for those with mobility issues, pregnant women, or anyone who prefers more flexible, self-directed sightseeing. If you’re traveling with small children, you might want to consider whether the off-road ride suits their comfort.

Final Thoughts

All in all, the East Zion Cliffs Sunset and Backcountry Off-Road Jeep Tour offers a memorable way to experience Zion’s wild side. The combination of expert guides, quiet backcountry vistas, and sunset views makes it a standout for those wanting a peaceful, scenic escape from Zion’s busier areas.

At $79, it’s a good value considering how personalized and scenic the experience is. It’s especially ideal if you appreciate guided insights and are eager to see Zion from viewpoints only accessible by rugged trails. While not perfect for everyone due to weather considerations or physical limitations, for many, this tour provides a peaceful, beautiful evening in Zion’s remarkable landscape.

FAQ

Do I need to book in advance?
Yes, this small-group tour fills up quickly, so booking ahead ensures you secure your spot.

Is hotel pickup available?
No, pickup and drop-off are not included; you’ll meet at the Thunderbird Lodge.

What should I wear?
Dress appropriately for the weather—layers work well, especially if it’s cooler in the evening.

How long is the tour?
It lasts approximately 2 hours, usually in the late afternoon or evening.

Can I join if I don’t like bumpy rides?
The tour involves off-road driving on rugged trails, so if you’re sensitive to bumps, consider this before booking.

Is this good for photography?
Absolutely. The viewpoints are perfect for capturing Zion’s stunning sunset scenery.

Are guides knowledgeable?
Yes, reviews consistently praise guides for their friendliness and knowledge about Zion.

What landmarks will I see?
You’ll get views of Zion’s famous West Temple, Parunuweap Canyon, Elephant Gap, and more.

Is it suitable for children?
The tour isn’t specifically designed for families or children, especially due to the terrain.

What if the weather is bad?
The tour runs rain or shine, but severe weather could lead to cancellations, so check ahead.

If this sounds like your kind of Zion experience, it’s worth adding to your itinerary. Just remember to dress for the weather, book in advance, and enjoy the peaceful, scenic ride into Zion’s breathtaking backcountry.

You can check availability for your dates here: