Award Winning UTV Slot Canyon Tour

If you’re planning a trip to Zion National Park and craving a mix of off-road excitement and breathtaking scenery, the Award-Winning UTV Slot Canyon Tour might just catch your eye. While I haven’t personally taken this tour, I’ve gathered plenty of insights from travelers who rave about the experience. This tour offers a chance to explore the hidden depths of East Zion’s stunning slot canyons without the grueling hike, riding comfortably in a Can-Am UTV while a knowledgeable guide drives.

What I love about this experience is how it combines adventure and education. Guides are praised for their friendliness and knowledge, making the journey informative as well as fun. Plus, with stops at two gorgeous canyons—Upper and Lower Red Cave—you get plenty of photo-worthy moments. But, a quick heads-up: the ride involves some rough terrain, so it might not be suited for everyone, especially those with back issues or sensitivity to bumpy rides.

This tour is best suited for travelers who want a unique, hands-on experience of Zion’s hidden canyons but don’t want to commit to a full-day hike or a more strenuous adventure. It’s perfect for those who enjoy off-road driving, scenic photography, and learning about the local environment from passionate guides.

Key Points

• Small Group Size: Enjoy a more intimate experience with just 15 or fewer participants.
• Comprehensive Experience: UTV ride, foot exploration, and guided commentary on local flora and fauna.
• Photographer’s Dream: Plenty of chances to capture stunning images of the canyons and landscapes.
• Excellent Value: At $105 per person for around 2 hours, many say it’s worth every penny considering the scenery and experience.
• Highly Rated Guides: Consistently praised for their friendliness, knowledge, and ability to make the trip memorable.
• Accessible Planning: You meet at a designated location, and the tour includes bottled water and safety equipment.

The Details of the UTV Slot Canyon Tour

Booking and Planning

Most travelers book about 28 days in advance, indicating that this is a popular choice. The price is $105 per person, which, when you factor in the included elements—guide, UTV, safety gear, and scenic stops—appears to be a good deal for such a personalized adventure.

The tour lasts approximately 2 hours, which is a nice chunk of time to enjoy the scenery without feeling rushed. You’ll meet off Highway 89 at the designated starting point, making it straightforward to access, whether you’re staying nearby or just passing through.

The Route and Stops

Once you meet your guide, there’s a brief safety and overview session. Then, the fun begins: your driver guides you over rugged, uneven terrain in a Can-Am UTV, so you can relax and soak up the views.

The tour includes two main stops at Upper Red Cave Slot Canyon and Lower Red Cave Slot Canyon.

• At Upper Red Cave, you’ll spend about 20 minutes exploring this impressive formation. It’s a chance to walk into this remote and striking feature, taking plenty of photos.
• The Lower Red Cave stop is slightly longer, at around 30 minutes, allowing for a 100-yard walk into the canyon where you can really get a sense of its scale and beauty.

The Off-Road Adventure

The ride to reach these canyons is a highlight for many. The guides are often praised for their skill at navigating the rough terrain, making the journey exciting but safe. Reviews mention the ride as being bouncy and exhilarating, so be prepared for some bumps. If you’re prone to back issues or prefer a smoother ride, you might want to consider that.

The Experience on Foot

Once you arrive at each canyon, you’re encouraged to explore on foot. This allows you to get close to the formations, take photos, and really appreciate the natural artistry of these slot canyons. Guides often share interesting facts about local flora, fauna, and geology during the walk, adding an educational touch that many guests find enriching.

The Photography Opportunities

If you love taking photos, this tour is a dream. Reviewers consistently mention how spectacular the scenery is, with some even sharing that their guides taught them tips to improve their shots. The natural lighting inside the canyons makes for perfect photo moments, and the wide-open vistas from the UTV add to the visual feast.

The Guides and Overall Atmosphere

From the reviews, guides like Jerry, DeAnna, Johnny, and Kyle seem to go above and beyond to make their guests comfortable and informed. Many guests comment on their enthusiasm, local knowledge, and sense of humor, which makes the 2-hour adventure feel more like a fun outing with friends.

The small group size (max 15 people) means less crowding and more personalized attention, which guests really appreciate. The tour shop also offers indoor and outdoor seating and clean bathrooms, making the check-in process comfortable.

Value for Money

Considering the price includes transportation, safety gear, bottled water, and the guided tour itself, most travelers agree it’s a fair price. Reviews praise the quality of the guides, the breathtaking scenery, and the overall experience, making it seem like a good investment for a memorable Zion outing.

What Could Be Better?

While many rave about the tour, some mention the ride can be bumpy—so it’s not ideal if you’re sensitive to rough terrain or have back problems. Weather can also impact the experience; in poor conditions, the tour might be canceled with a full refund or rescheduling options, so keep an eye on the forecast.

Also, since the tour is only around two hours, it’s a quick snapshot rather than an in-depth exploration of Zion’s canyons. If you’re craving a longer, more immersive adventure, you might want to combine this with other activities.

Who Is This Tour Perfect For?

This UTV slot canyon experience is ideal for travelers who want a light adventure that packs a punch. It’s great if you prefer not to hike long distances but still want to see Zion’s hidden canyons up close. It appeals to those who enjoy off-road riding, photography, and learning from enthusiastic guides. It’s particularly good for people who want a guided, safe, and memorable outing that balances adventure with comfort.

It’s less suited for those with back issues, or anyone who prefers a more relaxed, less bumpy ride. Also, keep in mind that the activity is weather-dependent—bad weather might mean cancelation or rescheduling.

FAQs

Is this tour suitable for children?
The tour is designed for most travelers, but it involves some rough terrain and a bumpy ride, which might not be suitable for small children or those sensitive to motion. Always check with the operator if you have concerns about age or mobility.

What is included in the price?
The price covers the UTV ride, a driver-guide, safety equipment, bottled water, and access to the canyon stops. You’ll need to meet at the designated spot off Highway 89.

How far in advance should I book?
Most travelers tend to book about 28 days ahead, as it’s a popular experience. Booking early helps secure your spot and preferred time.

What should I bring?
Bring your camera for photo opportunities, comfortable clothes suitable for outdoor activity, and some sunscreen. The tour provides safety gear, but layers are always good for variable weather.

How long does the tour last?
The total experience is roughly 2 hours, including the drive, exploration, and photos.

Can I cancel if my plans change?
Yes, you can cancel for free up to 24 hours before the start time for a full refund. Cancellations within 24 hours are not refundable.

What is the weather policy?
The tour depends on good weather—if canceled due to poor conditions, you’ll be offered a different date or a full refund.

Final Thoughts

This UTV slot canyon tour offers a fantastic way to experience Zion’s lesser-known but incredibly beautiful canyons without the strain of long hikes. With expert guides, scenic stops, and the thrill of off-road riding, it’s a memorable outing that many travelers recommend. It’s perfect for those who want a quick, engaging adventure with plenty of photo opportunities and knowledgeable commentary.

If you’re looking for a fun, scenic, and manageable Zion experience that balances adventure and comfort, this tour is definitely worth considering. Just be prepared for some bumps, and check the weather forecast before you go.

Overall, it’s a well-rated, value-driven adventure that can add a special highlight to your Zion trip.