Orderville: Powell’s Way Canyoneering & Rappelling Adventure

If you’re eyeing an unforgettable day in Zion National Park, this canyoneering & rappelling tour might just be what you’re looking for. We haven’t done it ourselves, but based on the info and reviews, it promises a full-immersion experience into Zion’s rugged backcountry. It’s perfect for anyone craving an active, scenic adventure that’s a step beyond typical hikes, especially if you’re comfortable with a moderate level of fitness and love a bit of adrenaline.

What immediately caught our attention are the stunning landscapes you get to descend into and the off-road journey into Zion’s lesser-visited corners. Plus, the chance to rappel down 4-5 canyons offers a more comprehensive and exhilarating experience than shorter or less involved tours. On the flip side, it’s a pretty full day and not suitable for everyone — it demands some physical ability, and you’ll want to be prepared. This adventure suits those who aren’t shy about a challenge and want to see Zion from a different perspective.

Key Points

• Incredible scenery: Expect jaw-dropping views and unique canyon walls.
• Full-day commitment: Around 7 hours of adventure, combining off-road rides and canyoneering.
• Moderate fitness needed: This tour is physically demanding but not overly technical.
• Limited group size: Small groups (up to 5) mean more personalized attention from your guide.
• Multiple rappels: Descend down 4-5 canyons, making it more action-packed than shorter trips.
• Flexibility options: Less strenuous alternatives are available if you want a lighter experience.

You can check availability for your dates here:

An In-Depth Look at the Experience

What’s Included and How It Comes Together

For $248 per person, you get a full day of adventure that combines an off-road excursion into Zion’s backcountry with a canyoneering journey involving several rappels. The tour is operated by East Zion Adventures, renowned for their outdoor excursions in the area, and limits participants to small groups of 5, which enhances safety and allows guides to give more personalized attention.

The experience starts with an off-road ride into Zion’s hidden portions—think dusty trails, panoramic views, and a taste of the rugged terrain most visitors miss. It’s a great way to kick off the day, setting the scene for the canyoneering segment. Once at the canyon access point, you’ll gear up and begin descending into the landscape that’s often described as stunning and breathtaking.

The Canyoneering & Rappelling Itinerary

Expect to rappel down 4 to 5 canyons during the day. Each descent offers a different view—some walls towering above you, others winding through narrow passages—that will make you appreciate Zion’s diverse geology. Several reviews mentioned that the rappelling is a highlight, with “the thrill of sliding down into the canyon surrounded by jaw-dropping scenery” being a common sentiment.

The tour is designed to be comprehensive, giving you a true taste of Zion’s backcountry. However, it’s important to note that this is a more physically demanding adventure. Participants need to have a moderate level of fitness, and guides have provided feedback that “it’s not suitable for children under 13 or those over 250 lbs,” mainly due to safety and physical challenge considerations.

What the Tour Feels Like

We imagine the experience as an incredible blend of adventure, scenery, and a touch of adrenaline. Rappelling into the canyon with towering cliffs all around is something many reviewers found exhilarating. One participant described it as “a full day of adventure that felt like a journey into another world,” emphasizing the beauty and thrill of the activity.

The small group setting (limited to 5) likely means more interaction with guides and a more tailored experience. Guides are attentive, knowledgeable, and can help less experienced climbers navigate the rappels safely. You’ll be encouraged to bring essentials like hiking shoes, water, a hat, and weather-appropriate clothing, especially in colder months when Zion can be chilly.

More Great Tours Nearby

The Physical & Skill Aspects

While the tour isn’t overly technical, it does require a moderate level of fitness. As one reviewer pointed out, “be prepared for a good workout,” and the physical demand is partly due to the multiple rappels and the need to hike in and out of canyons. If you’re not confident in your fitness level, there are less strenuous options available, like the Elkheart or Coral Sands Canyon tours, which still promise the canyon experience but with less exertion.

The Value for the Price

At $248, this tour is priced similarly to other full-day Zion adventures, but what you’re paying for is a comprehensive, guided experience that includes both off-road exploration and multiple rappels. Given the small group size, personalized attention, and the opportunity to descend into Zion’s most awe-inspiring canyons, many will find this to be a good value for an all-day adventure in such a renowned park.

What to Expect from Reviews

Travelers who have taken this tour praised the stunning views and the professionalism of guides. One shared, “The scenery was incredible, and the guides made it safe and fun,” highlighting the importance of good leadership in such an adventure. Some found certain parts physically demanding, but most agreed that with proper preparation, it’s totally doable for those with moderate fitness.

Suitability and Recommendations

This experience isn’t suitable for children under 13 or for people with low fitness levels. If you’re a bit wary about the physical challenge or heights, consider the less strenuous options. But if you’re comfortable with active pursuits and eager to see Zion from a different angle, this tour will deliver.

Final Thoughts

The Orderville: Powell’s Way Canyoneering & Rappelling Adventure offers a memorable way to connect with Zion’s rugged beauty. It’s perfect for adventure lovers who crave a full day of action, stunning vistas, and a chance to explore Zion’s hidden corners from the canyon floor. The mix of off-road riding and multiple rappels creates an experience that’s both exhilarating and visually spectacular.

While it demands a fair degree of physical effort, the rewards are well worth it—think towering cliffs, quiet canyons, and an adrenaline rush that you’ll talk about long after the trip ends. It’s ideal for those who want more than just a hike and are comfortable with guided outdoor activities.

For anyone looking to push their limits a little and see Zion’s wild side, this is a solid, well-reviewed choice. Just come prepared, bring water, and be ready to enjoy a day packed with adventure and awe.

FAQ

Is this tour suitable for children?
No, it’s not suitable for children under 13 due to physical demands and safety considerations.

How physically demanding is the tour?
It requires a moderate level of fitness. Participants should be comfortable with hiking and rappelling activities.

What should I bring?
Bring a hat, hiking shoes, plenty of water (at least 2 liters), and weather-appropriate clothing. Layers are a good idea in cooler months.

What is included in the price?
The tour includes the off-road excursion into Zion and a canyoneering adventure with 4-5 rappels.

Can I cancel if my plans change?
Yes, you can cancel up to 24 hours in advance for a full refund, making it flexible if your plans shift.

Is this tour suitable for people with low fitness levels?
No, it’s best suited for those with moderate fitness. There are less strenuous options available.

What language is the guide in?
The tour is conducted in English.

How many people are in each group?
Groups are limited to 5 participants, ensuring a more personalized experience.

If you’re craving a day of adventure that combines Zion’s stunning landscapes with some adrenaline, this canyoneering tour should definitely be on your list. Just be sure you’re ready for a physical challenge, and you’ll have an experience to remember.

You can check availability for your dates here: