Not too long ago we went on an enormous street journey across the American Southwest, seeing most of the greatest slot canyons in Utah alongside the best way, after which we put collectively this information!
Slot canyons are pure rock passageways with all totally different colours of pink, yellow, pink, and purple, and a few of them are so tight and awkward it’s a must to stroll sideways or crawl, like a playground for grownups. It’s a enjoyable and distinctive climbing problem.
There are a bunch of fantastic slot canyons scattered throughout the southern half of the state of Utah, and you’ll even see some nice slot canyons close to Zion Nationwide Park or Moab, for those who’re prepared to drive a bit.
The hikes on this checklist are our favorites in Utah as a result of they’re particularly accessible, photogenic, colourful, or fascinating!
What Is A Slot Canyon?
A slot canyon is a slim passageway shaped in rock (often sandstone) that’s been eroded by water over time, finally making a keyhole-like crack within the rock that’s simply extensive sufficient for an individual to suit by means of.
There are greater than 1,000 slot canyons within the desert of Utah, which truly has the best focus of slot canyons on this planet. A few of them are troublesome to navigate and require technical abilities, however many are household pleasant and straightforward for newbies to hike.
Aspect be aware: At all times pay attention to the climate forecast earlier than getting into a slot canyon. Don’t enter if rain is within the forecast, even when it’s outdoors of your quick space. Flash flooding might be very harmful in a slot canyon.
18 Finest Slot Canyons In Utah
1. Crimson Hole Slot Canyon
The Crimson Hole Slot Canyon is a brief and straightforward hike in Orderville, Utah, not too removed from the favored Zion and Bryce nationwide parks.
It’s a really photogenic hike, with good pink rock colours and steep canyon partitions. As a bonus, Crimson Hole Canyon is simple to succeed in and nice for teenagers.
There’s one very tight slot that’s nice for chimneying or stemming, the place you place your again in opposition to one wall after which push your ft on the opposite wall to cross the hole. The sort of maneuver was new to us, however we had loads of enjoyable studying the best way to do it.
Regardless that Crimson Hole could be very quick, it’s nice for footage. All in all, this was one among our favourite Utah slot canyons!
Issue: Straightforward
Learn Extra: Crimson Hole Slot Canyon
2. Buckskin Gulch
Buckskin Gulch is the longest slot canyon in america, and it’s believed to be the longest slot canyon on this planet, at 21 miles!
It’s positioned by the Utah-Arizona state border, so you’ll be able to attain it in 1 hour of driving from the city of Web page, Arizona, or about 2 hours from Zion Nationwide Park in Utah.
The Buckskin Slot Canyon is nice for photographs, and it’s additionally notable for having some Native American petroglyphs which are straightforward to succeed in.
One of the simplest ways to go to this slot canyon is by getting into from Wire Cross, that manner you get to see two slot canyons for the worth of 1!
Issue: Straightforward / Reasonable
Learn Extra: Wire Cross To Buckskin Gulch
3. Wire Cross Slot Canyon
Wire Cross is a aspect canyon that intersects with Buckskin Gulch, and it’s truly simpler to enter Buckskin by means of this route, because you spend a lot much less time strolling within the scorching solar.
Actually, Wire Cross might be one of many best slot canyons Utah has to supply, and it’s additionally one of the crucial lovely.
We thought the slot canyon part at Wire Cross was much more photogenic than Buckskin itself. It’s slim and the colours are terrific. There’s even a little bit picket ladder that’s nice for footage.
Better of all, this slot dumps you proper on the intersection in Buckskin Gulch the place you’ll be able to see some petroglyphs on the canyon wall. It’s undoubtedly one of many prime Utah slot canyons!
Issue: Straightforward
Learn Extra: Wire Cross To Buckskin Gulch
4. Zion Narrows
In fact I’ve to say the mom of all slot canyons, the Zion Narrows!
It is a large gorge with partitions a thousand ft tall, and the Virgin River flowing by means of it. Climbing the Narrows entails strolling in water, and it’s 16 miles complete.
The excellent news is that the Narrows is open to all health ranges since you don’t need to hike to the top of the gorge. You may cease and switch round everytime you need.
It’s doable to hike the whole Narrows in a single full day for those who get a allow prematurely, however most individuals simply go partway after which flip again (no allow required for that).
The dangerous information is that the Narrows is getting extraordinarily widespread. The crowds type of ruined it for us. In case you’re actually intent on seeing the Narrows with out crowds, I’d advocate getting a allow and climbing it from the highest down. In any other case, you could need to go to one of many different locations on this Utah slot canyon information.
Issue: Straightforward / Reasonable
The Zion Narrows could be the most well-known slot canyon Utah has to supply
Enormous canyon partitions of the Zion Narrows
5. Crimson Canyon Slot / Peekaboo Kanab
To not be confused with the Peekaboo Canyon of the identical identify in Escalante, the Peekaboo Crimson Canyon is definitely one other slot close to Kanab, in southern Utah.
In case you’re in search of Zion slot canyons, this one is near that space and it undoubtedly belongs in your checklist! It’s only a 1 hour drive from Springdale and Zion Nationwide Park.
The primary problem with this slot is the comfortable and deep sand on the street resulting in it. You’ll want a real 4 wheel drive car (not simply AWD), and even then you definitely’ll need to air down your tires and sustain momentum to keep away from getting caught within the sand.
A lot of individuals get caught right here due to the tough circumstances. Due to this, most individuals go to the Peekaboo Kanab slot with a Jeep tour or UTV tour the place knowledgeable firm does the driving for you. I’ll embody some tour suggestions beneath.
A few of these excursions additionally mix the slot with a go to to the close by Nice Chamber, which is a photogenic cave-like spot close to Kanab that’s additionally difficult to succeed in with out a true off-road car.
Alternatively, you’ll be able to hike roughly 8 miles roundtrip to the slot from the 2WD parking space, and a few individuals do that, but it surely’s a little bit of a troublesome slog due to all of the sand. You’ll want a map, solar safety, and many water.
The slot itself is gorgeous and straightforward to stroll by means of. It’s nicely definitely worth the effort. This one is nice for all ages, and it’s undoubtedly one of the crucial photogenic slot canyons close to Zion Nationwide Park!
Issue: Straightforward
E-book Now: Peekaboo Kanab Jeep Tour / UTV Tour
6. Kanarra Creek & Falls
The Kanarra Slot Canyon is exclusive on this checklist as a result of it additionally has two waterfalls inside! That is one among our favourite Utah canyons, and it’s only a 1 hour drive from Zion Nationwide Park.
The primary waterfall is close to the beginning of the slot canyon, and it’s straightforward to move because of a brand new steel ladder that was put in by the town of Kanarraville. The second waterfall comes into view a bit later.
General, I’d in all probability price this hike as straightforward, though it’s a bit longer and has extra elevation achieve than the opposite hikes on this Utah slot canyon information.
These days it’s a must to pay for a allow to do the Kanarra Creek hike due to its reputation, and there are a restricted variety of permits out there per day. These promote out typically, so that you’ll need to plan forward.
Issue: Straightforward
The magnificent partitions of Kanarra Creek Slot Canyon
7. Jenny’s Canyon
Jenny’s Canyon is a household pleasant little slot canyon in southern Utah that’s good for the children. You may attain it in simply 5 minutes of strolling!
This slot is positioned within the Snow Canyon State Park close to St George, about 1 hour from Zion or 2 hours from Las Vegas. The rock partitions are stuffed with photogenic little caves and cavities that the children can play in, and while you get executed on the slot, there’s additionally an overlook that’s fairly straightforward to hike up.
The one disappointment with this slot canyon is that it’s so quick, and also you attain the top after solely strolling about 500 ft. Parking can also be very restricted on the trailhead, though it tends to unencumber typically for the reason that hike is fast.
General, it’s a outstanding little slot canyon, and it’s nicely value a go to for those who’re close to the Snow Canyon State Park!
Issue: Straightforward
8. St George Narrows
In case you’re claustrophobic, keep distant from the St George Narrows! I debated whether or not or to not embody this slot canyon within the checklist, as a result of it’s so tight you might virtually name it a crack somewhat than a slot canyon.
In comparison with most slot canyons, this passageway is paper skinny. Even for those who’re a small particular person, you’ll completely need to stroll sideways to get by means of the crack, and it’ll nonetheless be tight. It’s a enjoyable problem for those who’re feeling courageous!
This slot is a part of a free park space that has restrooms and loads of parking, simply outdoors of the city of St George in southern Utah. Even for those who’re not up for squeezing by means of the slot, there are another rock options right here which are good for climbing and photographs as nicely!
Issue: Straightforward / Reasonable
9. Spring Creek Canyon
The Spring Creek Canyon is one other good slot canyon by the little city of Kanarra, positioned lower than 1 hour from Zion Nationwide Park.
This one is a reasonably straightforward hike, and it has vibrant reddish-orange rock colours that may be actually beautiful with the correct amount of daylight.
We did Spring Creek on a weekday and the path was virtually fully empty, in order that’s one other factor it has going for it!
Issue: Straightforward
10. Willis Creek Slot Canyon
The Willis Creek Slot Canyon is one other quick and straightforward path by means of some scenic narrows in southern Utah, with wavy vanilla-colored rocks and spectacular passageways.
This canyon is widespread for horseback using, and the entire path is simple and just about flat, so total I’d rank it as one of many best and most household pleasant slot canyon hikes in Utah.
It’s positioned lower than an hour from the favored Bryce and Escalante areas, so it’s undoubtedly one so as to add to your Utah street journey!
Issue: Straightforward
Learn Extra: Willis Creek Slot Canyon
Willis Creek Slot Canyon is without doubt one of the lesser identified Utah canyons
11. Zebra Slot Canyon
The Zebra Slot Canyon is a spectacular passageway in Escalante, Utah, with wild rock colours and wavy zebra striped partitions.
It’s probably the greatest slot canyons in Utah I’ve ever seen, though the tight Zebra Canyon is a bit tough to navigate in comparison with different slots.
The preliminary hike to Zebra canyon is flat and straightforward, however the slot itself is troublesome as a result of it’s so tight and often has standing water.
You don’t want any particular gear or technical abilities to do Zebra, however good health and prior expertise in slots will assist loads, and you’ll’t be claustrophobic or afraid of wading by means of soiled water.
Issue: Reasonable / Exhausting
Learn Extra: Zebra Slot Canyon
12. Peekaboo Slot Canyon
The Peekaboo Slot Canyon is like an grownup playground, with a lot of enjoyable obstacles to cross and great pink rock partitions to admire. It’s one of the crucial beautiful slot canyons in Utah, that includes a coronary heart formed passage and arch ceilings.
It’s additionally reasonably troublesome and I wouldn’t describe it as an entry stage slot, though newbies can nonetheless do it. The slippery ledge at the beginning of the slot is the principle problem, and it might be harmful for those who fall.
Peekaboo Canyon is positioned within the Escalante space of southern Utah, about 1 hour from Bryce Canyon Nationwide Park. Escalante can also be roughly midway between Moab and Zion, so it’s an ideal place so as to add to your Utah street journey itinerary!
Issue: Reasonable
Learn Extra: Peekaboo Slot Canyon
Peekaboo Canyon could also be our favourite slot canyon in Utah.
13. Spooky Slot Canyon
That is one other loopy slot canyon positioned close to Peekaboo, and most of the people do these two slots as a loop hike since they’re positioned so shut collectively.
Spooky Canyon is extraordinarily tight. There are components the place it’s a must to shuffle sideways simply to suit your physique by means of the slot, and backpacks need to be carried awkwardly overhead.
You don’t want any particular gear or technical abilities to do that slot, however you do should be in good condition and by no means claustrophobic.
Despite the issue and awkwardness, we nonetheless had large enjoyable doing this hike, and it’s undoubtedly probably the greatest slot canyons in Utah!
Issue: Reasonable
Learn Extra: Spooky Gulch
Spooky Gulch is one other extremely memorable slot canyon in Escalante, Utah
14. Dry Fork Narrows
It is a third slot canyon you’ll be able to go to as a part of the Spooky/Peekaboo loop hike in Escalante.
Actually, there’s a second trailhead for the Spooky/Peekaboo canyons (known as the Higher Dry Fork trailhead) that really takes you proper by means of the Dry Fork Narrows, that manner you’ll be able to see all three slot canyons in a single loop hike!
The opposite excellent news is that the Dry Fork Narrows are wider and tamer than the slot canyons at Spooky and Peekaboo, so you’ll be able to simply chill out and benefit from the surroundings as you stroll by means of. This slot is appropriate for everybody.
Issue: Straightforward
Learn Extra: Peekaboo And Spooky Slot Canyons
Dry Fork Narrows
15. Little Wild Horse Canyon
The Little Wild Horse Canyon is a pleasant and straightforward slot canyon by the Goblin Valley State Park, about 2 hours from Moab, Utah.
It is a nice one for newbies. It will not be probably the most spectacular and colourful slot ever, but it surely’s nonetheless very photogenic and household pleasant, and you are able to do it on a day journey from Moab.
Some individuals do that as a loop hike with Bell Canyon, which takes fairly a bit longer, however the very best components of Little Wild Horse canyon might be seen in solely an hour roundtrip, which is ideal for individuals eager to skip to the great things.
Issue: Straightforward
16. Ding & Dang Canyons
That is one other neat slot canyon hike positioned about 2 hours from Moab, but it surely’s not for newbies.
Ding & Dang Canyon requires some technical capacity since there’s climbing and sometimes deep water.
There have been quite a few rescues right here, so I wouldn’t advocate going until you’ve got somebody skilled to assist.
Issue: Exhausting
17. Moonshine Wash
The Moonshine Wash is one other scenic slot canyon positioned lower than 2 hours from Moab, Utah. The solitude is without doubt one of the interesting options of this trek.
It’s a hidden gem positioned off the overwhelmed path, so that you aren’t prone to see many different hikers. The trailhead will also be a bit tough to seek out the primary time.
I’d advocate bringing an skilled companion for Moonshine Wash, as a result of it’s a bit extra technical than the opposite hikes listed on this Utah slot canyon information.
Issue: Reasonable
18. Antelope Canyon
In fact I can’t make a listing of fantastic slot canyons with out mentioning Antelope Canyon, which is without doubt one of the most lovely locations in America!
This one is definitely positioned in Arizona, after all, but it surely’s very near the southern border of Utah and you’ll go to it on a day journey from there.
Antelope Canyon is a favourite with photographers, and for good purpose. It has spectacular colours, and it’s so photogenic. It could be laborious to take a foul image right here.
The one con is that it’s extraordinarily widespread, so a tour information is required these days, and also you may need to make a reservation months prematurely.
Issue: Straightforward / Guided
Learn Extra: Antelope Canyon Information
E-book Now: Higher / Decrease Antelope Canyon / Antelope Canyon X Tour
Utah Slot Canyons Map
Right here’s a map of slot canyons you need to use to plan your personal street journey in Utah. You may click on the icons to get instructions and extra data on every focal point, however take into accout a few of the areas on this map could also be approximate.
For extra detailed info on the best way to discover the precise trailheads for these Utah slot canyons, you’ll be able to try my particular person journey guides for every hike.
As all the time, please keep in mind to maintain the path clear, be thoughtful of different hikers, and depart no hint. Thanks and glad travels!
Slot Canyons Close to Zion Nationwide Park
There are a bunch of fine slot canyons close to Zion Nationwide Park, and it’s doable to mix one or two of those with a go to to the park.
You could have to perform a little little bit of driving, but it surely’s value it!
Listed here are a few of the greatest Zion slot canyons:
- The Narrows (inside Zion Nationwide Park)
- Shelf Canyon (inside Zion Nationwide Park)
- Keyhole Canyon (inside Zion Nationwide Park)
- Pine Creek Gorge Slot Canyon (inside Zion Nationwide Park)
- The Subway (inside Zion Nationwide Park)
- Crimson Hole Canyon (30 miles east of Zion)
- Crimson Canyon Kanab (40 miles east of Zion)
- St George Narrows (40 miles west of Zion)
- Spring Creek Canyon (45 miles northwest of Zion)
- Kanarra Creek & Falls (45 miles northwest of Zion)
- Jenny’s Canyon (50 miles west of Zion)
- Buckskin Gulch & Wire Cross (90 miles east of Zion)
- Willis Creek Slot Canyon (100 miles northeast of Zion)
These are a few of the greatest slot canyons close to Zion Nationwide Park. With a little bit of exploring, you might be able to discover others as nicely!
The Narrows is probably the most well-known Zion slot canyon, however there are additionally a bunch of different good ones close to the nationwide park.
Slot Canyons Close to Moab & Arches Nationwide Park
Sadly there aren’t actually many Moab slot canyons, and the Arches Nationwide Park doesn’t have any both.
Nevertheless, there are some good slot canyons close to Moab for those who’re prepared to drive:
- Professor Creek / Mary Jane Canyon (20 miles from Moab)
- Holeman Slot (60 miles southwest of Moab)
- Moonshine Wash (75 miles northwest of Moab)
- Joint Path / Chesler Park Loop (80 miles southwest of Moab)
- Crawford Draw (90 miles northwest of Moab)
- Furnishings Draw (100 miles northwest of Moab)
- Little Wild Horse Canyon (105 miles west of Moab)
- Ding & Dang Canyons (110 miles west of Moab)
These are a few of the greatest slot canyons close to Moab. Most of those are non-technical, however a number of are nicely off the overwhelmed path, so they might put your navigation abilities to the take a look at.
Finest Utah Excursions
Slot Canyon Security Suggestions
Flash Floods. At all times pay attention to the climate forecast. Don’t enter any slot canyon if rain is within the forecast, even when it is outdoors of your quick space. Flash flooding might be very harmful in a slot canyon.
Sunscreen. Even on a slot canyon hike, there are nonetheless loads of components on the path the place you may be uncovered to direct solar, so you may want sunscreen. A hat helps too.
Water. Attempt to pack at the least 3-4 liters per particular person. In Utah, it’s best to all the time deliver extra water than you assume you want.
Map. It is a good suggestion to obtain an offline map of your climbing space on an app like Google Maps, that manner you’ll be able to hold utilizing it to navigate or discover your place even while you’re out of reception. Getting misplaced within the desert might be harmful.
Extra Utah Climbing Guides
Thanks for wanting! I hope you loved this information for a few of the most wonderful slot canyons Utah has to supply.
Don’t neglect to take a look at my checklist of the greatest hikes in Utah and the greatest slot canyons in Arizona and Nevada to see in your subsequent street journey!