Experience one of the most unique slot canyons in Utah with the Spooky and Peek a Boo Canyon loop. At the end of the amazing Negro Bill Canyon is the Morning Glory bridge trail and it makes for a pretty amazing hike. Water. Some canyons feature sections requiring canyoneering or rock scrambling experience while others have you hiking through a creek or standing water. After months of being at home, weve all been disconnected from each other but connected permanently to our screens. Utah is filled with stunning desert landscapes and this rappelling tour takes visitors to the Medieval Chamber slot canyon just outside of Moab. Moab is home to the best slot canyons in Utah, making it the perfect place for slot canyon hikes ranging from easy to difficult. The initial hike to Zebra canyon is flat and easy, but the slot itself is difficult because its so tight and usually has standing water. However, there are some good slot canyons near Moab if youre willing to drive: These are some of the best slot canyons near Moab. Willis Creek is fun to explore. NoPet Friendly? Mileage: 1.5 to 5 miles round-trip, up to 23 miles one wayElevation gain: 616 feetDifficulty: easy to difficult depending on how long you goEstimated Time: 2 hours to 2 days. This is one of the best slot canyons in Utah that is part of the Peek-a-Boo Slot Canyon and Spooky Gulch trek. Peek-A-Boo Gulch has several sections of challenging rock scrambling, including a 12 foot climb just to enter the canyon. Its easy, its great for all ability levels and ages, and with the creek and high canyon walls, you can stay cool (almost) even during the hotter summer months. Click the star next to the title of the map to add this map to your Google Maps account. It ends up a 234-foot natural rock with amazing views and a lot of quiet serenity along the way. UTAHS MIGHTY 5: Utahs Mighty 5 is a collection of five national parks in Utah. Excellent hike for those who want to enjoy arches far from the crowds in Arches National Park. Columnist Libby Kinder at the tail end of a hike through three slot canyons in Grand Staircase-Escalante . Mileage: 5.2 milesElevation gain: 377 ftDifficulty: ModerateEstimated Time: 2.5 hoursEntry Fee: NonePermits required? 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Whether you're getting ready to hike, bike, trail run, or explore other outdoor activities, AllTrails has 273 scenic trails in the Moab area. Dogs are allowed, but swimming is often required.Highlights: Zebra-striped canyon walls. The World Travel Guy 2023 Getting lost in the desert can be dangerous. Antelope Canyon is located in Arizona, right near the border with Utah. Above-rapid scouts are always intense and foreboding, particularly when the rapid you're scouting is Lava Falls. Moab is surrounded by a sea of buckled, twisted and worn sandstone sculpted by millennia of sun, wind and rain, Previous Group Comment below! But so nice and compact. Looking to venture beyond The Narrows and Angels Landing? This waterfall is a double-tongued waterfall halted by a chockstone, about 30 feet high. The bad news is that the Narrows is getting extremely popular. It's narrower, but . Watch this video of a guided experience canyoneering in the remote Robbers Roost. A maze of soaring sandstone towers surrounds you on this moderate hike to a high ridge above Onion Creek. Need a place to stay in Moab? Its a fun and unique hiking challenge. Unfortunately, Moab doesn't have too many slot canyons. Its a very photogenic hike, with nice red rock colors and steep canyon walls. Slot canyons are one of the top, hidden treasures found within Southern Utah's diverse redrock landscape. But find them exponentially special when the changing fall leaves are in juxtaposition to the immaculate red rock cliffs. The out-and-back hike ends with a three-story waterfall hidden in a slot canyon. You can hike the narrowest (and most fun) section of Little Wild Horse as a fast out-and-back hike, or do this as a loop, adding on a second slot canyon named Bell Canyon. But if you only have time for one, how to you decide which one to visit? The trail starts in the SE corner of the parking lot do NOT follow the trail head sign for Professor/Sylvester Creek. Kid friendly? You can also learn more about the national parks and get a FREE printable checklist in our US National Parks Checklist. In this guide, learn how to plan a trip around the world. Check out Moab Flats! Mileage: 2.0 milesElevation Gain: 150 feetDifficulty: EasyEstimated Time: 1.0 1.5 hours. Its one of the most gorgeous slot canyons in Utah, featuring a heart shaped passage and arch ceilings. Read More: Peekaboo And Spooky Slot Canyons. The other 10 mile hike. The end result is a narrow canyon with very high walls. This is Peek a Boo Canyon. The State Park sports a morbid name, but it's one of the most scenic stretches of landscape around Moab. One warning for Mary Jane Slot Canyon is that, like with any other slot canyon, you do NOT want to hike this during or right after a rainstorm due to the possibility of a flash flood. Slot canyons can be several meters wide or just one foot wide. Flash flooding can be very dangerous in a slot canyon. A 1000 foot elevation gain/loss in 2.5 miles leads way to beautiful spires, tight slot canyons, and incredible river views. Just be aware that this hike is a bit more technical by nature. The first mile of the trail is very open, and you can see all of the surrounding mesas and buttes. - . Check often, including the day you hike. Beautiful desert scenery. This hike offers awesome scenery and lots of solitude away from the national parks. Just know that climbing down is pretty difficult, so once youre in, youre in. About 1/2 mile in, make sure you turn left, following the creek. Recommended by Jordan Wohlwend from The Homebody Tourist. Planning a trip to Utah? Julie Last updated: January 26, 2023 United States 50 Comments. Take advantage of the variety of climbing available to enjoy this scenic winter climbing destination. The desert can be very cold in the winter. The American Southwest is a playground for hikers, photographers, and adventurers. The hikes on this list stood out to us because theyre especially accessible, photogenic, colorful, or interesting! Last year we were able to go on a big road trip around the American Southwest while seeing many of the best slot canyons in Utah along the way, and afterwards we put together this slot canyon Utah guide and map! You dont need any special gear or technical skills to do this slot, but you do need to be in good shape and not at all claustrophobic. You can click the icons to get directions and more info on each point of interest, but keep in mind some of the locations on this map may be approximate. Climb slickrock ledges to explore the slot and a nearby alcove devoid of rock art. A steep hike leads to a hidden valley high above Moab and Spanish Valley. Hire a tour guide, drive your own 4WD vehicle, or hike to a high-lookout point to take in the grandeur of the superb stratigraphic mesas in the distance. NATIONAL PARKS: In our Guide to the US National Parks, get the full list of national parks with important travel planning information, such as things to do in the parks and sample itineraries. . If you go to this area in the summer, add on the North Rim of the Grand Canyon and if you rent a 44, Toroweap Overlook on the North Rim is high on our bucket list. The narrowest part is just over a foot wide, meaning youll have to walk sideways to get through the canyon! However, its the low season for tourism, so many of the more popular slot canyons in Utah are empty this time of year. Kanarra Falls is a permit-only hike and is limited to 150 hikers a day, so make sure to snag yours up ahead of time. Brimstone Gulch is what many Utah slot canyons aspire to be. Theres even a little wooden ladder thats great for pictures. Learn more about this unforgettable attraction and plan a visit. Arguably the most beautiful slot canyon on this list, this is also the most popular. This hike follows an easy trail to a rider overlooking the Fisher Towers, which are scenic rock formations eroded into interesting shapes. The desert is a delicate place and waste does not break down, so packing out your poo (or using toilets at trailheads) is the best way to respect this fragile environment. Youll need a 4WD high-clearance vehicle to reach the trailhead, which is really just a stop along a dry river bed. Try to pack at least 3-4 liters per person. From there, it is a one-mile easy walk on a paved trail alongside the river to the start of the slot canyon and The Narrows hike. Secondly, Coyote Gulch is mentioned as a potential hike you are planning to do in the future. Governor's Office of Economic Opportunity. Discover where adventure and learning converge across iconic rivers and ancient canyons. The canyon is beautiful, similar to the more famous Negro Bill Canyon east of Moab. One last look before we turn around! Visit Utah for spelunking and cave exploration. How to Beat the Crowds at Bryce Canyon National Park, The best slot canyons in Utah that dont require special gear or skills, Info about each canyon including distance, difficulty, and any advanced permits. Dont forget to check out my list of the best hikes in Utah to see on your next road trip! Best time to go: Spring and fall are ideal, but you can hike here year-round. Its also one of those hikes thats easy to get to and that features one narrow section that anyone who wants to do some stemming and chimneying will love. She'd rather be dirty than done up. Learn More: How to Hike the Little Wild Horse Bell Canyon Loop. You may have to do a little bit of driving, but its worth it! You can see the LaSals peaking out from behind the mesas, and you should be able to see the famous Priest & Nuns rock formation to the SW. We had a Tacoma, but small cars can make it. Zebra Slot Canyon is definitely one of the more adventurous slot canyons in Utah. All in all, this was one of our favorite Utah slot canyons! Many people compare the experience of hiking here to that of Antelope Canyon (a famous slot canyon in Arizona). This is not an all-inclusive list, because there are tons of slot canyons in this area, but listed below are some of the most popular and the most scenic slot canyons to explore.From short, easy, scenic walks to all day technical hikes, take your pick of the slot canyons you want to explore. Visit Utah writer Kristen Pope met Dr. Jayne Belnap, one of the worlds top experts on biological soil crusts, to learn about the importance of biocrusts to Utah's desert landscapes, and how to protect them. If youre looking for how to enjoy the best slot canyons in Utah like a pro, and not a tourist, then youre in the right place! Find a guide to take you canyoneering in Utah. As you continue further up the canyon the walls will get higher and higher. Located near Orderville, this short and sweet hike is perfect for families. Truth is, just setting foot on the centers 26-acre ranch can feel transformative. This excellent hike above the Colorado River Canyon leads to three arches, including Corona Arch, one of the largest arches in the Moab area. Explore up to 20 miles of trails for an unforgettable day hike in Buckskin Gulch in the Grand Staircase-Escalante National Monument. Transform body, mind and spirit around the theme: Ignite the Flame Within. Follow along as she seeks her authentic self and learn how to find your own Tribe. I was deep in a slot canyon with walls like sheaves of shelf mushrooms, stretching my arms up toward geologic history. Whether you join us for canyoneering, rock climbing, packrafting or hiking, rest assured you've picked Moab's top guide service with tours that are . To get there, take the Zion shuttle to the end and get off at the Temple of Sinawava stop. After climbing quickly to the valley, the trail traverses it below gorgeous, towering cliffs. Use a tool like weather.gov to check the weather for the specific canyon you plan to visit. The trailhead is located six miles from Goblin Valley State Park. Youll be using plenty of basic canyoneering and climbing skills such as stemming and bridging (if you dont know what these are, then this is likely a somewhat dangerous adventure for you). The Kanarra Slot Canyon is unique on this list for also having two waterfalls inside, and its just a 1 hour drive from Zion National Park. The drive in. Affiliate Disclosures Privacy Policy Terms Of Use Sure, any of Utahs Mighty 5 national parks are spectacular year round covered in snow, peppered with spring wildflowers, and baked in sunshine. Over time, the eroded sandstone forms narrow channels, or canyons that cut deep into the cliffs and sandstone mountains found throughout Utah. Previous Group Its also one of the most popular hikes in the area so make reservations well in advance (like months) and do not expect to have this place all to yourself. Starting at the small town of Kanarraville, the Kanarrs Creek Canyon trail is an out and back trail thats 6 miles long and features two amazing waterfalls and a narrow slot canyon. Unfortunately there arent really many Moab slot canyons, and the Arches National Park doesnt have any either. Best done if youre backpacking in the Needles District of the park, this trail features a narrow, straight, steep mini canyon thats a satisfying sight. Slot canyons form when soft rock like sandstone, erode slowly from rain and wind. Among the exceptionally beautiful slot canyon hikes in the southern San Rafael area, Little Wild Horse Canyon is a classic, as well as the perfect introduction both to non-technical canyoneering for just about anyone in decent shape. NoPet Friendly? Distance: 8.1 miles for the full Little Wild Horse Bell Canyon Loop Difficulty: Moderate Time: 4 to 6 hours Getting Here: This hike is located in the San Rafael Swell of Utah. Ding & Dang Canyon requires some technical ability since theres climbing and occasionally deep water. The Mary Jane Slot Canyon is one of Moab's hidden gems. To view it on your phone or computer, open Google Maps, click the menu button, go to Your Places, click Maps, and you will see this map on your list. Canyoneering & River Rafting Combo. Getting Here: Headquarters Canyon and Surprise Canyons are located side by side in Capitol Reef National Park. So you could start hiking right away in the creek, or just follow the dry trail for another few hundred feet, and eventually it will force you to hike in the creek. Of course I have to mention the mother of all slot canyons, the Zion Narrows! Winters are another excellent time to hike in a slot canyon, if you dont mind the cold! Brimstone GulchEastern Grand Staircase-Escalante National Monument. Discover this 8.4-mile out-and-back trail near Moab, Utah. Entry Fee: $5 per person and $5 per dogPermits required? The Narrows is the most famous Zion slot canyon, but there are also a bunch of other nice ones near the national park. By continuing to browse this website you are agreeing to our use of cookies. 1. Your email address will not be published. The history in question was the Great Unconformity, a special spot where dark, smooth . Generally considered an easy route, it takes an average of 2 h 57 min to complete. Unfortunately, Moab doesnt have too many slot canyons. Republishing this article and/or any of its contents (text, photography, etc. Want to visit the awesome Antelope Canyon? Price: All tours are private. While Arches has no real "slot canyons," many of its sandstone walls are cross-hatched with narrow passages appropriate for this type of exploration. Pack out your poop. Take a winter break to refresh with a visit to a few of these places. Print/PDF map. Be sure to check out. Explore one of 61 easy hiking trails in Moab or discover kid-friendly routes for your next family trip. Not to mention, youll learn how to beat the crowds in many of Utahs most popular slot canyons. Location: Kanarraville, Utah Distance: 3 to 4 miles, round trip Difficulty: Moderate. Governor's Office of Economic Opportunity. You can find this canyon along BLM road 98 about 40 minutes east of Moab. Distance: 3.5 miles. The Little Wild Horse Canyon is a nice and easy slot canyon by the Goblin Valley State Park, about 2 hours from Moab, Utah. 15. Answer 1 of 14: We will be visiting Moab mid June. Its definitely one of our favorite Utah canyons. Sandstone walls wind and turn, taking you to another planet. Getting stuck in a flash flood is deadly dangerous so never gamble with a rainy forecast even if the percentage is small. This hike is ideal for small children. Slot canyons can be extremely dangerous places if you dont know what youre doing. The Red Hollow Slot Canyon is a short and easy hike in Orderville, Utah, not too far from the popular Zion and Bryce national parks. Its narrow and the colors are terrific. Dont trash the canyon! Let's stay updated! For many hikers, this is a hike that makes the bucket list. Location: Utah-Arizona border near Kanab Distance: 21 miles Difficulty: strenuous (because of the distance). It seems like a great hike but it seems difficult to do in a day hike. If youre hiking in a slot canyon, youll want to carry WAG bags or special toilet in a bag kits that are designed to pack out human waste. Local Tip: There are three pools in Dang Canyon that are often filled with water, so be prepared to get wet. Thanks for looking! Of all the stops on Burr, theres really nothing like the little slot canyon at an inconspicuous turnoff 11.5 miles down from the starting point. 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