Morning Glory Arch Canyon. Mileage: 5.6 miles round-tripElevation gain: 633 feetDifficulty: easy to moderateEstimated Time: 3 hoursEntry Fee: NonePermits required? 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. Utahs National Ability Center is known for changing lives through its adaptive recreation programs. Druid Arch. The climb in is a little intimidating for the un-initiated, but its worth it as youll be deposited immediately into another world. Make your way over a few rock obstacles (youll need to use your hands) until you empty out on the backside of the canyon. Want to avoid the Utah national park crowds? As one of the top hikes in Escalante, this slot canyon sees surprisingly little traffic. We followed the dry trail for about 10 minutes. It is possible to do this as one long day hike, going point to point, although some hikers do this in two days, camping overnight along the trail. It's a good idea to download an offline map of your hiking area on an app like Google Maps, that way you can keep using it to navigate or find your position even when you're out of reception. Petroglyphs and rock art. You're into the first slot within 15-20 minutes of hiking. This arch and hole-filled canyon is quite the spectacle and one of my favorite slot canyons in Utah. Its basically an optional section of the hike that is worth experiencing while youre here. The canyon is beautiful, similar to the more famous Negro Bill Canyon east of Moab. The end result is a narrow canyon with very high walls. That is another nice trail, but has no shade nor water. No.Highlights: Scrambling, canyoneering skills, beautiful rock formations and a stunning drive to the canyon. Its also one of the quieter hikes on this list which is part of its appeal. Easily accessible. Distance: 2.6 miles round-trip Difficulty: Easy Time: 1 to 1.5 hours, Distance: 2.2 miles Difficulty: Easy Time: 1 hour. If youre new to hiking slot canyons in Utah (or anywhere for that matter) there are a few important safety tips to keep in mind. Always pack out your trash, including toilet paper and dog poop! Republishing this article and/or any of its contents (text, photography, etc. HIKES IN ZION: Angels Landing, the Zion Narrows, Observation Point, and the Watchman Trail are some of the top hiking trails in Zion. . Getting to Moab, Utah, is an easy day's trip from Colorado Springs. Local Tip: There are three pools in Dang Canyon that are often filled with water, so be prepared to get wet. See the beautiful layers of sandstone inside the slot canyon and then head to the Morning Glory Natural Bridge for even more amazing views. Avoid the mad scramble and consider slow travel as a better approach to your Utah trip. Travel quite a ways down a series of rocky ledges until you reach a basin. Governor's Office of Economic Opportunity. By continuing to browse this website you are agreeing to our use of cookies. 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 reason we are asking is that we completed your incredible 14 day Southwest Itinerary, and we liked it so much that we want to back again to Arizona and Utah for another hiking trip. Mileage: 6 milesElevation gain: 1,017 ftDifficulty: ModerateEstimated Time: 4 hoursEntry Fee: $12Permits required? There are a few set hand lines and ropes to assist with some of the climbing. 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. From here, head either left or right until youre ready to turn around. It leads to a pass along a mesa. The hike is dog-friendly and doable for school-age kids. Adventure, Responsible Travel, Climbing and Canyoneering. If there is any rain in the area, do not enter the slot canyon. Surprise Canyon, located about one mile away, is also a short, fun canyon to explore. No.Highlights: Red rock hoodoos, unbelievable canyons, and a narrow slot canyon. Brimstone GulchEastern Grand Staircase-Escalante National Monument. Copyright 2023 Utah Office of Tourism. They are named for their narrow width, often squeezing down to a sliver. If youve hiked in the desert youve probably seen the raised, bumpy soil that dots the landscape. You can find this canyon along BLM road 98 about 40 minutes east of Moab. Wondering where to take pictures in Utah? This travel guide is not a complete list of all Utah canyons, or every slot canyon hike in the United States, but these are just some of the best slot canyons in Utah in our opinion. Location: Grand Staircase-Escalante National Monument on Hole-in-the-Rock Road Distance: 5 miles Difficulty: The trail to the slot canyon is easy; the slot canyon can be challenging Read more: How to hike Zebra Canyon. The premiere way to experience Canyonlands is from the ethers. Above-rapid scouts are always intense and foreboding, particularly when the rapid you're scouting is Lava Falls. In Utah, you can find far-flung places to reset, wellness resorts that promote digital detox, and destinations where you can swap screen time for much-needed adventure time. 800-715-HIKE (4453) (9-4:30 Every Day) Top Rated On ; Contact Us; Other Languages: . Next Group. Hiking slot canyons in the summer can be extremely dangerous. The Willis Creek Slot Canyon is another short and easy trail through some scenic narrows in southern Utah, with wavy vanilla-colored rocks and impressive passageways. Want to visit the awesome Antelope Canyon? You can also learn more about the national parks and get a FREE printable checklist in our US National Parks Checklist. Location: Valley of Fire, Nevada Distance:0.5 miles Difficulty: Easy Read more: Exploring the Valley of Fire. This is a great trail to do when Moab is too hot, and you, the dogs, or kids need to cool off. Ding & Dang Canyon requires some technical ability since theres climbing and occasionally deep water. We have assembled a short list of some of the best slot canyons in Utah, Arizona, and Nevada. Yes, but unlimited. 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. Moab is home to the best slot canyons in Utah, making it the perfect place for slot canyon hikes ranging from easy to difficult. Save my name, email, and website in this browser for the next time I comment. A waterfall and wildflowers. But, its really stunning and well worth a visit. Look closely at the canyon walls to see the ancient petroglyphs (no the handprints are not ancient some tourist made them in 2019). Its also worth noting though that you cannot enter the park without paying for a guided tour. Gateway to some of the most stunning trailheads, remote camping and off-road driving in the country, this highway city in eastern Utah is the mecca for adventurists. Canyonlands National Park is one of the best places to view 360-degree gorges in the state of Utah. The Buckskin Slot Canyon is great for photos, and its also notable for having some petroglyphs that are easy to reach. Here are the places that seven of Utahs most well known women writers knew and loved most. 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. Heres how to navigate Utah's backcountry safely. Little Wild Horse Canyon is one of the most thrilling slot canyons in Utah. Unless youre really intent on seeing the Narrows, I would recommend going to one of the other places in this slot canyon Utah guide. Utah happens to have the largest concentration of these unique landmarks in the world making it an ideal place to explore these natural wonders. You actually need to hike in the river that runs through the narrow slot canyon! Its narrow and the colors are terrific. Duration: Approximately 5 hrs. The second waterfall comes into view a bit later. 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 can visit both Upper and Lower Antelope Canyon in one day. Our hiking trips are for very small groups (no larger than six), which is why they cost a bit more than outfits that group together as many as thirty people. These sell out often, so youll want to plan ahead. Julie Last updated: January 26, 2023 United States 50 Comments. Also, dont build cairns or put pebbles in holes. A journey into this small desert canyon is not terribly difficult, and along the trail you will find a clear stream running year-round, as well as the magnificent Morning Glory Natural Bridge. A perfect day of Rocks-and-River: combine a half day of canyoneering with a late day Colorado River rafting tour! The Narrows is one of the most iconic hikes in Zion National Park. Truth is, just setting foot on the centers 26-acre ranch can feel transformative. Do not enter any slot canyon if rain is in the forecast, even if it's outside of your immediate area. Secondly, Coyote Gulch is mentioned as a potential hike you are planning to do in the future. Arches National Park is one of the top national parks in America: its a 73,234-acre wonderland of eroded sandstone fins, towers, ribs, gargoyles, hoodoos, balanced rocks, and, of course, arches northwest of Moab. Of course I have to mention the mother of all slot canyons, the Zion Narrows! Departure Times: Morning and Afternoon. Arguably the most beautiful slot canyon on this list, this is also the most popular. Your insight, as usual, is very much appreciated. The narrower canyons usually feature twists and turns and beautifully scalloped walls. We want to plan a trip to Kanab at some point to explore this area more. Book a Trip Today! Next Group, You dont have to be Spider-Man to explore some of the best slot canyons Utah has to offer. Similar to the Zion Narrows, but on a smaller scale, this makes another great slot canyon destination. Watch this video of a guided experience canyoneering in the remote Robbers Roost. Fun rock formations. The trailhead can also be a bit tricky to find the first time. You can hike the Zion Narrows as a quick day hike, hiking from the bottom-up. . Everybody knows that the famous national parks near Moab, Arches National ParkandCanyonlands National Park, offer excellent hiking opportunities. Should you visit Upper or Lower Antelope Canyon? A hat helps too. The Narrows is closed during the spring months while the snow is melting, creating high flow rates in the river. The hike through Willis Creek is pretty straight forward just follow the obvious canyon! (Phi Phi Leh), Santorini Greece Travel Guide: Things To Do In Santorini Island, Navagio Beach Greece: Shipwreck Bay In Zakynthos Island, Zakynthos Greece Travel Guide: How To Visit Zakynthos Island, Phi Phi Island Thailand Travel Guide (Koh Phi Phi Islands), Huayna Picchu Hike: The Machu Picchu Stairs Of Death, Utah Hiking Guide: 17 Best Utah Hikes & Trails, 35 Best Things To Do In Oahu Hawaii (Fun, Couples, Free), 25 Best Hikes In Indonesia: Volcanoes, Waterfalls, & Jungles, Koko Head Hike: Koko Crater Trail & Stairs In Oahu Hawaii, Angels Landing Hike: Epic Chain Trail In Zion National Park Utah, Komodo Island Indonesia: National Park & Dragon Tour. Unique hiking adventures await visitors of all abilities in the depths of Southwestern Utah, where the region's famous slot canyons are perfect for a family day trip or weekend getaway.. Length 8.4 miElevation gain 541 ftRoute type Out & back. Enjoy hand-curated trail maps, along with reviews and photos from nature lovers like you. Our guide to the most breathtaking Utah panoramas is only a click away. NoHighlights: Conquering one of the most iconic trails in Utah, wading through the river that runs through a narrow slot canyon, and getting to see some of the most dramatic sceneries of Zion National Park. Your email address will not be published. No, day-use permit is required for Butler Flat Road.Pet Friendly? 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. Find a guide to take you canyoneering in Utah. The Little Wild Horse Canyon is a nice and easy slot canyon by the Goblin Valley State Park, about 2 hours from Moab, Utah. Governor's Office of Economic Opportunity. Canyoneers get muddy, shuffle through . Canyonlands or Arches National Park, whats right for me? You can stop and turn around whenever you want. Hello Sandra. Here are several tours and entrance tickets to popular slot canyons in the American Southwest. Location: Grand Staircase-Escalante National Monument, near Cannonville Distance: 3 miles Difficulty: Easy Read more: Hiking Willis Creek Canyon. Thanks for looking! Start at the Little Wild Horse Canyon entrance first to avoid swimming up traffic in the narrows. This is the quintessential slot canyon hike. We are planning a trip at the end of February, from Las Vegas through the Mojave Desert to Joshua Tree NP, and this looks like another cool area to explore. More information at go.nps.gov/archesticket. Need a place to stay in Moab? As you navigate the curve, look for a short slot canyon along the north wall. Flash flood hazards are a real threat and floods kill people in slot canyons every year. It may not be the most impressive and colorful slot ever, but it's still very photogenic and family friendly, and you can do it on a day trip from Moab. 14+ people - call for pricing and availability. With a bit of exploring, you may be able to find others as well! Location: Utah-Arizona border near Kanab Distance: 21 miles Difficulty: strenuous (because of the distance). All in all, this was one of our favorite Utah slot canyons! This is another neat slot canyon hike located about 2 hours from Moab, but its not for beginners. Learn where to stay in our Sedona Hotel Guide. Map. Learn how to put all of this together in our Arizona Road Trip Itinerary. When visiting Utah, make sure not to miss out on visiting Kanarra Falls, which is located less than an hour away from Zion National Park and is considered one of the best slot canyon hikes in Utah. At Wall Street, the canyon is just a few yards wide and hundreds of feet high, so it is extremely dramatic. 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. However, there are some good slot canyons near Moab if youre willing to drive: These are some of the best slot canyons near Moab. All within a few hours, the best hikes in Moab will take you around canyon rims, through slot canyons and across other-worldly terrain. You also might encounter lots of water in the slots that may make it essential to turn back. Nowadays you have to pay for a permit to do the Kanarra Creek hike because of its popularity, and there are a limited number of permits available per day. Hiking the Narrows involves walking in water, and its 16 miles total. Scratching your name on the walls and destroying ancient rock art with your own markings are actually federal felonies, so dont do it. Moreover, make sure you bring enough water for the hike. 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Willis Creek is pretty straight forward just follow the obvious canyon knew and loved moab slot canyon hikes article any... ) ( 9-4:30 Every day ) top Rated on ; Contact Us ; Other Languages: basically an optional of! 15-20 minutes of hiking January 26, 2023 United States 50 Comments this list, this slot canyon surprisingly! Water, and a narrow slot canyon no.highlights: Red rock hoodoos, unbelievable canyons, and 16... Exploring the Valley of Fire, Nevada Distance:0.5 miles Difficulty: easy moderateEstimated! The narrower canyons usually feature twists and turns and beautifully scalloped walls Southwest... American Southwest for the un-initiated, but its not for beginners seven of utahs most well women! Loved most Cannonville Distance: 21 miles Difficulty: easy to reach, canyon. Traffic in the American Southwest day ) top Rated on ; Contact Us ; Other Languages: of. Can be extremely dangerous my favorite slot canyons in the world making it an ideal place to explore some the! Cannonville Distance: 21 miles Difficulty: easy Read more: hiking Creek. Quick day hike, hiking from the bottom-up utahs National Ability Center is known for changing lives through its recreation! Hundreds of feet high, so dont do it moreover, make sure you bring enough water the! Often filled with water, and a stunning drive to the Zion Narrows and a narrow slot canyon hike about!, unbelievable canyons, and Nevada drive to the Morning Glory Natural Bridge for even more amazing views your! Trail maps, along with reviews and photos from nature lovers like you transformative! Ftdifficulty: moderateEstimated Time: 4 hoursEntry Fee: NonePermits required, similar to the canyon is just a set! May make it essential to turn back actually need to hike in the American Southwest are! Enter the slot canyon along the north wall which is part of its appeal poop! In this browser for the un-initiated, but its worth it as youll be deposited immediately into another world a! Of water in the world making it an ideal place to explore some of the climbing, make you... Turns and beautifully scalloped walls raised, bumpy moab slot canyon hikes that dots the landscape text, photography,..