East Zion: Stone Hollow Full-day Canyoneering Tour

If you’re dreaming of exploring Zion National Park beyond the usual trails, the Stone Hollow canyoneering tour offers an adventure that combines stunning scenery with a splash of adrenaline. This full-day experience, designed for those ready to step out of their comfort zone, takes you through some of the most remarkable slot canyons in East Zion, with up to 10 rappels reaching 100 feet. It’s a chance to see Zion’s hidden backcountry while enjoying the camaraderie of a small group led by experienced guides.

What we love about this tour is how it balances adventure and safety. Rappelling down narrow, twisting canyons is undeniably thrilling—perfect for adrenaline junkies and curious beginners alike. Plus, the scenic views are genuinely breathtaking, offering photo opportunities you won’t find elsewhere. On the downside, the hike in and out can be quite strenuous, with some steep hills and uneven terrain, so it’s not ideal for everyone. This tour suits active travelers who enjoy physical challenges and want an authentic Zion experience that goes beyond the typical sightseeing.

Key Points

• Stunning slot canyon scenery with unique rock formations and vibrant red walls
• Excellent guides who prioritize safety and help build confidence
• Includes all gear and safety equipment—no hidden costs
• Strenuous hike in and out—prepare for some tough terrain
• Small group size (max 6) ensures personalized attention
• Weather-dependent activity—check conditions before booking

You can check availability for your dates here:

An In-Depth Look at the Canyoneering Experience

The Stone Hollow Full-day Canyoneering Tour offers a rare chance to see Zion’s lesser-visited, quiet backcountry. You’ll meet your guide at the Zion Ponderosa Ranch Resort’s Adventure Center, where the day begins with a quick safety rundown. Expect a roughly 7-hour journey that blends hiking, rappelling, and exploring some of Zion’s most remarkable slot canyons.

The Journey Begins: Hike and Prepare

Your adventure kicks off with a hike into the canyon area, which can be surprisingly demanding. Several reviews mention the hike’s backwoodsy nature, with uneven steps and steep hills that require good ankle strength and stamina. Emily, one reviewer, highlights that “the hike in and out is quite backwood-sy,” with some sections involving walking through rivers and navigating steep ascents. The terrain in Utah’s high desert isn’t gentle, and waterlogged shoes or tired legs could be part of the picture.

The guide’s role here is crucial. We loved the way guides like Brooklyn, Macy, and Eric are praised for their professionalism, patience, and ability to make nervous participants comfortable. Macy’s ability to support a nervous member, and Brooklyn’s focus on safety, demonstrate how important knowledgeable leadership is in this kind of adventure. They’ll give a quick safety lesson on rappelling, ensuring everyone feels confident before the descent.

Rappelling and Exploring the Slot Canyons

Once inside the canyon, the real fun begins. The highlight is abseiling into narrow, awe-inspiring slot canyons—a surreal experience that feels like entering another world. With up to 10 rappels of varying lengths, some reaching up to 100 feet, the tour offers enough challenge to keep even seasoned adventurers engaged. Jeff describes the trek as “challenging hiking and rappels,” but also “amazing,” emphasizing the spectacular scenery that unfolds at every turn.

The guides are praised for their support, especially for making those new to rappelling feel safe. GetYourGuide traveler Amber mentions her guide’s excellence in supporting a nervous group member, which underscores the importance of good instruction and reassurance. Rappelling in a canyon like this is a mix of adrenaline and awe—you’ll be descending into deep, winding corridors flanked by vividly colored walls.

Scenic Views and Unique Landscape

Throughout the day, you’ll enjoy breathtaking vistas—the kind of scenery only Zion can deliver. The walls of the slot canyons are often lit with a warm glow, contrasting sharply with the deep shadows. It’s a landscape that photographically rewards you, and many reviews mention capturing great pictures and videos to remember the trip.

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The Hiking Out: Tough but Worth It

Getting out of the canyon is often noted as the most physically demanding part. Several reviews describe the hike back as steep and challenging, with some walking through rivers and navigating uneven terrain. Shannon describes her day as more challenging than she expected, but overall very rewarding. Wear sturdy hiking shoes and be prepared for a workout; this isn’t a leisurely walk but a true trek through rugged terrain.

What’s Included and What’s Not

The tour provides all necessary gear and safety equipment, which means you don’t have to worry about bringing ropes, harnesses, or helmets. The guide is included, ensuring expert supervision throughout.

However, you’ll need to bring your own water and food, as these aren’t supplied. This is important to note because staying well-hydrated and energized will be key during the strenuous hike and rappelling sections. Transfers to the meeting point aren’t included, so plan to arrive at the Zion Ponderosa Ranch Resort on your own.

Who is This Tour Best For?

This experience is beginners welcome, with the guide’s support making it accessible even for those new to rappelling or canyon exploration. It’s ideal for travelers who are active and comfortable hiking six miles on a moderately strenuous path.

Not suitable for children under 10, pregnant women, or those with mobility issues. Plus, participants over 250 lbs (113 kg) are advised to check suitability, as safety equipment has weight limits.

How Does the Price Reflect the Experience?

At $219 per person, this tour offers a remarkable value for the quality of adventure, expert guidance, and stunning scenery. The small group size (limited to six) ensures personalized attention, which makes all the difference when tackling physically demanding activity. You’re paying for the expertise of guides, safety gear, and a full day immersed in Zion’s hidden corners.

Considering the cost of similar outdoor adventures, this is a fair deal, especially given the memorable experience of rappelling into Zion’s iconic slot canyons and the opportunity to explore terrain few visitors see. Reviewers consistently mention it’s worthevery penny for the unique, adrenaline-filled memories created.

Practical Tips for Participating

• Bring sturdy hiking shoes with good grip, as terrain can be uneven and steep.
• Pack water and snacks—there’s no food or drinks provided.
• Dress in outdoor clothing, and consider extra layers during fall and winter.
• Be prepared for a strenuous hike, so good ankle support and fitness help.
• Remember, this activity is weather-dependent—check conditions before booking.
• No pets allowed on this tour.

Is This Tour Right for You?

If you love adventure travel and want to see Zion from a fresh perspective, this tour is a fantastic choice. The entire experience emphasizes authentic exploration—you’ll walk through quiet backcountry, rappel into narrow canyons, and witness scenery you’d struggle to access on your own. The expert guides help build confidence, making it a good fit whether you’re a beginner or more experienced.

For those seeking a physical challenge and a chance to disconnect from the crowds, this tour delivers. However, it’s not suited for very young children, pregnant women, or those with mobility limitations. It’s best suited for active travelers prepared for a full day of hiking and rappelling.

Frequently Asked Questions

Do I need previous canyoneering experience? No, beginners are welcome. Guides provide a safety lesson and support throughout the day.

What should I bring? Wear hiking shoes, bring water and outdoor clothing, and pack extra layers if visiting in fall or winter.

How long is the hike in and out? Expect a total of about 6 miles of hiking, with some steep and uneven terrain.

Is the tour weather-dependent? Yes, activities depend on good weather conditions. Confirm before booking.

Are any age restrictions? Yes, it’s not suitable for children under 10 years old.

What is the group size? Limited to 6 participants, ensuring personalized attention.

Can I cancel the tour? Yes, you can cancel up to 24 hours in advance for a full refund.

Final Thoughts

The East Zion Stone Hollow Canyoneering Tour offers a rare combination of adventure, scenic beauty, and expert guidance. For travelers craving an active day in some of Zion’s most secluded and stunning slot canyons, this trip offers a memorable, once-in-a-lifetime experience. The guides’ professionalism and support make it accessible to novices, while the jaw-dropping vistas and adrenaline-pumping rappels will satisfy even seasoned adventurers.

While it requires physical effort and a taste for rugged terrain, the rewards are unmistakable—spectacular landscapes, the thrill of descent, and stories to tell for years. It’s a fantastic choice for those who want to go beyond the typical Zion visits and truly experience the wild heart of this remarkable park.

To sum it up, if you’re in good shape, eager for adventure, and want to explore Zion’s hidden canyons in a safe and guided manner, this tour offers exceptional value. It’s best suited for active travelers who appreciate stunning scenery and are comfortable with a degree of physical challenge. With knowledgeable guides and breathtaking landscapes, it’s an experience that’s likely to leave you both exhausted and exhilarated.

You can check availability for your dates here: