Orderville: East Zion Slot Canyons Award-Winning UTV Tour

Exploring the rugged beauty of Utah’s Zion area can often mean long hikes or crowded trails. But this award-winning UTV tour of East Zion’s slot canyons offers a different way—an exhilarating, scenic, and surprisingly accessible route into some of the most striking geological formations in the American Southwest. Based on numerous glowing reviews, this tour is a hit for travelers craving authentic scenery with a touch of adventure, all in a manageable two-hour window.

What we love about this experience? First, the expert guides clearly know the terrain inside out—making the ride both informative and safe. Second, the breathtaking visuals of the Red Cave slot canyons, with their vibrant colors and twisting rock formations, make this a photographer’s dream. But a word of caution: if you’re not comfortable in a vehicle or dislike bouncing over uneven terrain, this might not be your perfect fit. This tour suits anyone who enjoys scenic drives, interesting geology, and a bit of off-road fun—paired with good company and a dash of adventure.

Key Points

• Accessible adventure for all ages, with a safe, guided UTV experience.
• Stunning photo opportunities amid vibrant, unique rock formations.
• Expert guides who share insightful info about the area’s geology and history.
• Rugged scenic landscapes just a short drive from Zion’s more crowded spots.
• Value-packed experience at $104 per person, including water and a memorable ride.
• Flexible scheduling with morning, afternoon, and evening options.

You can check availability for your dates here:

An Overview of the UTV Slot Canyon Tour

This guided UTV tour takes you into the heart of East Zion’s most impressive slot canyons—the Upper and Lower Red Cave Canyons. The entire experience lasts about two hours, making it suitable for a half-day adventure that won’t wear you out or take up your entire day.

The journey begins at the ROAM East Zion storefront, conveniently located just off Highway 89, next to East Zion Resort and a popular food truck. After a brief safety overview, you’ll hop into a Can-Am UTV, driven by your experienced guide. From there, the route rolls through scenic, rugged terrain, giving you a taste of the area’s natural beauty even before reaching the canyons.

What Makes the UTV Tour Special?

Traveling in a modern, well-maintained Can-Am UTV is part of what makes this tour engaging. You’ll feel the thrill of an off-road adventure without the discomfort or complexity of a full-fledged 4×4 trek. The guides are often praised for their local expertise, sharing stories about the land, geology, and history—adding depth to the visual feast.

The Red Cave slot canyons themselves are the star attractions. These narrow, twisting formations with their vivid reds, oranges, and browns, carved by millions of years of water and wind, are a photographer’s paradise. The tour offers a chance to walk approximately 0.25 miles through the canyons, giving you space to explore, admire, and capture truly stunning images.

The Route and Experience

The itinerary is designed to balance scenic riding and exploration. After leaving the starting point, your ride takes you through scenic vistas—think sweeping views of Zion’s rugged landscape—before reaching the canyon entrances. Once there, you’ll step out of the UTV and walk into the canyons, marveling at their vibrant colors and intricate rock formations.

Reviews mention the peaceful solitude of these canyons, as you’re likely to be alone with your group and guides. “We were completely alone in the canyon,” one traveler noted, emphasizing the remote, untouched quality of these natural features.

What’s Included and What You Should Bring

The tour fee of $104 per person covers the guide, the UTV ride, and water—a good deal for the value-packed experience. Remember to bring your camera to capture the unique scenery and hiking shoes for walking through the canyons.

Some essentials—such as goggles and neck gaiters—are not included, so if you want to stay protected from dust and debris, consider bringing your own. Personal expenses are also not covered, so plan accordingly if you wish to purchase souvenirs or snacks afterward.

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The Guide and Group Size

Based on reviews, guides like Rob, Diana, Kyle, and Ted are consistently praised for their knowledge, enthusiasm, and friendliness. They make the experience engaging by sharing stories and answering questions. The small group size ensures that everyone gets personal attention and lots of photo opportunities.

Timing and Flexibility

Tours are generally available in the morning, afternoon, and evening, allowing you to choose the best time for your schedule. The “reserve now & pay later” option adds flexibility—ideal if your plans are still in flux.

The tour operates on Mountain Standard Time, which is an hour behind Las Vegas and Arizona, so plan your departure accordingly.

Who Will Love This Tour?

This adventure is perfect for families, couples, or friends looking for a blend of scenic beauty and light off-road action. It’s especially suited for those who prefer guided tours over self-driving, and for travelers who want to see hidden gems away from Zion’s busier trails.

However, it’s not recommended for pregnant women or those with back problems due to the nature of the ride. Also, if you dislike getting dusty or prefer a more relaxed experience, you might find this a bit more energetic than some prefer.

Authentic Experiences and Noteworthy Details

One of the biggest draws is the guides’ local knowledge—they don’t just drive; they share stories of the land, geology, and history. As one traveler put it, “Diana was delightful and knowledgeable about not only the slots but the town, trees, and history,” making the experience feel more personal and enriching.

Many reviews praise the quality of the photography—your guides often take excellent photos of guests amid the canyons, which is a bonus for those wanting lasting memories without hassle.

The scenery itself is a highlight; the canyons’ vivid reds and oranges contrast sharply with the blue sky, and their twisting shapes evoke a sense of wonder. The off-road ride offers a different perspective of Zion’s landscape, away from the crowded trails and parking lots.

Price and Value

At $104 per person, this tour offers considerable value. It includes guides, the UTV experience, and water, making it a convenient and affordable way to access these remote canyons. Compared to other Zion-area activities, this UTV tour combines adventure, scenery, and education at a reasonable price point.

Travelers who appreciate guided insight and hassle-free logistics will find this a good deal, especially when you consider the high-quality guides and the uniqueness of the landscape.

The Sum Up

The Orderville: East Zion Slot Canyons UTV Tour offers a compelling mix of scenic beauty, adventure, and local expertise. It’s an excellent choice for those wanting to see Zion’s less-visited yet equally stunning canyons without the strenuous hike. The guided nature means you’ll learn more about the land and its formations, making the trip both visually and intellectually rewarding.

While not suited for those seeking a relaxed, dust-free experience, it’s ideal for families, adventure lovers, and photography enthusiasts. The small group size and knowledgeable guides elevate the experience, ensuring you leave with both incredible photos and stories to tell.

If you’re after a highlight of your Zion trip that’s accessible, fun, and authentic, this tour is definitely worth considering.

FAQs

• How long is the tour?

The tour lasts about two hours, making it a manageable half-day activity.

• What’s included in the price?

The fee covers the guide, UTV ride, and water.

• Do I need my own equipment?

It’s recommended to bring a camera and hiking shoes. Goggles and neck gaiters are not included, so bring your own if desired.

• Can I book and pay later?

Yes, you can reserve now and pay later, offering flexibility.

• What is the meeting point?

The tour departs from the ROAM East Zion storefront, next to East Zion Resort and a nearby food truck.

• Is this tour suitable for children?

It’s suitable for all ages, as long as participants are comfortable with the riding experience and walking into canyons.

• Are there any physical restrictions?

The tour is not recommended for pregnant women or people with back problems.

• What time of day is available?

Tours are typically available in the morning, afternoon, and evening.

• What should I expect at the canyon stops?

You’ll walk about 0.25 miles into the canyons to admire and photograph the stunning rock formations.

• Are guides friendly and knowledgeable?

Reviews consistently praise guides for their personality, knowledge, and willingness to answer questions.

This UTV adventure through East Zion’s slot canyons offers a remarkable way to see some of Utah’s most beautiful terrain—all with expert guidance and a comfortable ride. It’s a fantastic choice for travelers who want a taste of adventure without the commitment of a full-day hike or technical tour, making it a standout experience in Zion’s diverse landscape.

You can check availability for your dates here: