Orderville: East Zion UTV Ride and Red Rock Slot Canyon Hike

If you’re craving a taste of the wild side in Utah without the exhausting hikes or crowded park scenes, the Orderville: East Zion UTV Ride and Red Rock Slot Canyon Hike might just be your new favorite adventure. This guided experience combines the fun of off-road driving with the beauty of exploring narrow, serpentine slot canyons, all in a small-group setting that promises plenty of personalized attention.

What we love most about this tour is the combination of adrenaline and awe — zipping through rugged terrain in a customized UTV, then slipping into the quiet, contemplative beauty of a remote canyon. It’s perfect for travelers wanting a memorable, active outing that balances excitement with natural wonder. A potential consideration is that the tour lasts around two hours, so those with limited time may need to plan accordingly.

This experience is best suited for adventurers who enjoy outdoor activities, photography buffs eager to capture stunning sandstone formations, and those looking for a more intimate way to see Zion’s lesser-visited spots. Keep in mind, it’s not suitable for very young children or those with certain medical conditions, which we’ll detail later.

Key Points

• Small-group adventure ensures a personalized experience away from crowds.
• Combination of UTV ride and hike offers diverse perspectives of Zion’s landscapes.
• Knowledgeable guides enhance the experience with interesting facts and photography tips.
• Stunning scenery includes towering red canyon walls and hidden slot canyons.
• Value for money at $89 per person, offering a mix of thrill and tranquility.
• Easy difficulty level makes it accessible to most travelers without strenuous climbing.

What to Expect: A Hands-On Journey into Zion’s Secret Corners

The tour kicks off with a quick check-in at the Sinclair gas station, a straightforward start that puts you right at the door of the adventure. From there, you’ll hop into a customized off-road vehicle — think rugged, comfortable, and ready to tackle dirt tracks. The UTV ride is the highlight for many; reviewers consistently praise the thrill of the ride and the skill of the guides, like John, who’s noted for being both helpful with photography and deeply knowledgeable about the area’s history, flora, and fauna.

While the ride itself is exciting, it’s also designed to be accessible — the terrain is rough but manageable, with no climbing involved, making it suitable for most people with moderate mobility. The ride takes you far from any paved roads into remote sections of Zion, revealing landscapes you’d never see from the main viewpoints. As one reviewer put it, the UTV ride to the slot canyons was “exhilarating,” with guides like Brian and Jenny earning praise for their driving skills and friendly nature.

Once at the canyon’s mouth, the real magic begins. You’ll begin your hike into the narrow, twisting slot canyon, where towering red sandstone walls stretch over 100 feet high. The canyon’s width shrinks to about 6-10 feet in spots, providing an intimate, almost tunnel-like experience. As you navigate through these serpentine passages, your guide will share tidbits about Native American history and the geological forces that formed these incredible formations.

The reviews echo how unforgettable this part is. One traveler noted, “The canyons were stunning, a real treat to stand in them and admire their beauty!” and another said the guides “took plenty of time getting us beautiful pictures,” making it clear that photography is a big part of what makes this tour special.

The hike isn’t physically demanding, but to make the most of it, you should bring comfortable hiking shoes, a camera, water, and dress appropriately for the weather — cooler in the fall and winter, with plenty of layers recommended.

At the end of your exploration, you’ll return to the UTV for a comfortable ride back to the starting point, completing a two-hour adventure packed with sights, stories, and fun.

The Experience in Detail: From Start to Finish

Meeting Point and Check-In

Located inside the Sinclair gas station, the check-in process is simple and quick. Make sure to arrive a few minutes early to avoid feeling rushed — a tip from seasoned travelers who found the process seamless.

The UTV Ride: Off-Road Thrills and Scenic Views

Once aboard the customized UTV, the adventure begins. The guides, including highly praised individuals like Tait and John, excel at creating a fun, safe environment. Reviewers have described the ride as “exhilarating” and “bumpy, but worth every second”, highlighting the joy of bouncing across rugged dirt tracks while soaking in the breathtaking scenery.

The guides also actively help with photography, so you can expect to see many photos of happy travelers capturing the impressive rock formations and narrow canyon passages. This extra touch makes the experience feel more personalized and memorable.

Reaching the Slot Canyon

The journey in the UTV takes you deep into the less accessible parts of East Zion, where paved roads give way to wilderness. Approaching the canyon, you can’t help but marvel at the red, honey-colored walls towering above. The canyon is narrow enough to feel like walking through a natural tunnel, and the sunlight filtering down creates an impressive play of light and shadow.

The Hike: Exploring the Narrow Passages

The hike is described as easy but awe-inspiring. It involves walking through tight, twisting corridors that reveal intricate sandstone layers and formations. Guides are attentive to safety and knowledge, sharing insights about Native American history and geology along the way.

Reviewers mention guides like Paige and Megan who are “helpful with photography” and “know what spots to capture”, making it ideal for travelers wanting to snap stunning photos or just enjoy quiet admiration of the landscape.

Back to Base

After circling through the canyon and returning to the vehicle, you’ll hop back into the UTV. The return ride offers a relaxed way to reflect on the sights, often accompanied by storytelling from guides who love sharing their knowledge.

Pricing and Value

At $89 per person, this tour offers what many would consider excellent value. It combines two distinct activities — the thrill of off-road driving with the serenity of canyon hiking — all led by expert guides in a small, intimate group. The small group size (limited to four participants) ensures a more personal experience, with plenty of opportunities for questions, photos, and interaction.

While not including food or drinks, the tour’s price covers transportation, expert guiding, and access to hidden spots away from Zion’s main crowds. Many reviews emphasize how this experience is worth the price, especially considering the professional guidance and the quality of the scenery.

Considerations on Weather and Accessibility

The tour is rated as easy, with no climbing involved, making it accessible to most people in decent health. However, travelers should come prepared with hiking shoes, water, and weather-appropriate clothing. In colder months, layering is advised, as temperatures can drop significantly, especially in winter.

The tour may not operate in severe weather conditions, so it’s wise to check availability and weather forecasts beforehand. For those sensitive to bumpy rides, be aware that the UTV ride can include some jolts, but guides often help with positioning for comfort.

Authentic Insights from Reviews

Reviewers consistently praise the guides for their knowledge, friendliness, and driving skills. Tait’s calm humor and expertise, for example, made a lasting impression, with one guest calling him “the best guide ever.” Other common compliments include the stunning beauty of the canyons, the quality of the photos taken, and the good balance of adventure and education.

Many travelers have mentioned that this tour allowed them to visit spots they couldn’t access on foot or with larger groups, making it perfect for those who prefer a more secluded experience. One reviewer highlighted how the tour was “super fun,” and another called it “a bucket-list activity,” emphasizing the sense of achievement and awe it provides.

Who Will Love This Tour?

This adventure is ideal for adventure seekers who want a mix of thrill and scenic beauty without the physical strain of long hikes. It’s also perfect for photography enthusiasts eager for picturesque moments. Nature lovers will appreciate the informative storytelling and quiet beauty of the slot canyons, while small-group travelers will enjoy the personalized, crowd-free atmosphere.

However, it’s not suited for very young children under age 4, pregnant women, or those with certain medical issues like back or heart problems. If you’re seeking a comfortable, engaging way to experience Zion’s hidden corners, this tour hits a sweet spot.

Final Thoughts: Is This the Utah Adventure for You?

In summarizing, the Orderville: East Zion UTV Ride and Red Rock Slot Canyon Hike offers a compelling blend of excitement, scenery, and education at a reasonable price. The small-group format ensures you won’t feel lost in a crowd, and the guides’ expertise adds a level of richness to the experience that many travelers rave about.

If you’re looking for a unique way to see Zion’s lesser-known sights, enjoy off-road fun, and want beautiful photos to remember your trip, this tour should be high on your list. It’s especially well-suited for those who want a physically accessible adventure with a good mix of adventure and storytelling.

For anyone craving an authentic, well-organized day in southern Utah’s spectacular landscape, this tour promises a memorable, once-in-a-lifetime experience.

FAQ

How long does the tour last?
The entire experience runs for approximately 2 hours, including the UTV ride and hike.

Where do I meet for the tour?
You check in at the Sinclair gas station, inside the register area, which is a straightforward and accessible location.

Is this tour suitable for children?
It’s not suitable for children under 4 years old. The activity involves a bumpy ride and walking through narrow canyons, so consider your child’s age and comfort.

What should I bring?
Bring a camera, hiking shoes, water, and dress in comfortable, weather-appropriate clothes, especially in colder months.

Can I cancel if my plans change?
Yes, you can cancel up to 24 hours in advance for a full refund, offering flexibility if your plans shift.

Is the tour accessible for people with mobility issues?
While it’s rated as easy, the tour involves a UTV ride over rugged terrain and walking through narrow canyons, so it may not be suitable for those with significant mobility challenges.

What about weather restrictions?
The tour may not operate in severe weather conditions, so it’s advisable to check weather forecasts and availability before booking.

Can I take photos during the hike?
Absolutely. The guides are helpful with photography, and many travelers come away with stunning images of the canyon walls and formations.

To sum it up, this tour offers a unique, small-group window into Zion’s secret landscapes, combining thrill and tranquility in a way that’s hard to beat. If you value knowledgeable guides, breathtaking scenery, and a well-organized adventure, it’s a fantastic choice for your Utah trip.