YOU DRIVE!! Rap & Ride – A Full Day of Rappelling and UTVs

If you’re looking for an adventure that combines the thrill of canyoneering with the excitement of off-road exploration, the “YOU DRIVE!! Rap & Ride” tour in Zion National Park offers a unique way to experience Southern Utah’s striking landscapes. Designed for those who enjoy a bit of teamwork, physical activity, and adrenaline, this full-day trip promises a mix of rapelling, UTV driving, and scenic canyoning.

Two things stand out immediately: First, the guides are highly praised for their professionalism, knowledge, and friendly attitude. Second, the stunning views of red rock formations and slot canyons make this trip unforgettable.

A potential consideration is that this activity requires at least a moderate level of physical fitness and involves a full day outdoors. It’s best suited for active travelers who don’t mind a bit of physical effort and are comfortable with heights and rugged terrain. If you’re traveling with family or friends looking for a confidence-boosting adventure in a breathtaking setting, this tour is a solid choice.

Key Points

• Guided expertise ensures safety and fun in canyoneering and UTV driving
• Stunning scenery with slot canyons, slickrock, and deep red rock formations
• All-inclusive gear provided, including helmets, harnesses, and ropes
• Adult drivers must present a valid driver’s license; children as young as five can ride UTVs
• Full-day experience with flexible canyon choices based on weather and group ability
• Excellent reviews highlight professionalism and memorable landscapes

Introducing the Experience

This tour offers a full day of adventure, blending canyoneering—where you’ll rappel into narrow, colorful slot canyons—with off-road UTV rides that traverse varied terrain. What’s particularly appealing is that you drive your own UTV, adding a layer of personal involvement to the journey.

The experience is tailored to suit groups of up to 8 travelers, making it intimate enough for personalized attention, yet social enough to enjoy with friends or family. The local guides are key to making this day special—they’re not only skilled in safety but also skilled in storytelling and making sure everyone has a good time.

While the itinerary is flexible, it generally begins early in the morning in Kanab, with guides selecting the perfect canyon based on weather conditions and group capability. The day promises a combination of physical activity, awe-inspiring views, and camaraderie, perfect for those wanting a challenge mixed with spectacular scenery.

The Itinerary in Detail

Stop 1: Kanab – The Starting Point

Your adventure kicks off in Kanab, a town known as the gateway to Southern Utah’s stunning landscapes. The guides will personalize your canyon experience, choosing a slot canyon that best fits your group’s abilities and the day’s weather. This flexibility is a big plus, as it ensures everyone gets a safe, enjoyable experience, whether it’s your first time or you’re more experienced.

Canyoneering: Ropes, Rappelling, and Trust

Once suited up with top-notch gear—helmets, harnesses, ropes—you’ll head into the canyon, where your guide will teach you the ropes and safety procedures. According to one reviewer, the guides are “very professional, dedicated, knowledgeable, understanding, helpful and of course so much fun,” which translates into a supportive environment that keeps safety and enjoyment front and center.

You’ll descend into the canyon’s depths, navigating its twists and turns, marveling at the colorful walls and narrow passages. The physical effort is manageable for most, but a moderate fitness level is recommended. The experience offers a tangible sense of achievement and a chance to see rare rock formations and layers of sediment up close.

UTV Off-Road Exploration

After canyoning, the trip shifts to off-road UTV driving—a highlight for many travelers. You’ll drive your own vehicle, which makes the adventure more personal. The terrain varies from rocky, sandy, to slickrock, providing plenty of variety and challenges.

You’ll love the views of deep canyons, red rock mesas, and open expanses of wilderness as you navigate through the landscape. For those new to UTVs, the guides provide instructions and support, ensuring even beginners can feel confident behind the wheel.

Flexibility and Safety

The guides are adept at choosing the best canyon for the day, taking into account weather conditions—a crucial factor in canyoning—and group capabilities. This tailored approach enhances safety and enjoyment, ensuring you’re neither overwhelmed nor under-challenged.

What’s Included

• Bottled water to stay hydrated through the full day
• Helmets and goggles (mandatory) and all canyoneering gear—harnesses, ropes, etc.
• The guides’ expertise and safety equipment

What You’ll Need to Bring

• Backpack for incidentals and snacks
• Lunch and snacks for energy during the long day outdoors
• Face coverings (recommended), available for purchase
• Driver’s license for UTV driving (must be 21+)
• Valid ID for waiver purposes

Additional Costs and Considerations

While the tour fee is $350 per person, be aware of potential damage deposits—up to $3,000 unless you opt to lower it to $1,500 by paying a small fee. Also, pack accordingly for a full day outdoors, and note that group discounts may be available.

The Experience That Gets Rave Reviews

Reviews consistently praise the professionalism and friendliness of the guides. Giulio, one reviewer, mentioned that the guides were “very professional, dedicated, knowledgeable, understanding, helpful and of course so much fun,” which contributes to making the entire day memorable.

Another aspect travelers appreciated was the stunning scenery. The red rock formations and slot canyons provide a visual feast that you won’t forget. Many found the experience confidence-boosting and suitable for all ages from 5 and up, making it family-friendly.

Analyzing the Value

At $350 per person, this tour offers a full day of adventure that combines physical activity, scenic beauty, and expert guiding. For travelers seeking a hands-on, active experience, this is a compelling option, especially given that all the necessary gear and safety measures are included.

The flexibility of choosing the canyon and the ability to drive your own UTV contribute to a sense of ownership and excitement. When you consider the small group size, expert guides, and the variety of landscapes, this tour provides a good value for those wanting more than just sightseeing.

Who Would Love This Tour?

This experience is ideal for adventurous families (with children aged 5+), friends looking for a shared adrenaline rush, or solo travelers eager to meet like-minded thrill-seekers. It’s perfect for those who enjoy physical activity, are comfortable with heights, and want an authentic, hands-on experience in Zion’s wild terrain.

It may not be suited for travelers with mobility issues or those who prefer a more relaxed sightseeing day. However, if you’re up for a challenging yet rewarding adventure that combines physical effort with stunning scenery, this tour will likely be a highlight.

The Sum Up

“YOU DRIVE!! Rap & Ride” offers a unique way to see Zion National Park, blending canyoneering, UTV driving, and breathtaking scenery into one unforgettable day. It’s well-suited for active travelers who want to get their hands dirty and their adrenaline flowing, all under the guidance of knowledgeable, friendly professionals.

The tour’s flexibility, safety focus, and small-group setting ensure a personalized, memorable experience that truly makes you feel like you’ve done something special. While it requires some physical effort and an adventurous spirit, the rewards—stunning vistas, a sense of achievement, and new skills—are well worth it.

If you’re seeking a mid-range priced adventure that offers genuine fun and authentic exploration, this tour is a strong contender. It’s especially ideal for families or groups eager to make the most of Zion’s rugged beauty in a safe, supportive environment.

FAQ

Is transportation provided to the canyon?
No, you meet at the designated start point in Kanab. From there, guides select the best canyon based on current conditions.

What is the minimum age for UTV driving?
You must be 21 or older to drive a UTV, and ages 5 and up can ride as passengers.

What do I need to bring?
You’ll want to pack a lunch, snacks, a backpack for incidentals, and wear comfortable, weather-appropriate clothing. Face coverings are recommended and available for purchase.

Is prior experience necessary?
No, guides are experienced and will teach you all you need to know. The tour is suitable for most with moderate fitness.

How long does the tour last?
Approximately 8 hours, starting at 7:00 am and concluding back at the meeting point.

Can I cancel if my plans change?
Yes, free cancellation is available up to 24 hours in advance for a full refund.

This tour offers a well-rounded mix of thrill, scenery, and expert guidance, perfect for those ready to embrace Zion’s rugged terrain in a hands-on way.