Summary
Recently we went on a big road trip around the American Southwest, seeing many of the best slot canyons in Utah along the way, and then we put together this guide!
Slot canyons are natural rock passageways with various colors of red, yellow, pink, and purple. Some of them are so tight and awkward that you have to walk sideways or crawl, making it a unique hiking challenge for adventurers.
Many amazing slot canyons are scattered across the southern half of Utah, with great options near Zion National Park or Moab for those willing to drive a bit further.
We have compiled a list of our favorite hikes in Utah, selected for their accessibility, photogenic quality, colorful features, and overall interest!
What Is A Slot Canyon?
A slot canyon is a narrow passageway formed in rock (usually sandstone) that has been eroded by water over time, ultimately creating a keyhole-like crack wide enough for a person to fit through.
Utah boasts more than 1,000 slot canyons, making it the state with the highest concentration of these stunning formations in the world. While some canyons are challenging and require technical skills, many are family-friendly and suitable for beginner hikers.
Important Note: Always check the weather forecast before venturing into a slot canyon. Avoid entering if rain is predicted, even if it’s distant, as flash floods can be extremely hazardous in these narrow passages.
18 Best Slot Canyons In Utah
1. Red Hollow Slot Canyon
The Red Hollow Slot Canyon offers a short and easy hike in Orderville, not far from Zion and Bryce national parks. It’s an exceptionally photogenic hike with striking red rock colors and steep canyon walls. Great for families, it’s also easily accessible for children.
This hike features a particularly tight slot perfect for chimneying or stemming, an engaging maneuver that adds to the fun. Even though it’s a brief hike, it’s fantastic for photography, making it a standout among Utah’s slot canyons!
Difficulty: Easy
2. Buckskin Gulch
Buckskin Gulch, recognized as the longest slot canyon in the United States, spans an impressive 21 miles and is believed to be the world’s longest. This canyon lies along the Utah-Arizona state border, easily accessible within an hour from Page, Arizona, or about two hours from Zion National Park.
Besides its photographic appeal, Buckskin Gulch features accessible Native American petroglyphs that add historical interest to your visit. Entering from Wire Pass allows you to experience two slot canyons in one go!
Difficulty: Easy / Moderate
3. Wire Pass Slot Canyon
Wire Pass serves as a side canyon intersecting with Buckskin Gulch, providing an easier entry to Buckskin while minimizing exposure to sunlight. This might just be one of Utah’s easiest and most scenic slot canyons.
The slot canyon section at Wire Pass is incredibly photogenic, characterized by its narrow passage and vibrant colors, featuring a charming wooden ladder perfect for photos. This route leads you directly to Buckskin Gulch, where you can view petroglyphs on the canyon wall.
Difficulty: Easy
4. Zion Narrows
No list of slot canyons would be complete without mention of the stunning Zion Narrows. This impressive gorge features towering walls reaching a thousand feet and the Virgin River flowing through it, inviting hikers to trek a total of 16 miles.
Fortunately, the Narrows cater to all fitness levels, as you can stop anytime along the route. With the right permits, you can hike the entire gorge in a day, but most visitors prefer to journey partway and return without a permit.
However, due to its popularity, visits can be crowded, which may detract from the experience. If you’d like to enjoy the Narrows with fewer people, consider obtaining a permit to hike from the top down for optimal enjoyment.
Difficulty: Easy / Moderate
5. Red Canyon Slot / Peekaboo Kanab
A common mix-up is with the Peekaboo Canyon in Escalante; however, Peekaboo Red Canyon is another slot located near Kanab in southern Utah. This canyon is conveniently close to Zion National Park, just a one-hour drive from Springdale.
Be aware that the road leading to this slot can be soft and sandy, requiring a true 4-wheel-drive vehicle. Many opt for a professional-guided Jeep tour or UTV tour as a safe way to access this area.
For those adventurous spirits, hiking approximately 8 miles roundtrip from the 2WD parking area is also possible but may be challenging due to the sand. Regardless, the slot is beautiful and accessible for all ages, making it an excellent choice for families!
Difficulty: Easy
6. Kanarra Creek & Falls
Kanarra Slot Canyon stands out from the rest because it features two picturesque waterfalls. Located just an hour from Zion National Park, it’s one of our favorite Utah canyons.
The first waterfall can be easily accessed thanks to a newly-installed metal ladder, while the second appears further within the canyon. Despite being slightly longer and having more elevation gain than other hikes, I would still rate it as easy overall.
Please note that currently, a permit is required to hike Kanarra Creek due to its rising popularity, and permits are often limited, so planning ahead is advisable.
Difficulty: Easy
7. Jenny’s Canyon
Jenny’s Canyon is a family-friendly, accessible slot canyon ideal for kids, requiring only a five-minute walk to reach. Located in Snow Canyon State Park near St. George, it’s just an hour from Zion or two hours from Las Vegas.
The walls feature charming caves for the kids to explore, and an overlook is nearby for those wishing to hike further. It’s important to note that this slot canyon is relatively short, reaching its end after just 500 feet. Parking can also be limited but tends to clear up quickly.
Difficulty: Easy
8. St George Narrows
For those with claustrophobia, the St George Narrows is not a recommended destination. It’s incredibly tight, with passageways so slim one might consider it more of a crack than a slot canyon.
This slot is part of a free park area with restrooms and plenty of parking, just outside St George in southern Utah, featuring various rock formations great for climbing and photography, even for those not keen on squeezing through the narrow spaces.
Difficulty: Easy / Moderate
9. Spring Creek Canyon
Situated near Kanarra, Spring Creek Canyon is another delightful slot canyon, located less than an hour from Zion National Park. This easy trail showcases brilliant reddish-orange rocks, particularly stunning when illuminated by sunlight.
When we hiked Spring Creek on a weekday, we found the trail nearly deserted, adding to its charm!
Difficulty: Easy
10. Willis Creek Slot Canyon
Willis Creek Slot Canyon offers visitors a short, easy trek through scenic narrows in southern Utah, featuring wavy vanilla-colored rocks and impressive passageways.
This canyon is a popular spot for horseback riding, and the trail is generally flat, making it one of the most family-friendly slot canyon hikes in Utah, located less than an hour from the popular Bryce and Escalante areas.
Difficulty: Easy
Read More: Willis Creek Slot Canyon
11. Zebra Slot Canyon
The Zebra Slot Canyon is a stunning passageway in Escalante, Utah, recognized for its wild rock colors and unique zebra-striped walls. It’s one of the most impressive slot canyons in Utah, although navigating the tight sections can be a challenge.
The initial approach to Zebra canyon is flat and simple, but the slot can be difficult due to its tightness and standing water. No specialized gear is required, though adequate fitness and prior canyoning experience will certainly help.
Difficulty: Moderate / Hard
Read More: Zebra Slot Canyon
12. Peekaboo Slot Canyon
The Peekaboo Slot Canyon offers an exhilarating experience, replete with fun obstacles and stunning red rock walls. It’s recognized as one of Utah’s most beautiful slot canyons, featuring a heart-shaped passage and arching ceilings.
This moderately difficult canyon can be navigated by beginners but presents a challenge with its slippery ledges at the start, creating potential hazards.
Located in the Escalante area of southern Utah, about an hour away from Bryce Canyon National Park, Peekaboo Canyon is conveniently situated for those road-tripping through Utah.
Difficulty: Moderate
Read More: Peekaboo Slot Canyon
13. Spooky Slot Canyon
Located near Peekaboo, Spooky Slot Canyon is often tackled as part of a loop hike with Peekaboo due to their close proximity. It’s known for its tight sections where hikers must shuffle sideways and carry backpacks overhead due to the cramped conditions.
No special gear is needed, but visitors should be in good shape and avoid being claustrophobic to fully enjoy the canyon experience. Despite the awkwardness, exploring Spooky is a memorable adventure and undoubtedly one of the best slot canyons in Utah!
Difficulty: Moderate
Read More: Spooky Gulch
14. Dry Fork Narrows
As part of the Peekaboo and Spooky loop hike, Dry Fork Narrows is wider and more relaxed than its counterparts. You can easily experience all three stunning slot canyons in one visit.
This slot is accessible and suitable for everyone, providing a more laid-back experience amidst Utah’s natural beauty.
Difficulty: Easy
Read More: Peekaboo And Spooky Slot Canyons
15. Little Wild Horse Canyon
Little Wild Horse Canyon, located near Goblin Valley State Park about 2 hours from Moab, is an ideal slot canyon for beginners. While it may not be the most colorful, it remains photogenic and suitable for family outings.
Some visitors tackle this canyon as a loop hike with Bell Canyon, but a round-trip journey through the best parts takes about an hour, making it perfect for quick explorations.
Difficulty: Easy
16. Ding & Dang Canyons
Ding & Dang Canyon is a thrilling slot canyon hike located about 2 hours from Moab, but it’s not suitable for beginners because it involves technical skills, climbing, and occasionally deep water.
Given the rescue history in this area, it’s ill-advised to embark on this hike without an experienced companion.
Difficulty: Hard
17. Moonshine Wash
Moonshine Wash is another scenic slot canyon less than 2 hours from Moab, valued for its solitude and relative obscurity.
This hidden gem is off the beaten path, making it less likely to attract crowds. However, first-time visitors may find the trailhead a bit tricky to locate. An experienced partner is recommended for navigating this more technical hike.
Difficulty: Moderate
18. Antelope Canyon
No list of incredible slot canyons would be complete without Antelope Canyon, a breathtaking location situated just across the border in Arizona but easily accessible for day trips from Utah.
Antelope Canyon consistently draws photographers thanks to its striking colors and photogenic features, making it nearly impossible to capture a bad image.
A downside is its overwhelming popularity, necessitating guided tours and advance reservations that can be booked months ahead.
Difficulty: Easy / Guided
Read More: Antelope Canyon Guide
Slot Canyon Safety Tips
Flash Floods: Always check the weather forecast prior to entering a slot canyon. Absolutely avoid these areas if rain is anticipated, regardless of your distance from the predicted rain. Flash floods can pose significant dangers in slot canyons.
Sunscreen: Despite being in a slot canyon, there are still segments of the trail exposed to direct sunlight. Using sunscreen and wearing a hat is advisable.
Water: Aim to pack at least 3-4 liters of water per person, as it’s essential to stay hydrated during your hike in Utah’s arid climate.
Map: Download an offline map of your hiking area using an app like Google Maps, ensuring you can stay aware of your location even when out of cellular coverage, as getting lost in the desert can be perilous.
Thank you for exploring this guide on some of the most remarkable slot canyons Utah has to offer. For further adventures, check out my lists of the best hikes in Utah and the best slot canyons in Arizona and Nevada to include in your next road trip!
Slot Canyons Near Zion National Park
Several excellent slot canyons surround Zion National Park, which can be combined with park visits for a memorable experience.
The following list highlights some must-see slot canyons near Zion:
- The Narrows (inside Zion National Park)
- Shelf Canyon (inside Zion National Park)
- Keyhole Canyon (inside Zion National Park)
- Pine Creek Gorge Slot Canyon (inside Zion National Park)
- The Subway (inside Zion National Park)
- Red Hollow Canyon (30 miles east of Zion)
- Red Canyon Kanab (40 miles east of Zion)
- St George Narrows (40 miles west of Zion)
- Spring Creek Canyon (45 miles northwest of Zion)
- Kanarra Creek & Falls (45 miles northwest of Zion)
- Jenny’s Canyon (50 miles west of Zion)
- Buckskin Gulch & Wire Pass (90 miles east of Zion)
- Willis Creek Slot Canyon (100 miles northeast of Zion)
These canyons represent some of the finest options near Zion National Park, and additional discoveries await those willing to explore!
Slot Canyons Near Moab & Arches National Park
While there aren’t many slot canyons directly in Moab or Arches National Park, a bit of driving reveals several worthwhile options:
- Professor Creek / Mary Jane Canyon (20 miles from Moab)
- Holeman Slot (60 miles southwest of Moab)
- Moonshine Wash (75 miles northwest of Moab)
- Joint Trail / Chesler Park Loop (80 miles southwest of Moab)
- Crawford Draw (90 miles northwest of Moab)
- Furniture Draw (100 miles northwest of Moab)
- Little Wild Horse Canyon (105 miles west of Moab)
- Ding & Dang Canyons (110 miles west of Moab)
These represent some of the best slot canyons near Moab. Most trails require little technical skill; however, a few are more off the beaten path, testing your navigation skills.
More Utah Hiking Guides
With this guide, I hope you’re ready to explore the beauty of Utah’s slot canyons. Don’t forget to venture into other hiking areas and discover the incredible landscapes that await you.
