If you’re an adventure seeker looking to experience the magic of slot canyons, Utah is the place to be. These natural wonders, formed by the slow erosion of sandstone, offer a unique and mesmerizing hiking experience. Here’s a list of the 10 best slot canyons in Utah that you can explore without needing special gear or skills.

What Are Slot Canyons?

Slot canyons are like nature’s art projects, made from rocks and shaped by wind and water over thousands of years. They’re like narrow paths with smooth walls that wind and twist in amazing ways. And Utah is full of these incredible places, just waiting to be explored.

Best Time to Go

Before we talk about the top slot canyons, let’s learn about the right timings first. 

Herein, know that Utah’s slot canyons can be dangerous during rainy weather, as they can flood quickly. So, it’s best to plan your trip when the weather is dry and safe. Besides this, the spring and fall seasons are also a great time as it’s not too hot and there’s not much rain. But, the summers can be too hot, and winter can be cold, but less crowded.

Top 10 Slot Canyons in Utah

1. Red Hollow Slot Canyon

Location: Near Orderville
Distance: 1.9 miles
Elevation Gain: 492 feet
Difficulty: Easy
Estimated Time: 1 hour

Red Hollow Slot Canyon is perfect for families and photography enthusiasts. With stunning red rock formations and a relatively easy hike, it’s a great introduction to slot canyons in Utah. is planning a trip, try visiting between March and November for the best experience.

2. Wire Pass to Buckskin Gulch

Location: Kanab
Distance 1.5 to 5 miles round-trip
Elevation Gain: 616 feet
Difficulty: Easy to difficult
Estimated Time: 2 hours to 2 days

Explore the longest-known slot canyon in the world, Buckskin Gulch, via the Wire Pass slot canyon. Herein, you will get to experience the ancient petroglyphs and stunning rock formations. However, make sure to arrive early to avoid crowds and be prepared for sandy and rocky terrain.

3. Dry Forks Narrows

Location: Peek-a-Boo Slot Canyon and Spooky Gulch
Mileage: 2.0 miles
Elevation Gain: 150 feet
Difficulty: Easy
Estimated Time: 1.0 – 1.5 hours

Part of the Peek-a-Boo Slot Canyon and Spooky Gulch trek, Dry Forks Narrows offers a chill walk through a sandy-bottom section of the canyon. It’s an optional and easy section of the hike, which is suitable for all skill levels.

4. Little Wild Horse Canyon in the San Rafael Swell

Location: San Rafael Swell
Mileage: 8 miles round-trip
Elevation Gain: 787 feet
Difficulty: Moderate
Estimated Time: 4 hours

Often compared to Antelope Canyon, Little Wild Horse Canyon offers clean, smooth walls and beautiful lighting. Herein, you can start at the Little Wild Horse Canyon entrance and explore the stunning canyon views on the backside of the canyon.

5. Moonshine Wash

Location: Green River, Utah
Mileage: 6.4 miles
Elevation Gain: 889 feet
Difficulty: Moderate
Estimated Time: 2 hours and 45 minutes

Located near Moab, Moonshine Wash offers a rather calm and quiet hiking experience. However, know that the hike is a bit more challenging than others, so it’s best recommended for experienced hikers only. Apart from this, you’ll need a 4-wheel drive to reach the trailhead and plenty of water and sunscreen to avoid dehydration and protect yourself from the scorching heat of the sun.

6. Spooky and Peek-a-Boo Canyon in Escalante

Location: Escalante
Mileage: 5.6 miles round-trip
Elevation Gain: 633 feet
Difficulty: Easy to moderate
Estimated Time: 3 hours

Experience two unique slot canyons in one hike with the Spooky and Peek-a-Boo Canyon loop. Herein, you can navigate through narrow canyons and enjoy the stunning rock formations that’ll truly leave you in awe. Apart from this, try arriving a bit early to avoid crowds and bring a GPS for easy navigation down the road.

7. The Narrows in Zion National Park

Location: Zion National Park
Mileage: 15.5 miles
Elevation Gain: 1,017 feet
Difficulty: Difficult
Estimated Time: About 8 hours for bottom-up hike

Hike through the river that runs through a narrow slot canyon in one of Zion National Park’s most iconic trails. While at it, make sure to wear comfortable shoes for wading and waterproof pants for cold water. The Narrows can get a bit tough and challenging but it’ll all be a rewarding hike.

8. Kanarra Creek Canyon Near Zion National Park

Location: Kanarraville
Mileage: 6 miles
Elevation Gain: 1,017 feet
Difficulty: Moderate
Estimated Time: 4 hours

Explore two beautiful waterfalls and a narrow slot canyon in Kanarra Creek Canyon. The trail features walking next to a creek and wading through water, so wear appropriate yet comfortable footwear. Besides, ensure obtaining a permit better ahead of time to avoid heavy crowds.

9. Zebra Slot Canyon in Escalante

Location: Escalante
Mileage: 5.2 miles
Elevation Gain: 377 feet
Difficulty: Moderate
Estimated Time: 2.5 hours

For colorful sandstone walls and unique patterns, visit Zebra Slot Canyon in Escalante. The hike is adventurous and often filled with water, so we’d highly recommend you carry some wetsuits. Pack a GPS and dry bag for navigation and protection.

10. Willis Creek in Escalante

Location: Escalante
Mileage: 5.8 miles
Elevation Gain: 1,227 feet
Difficulty: Easy
Estimated Time: 3 hours

Enjoy a family-friendly hike through Willis Creek, featuring a creek, a waterfall, and plenty of water to play in. The trail is straightforward but may have water in some sections. Watch for petroglyphs and blooming cacti along the way.

These 10 best slot canyons in Utah offer a diverse range of experiences, from easy family hikes to more challenging adventures. Remember to check the weather forecast and be prepared for varying terrain and conditions. Enjoy exploring these natural wonders!

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Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs) :

Q. Which Utah Park has the best slot canyons?

A. The Zion National Park in Utah has the best slot canyons.

Q. What is the most difficult slot canyon in Utah?

A. Canyoneering in Poe Canyon – Capital Reef is the most difficult slot canyon in Utah.

Q. What is the most famous slot canyon in the world?

A. The Narrows, Zion National Park, Utah is one of the most famous slot canyons in the world.

Q. What is the most photographed slot canyon?

A. Antelope Canyon is the most photographed slot canyon. 

Q. What is the most beautiful canyon in the world?

A. The Colca Canyon, Waimea Canyon, and Verdon Gorge are some of the most photographed canyons. 

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