15 Must-Try Tours & Things To Do In Zion National Park

Zion National Park offers more than just breathtaking scenery; it’s a playground for outdoor enthusiasts eager to explore its canyons, trails, and rugged terrain. Whether you’re into hiking, off-road adventures, or adrenaline-pumping activities, Zion’s diverse offerings won’t disappoint.

We’re especially fans of tours like the East Zion Crimson Canyon Hike & UTV Adventure, which combines a scenic hike with a fun off-road ride, allowing you to see areas that are often off-limits to the general visitor.

With top-rated guides and small-group sizes, these experiences promise a personalized touch—perfect if you want to escape crowds and get a more intimate feel for Zion’s wild side.

For a quick overview, Zion’s tour options include slot canyon hikes, canyoneering and rappelling, off-road UTV adventures, horseback riding, jeep tours, and even via ferrata experiences.

Each offers a unique way to see the park’s highlights or hidden corners, with many rated 5 stars and built for different comfort and fitness levels. Now, let’s take a closer look at each of these adventures and what makes them stand out.

1. East Zion Crimson Canyon Hike & UTV Adventure

This tour is a fantastic way to combine hiking and off-road exploration. Starting with a scenic ride in a small UTV, you’ll venture into the rugged backcountry to reach a private access area rarely seen by big groups. After the ride, you’ll hike into the stunning Crimson Slot Canyon, climbing obstacles up to 10 feet high while marveling at soaring sandstone walls.

What makes this tour special is the personalized experience with a maximum of five guests, ensuring your guide can focus on your needs.

With excellent reviews praising the ride and canyon exploration, it’s perfect for those looking for a mix of adventure and serenity.

Guests love Don’s guiding style and the chance to explore hidden territories away from crowds. At just around $130, the tour offers great value for a personalized 2-hour adventure. It’s best suited for active travelers comfortable with some climbing and outside adventure. A highlight is the opportunity to learn about the landscape’s geology and history from your guide.

Bottom Line: If you want a compact, exciting adventure in a private part of Zion, this tour hits all the right notes for history, scenery, and small-group fun.

2. Peek-A-Boo Slot Canyon Tour UTV Adventure (Private)

This private UTV tour takes you to the less-visited Peek-A-Boo Slot Canyon, a true favorite for those craving solitude and stunning geology. The ride over sandy trails is exhilarating, and after reaching the canyon, your guide will share insights into the geology and history of the area.

Following the UTV adventure, there’s a short hike into the canyon, and you’ll get the chance to try sandboarding—a fun bonus included in the experience.

Rated 5/5 by nearly 900 reviewers, this tour emphasizes personalized attention and small-group intimacy. The guides, like Brent and Lauren, are praised for their knowledge and friendliness. The trip costs about $129, offering excellent value considering the private experience and extra activities like sandboarding.

This tour is ideal for families, first-timers, or anyone craving off-the-beaten-path scenery without crowds. The ride is safe and accessible, and the canyon views are breathtaking.

Bottom Line: Perfect for travelers who want a private, fun adventure with unique geological features and a touch of thrill with sandboarding.

3. East Zion 4 Hour Slot Canyon Canyoneering UTV Tour

For those who love canyoneering, this half-day tour immerses you in the spectacular canyons of East Zion. You’ll start with an off-road drive, then ascend to Ladder Canyon, where rappelling and hiking await.

The guides will set up ropes at multiple locations, featuring six or seven rappels, giving you a real sense of adventure. All gear is provided, and the tour is tailored for fit travelers willing to navigate steep terrain.

With a 5-star rating from over 700 reviews, participants rave about the expert guides like Noah and Ted, who make rappelling accessible even to first-timers. The experience lasts about four hours and costs $174, reflecting its premium, all-inclusive nature.

Best suited for active, adventure-loving visitors, it offers a personalized, small-group environment. The main highlight is the chance to descend into the stunning Ladder Canyon—a true canyoning highlight.

Bottom Line: A top choice for physically fit travelers who want a full-on canyoneering experience with expert guidance.

4. Guided Hike through Peek-a-Boo Slot Canyon (Small Group)

This small-group hike takes you through the serene Peek-a-Boo Slot Canyon, about 1.5 miles roundtrip. It’s a relaxing yet impressive walk through Navajo Sandstone, where your guide shares geology and local stories. The tour’s small size (max ten people) ensures a more personalized experience and plenty of time to appreciate the landscape.

Rated 5/5, travelers mention Sherwood’s relaxed yet knowledgeable style, and the canyon’s mellow pace makes it suitable for most ages and fitness levels. Priced at just under $70, it’s an affordable way to see one of Zion’s quieter treasures.

Ideal for families or anyone wanting a less strenuous introduction to Zion’s slot canyons, the tour offers a peaceful alternative to more rugged adventures.

Bottom Line: A great, budget-friendly option for those seeking a gentle, informative canyon walk.

5. UTV Dune Cruise and Surf at Coral Pink Sand Dunes

This lively tour combines an exciting UTV ride with sandboarding and sledding on the famous coral pink dunes. After cruising around the dunes, you can try sandboarding down the slopes—a huge hit with families and adrenaline seekers. The guide shares stories about the area’s flora, fauna, and history, adding context to your experience.

Rating 5/5 from nearly 440 reviews, it’s appreciated for its variety and fun atmosphere. Priced at $139 per person, it’s a great value considering the mix of scenic ride, active fun, and photo opportunities.

This tour suits families, beginners, and anyone looking for a dynamic outdoor activity with plenty of chances for photos and fun.

Bottom Line: If you want a full afternoon of off-road riding, sandboarding, and sightseeing, this tour is hard to beat.

6. East Zion Canyoneering: Elkheart Canyon & UTV Tour

For serious adventurers, this 3-4 hour small-group tour offers canyoneering, rappelling, and off-road driving. Starting with a rugged UTV ride, you’ll hike to Elkheart Canyon, then rappel into its narrow, twisting walls. The guides, like Erick and Dylan, are certified experts, making the experience safe and exhilarating.

Rated 5/5, reviews highlight how guides make nervous climbers feel secure and encourage fun. The tour’s price, around $201, reflects its comprehensive nature—perfect for those seeking active, technical adventure.

Suitable for fit travelers ready for steep terrain and rappelling, it provides a personalized, small-group environment with plenty of geological insights.

Bottom Line: A top pick for thrill-seekers eager for multiple rappels and rugged off-road fun.

7. Great Chamber/Peekaboo Slot Canyon UTV Tour 4hrs

If you’re looking to combine off-road exploration with a scenic hike, this 4-hour guided tour delivers. Starting with a UTV ride, you’ll hike through the Great Chamber, visit a hidden lake in a cave, and enjoy impressive canyon scenery.

Rated 5/5, travelers love the personalized attention from guides like Brad and Andi, and the adventure-packed itinerary. The cost is $155, offering good value for a full morning of exploration.

Ideal for active families or those wanting a diverse experience that mixes riding and hiking, it’s perfect for those who want more than just a walk in the park.

Bottom Line: A well-rounded tour with rides, hikes, and breathtaking views.

8. Red Rock Slot Canyon

This small-group tour combines a two-hour exploration of two slot canyons with an ATV ride. Starting in Mount Carmel, your guide will take you into the spectacular Red Rock Slot Canyon, with plenty of photo stops and opportunities to learn about the geology and native plants.

Rated 5/5, reviewers mention the easy trails making it accessible for kids and less active visitors. At $106, it offers a balanced mix of adventure and scenery.

This tour is ideal for families or those short on time but wanting a close-up look at Zion’s slot canyons with the thrill of an ATV ride.

Bottom Line: Easy, scenic, and fun—great for a half-day adventure.

9. YOU DRIVE! 4 People, 4 Hrs! Ultimate Peekaboo and Hog Canyon Tour

For those who prefer to drive their own adventure, this self-guided four-hour tour from Kanab is a fantastic option. With your own ATV, you’ll traverse sand trails, climb into Hog Canyon, and explore Peek-a-Boo Canyon. The tour includes a safety orientation and all necessary gear.

Rated 5/5, guests rave about the knowledgeable guides, the stunning scenery, and the sense of independence it provides. The cost, $650 per group, reflects that you’re driving your own vehicle, which appeals to confident drivers looking for control and flexibility.

Best suited for experienced riders and those comfortable with off-road driving, it’s ideal for groups wanting a custom, hands-on experience.

Bottom Line: Perfect for confident drivers seeking full control over their adventure.

10. Zion Sunset Jeep Tour

This 1.5-hour sunset Jeep tour offers a relaxed way to enjoy Zion’s spectacular evening views. Starting with an exciting ride up the mountain, you’ll be treated to breathtaking vistas of the park, including distant Bryce and Grand Canyon views. The tour includes snacks, chairs, and blankets so you can sit back and enjoy the sunset.

Rated 5/5, travelers mention the knowledgeable guides and the unbeatable views. At just over $80 per person, it’s a good value for a memorable, scenic experience.

Ideal for those seeking a more relaxed, atmospheric tour that captures Zion’s magnetic sunset moments.

Bottom Line: An excellent choice for romantic evenings or anyone wanting a calm, scenic wrap-up to their day.

11. East Zion 2.5 Hour Slot Canyon Canyoneering UTV Tour

This family-friendly canyon and cave tour combines canyoneering, rappelling, and exploring caves within East Zion. Starting with a small-group vibe, you’ll practice rappelling skills and hike along Sugar Knoll before descending into Ladder Canyon. The tour lasts about 2.5 hours and suits kids and adults alike.

Rated 5/5, reviews highlight how guides like Johnny make the experience safe and fun, especially for first-timers. The cost of $119 is reasonable considering the interactive, hands-on format.

If you want to introduce kids to adventure sports while exploring Zion’s diverse landscape, this tour fits the bill.

Bottom Line: Well-suited for families looking for a twist on traditional sightseeing.

12. Small-Group East Zion White Mountain Horseback Ride

Experience Zion’s dramatic scenery on horseback, riding through canyons and open landscapes. This one-hour guided ride is designed for all skill levels, with friendly horses and a knowledgeable guide like Carly. The tour offers photo opportunities and a chance to relax and enjoy the landscape without hiking.

Rated 5/5, riders love the calm horses and the personalized attention. At $70, it’s a reasonable way to combine scenery and equestrian fun.

Ideal for those who prefer horses over hiking or want a gentle introduction to Zion’s wilderness.

Bottom Line: A peaceful, scenic ride perfect for families or anyone wanting to try horseback riding in a stunning setting.

13. Peekaboo Slot Canyon 4WD Tour

This 3-hour 4WD adventure takes you to the famously beautiful Peekaboo Slot Canyon—without the crowds of Antelope Canyon. Your guide will drive you in a robust 4WD vehicle to explore this hidden canyon and nearby sites like the Anasazi Moqui Steps, depending on time. The ride is bumpy but rewarding, with plenty of photo stops.

Rated 5/5, reviewers appreciate the local knowledge of guides like Duane and Garrett, and the easy access to a remote canyon. Priced at $130, it offers an immersive experience with excellent value.

This tour suits travelers who want a guided, off-road experience and access to lesser-known Zion sights.

Bottom Line: Ideal for explorers who crave geological wonders in a comfortable, guided environment.

14. East Zion East Rim Jeep Tour

For a quick, scenic overview, this one-hour Jeep ride provides panoramic views from the East Zion rim, including Checkerboard Mesa and Jolley Gulch. The tour departs from Zion Ponderosa Ranch Resort, and no experience is needed—just a willingness to enjoy spectacular vistas.

Rated 5/5, travelers mention how personalized the experience is, with guides sharing fun facts and insights. At around $58 per person, it’s an affordable way to get a taste of Zion’s grandeur.

Perfect if you’re short on time but want to see Zion from above with minimal effort.

Bottom Line: A brief but rewarding scenic tour ideal for families or those with limited time.

15. Via Ferrata / Rappel Adventure in East Zion

This 2.5-hour adrenaline rush combines a scenic ATV ride with the Via Ferrata, an iron ladder climb up Cave Lakes Canyon. After conquering this physical challenge, you’ll enjoy a 180-foot rappel back down into the canyon. Guides like Wyatt and Andy are praised for their encouragement and safety focus.

Rated 5/5, reviews highlight that it’s a thrilling but accessible experience, suitable for those with some comfort in heights. Priced at $119, it offers a memorable mix of activity and scenery.

Great for adventure seekers and those wanting to try something different in Zion’s East Rim area.

Bottom Line: A perfect high-adrenaline experience for active travelers who want a combination of climbing and rappelling.

How to Choose Your Perfect Zion Tour

Picking the right activity depends on your interests, fitness level, and how much time you have. Want a gentle introduction? The Small-Group Guided Hike of Peek-a-Boo Slot Canyon offers a relaxed, affordable option. For thrill-seekers, the East Zion Canyoneering or the Via Ferrata provide adrenaline-pumping challenges with professional guides.

Budget travelers might prefer shorter tours like the East Rim Jeep or the Red Rock Slot Canyon. For those wanting a more personalized experience, private tours such as the Peek-A-Boo Slot Canyon UTV or the Elkheart Canyon & UTV are excellent choices.

Timing your visit is key—many tours run year-round, but some, like the Via Ferrata, may be weather-dependent. Booking early ensures availability, especially for small-group and popular adventures.

Final Thoughts

Zion National Park offers a wide spectrum of tours and activities that cater to thrill-seekers, families, and those simply wanting to enjoy the scenery comfortably. If you’re after a personalized, off-the-beaten-path adventure, options like the East Zion Crimson Canyon Hike & UTV Adventure shine. For pure adrenaline and technical fun, the Canyoneering or Via Ferrata are hard to beat.

No matter what you choose, booking early and knowing your fitness level and interests will help you get the most from your Zion experience. These tours enhance the natural beauty of Zion with stories, fun, and hands-on fun—making your visit truly memorable.