What Are The Best Tours & Things To Do In Utah? Our Top 15 Picks

Utah is a playground for those who crave outdoor adventures, stunning landscapes, and memorable experiences that go beyond the usual sightseeing.

Known for its dramatic red rock formations, expansive national parks, and rugged wilderness, Utah’s tours offer something for every type of traveler. Whether you’re seeking adrenaline-pumping canyoneering, scenic jeep rides, or wildlife photography, Utah delivers.

One of our favorites is the East Zion: Coral Sands Half-day Canyoneering Tour—a perfect mix of climbing, rappelling, and exploring secret slot canyons, especially since it’s rated a perfect 5.0 with glowing reviews.

If you’re into off-road adventures, the Cathedral Valley, Capitol Reef, Private 4X4 Trip takes you to some of the most remote and stunning spots, away from crowds, with a knowledgeable guide.

For a family-friendly outing, the East Zion Top of the World Jeep Tour offers panoramic views that even small children can enjoy.

Quick Overview

The list below covers a wide range of activities, from canyoneering and off-road driving to photography tours, horseback riding, and scenic flights. For the thrill-seekers, there’s canyoneering and rock crawling, while nature lovers can enjoy wild horse safaris and llama hikes. If you prefer a more relaxed experience, consider Sunset Jeep Tours or private photography sessions.

All these options are designed to help you experience Utah’s landscapes in a personal way. Now, let’s take a closer look at each of these incredible tours.

1. East Zion: Coral Sands Half-day Canyoneering Tour

Adventure-lovers will find canyoneering through Zion’s beautiful slot canyons an experience they won’t forget. This half-day trip (about 4.5 hours) combines hiking, rappelling, and climbing in red rock landscapes that are accessible only by foot.

The tour is perfect for active travelers eager to explore deep into Zion’s most stunning canyons, with guides ensuring safety and sharing geological insights along the way.

Rappelling down cliffs as high as 100 feet is included, making it ideal for those craving adrenaline.
What makes this tour special is the small-group setting, which allows personalized attention, and the reviews highlight the friendly, patient guides and breathtaking scenery, including Diane’s Throne Slot Canyon.

Costing around $177.58, it offers excellent value considering the expert guiding and unique access.
Bottom Line: This tour suits adventurous, physically capable travelers wanting an immersive, hands-on Zion experience with expert guides.

2. Cathedral Valley, Capitol Reef, Private 4X4 Trip

For around $220, this private 4X4 tour delivers a personalized journey through Capitol Reef’s most breathtaking and lesser-known spots. The 4-hour tour transports you out of the busiest areas to secluded viewpoints like the Temples of the Sun and Moon, Glass Mountain, and ancient lava flows.

Your guide shares insights into the geology and history of the area while you relax in a comfortable vehicle.
What’s unique is the customizable itinerary—you can focus on landmarks or explore hidden corners. Reviewers praise the knowledgeable guides and the chance to see breathtaking scenery away from crowds.

You’ll enjoy stunning photographic opportunities that are often missed by visitors driving themselves.
Bottom Line: Best suited for travelers wanting an intimate, flexible exploration of Capitol Reef’s remote beauty, especially if you love photography or geology.

3. East Zion Top of the World Jeep Tour

This 1.5-hour scenic jeep ride for just over $105 is perfect for families or those seeking an easy adventure. The tour starts at Zion Ponderosa Ranch Resort and takes you up into East Zion’s mountains, offering panoramic views of Zion, Coral Pink Sand Dunes, and Cedar Mountain.

The trail is reasonably groomed, making it accessible to small children and those who prefer a smooth ride.
Your guide will share local insights, enriching your understanding of the area’s geology, flora, and fauna.

Visitors love the intimate experience with only 8 travelers allowed, ensuring personalized service.
Bottom Line: Suitable for families or those who want effortless scenic views without strenuous activity.

4. Diana’s Throne UTV Adventure Near Zion National Park

For an off-road thrill that puts you in the driver’s seat, the Diana’s Throne UTV Adventure offers a 2-hour ride in East Zion’s mountain backcountry for around $177.58. The tour includes a driving lesson, helmets equipped with communication gear, and stops at two spectacular viewpoints overlooking Zion.
This tour is praised for its adrenaline rush and the personalized narration as you maneuver the high-end UTVs.

The reviews mention the fun, the scenery, and the guide Megan’s expertise.
Bottom Line: Ideal for active travelers who want a dynamic, guided off-road experience with personalized instruction and stunning vistas.

5. East Zion: Zion Cliffs Sunset Jeep Tour

Capture the magic of Zion at sunset on this 2-hour scenic jeep ride costing about $94.16. The tour takes you to two scenic overlooks just as the sun dips, painting the cliffs with warm tones. The open-sided vehicle allows for unobstructed views and great photo opportunities.
Your guide will lead you to the best sunset spots and share stories about Zion’s geology and natural history.

Reviewers love the spectacular views and the knowledgeable guide—a perfect evening outing.
Bottom Line: Best for travelers wanting a relaxing, picturesque end to the day with excellent photo ops.

6. East Zion Red Canyon Jeep Tour

This 2-hour Jeep tour ($106.07) explores the Red Canyon area, with its dramatic red rock formations, mineral gulch, and Parunuweap Canyon. It’s a great way to learn about Native American history and early settlers’ survival strategies while enjoying magnificent views.

The tour covers Mineral Gulch, Parunuweap Canyon, and Elephant Gap, with plenty of photo stops.
Reviewers mention the personalized attention and the unspoiled scenery.

In colder months, be prepared for chilly weather, but the landscapes remain breathtaking year-round.
Bottom Line: Perfect for those interested in geology, history, or just stunning scenery, especially if you prefer a shorter, informative ride.

7. Private Wild Horse Photo Safari from Tooele

For around $449 per group, this 5-hour private safari is a photographer’s dream. Traveling along the Pony Express Trail and into the Onaqui Wild Horse Herd range, you’ll get up-close encounters with wild mustangs.

The guide offers personalized photography instruction, helping you capture remarkable shots of these iconic animals.
Reviews highlight the expert guide Jen, who makes wild horse viewing and photography easy and memorable.

The safari includes air-conditioned transportation and water, making it comfortable for everyone.
Bottom Line: Best for photography enthusiasts and wildlife lovers willing to invest in a personalized, immersive experience.

8. Capitol Reef National Park: Cathedral Valley off-road Jeep tour

This 6-7 hour private tour ($220 per person) takes you deep into Capitol Reef’s remote areas. Your guide handles all the off-road driving on 70 miles of rugged terrain, including the famous Cathedral Valley Loop, with stops at the Temple of the Sun, Glass Mountains, and other geologic marvels.
You’ll learn about flora, fauna, and geology, while enjoying plenty of photo stops.

The tour is flexible, allowing you to tailor the length, and includes lunch and refreshments.
Reviewers praise the **expert guidance and the breathtaking scenery.

This tour is ideal if you want a full-day, immersive experience in Utah’s wildest landscapes.
Bottom Line: Designed for those wanting a comprehensive off-road adventure with expert narration and plenty of photo opportunities.

9. Capitol Reef Photography Tours

If capturing perfect photos is your goal, this 3-hour small-group tour ($229) is a great choice. Led by a professional photographer, you’ll visit the park’s top and hidden photo spots, with hands-on instruction on composition and exposure.
With only four people in the group, you get personalized tips and focused guidance.

Reviewers say Hunter was willing to answer questions and shared valuable insights.
Bottom Line: Ideal for aspiring photographers wanting to improve skills while exploring stunning Capitol Reef scenery.

10. Great Salt Lake Flying Tour

See Utah’s iconic Great Salt Lake from the air in a 40-minute flight costing $289. You’ll get bird’s-eye views of Antelope Island, the lake’s scale, and the bison herds, which can’t be seen from the ground. The flight often offers sightings of native wildlife, adding to the experience.
The reviews mention how peaceful and beautiful the flight is, providing a perspective impossible from land.

It’s perfect for short on time but wanting a big-picture view of Utah’s wildlife and geology.
Bottom Line: Best for travelers seeking a unique aerial perspective of the Great Salt Lake and wildlife.

11. Rhodes Off Road Adventures Guided Jeep Tour from Rock Crawling to Petroglyphs

This 3-4 hour tour ($260 per group) is a customizable adventure through Utah’s backcountry, including rock crawling, petroglyph viewing, and dinosaur tracks. Options include visiting Moonshine Arch or exploring Split Mountain.

The guide tailors the experience based on your interests, making it perfect for those who want flexibility.
The highlight for many is climbing Moonshine Arch or discovering prehistoric petroglyphs.

Reviews praise the knowledgeable guides and the variety of sights.
Bottom Line: Ideal for explorers who want a personalized backcountry experience with options to hike, photograph, or just take in the views.

12. 2-Hour Horse Rides Capitol Reef

For $189 per person, this 2-hour horseback ride offers a relaxed way to enjoy Capitol Reef’s beautiful scenery. Led by experienced wranglers, the ride takes you through Water Pocket Fold, with water on the trail and friendly horses. Riders can choose morning or afternoon departures.
Reviewers mention the well-behaved horses and excellent instructions that foster confidence, even for newcomers.

It’s a chance to experience the landscape at a slow pace, perfect for nature lovers and first-time riders.
Bottom Line: Well-suited for families, beginners, or anyone seeking a slow, scenic ride in Utah’s wilderness.

13. East Zion: Powell’s Way Full-Day Canyoneering

This full-day canyoneering trip ($258.61) involves six rappels and explores a unique part of Zion’s backcountry. It includes off-road cruising, hiking, and a picnic lunch, making it an all-in-one adventure.

The guide provides equipment and expert instruction, ensuring safety and fun.
Reviewers highlight the exhilaration of rappelling and the expertise of guides like Dan and Nathan, who tailor the day to your skill level.

The experience is perfect for serious adventurers ready for a full-day immersion.
Bottom Line: For those wanting an intensive Zion adventure, combining canyoneering, off-road driving, and spectacular scenery.

14. 2-Hour Llama Hike

Enjoy a peaceful 2-hour llama hike ($167) with a furry companion by your side. This guided experience in Capitol Reef includes scenic vistas and the chance to learn about the park’s geology and history.

The llamas are friendly and add a special touch to the hike, making it particularly popular among families and nature lovers.
Reviewers say the guide was personable, and the llamas adorable, making this a memorable, relaxed outdoor activity.
Bottom Line: Perfect for travelers wanting a gentle, personal experience that combines nature, animals, and history.

15. Moab Robber’s Roost Canyoneering Adventure

This 8-hour tour ($317.99) in Moab is for serious canyon enthusiasts. It explores spectacular red rock canyons—no experience necessary—as guides teach rappelling, climbing, and teamwork. You’ll learn techniques in a safe environment and visit iconic locations like Canyonlands.
Reviewers emphasize the expert guidance and the thrilling nature of the experience.

The tour is capped at 10 people, ensuring you get personalized attention.
Bottom Line: Best suited for those ready for a full-day, hands-on canyoneering adventure in Utah’s famous red rock landscapes.

How to Choose the Right Tour

When selecting your Utah tour, consider your budget, fitness level, and interests. Canyoneering tours like the East Zion Half-day Canyoneering are perfect for thrill-seekers, while scenic jeep tours such as the Sunset Jeep Tour suit those wanting a more relaxed, picturesque experience.
If you’re into wildlife photography, the Wild Horse Safari offers a unique chance to capture Utah’s majestic mustangs.

For shorter outings, the East Zion Top of the World Jeep or horseback riding provide memorable but manageable adventures.

Booking early is recommended, especially during peak seasons in spring and fall, to secure your preferred date and time.

Utah’s diverse landscapes and adventure options mean there’s something for every traveler—whether you’re after high-octane canyon descents, scenic overlooks, or wildlife encounters.

For the best experience, think about your fitness level and interests, then pick a tour that pushes your boundaries or offers a gentle exploration.
From half-day canyon trips to full-day off-road safaris, this list covers the best ways to experience Utah’s spectacular natural beauty.

Don’t wait—book early and get ready for an unforgettable adventure in one of America’s most dynamic outdoor playgrounds.