Set off on an unforgettable journey through several of the Southwest’s national parks and monuments via the Grand Circle, including Utah’s Mighty 5. This 1,000-mile adventure is a dream for nature lovers, winding through some of the most spectacular landscapes in the American Southwest. Along the way, you can experience the unique comfort of five Under Canvas camps: Moab, Bryce Canyon, Zion, Grand Canyon, and Lake Powell-Grand Staircase. Let’s explore some of the best slot canyons on this epic road trip.
What are Slot Canyons?
Slot canyons are narrow gorges carved into soft rocks by wind, water, and erosion, often deeper than they are wide, with some as narrow as three feet. Utah is believed to have the most slot canyons in the world, many of which are easy to navigate. Visitors enjoy the fun and adventure these canyons offer, while photographers are drawn to the stunning interplay of light beams on the sculpted red rocks. Discover the best slot canyons in Utah and hike, scramble, and shimmy your way to an unforgettable experience in nature’s playground!
Mary Jane Slot Canyon, Moab
Nestled near Moab, Mary Jane Slot Canyon is a hidden gem that offers adventure and beauty. The trail to this slot canyon is along a creek surrounded by towering walls upwards of 100 feet, with several side canyons leading to a 30-foot waterfall, making it a must-visit for any outdoor enthusiast. The waterfall is perfect for a refreshing dip, making it an ideal spot for wild swimming. As you hike through the canyon, the interplay of light and shadow on the red rock creates a mesmerizing spectacle. Plus, it’s dog-friendly, just like all of our Under Canvas camps, so your furry friends can join the adventure.
How to Get There: From Moab, take US-191 north to UT-128 and drive east for 18.4 miles. Turn right onto Bureau of Land Management Road 98 and follow it for 2.2 miles until it ends. The trail starts at the southeast corner of the parking lot. There’s no trailhead sign. Follow the dirt path down the gully to the creek and head upstream. Wear hiking or water shoes as the trail goes through the creek.
Where to Stay: Under Canvas Moab is just a short drive away from incredible slot canyons in Moab. Spend a few days exploring the best of Moab. Venture to nearby Arches National Park to explore the iconic arches and watch a sunset like none other from Delicate Arch. The next day, head to Canyonlands National Park for expansive canyon vistas. After a day of exploring, unwind in the comfort of your luxurious tent and enjoy the night sky like never before at one of the world’s first DarkSky resorts.
Little Wild Horse Canyon, Capitol Reef Country
Little Wild Horse Canyon is one of Utah’s most popular slot canyons. It can be visited on a day trip from Moab or between Moab and Capitol Reef National Park, which is just an hour away. This family-friendly canyon offers a moderate hike through narrow, winding passages with short sections of easy rock scrambling. The canyon features a long stretch of “narrows” where the walls are so close you must turn sideways. There are two approaches to this hike: tackle the narrowest (and most fun) section of Little Wild Horse as a quick out-and-back hike or do the loop, which includes Bell Canyon for a moderately strenuous 8-mile hike.
How to Get There: Located in the San Rafael Swell, west of Goblin Valley, the trailhead is accessible by family car. Drive south on Hwy 95 toward Hanksville, then turn west onto Goblin Valley Road. Head south near Temple Mountain and just before Goblin Valley State Park, turn west onto the dirt road. Follow it to the trailhead where toilets are available.
Where to Stay: Take a day trip from Moab or spend a night near Capitol Reef National Park before continuing your journey to Bryce Canyon, a 3.5-hour drive away.
Willis Creek Slot Canyon, Bryce Canyon Country
Willis Creek, carved into the dramatic White Cliffs of Grand Staircase in Utah, is a stunning and family-friendly slot canyon. Featuring gentle, winding paths and beautiful slickrock walls that soar up to 300 feet, it’s an excellent choice for an easy and scenic hike in Bryce Canyon Country. The Willis Creek Wash hike is 4.8 miles round trip, but you can go as far as you like, with the best narrows found within the first 1.3 miles of the journey. Willis Creek is a cool and mostly shaded hike, perfect for hot summer days. Plus, dogs are welcome on this trail.
How to Get There: From Cannonville, Utah, drive south on Main Street, which turns into Kodachrome Road. After about 2.9 miles, turn right onto Skutumpah Road (Johnson Canyon Road). Continue for approximately 6 miles until you reach the Willis Creek Trailhead, marked by a small parking area on the left. There are no fees or permits required for this trail.
Where to Stay: Stay at Under Canvas Bryce Canyon and immerse yourself in the beauty of the high-alpine surroundings. After exploring the slot canyons, relax in your cozy tent and enjoy the breathtaking views just 15 minutes from Bryce Canyon National Park.
The Narrows, Zion National Park
Zion National Park is home to the world-famous slot canyon, The Narrows. With its towering walls and the Virgin River flowing through it, this hike offers a thrilling experience. It’s a popular hike and a must when visiting Zion. Be prepared to get your feet wet—it’s pure fun as you hike, wade, and swim along this watery trail. There are two ways to enjoy this hike: the Top-Down Hike to the Temple of Sinawava (permit required) or the Bottom-Up Hike from the Temple of Sinawava. We recommend taking the Zion Shuttle to Stop #9 and doing the bottom-up hike, where you can hike as little or as much as you like before turning around the way you came.
How to Get There: Inside Zion National Park, take the Zion Canyon Shuttle to Stop #9 at the Temple of Sinawava. From there, follow the Riverside Walk to the start of The Narrows.
Where to Stay: Under Canvas Zion is the perfect base for slot canyon adventures. Enhance your experience with a canyoneering tour, where you can hike, climb, rappel, and squeeze through red rock canyons with the help of an expert guide. After a day of hiking and adventure, retreat to your tent for a restful night under the stars, surrounded by the natural beauty of the desert. You’ll want to spend two to three days exploring Zion. Check out our guide to the perfect 72 hours in Zion National Park.
Zebra Slot Canyon, Grand Staircase-Escalante
Zebra Slot Canyon is a natural wonder known for its pink and white striped rock formations, reminiscent of a zebra’s stripes. The narrow, winding passageways are beautifully illuminated by sunlight filtering through the tight spaces. The hike to Zebra Slot Canyon is a moderate 5-mile out-and-back trek across sandy terrain and shallow water, with some scrambling and squeezing required inside the canyon, adding to the thrill. This hidden gem offers an unforgettable experience for those seeking adventure in Utah’s slot canyons.
How to Get There: The trailhead is on Hole-in-the-Rock Road in Grand Staircase-Escalante National Monument. From Escalante, turn onto Hole-in-the-Rock Road and continue 7.8 miles past the third cattleguard, where the parking area will be on your right. You can stop by the BLM Visitor Center in Escalante for more information on the canyon hike and water levels inside.
Where to Stay: Experience having your very own slot canyon at Under Canvas Lake Powell-Grand Staircase, with the magnificent Elephant Canyon just steps from your tent. You can enjoy views of Lake Powell’s soaring cliffs, buttes, and towers from this stunning location. Don’t miss nearby attractions like the Vermillion Cliffs, Horseshoe Bend, and Antelope Canyon—the most visited and photographed slot canyon in the American Southwest.
Visitor Information for Antelope Canyon
While Antelope Canyon isn’t technically in Utah, it’s a must-visit for slot canyon enthusiasts. It’s located just over the Utah-Arizona border in Page, AZ, only a 35-minute drive from Under Canvas Lake Powell-Grand Staircase. Upper Antelope Canyon is world-famous for its light beams, falling sands, and towering walls, making it a photographer’s paradise. Lower Antelope Canyon offers a more adventurous experience with its narrow passages and ladders. Located on Navajo lands, both sections of Antelope Canyon can only be visited on a guided tour.
Cathedral Wash, Grand Canyon Country
Near the Utah border lies Cathedral Wash, a hidden gem near Marble Canyon en route to the Grand Canyon’s South Rim. The 3-mile out-and-back hike features narrow slots and wider sections, showcasing impressive geology with sculpted rock layers. The trail follows the wash, gradually descending towards the Colorado River, with some scrambling and climbing over boulders and a few small down climbs. At the hike’s end, you’ll reach the Colorado River, with a sandy beach and small rapids. This challenging route is popular for birding, hiking, and walking, so expect to see other adventurers. However, dogs are not allowed on this trail.
How to Get There: From Page, AZ, drive south on US-89 for about 33 miles. Turn right onto Lees Ferry Road, heading west. Continue for about 2 miles until you reach the Cathedral Wash Trailhead, which has a small parking area on the left. The trailhead is located in the Glen Canyon National Recreation Area, which charges a fee to enter.
Where to Stay: Under Canvas Grand Canyon is the ideal base for exploring the Grand Canyon. Located just 25 minutes from the South Rim entrance, this unique glamping destination offers a blend of comfort and nature. After exploring this iconic natural wonder, return to your tent to enjoy the tranquility of the surrounding juniper forest and the star-studded skies at this certified DarkSky resort.
Your Ultimate Grand Circle Road Trip
The Grand Circle offers an unparalleled opportunity to explore the best slot canyons in Utah while visiting world-class national parks. Spend about two weeks soaking in the spectacular scenery and use our suggested Grand Circle road trip itinerary for inspiration. With Under Canvas camps conveniently located along the route, you can enjoy the thrill of the wild by day and the comfort of luxury by night.
We’re here to help you plan the ultimate road trip. Call our Reservations Team at 888-496-1148 for a custom itinerary.