roam East zion
Learn about the Zion East Entrance, nearby guided tours, and things to do in East zion.
What to Do at the Zion East Entrance
Welcome to the lesser-known gateway to Zion National Park, the Zion East entrance, situated just outside Orderville, and Mt. Carmel, Utah. Nestled away from the bustling crowds, East Zion is a serene escape with fewer visitors, offering an elevated experience, quite literally!
Located at a higher elevation, East Zion boasts slightly cooler temperatures compared to other entrances to Zion National Park. The combination of fewer visitors and cooler temperatures makes it an ideal choice for explorers seeking a more intimate, less congested experience during their visit.
This is precisely why we at ROAM Outdoor Adventure Co. offer numerous guided tours in the area, ranging from UTV excursions to rappelling adventures. Explore the beauty of East Zion with one of our award-winning tours, adding an extra layer of excitement to your vacation.
Award-Winning UTV Slot Canyon Tour
2-Hour Tour
$104/Person
Duration:
Group Size:
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Difficulty:
Permit Required:
What's Provided:
What to Bring:
2-2.5 hours
up to 20
1 and up
Beginner
No
Everything you need
a camera, hiking shoes
Past adventurers rave about this heart-pumping UTV Slot Canyon tour–come see why for yourself! Explore two slot canyons–Red Cave Slot Canyon and Lower Red Cave Slot Canyon–via an off-road UTV drive right into the mouth of the canyons.
Ride and Rappel Slot Canyon Adventure
4-Hour Tour
$159/Person
Duration:
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Ages:
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Permit Required:
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4 hours
up to 12
4 and up
Moderate
No
Technical gear
hiking shoes, long pants, snacks, hydration packs
Begin with a brisk half-mile hike, ascending a steep incline to reach the canyon head—an initiation into the heart of our adventure. Brace yourself for a series of 3-7 exhilarating rappels spanning heights from 10' to 110'. As a true canyoneer, navigate through boulders, rappels, and natural rock slides, traversing sections where both canyon walls embrace you in a touch. Be prepared to get wet! After conquering the depths of the canyon, our awaiting UTV will transport you back to base—don’t forget to pack your camera.
East Zion Via Ferrata
The Tallest in Utah Tour
$139/Person
Duration:
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4 hours
up to 20
8 and up
ascend 1,000 ft.
Moderate
No
Technical gear
hiking shoes, long pants
Embark on our "Tallest in Utah" expedition, featuring the state's highest Via Ferrata experience. With three challenging pitches across red and white rock faces, this thrilling journey includes an almost 1,000 ft vertical ascent, heart-pounding rappels, and a spectacular 220-foot descent into our exclusive white rock mini slot canyon.
At the summit, relish an unparalleled panorama with breathtaking views of the Orderville Valley and the East side of Zion National Park. No prior rock climbing experience is necessary, but please note there's a weight limit of 265 lbs for this adventure.
Ride and Rappel Slot Canyon Adventure
2-Hour Tour
$114/Person
Duration:
Group Size:
Ages:
Distance:
Difficulty:
Permit Required:
What's Provided:
What to Bring:
2 hours
up to 12
4 and up
Moderate
No
Technical gear
hiking shoes, long pants, snacks, hydration packs
After a quick UTV ride, your expert guide will introduce you to the basics of canyoneering. Prepare for a series of 3-4 rappels, ranging from 10' to 45', offering an enthralling journey through the slot canyons. This adventure requires no prior experience and welcomes participants of all skill levels, including children aged 4 and above. Explore the canyons, revel in the adrenaline, and make memories to cherish on this condensed but remarkable tour.
The Ultimate Ride & Rappel Slot Canyon Adventure
Full-Day Tour
$215/Person
Duration:
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Difficulty:
Permit Required:
What's Provided:
What to Bring:
7-8 hours
up to 20
4 and up
4 miles
Moderate
No
Technical gear
hiking shoes, long pants, snacks, hydration packs
Embark on the ultimate full-day of thrills, conquering three towering slot canyons near the East Zion Entrance, each boasting walls reaching heights surpassing 100 feet. Brace yourself for a thrilling off-road UTV journey to each canyon, where you'll engage in 7-10 exhilarating rappels spanning 10' to 120'. With certified guides leading the way, learn the essentials for safe canyon traversal—no prior experience is needed! All adventurers ages 4 and above are invited to join this action-packed day, encompassing roughly 4 miles of hiking by its end.
About East Zion
Located along the picturesque State Route 9, East Zion welcomes visitors with its scenic beauty of red rock formations and desert landscapes. This region connects to U.S. Route 89 and is surrounded by communities like Mt. Carmel Junction, and Orderville.
The landscape here is diverse, marked by towering canyons, the iconic Zion Mt. Carmel Tunnel, and unique spots like the Elkheart Cliffs, The Checkerboard Mesa, and the East Rim Trail.
Covered below:
What Makes the Zion East Entrance a Great Vacation Spot?
Escape the mainstream tourist rush and embrace a quieter, more immersive connection with the Zion area. The East Entrance is flooded with an array of potential adventures—canyoneering, hiking, stunning photography opportunities, an abundance of wildlife sightings, and more. It’s no wonder many choose to make this their base camp for exploring both Zion's East and West sides.
That's precisely why we, ROAM Outdoor Adventure Co. run nearly all our tours out of this area, making your exploration even more convenient and unforgettable.
What to Do
You’ll never be far from adventure when you choose the Zion East entrance. Get ready for an action-packed experience full of unique geological sites. The exploration possibilities really do feel endless.
Visit Slot Canyons
Embark on hiking and rappelling journeys through Peek-a-Boo and Red Cave, unraveling the mysteries of these captivating formations. These slot canyons are narrow and deep gorges with steep, red rock vertical walls, formed by the erosive forces of water over time.
Explore Along Hiking Trails
Explore nature's wonders on trails like Bunting, Squaw, Mansard, Cottonwood, and Red Hollow, each offering unique vistas with some more challenging than others.
Book UTV Tours
Embark on adrenaline-pumping UTV tours through the diverse terrain of Zion East Entrance, where you'll have the opportunity to zoom through Coral Pink Sand Dunes, Peekaboo Slot Canyon, and The Great Chamber, accessing remote and scenic locations.
Experience Ancient Sand Caves
Venture into the Belly of the Dragon, wander through sand caves, or explore the captivating Coral Pink Sand Dunes.
Take Scenic Drives
Looking for a more relaxing adventure? Take in the breathtaking beauty along Scenic Byway 12, Mt. Carmel Highway, Johnson Canyon Road, House Rock Valley Rd, and State Route 67 leading to the Grand Canyon's north rim.
Saddle-up for Horseback Riding
Horseback riding is one of the most memorable adventures near the Zion East Entrance. Experience the scenic beauty of nearby Cave Lakes on horseback for a special retreat.
Try Via Ferrata
Challenge yourself on a Via Ferrata climb, equipped with fixed cables, ladders, and other aids, offering a unique blend of thrill and scenic views as you scale impressive rock faces.
How to Get to East Zion and its Accommodating Cities
Plan your journey wisely! When accessing the Zion East Entrance via State Route 9, keep in mind vehicle size restrictions at the Mt. Carmel tunnel. If you are driving a large RV or vehicle, you may need to obtain a special permit from the National Park Service website or the Zion National Park Visitor Center.
If you’re visiting from outside the state or country, the following airports are the closest to East Zion.
Commercial (Major Cities)
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Las Vegas Harry Reid International Airport
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Salt Lake City International Airport
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Phoenix Sky Harbor International Airport
Regional (Small Cities)
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Cedar City, Utah Regional Airport
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Page, Arizona Municipal Airport
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St. George, Utah Municipal Airport
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Moab, Utah Canyonlands Field Airport
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Provo, Utah Municipal Airport
Upon arrival at your airport of choice, you must either rent a car, camper, or RV and drive the remainder of the way.
How Many Days to Spend in East Zion?
We recommend a 3-4 day stay in East Zion to allow for a well-rounded exploration of the area.
Here’s a sample itinerary that covers the highlights.
Day 1: Begin your journey by acquainting yourself with the East Entrance. Take in the awe-inspiring views of iconic landmarks like Zion Mt. Carmel Tunnel and Checkerboard Mesa. Engage in leisurely activities like scenic drives or easy hikes to acclimate yourself to the breathtaking surroundings.
Day 2: Dive deeper into adventure and discover the area’s unique geological formations! Explore slot canyons, embark on captivating hikes, or opt for adrenaline-pumping ATV tours.
Day 3: Immerse yourself further into the heart of East Zion. Engage in activities like horseback riding at Cave Lakes or challenge yourself on a Via Ferrata route for an exhilarating experience. Spend your day indulging in more hiking trails or seeking out hidden gems within the landscape.
Day 4: Use this day to revisit any favorite spots, relish the serene atmosphere, or explore areas you might have missed. Alternatively, consider relaxing and absorbing the tranquility of East Zion, taking in the sights and sounds before bidding adieu.
By allocating 3-4 days for your East Zion getaway, you afford yourself the luxury of time to explore, unwind, and create enduring memories. Adjust your itinerary based on personal preferences, ensuring a balanced mix of adventure and relaxation throughout your stay.
Best Time of Year to East Zion?
April through September is prime time for a visit to East Zion due to the desert climate, when you’ll feel temperatures ranging from 65-92°F.
Winter visits are less recommended due to cold, snow, and hazardous roads. Be cautious of potential thunderstorms in pleasant months affecting certain activities like slot canyon exploration, hikes, or ATV tours. Please always check the weather forecast before beginning any adventures.
Places to Stay
Consider these options for a comfortable stay:
Places to Stay in Orderville
East Zion Resort: Choose from yurts, treehouses, cabins, glamping tents, or tiny homes for a unique retreat.
Places to Stay in Mt Carmel
Zion Stays: Rent RV spots, cabins, or motel rooms for cozy accommodation.
Places to Stay in Glendale
Zion Stays: Find unique dome houses or spacious homes for rent, perfect for group stays and relaxation.
Places to Stay in Kanab
Cave Lakes Glamping Resort: Unwind at this private resort in cabins, canvas tents, or their one-of-a-kind stone house for a luxurious stay.
ROAM Outdoors’ Best Travel Tips for Visiting East Zion
We have a few pointers so you can get the most out of your trip to the Zion East Entrance.
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Check for Road and Trail Conditions: Before your trip, check the official Zion National Park website for updates on road closures, trail conditions, and any other important information. Conditions can change, so it's essential to stay informed.
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Get an Early Start: If entering the park, arrive early in the day, you’ll beat the crowds and have a better chance of finding parking at trailheads and viewpoints. If on a guided tour, we still recommend getting an early start to beat other tour groups to popular scenic spots.
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Pack Essentials: Bring plenty of water, snacks, sunscreen, a hat, and appropriate clothing for the weather conditions. The desert environment can be hot and dry, so staying hydrated is crucial.
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Respect the Environment: Follow Leave No Trace principles by staying on designated trails, packing out all trash, and minimizing your impact on the fragile desert ecosystem.
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Know Your Limits: Some hikes on the east side can be challenging, especially in the heat. Be aware of your physical abilities and take breaks as needed. Booking a ROAM Adventure Co. tour can help you navigate this new experience.
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Permits: If you plan to engage in activities like canyoneering or overnight backpacking, check if permits are required and obtain them in advance.
Book your East Zion Trip Today
East Zion isn’t just a vacation spot; it’s an ultimate haven for everyone! With activities catering to visitors aged 0 to 100, there's something for every generation to cherish. Most attractions in and around the area are incredibly kid-friendly, ensuring a delightful experience for families.
Embark on adventures with ROAM Outdoor Adventure Co., where tours are tailored to accommodate various skill levels. Whether you're a novice or an expert explorer, these experiences are crafted to ensure everyone revels in the wonders of East Zion.
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