Utah is famous for its slot canyons, but most people only know about Antelope Canyon. Beyond the crowds, hidden trails lead to secret canyons with towering sandstone walls, twisting passages, and breathtaking views.
These less-visited gems offer adventure, solitude, and a chance to explore nature without the rush of tourists.
Some require short hikes, while others demand a bit of scrambling. Each one is unique, with smooth rock formations, narrow corridors, and even small waterfalls. If you’re looking for an unforgettable journey into Utah’s wild landscapes, these hidden slot canyons are waiting to be discovered.
1. Spring Creek Canyon: A Hidden Gem Near Zion
| Feature | Details |
|---|---|
| Location | Kanarraville, Utah (10 minutes north of Kolob Canyons, Zion National Park) |
| Distance | 5 miles round trip |
| Difficulty | Moderate (some boulder scrambling) |
| Elevation Gain | 500 feet |
| Time Needed | 3–4 hours |
| Best Time to Visit | Spring and fall for the best conditions |
| Trail Type | Out-and-back |
| Permit Required? | No |
| Dog-Friendly? | Yes, but some sections require lifting over rocks |
Spring Creek Canyon is one of Utah’s best-kept secrets. Unlike the more famous slot canyons packed with crowds, this peaceful trail offers a quiet escape into a breathtaking sandstone wonderland.
The first mile follows a sandy path through the desert, which may seem uneventful at first, but don’t turn back. Once the canyon walls rise around you, the scenery transforms into a stunning slot canyon with smooth rock formations and twisting passages.
As you hike deeper, the canyon narrows in spots but never becomes too tight. The towering walls provide excellent shade, making it a great hike even on warmer days.
Small sections of scrambling over boulders add a fun challenge, but nothing too extreme. In spring, a shallow creek flows through the canyon, making the experience even more beautiful.
Why Spring Creek Canyon is Worth Visiting
- Secluded Beauty – Unlike more popular slot canyons, this one remains quiet, allowing for a peaceful experience.
- Beginner-Friendly – The hike is not too strenuous, and the slot section is manageable for most hikers.
- Varied Scenery – From sandy washes to towering cliffs, the landscape constantly changes.
- Perfect for Photography – The dramatic rock formations and soft light filtering through the canyon create stunning photo opportunities.
Additional Tips
- Check Weather Conditions – Slot canyons can flood quickly. Always check the forecast before heading out.
- Bring Sturdy Shoes – The sandy sections can be slippery, and the boulders require good traction.
- Pack Plenty of Water – Even though there’s shade, the desert heat can still be intense.
- Explore at Your Own Pace – The main slot section is only half a mile in, so you can turn around whenever you feel ready.
How to Get There
From Cedar City, drive south on I-15 to Exit 51 for Kanarraville. Follow Kanarra Mountain Road east for about 2.5 miles until you reach the trailhead parking area. There are no official signs, so a GPS app can help pinpoint the location.
2. Red Hollow Canyon: A Short but Stunning Adventure
| Feature | Details |
|---|---|
| Location | Orderville, Utah (30 minutes from Zion’s east entrance) |
| Distance | 1 mile round trip |
| Difficulty | Easy |
| Elevation Gain | Minimal |
| Time Needed | 1 hour |
| Best Time to Visit | Year-round (avoid after heavy rain) |
| Trail Type | Out-and-back |
| Permit Required? | No |
| Dog-Friendly? | Yes |
Red Hollow Canyon is a hidden slot canyon that is perfect for a quick and easy adventure. The trail begins in a sandy wash surrounded by striking red and white rock formations.
After a short walk, the canyon walls start closing in, revealing a stunning slot section with smooth, curving walls. The canyon is narrow but never too tight to pass through, making it accessible for most hikers.
Unlike longer and more challenging slot canyons, Red Hollow requires no scrambling or technical skills. It’s a great option for families, beginners, or anyone looking for a scenic side trip. The hike is short but delivers incredible views, with golden light bouncing off the canyon walls, especially in the early morning or late afternoon.
Why Red Hollow Canyon is Worth Visiting
- Perfect for those who want a quick slot canyon experience without a long hike
- No permit required, making it hassle-free compared to other canyons
- Stunning red and white rock formations create a unique and photogenic landscape
- Family-friendly and great for kids or those new to slot canyon hikes
Additional Tips for Your Hike
- Park at the designated pull-off near the trailhead, as there is no official parking lot
- Check for flash flood warnings, as slot canyons can flood quickly after rain
- Bring a camera, as the lighting and rock formations make for incredible photos
- Visit early in the morning or late in the afternoon for the best lighting and fewer crowds
How to Get There
From Zion’s east entrance, drive north on Highway 89 to Orderville. Turn onto Red Hollow Road and follow it until you see a pull-off for parking. The trailhead is unmarked, so using a GPS map is helpful.
3. Lambs Knoll: A Hidden Slot Canyon Near Zion
| Feature | Details |
|---|---|
| Location | Near Virgin, Utah (30 minutes west of Springdale) |
| Distance | 1 mile round trip |
| Difficulty | Easy |
| Elevation Gain | Minimal |
| Time Needed | 1–2 hours |
| Best Time to Visit | Spring, summer, and fall |
| Trail Type | Out-and-back |
| Permit Required? | No |
| Dog-Friendly? | Yes |
Lambs Knoll is a hidden gem just outside Zion National Park, offering a mix of slot canyon hiking, rock scrambling, and breathtaking views. The trail is short but packed with adventure.
The slot canyon section is easy to navigate, with towering sandstone walls creating a stunning backdrop. Unlike more popular slot canyons, Lambs Knoll remains quiet, making it an ideal escape for those looking for solitude.
The area is also a popular rock climbing and canyoneering destination, but you don’t need any technical skills to explore the slot canyon. The trail is mostly flat and sandy, with a few rocks to step over. A narrow slot section provides a fun challenge, especially for kids who love squeezing through tight spaces.
Why Lambs Knoll is Worth Visiting
- Close to Zion but without the crowds
- A mix of slot canyons, rock formations, and panoramic views
- No permits required, making it an easy last-minute adventure
- Great for families, beginner hikers, and photographers
Additional Tips for Your Hike
- Bring good hiking shoes, as the sandy sections can be slippery
- Arrive early or late in the day for the best lighting in the slot canyon
- Watch for rock climbers, as the area is a popular climbing spot
- Be mindful of flash flood risks, as slot canyons can be dangerous in rainy conditions
How to Get There
From Virgin, Utah, drive up Kolob Terrace Road for about 10 miles. The trailhead is near a dirt parking lot on the right side of the road. There are no signs, so using a GPS is recommended.
4. Clear Creek: A Hidden Slot Canyon Along Zion’s Scenic Route
| Feature | Details |
|---|---|
| Location | East side of Zion National Park, along Route 9 |
| Distance | Varies (no set trail) |
| Difficulty | Easy to moderate |
| Elevation Gain | Minimal |
| Time Needed | 1–3 hours |
| Best Time to Visit | Year-round |
| Trail Type | Out-and-back |
| Permit Required? | No |
| Dog-Friendly? | No (inside Zion National Park) |
Clear Creek isn’t an official hiking trail but rather a dry streambed that winds through the east side of Zion National Park. It’s a perfect spot for off-the-beaten-path exploration, offering short slot canyon sections, unique rock formations, and tunnels carved into the sandstone.
The best part of Clear Creek is the ability to choose your own adventure. You can pull over at various points along Route 9, scramble down into the wash, and explore the narrow canyons at your own pace.
Some sections are easy walks, while others require light rock scrambling. Kids and adults alike will love discovering hidden passageways and tunnels.
Why Clear Creek is Worth Visiting
- No crowds, making it one of Zion’s quietest canyon experiences
- Easy access with multiple entry points along the road
- Great for families, as you can adjust the hike length to fit your needs
- Beautiful rock formations and winding slot sections
Additional Tips for Your Hike
- Wear sturdy shoes, as the sandy and rocky terrain can be uneven
- Bring plenty of water, especially in warmer months
- If hiking with kids, choose an easy entry point to avoid steep descents
- Flash floods are a real danger—check the weather forecast before going
How to Get There
Clear Creek runs along Route 9 on the east side of Zion National Park. The best pull-off spots begin about ¼ mile east of the Canyon Overlook parking lot. Look for areas where the road is higher than the wash below, and find a safe place to descend.
5. Moonshine Wash: A Remote Slot Canyon in the San Rafael Swell
| Feature | Details |
|---|---|
| Location | South of Green River, Utah |
| Distance | 5 miles round trip |
| Difficulty | Moderate (some scrambling required) |
| Elevation Gain | 600 feet |
| Time Needed | 4–5 hours |
| Best Time to Visit | Spring and fall |
| Trail Type | Loop |
| Permit Required? | No |
| Dog-Friendly? | Yes (but some sections are challenging for dogs) |
Moonshine Wash is a hidden treasure in the middle of the San Rafael Swell, far from the usual tourist spots. It features smooth, sculpted narrows that twist through the desert landscape. The slot canyon section is breathtaking, with towering rock walls that gradually change color as you move through.
This hike requires some scrambling and downclimbing, but it’s manageable for adventurous hikers. The solitude here is unmatched—on most days, you’ll have the canyon all to yourself. Once you pass through the narrows, the canyon opens up into a wide desert wash, completing the loop.
Why Moonshine Wash is Worth Visiting
- Stunning, twisting narrows with smooth sandstone walls
- Remote location with little to no crowds
- A true off-the-grid experience in Utah’s desert
- Fun scrambling sections for those who love a challenge
Additional Tips for Your Hike
- Bring a GPS or map, as the trail is not well-marked
- Expect no cell service, so download maps in advance
- Avoid hiking after recent rain, as water can collect in the canyon
- Carry extra water—there are no reliable sources along the trail
How to Get There
From Green River, drive south on Lower San Rafael Road for about 30 miles until you reach a dirt road leading toward the trailhead. A high-clearance vehicle is recommended for the last section of the drive.
6. Peek-a-Boo & Spooky Gulch: Utah’s Most Thrilling Slot Canyons
| Feature | Details |
|---|---|
| Location | Grand Staircase-Escalante National Monument |
| Distance | 3-mile loop (combining both canyons) |
| Difficulty | Moderate to challenging |
| Elevation Gain | 600 feet |
| Time Needed | 3–4 hours |
| Best Time to Visit | Spring and fall |
| Trail Type | Loop |
| Permit Required? | No |
| Dog-Friendly? | No |
Peek-a-Boo and Spooky Gulch offer some of the most exciting slot canyon hiking in Utah. These two canyons are often done as a loop, with Peek-a-Boo featuring fun rock scrambling and Spooky Gulch narrowing to just 10 inches in some spots.
To enter Peek-a-Boo, you’ll need to climb a 12-foot rock wall, but once inside, the canyon opens into stunning sandstone passageways with natural arches. Spooky Gulch, on the other hand, is extremely narrow, requiring hikers to squeeze sideways in some sections. The combination of both creates an unforgettable adventure.
Why Peek-a-Boo & Spooky Gulch are Worth Visiting
- Exciting twists, turns, and natural rock formations
- Unique, narrow sections that add to the thrill
- A perfect introduction to slot canyon hiking for adventurous hikers
- No technical gear required, but still a fun challenge
Additional Tips for Your Hike
- Bring gloves for better grip on the rock scrambles
- Avoid carrying a large backpack, as Spooky Gulch is extremely narrow
- Do the loop in a clockwise direction (start with Peek-a-Boo) for easier navigation
- Check weather conditions, as flash floods are a major risk
How to Get There
From Escalante, take Hole-in-the-Rock Road for about 26 miles until you reach Dry Fork Road. Follow this rough dirt road to the trailhead. A high-clearance vehicle is recommended.
7. Burr Trail’s “Singing Canyon”: A Hidden Acoustic Wonderland
| Feature | Details |
|---|---|
| Location | Burr Trail Road, between Boulder and Capitol Reef National Park |
| Distance | 0.25 miles round trip |
| Difficulty | Very easy |
| Elevation Gain | Minimal |
| Time Needed | 10–15 minutes |
| Best Time to Visit | Year-round |
| Trail Type | Out-and-back |
| Permit Required? | No |
| Dog-Friendly? | Yes |
Singing Canyon is one of Utah’s best-kept secrets. This short, easy-to-reach slot canyon is known for its incredible acoustics, making it a favorite for musicians and singers who visit to test the natural echo. The moment you step inside, the red sandstone walls rise dramatically, creating a quiet, almost sacred atmosphere.
Unlike more strenuous slot canyon hikes, this one requires almost no effort. The entrance is right off Burr Trail Road, and within seconds, you are surrounded by towering walls that filter the light beautifully. The ground is flat, making it accessible for all ages.
Why Singing Canyon is Worth Visiting
- Unique natural acoustics—singing or clapping inside sounds incredible
- No hiking required, making it accessible for all visitors
- Stunning red rock formations perfect for photography
- A quiet, peaceful spot for reflection or a quick picnic stop
Additional Tips for Your Visit
- Bring a musical instrument or try singing to experience the canyon’s echo
- Best visited in the morning or late afternoon for softer lighting
- Combine this stop with a drive through Burr Trail Road for a scenic adventure
- Check road conditions, as Burr Trail can become rough after rain
How to Get There
From Boulder, Utah, drive east on Burr Trail Road for about 11 miles. Look for a small pull-off area on the right side of the road. The entrance to Singing Canyon is just a few steps from the road.
8. Ding and Dang Canyons: A Hidden Challenge for Adventure Seekers
| Feature | Details |
|---|---|
| Location | Near Goblin Valley State Park, San Rafael Swell |
| Distance | 5-mile loop |
| Difficulty | Moderate to difficult |
| Elevation Gain | 800 feet |
| Time Needed | 4–5 hours |
| Best Time to Visit | Spring and fall |
| Trail Type | Loop |
| Permit Required? | No |
| Dog-Friendly? | Not recommended due to scrambling sections |
Ding and Dang Canyons offer a thrilling, lesser-known slot canyon experience for hikers who love a challenge. These twin canyons, located near Goblin Valley, feature tight squeezes, dry falls, and tricky rock scrambles that make for an exciting adventure.
Ding Canyon is the easier of the two, featuring gradual descents and some minor obstacles. Dang Canyon, on the other hand, requires downclimbing and navigating small drop-offs, making it more difficult. The full loop combines both canyons, creating an action-packed hike with ever-changing scenery.
Why Ding and Dang Canyons are Worth Visiting
- A thrilling challenge with natural obstacles and scrambling sections
- Stunning rock formations and smooth, twisting slot canyon walls
- Less crowded than nearby Little Wild Horse Canyon
- A true adventure for experienced hikers looking for something beyond simple trails
Additional Tips for Your Hike
- Bring gloves for better grip on the rock scrambles
- Start the loop with Ding Canyon, as it’s easier to climb up than down
- Only attempt Dang Canyon if you are comfortable with downclimbing
- Avoid hiking alone, as some sections require teamwork to navigate safely
How to Get There
From Goblin Valley State Park, take Wild Horse Road west for about 5 miles until you reach the Ding and Dang Canyon trailhead. The road is unpaved but generally passable for most vehicles in dry conditions.
FAQs
Which slot canyon has the narrowest passages?
Spooky Gulch has sections as narrow as 10 inches, requiring hikers to turn sideways to pass through. Large backpacks will not fit, and those uncomfortable in tight spaces should avoid it.
Which slot canyon requires the most scrambling?
Dang Canyon has multiple drop-offs that require careful downclimbing. Some sections have 8 to 12-foot descents, and there are no fixed ropes or ladders, so hikers must use natural holds or bring their own rope for assistance.
Which slot canyon is the most remote?
Moonshine Wash is the most isolated, located 30 miles south of Green River with no marked trailhead. The hike requires navigation skills, as GPS signal is unreliable. Hikers must bring extra water and be prepared for no cell service.
Which slot canyon is the best for photography?
Burr Trail’s Singing Canyon has the most unique lighting conditions. The smooth, high sandstone walls reflect sunlight beautifully, creating a glowing effect. The canyon is best photographed in the late afternoon when the light is softest.
Which slot canyon has the easiest access by car?
Singing Canyon is located right off Burr Trail Road and requires no hiking. The parking area is a small pull-off just a few steps from the entrance, making it the easiest to visit without effort.
Last Words
Hidden slot canyons across the state offer unforgettable adventures. Towering sandstone walls, twisting corridors, and peaceful trails make each one a unique experience. Some require scrambling, while others allow for a simple walk through breathtaking rock formations.
Preparation is essential. Check weather conditions, bring enough water, and wear proper footwear. Flash floods are a real danger, so never enter a slot canyon if rain is in the forecast.
Avoid crowds, explore untouched landscapes, and experience nature in its rawest form. Every canyon on this list provides a journey into the wild beauty that few get to see.