Canyoneering Near Zion National Park

Diana's Throne Canyon, located near Kanab, Utah, offers a fun, beginner-friendly introduction to canyoneering. This scenic slot canyon is characterized by beautiful sandstone walls, and a series of short rappels. An ideal location for those looking to experience the unique beauty of Southern Utah's canyon landscape without the committing nature of many of the longer canyons. You will be given the gear and taught the skills necessary to have a safe and enjoyable day by one of our professional trained guides.

• Depart from Mount Carmel Junction or Kanab to the Diana's Throne Canyon trailhead. The drive takes approximately 15 minutes.

• At the trailhead, we will ensure we have all the proper equipment needed for a great day out. We will have an‘LNT’ Leave No Trace talk to ensure you are aware of important considerations. Begin the hike to the canyon entrance. The approach hike is short and straightforward, taking around 20-30 minutes.

• Descend into Diana's Throne Canyon. You will be taught the skills to travel safely and efficiently in desert canyons, like the use of single strand rappel devices, fireman belays, spotting, sliding, and all the other fun techniques that make these canyons an adventure.

• The canyon features multiple rappels, ranging from 15 to 50 feet. The walls are narrow in places and the rock formations provide beautiful photo opportunities. We will be traveling in the canyon for approximately 2-3 hours.

• After the last rappel, we will stop and take a break for water/snacks. Enjoy the views and reflect on the descent. We then hike 20-30 minutes out a steep sandy track to get back to the vehicles.

• Return to Mount Carmel Junction for the afternoon. Relax and enjoy the local amenities, and plan for a larger day tomorrow with educational lessons if desired.

Birch Canyon is a slot canyon on the east side of Zion, just outside the National Park Boundary that offers a taste of what Zion offers. There is no Canyoneering guiding allowed within Zion National Park, but this has many similar features. This trip offers an adventurous experience with narrow passages and stunning rock formations. Bob Canyon, a short canyon near Birch, can be explored on the return journey if time allows and the group is interested in a bit more adventure. It occasionally has flowing water, adding an extra element of fun to the experience.

• Depart from Mount Carmel Junction to the Birch Canyon trailhead. The drive takes around 40 minutes.

• Arrive at the trailhead. Prepare gear and discuss the day's plan.

• Begin the approach hike to Birch Canyon. The hike is scenic, passing through varied terrain and taking about 45 minutes.

• Descend into Birch Canyon. This canyon requires navigation through narrow slots, downclimbing, and 8-10 rappels up to 100’. The walls are often covered with beautiful, striated rock layers, making for a visually stunning experience.

• Reach the end of Birch Canyon. Take a break in Orderville Canyon for lunch, reminiscing the descent, and sharing photos.

• Begin the return hike. If time and energy permit, explore Bob Canyon on the way back. This short canyon may have running water, providing a fun and refreshing experience.

• Return to the trailhead and head back to Mount Carmel Junction. Our timing depends on groups size and other groups in the canyon, but we should return by late afternoon