26 East Zion Adventures You Don’t Want to Miss in 2026

If 2026 is your year for adventure, make it one full of experiences you’ll never forget. Climb, hike, ride, and explore East Zion’s most epic landscapes—from Zion National park to slot canyons, horseback rides, guided hikes, and backcountry Jeep and UTV adventures. Chase sunsets, stargaze under some of the darkest skies in the country, and try your first canyoneering challenge. Whether you’re into seeking off-the-beaten path excursions or bucket-list experiences, 2026 is the year to make every adventure count.

Here are 26 East Zion adventures you don’t want to miss in 2026!

1. Visit Zion National Park

Located just minutes from Zion National Park’s East Entrance, East Zion Adventures at Zion Ponderosa makes exploring the park easy and stress-free. Enjoy a private guided hike with transportation to the Visitor Center, park entry included, and choose from trails like Canyon Overlook, Emerald Pools, Watchman, or Pa’rus.

2. Visit Bryce Canyon National Park

Visit two national parks in one trip! Explore Bryce Canyon with a guided hike through its iconic hoodoos and renowned viewpoints. Our experienced guides transport you from Zion Ponderosa Ranch Resort and show you the best hikes and views.

3. Visit the Grand Canyon North Rim

Wait, did we say two national parks? Make it three! The Grand Canyon North Rim is a perfect day trip from East Zion, with unreal views, and fewer crowds than the South Rim. Tip: Plan accordingly, since the road to the North Rim is only open from around May through October, weather permitting.

Copyright: NPS

4. Explore Zion’s Backcountry on a Jeep Tour

East Zion Adventures’ Jeep tours get you away from the park crowds and into the hidden gems of Zion’s east side. From the towering cliffs of the Red Canyon Jeep Tour to a sunset ride to the rugged beauty of the Top of the World Jeep Tour, there’s an adventure waiting for you.

5. Saddle Up for Adventure  

Whether you’re a first-time rider or a seasoned pro, horseback riding is an unforgettable way to explore East Zion. Beginner trails like Checkerboard and Pine Knoll are perfect for trying it out and longer, more challenging trails give experienced riders access to parts of the landscape you can’t reach on foot.

6. Have Your Canyoneering Moment

Whether you’re an experienced hiker craving a full-day challenge like Powell’s Way, want a non-technical adventure like the Crimson Canyon UTV Ride and Hike, or you’re planning a group outing in Hidden Creek, Zion’s canyons deliver bucket-list thrills.

7. Challenge Yourself on the Climbing Wall

Warm up for your canyoneering adventure—or just test your skills on the wall. This favorite activity is fun for all ages and a great way to get a taste of climbing before heading into the canyons.

8. Sunset, S’mores, and Stargazing

Hit the trails on a Jeep tour, watch the sun set over the cliffs, roast s’mores by the fire, and then gaze up at the night sky like you’ve never seen it before. Adventure, treats, and epic views—all in one Sunset, S’mores, and Stargazing experience.

9. Chase Fall Colors with a Brushy Cove Jeep Tour

Visiting Zion in fall? The Brushy Cove Fall Jeep Tour is guided only during this colorful season to show off the vibrant reds and golds. Hit the 4×4 trails for sweeping views of cliffs and aspens—you’ll want to book between now and early October to catch peak colors.

10. Sled the Coral Pink Sand Dunes

This incredible state park is located just 18 miles southeast of Zion Ponderosa and Zion National Park. Coral Pink Sand Dunes is one-of-a-kind, a must-see while visiting Zion National Park and the surrounding East Zion area. Sled down the dunes on your own or pair your visit with the Pink Sands Jeep Tour for an off-road adventure.

11. Ride to a Slot Canyon

Our White Mountain Horseback Ride is what southwest dreams are made of. Travel through rugged East Zion terrain on horseback to the mouth of a secluded slot canyon. Then dismount to explore it on foot for an unforgettable two-in-one adventure.

12. Paria River Backcountry Adventure

Explore the rugged Paria River backcountry on an overnight horseback ride. Ride through stunning canyons, camp under the stars, and experience a side of East Zion you can’t reach any other way. Perfect for seasoned riders or anyone looking for a true adventure.

13. Cowboy Trail Ride & Cookout

Ride through the canyons, then gather around a campfire for a true cowboy cookout. Enjoy hearty food, share stories from the trail, and end your day with a classic Western adventure you won’t forget.

14. Fuel Up in Orderville Before Your Adventure

Many East Zion Adventures tours kick off from the Sinclair Station in Orderville, right by The Shop Coffee Co. Grab a coffee or a treat before your ride, hike, or canyoneering trip—the adventures are epic, and the snacks are just as good.

15. Stargaze Under Utah’s Dark Skies

Experience some of the clearest night skies in the country on a guided stargazing tour with East Zion Adventures. Learn about constellations, planets, and the Milky Way while taking in the quiet beauty of the desert after sunset.

16. Go on a Group Adventure

Whether it’s a Hidden Creek Canyoneering trip, a guided UTV tour, or a horseback ride through the backcountry, East Zion Adventures makes it easy to explore with friends, family, or your adventure crew. Big groups, little groups—there’s an experience everyone can enjoy together.

17. Visit an Abandoned Mine

Join a guided tour to one of East Zion’s hidden abandoned mines and hear the stories behind the area’s mining history. It’s a hands-on way to explore, learn, and experience a side of East Zion most visitors don’t see.

18. UTV Adventure Through Zion’s Backcountry

The Zion Pines Guided UTV Tour and Diana’s Throne Tour give you access to East Zion’s wild backcountry terrain and jaw-dropping views.

19. Hike The Narrows

Pick up rental gear at East Zion Adventures, or book a private guided Narrows hike to tackle this iconic slot canyon. A guide ensures you get the full experience while navigating the river and stunning canyon walls.

20. Hike Angels Landing 

Didn’t win the permit lottery? No problem. East Zion Adventures can still get you a bucket-list experience to Angels Landing, one of Zion National Park’s most epic hikes.

21. Chase an East Zion Sunset

End your day with a view you won’t forget. Take a Jeep tour, ride horseback through the backcountry, or hike to a hidden overlook and watch the sun cast golden light across the cliffs. No matter how you do it, an East Zion sunset is the perfect reward for a day of adventure.

22. Go Glamping 

Sleep under the stars without giving up comfort. Choose from glamping tents, tiny homes, or Conestoga wagons and enjoy the outdoors with a cozy base camp.

23. S.W.A.T. Experience

Experience the ultimate S.W.A.T. shooting adventure, perfect for beginners and experienced shooters alike. This high-adrenaline experience includes all safety equipment, firearms with red dot optics, and guided instruction on handguns and rifles at a private outdoor range.

24. Have an Epic Paintball Battle

Gear up for an epic paintball battle at Zion Ponderosa, complete with forts, obstacles, and 200 rounds to show your friends and family some tough love. All gear is included—mask, gun, and long-sleeve shirt—and extra rounds are available for even more action (ages 10+ with adult supervision).

25. Hike to Observation Point

Hike to Observation Point via the East Rim Trail for one of the best views in Utah. Towering above Angels Landing, the canyon views here are unforgettable.

26. Take an East Zion Side Quest 

Check out Cedar Breaks, explore the town of Kanab, visit the Sand Caves and Moqui Cave Museum, and don’t miss the Belly of the Dragon. These spots are perfect for adding a little extra adventure and fun off the main trails.

Ready to start planning your year of adventure? Bookmark this list of 26 East Zion adventures you don’t want to miss and turn your 2026 into a year of unforgettable adventures.