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Hidden Creek Half Day Canyoneering & Hiking Tour

Guided ·
4.9
(8313)
See all canyoneering guided trips in Orderville
Kid Friendly
Locally Owned
Shuttle Included
Beginner Friendly
Instant Book
Duration: 4 hours

Pricing

Rapeller

Ages 6+

$89
Hiker Only

Ages 6+

$29

All Prices

Rapeller

Ages 6+

$89
Hiker Only

Ages 6+

$29

Description

Hidden Creek Canyon - Beginner Canyoneering Tour in East Zion

Hidden Creek Canyon is the most accessible canyoneering experience in East Zion, and the only one where the whole group can join, regardless of whether everyone wants to rappel. Hidden Creek Canyon is a family-friendly, beginner-level guided cliffside canyon adventure departing directly from Zion Ponderosa Ranch Resort, bordering Zion National Park. No long drive, no UTV ride, no prior experience needed — just step off the property and into a gorgeous stretch of East Zion backcountry.
This is a cliffside canyon, not a slot canyon — a wider, more open environment that makes it ideal for large groups and families with younger children. The route meanders through a hidden dry creek bed, passing through geological wonders and dramatic canyon scenery. When conditions allow — particularly in wetter months — the canyon reveals its namesake: hidden creeks, small waterfalls, and cool water pockets that bring the landscape to life and make for a welcome refresh on a warm day.
Two participation options are available: Rappellers take on cliffside descents with full guide instruction and provided gear, or join as a hiker and spectator. Hikers explore the canyon terrain alongside the group without rappelling. This flexibility makes Hidden Creek Canyon uniquely suited to mixed groups — families where some members want to rappel and others prefer to hike, large groups with varying comfort levels, or anyone who wants to experience the canyon environment without committing to going over the edge.

Duration

  1. Half day — 4 hours

Location / Where to Meet

Zion Ponderosa Ranch Resort - 220 South Twin Knolls Rd. Orderville, UT 84758

Ages & Requirements

  1. Minimum age: 6 years old
  2. Weight limit to rappel: 250 lbs (113 kg)
  3. Hiking Difficulty: Easy

What's Included

  1. Experienced, certified guide
  2. Harness, helmet, rappelling device, and all technical gear 
  3. Transportation from the meeting point to the trailhead

Not Included

  1. Water and snacks 
  2. Food/lunch
  3. Guide gratuity
  4. Trip protection can be added at checkout for an extra fee

What to Bring / Wear

  1. Sturdy hiking shoes — broken in, with closed toes and grippy tread. No sandals or open-toe shoes.
  2. Comfortable, moisture-wicking clothing — lightweight and fast-drying. Avoid cotton.
  3. Layers for fall and winter — hat, gloves, and a warm coat are essential in cooler months, as canyons are shaded and cool, and conditions can be wet
  4. At least 2 liters of water per person 
  5. Snacks & lunch 
  6. Small backpack
  7. Camera or smartphone 
  8. Sun protection — rimmed hat, sunglasses, and UV-deflecting long-sleeve shirt
  9. Reusable water bottle or CamelBak hydration pack

ADVENTURE PROVIDED BY East Zion Adventures

FAQs

What is the difference between the Rappeller and Hiker options?

Both options explore the canyon together as a group with the same guide. Rappellers participate in cliffside descents using provided gear and receive full instruction from the guide. Hikers walk the canyon terrain alongside the group but do not rappell — no harness or technical gear is required. This makes it easy for mixed groups to do the tour together, with each person choosing the level of adventure that suits them.

What kind of canyon is Hidden Creek — is it a slot canyon?

Hidden Creek is a cliffside canyon, not a slot canyon. It is more open and wider than the narrow slot canyons featured in other tours, which is one of the reasons it works so well for larger groups and younger children. The route follows a hidden dry creek bed through canyon scenery, geological formations, and when conditions allow, small water features including hidden creeks and waterfalls.

Will there be water in the canyon?

Not always. The presence of water depends on the season and recent precipitation. In wetter months and following rain, the canyon's hidden creeks and small waterfalls can be present and are a highlight of the experience. In drier periods, the canyon may be dry. Either way, the scenery and geological features make it a rewarding visit. In fall, winter, and spring, water may also make the canyon colder — dress accordingly.

Is Hidden Creek Canyon suitable for young children?

Yes — the minimum age is 6, and the tour is perfect for families and large groups. The cliffside canyon format is more open and accessible than narrow slot canyons, making it comfortable for younger children. Children who do not wish to rappel can participate as hikers and enjoy the full canyon experience alongside the group.

Do I need prior rappelling experience?

No, your guide provides full instruction before and during the rappels. Hidden Creek Canyon is explicitly beginner-level and designed to introduce guests to cliffside rappelling in a safe, supportive environment. If you're nervous, remember that the hiker option is also available, so you can always decide on the day which level you'd like to participate at.

What is the best time of year to do this tour?

Late spring through early fall (May–October) offers the warmest conditions and the best chance of water features being present in the canyon. Summer is ideal for families, as the shaded canyon provides a cool respite from the desert heat. In fall, winter, and spring, the canyon is cold and water may be present but chilly — warm layers are essential.

Who are the guides and what are their qualifications?

Our guides are local experts with deep knowledge of the geology, history, wildlife, and ecology of southern Utah. Guides are trained in safety protocols and first aid, and are dedicated to providing both educational and entertaining experiences tailored to each group.

How far in advance should I book?

We recommend booking at least 2 weeks in advance, and several months ahead for large groups or peak season visits to ensure availability.

What is your approach to sustainability and conservation?

Our guides follow Leave No Trace principles on all tours. Guests are asked to pack out all waste, stay on designated paths, and respect all plants, wildlife, and rock formations. We operate in and around federally protected lands and take stewardship of those landscapes seriously.

What wildlife might I encounter on tours in the East Zion area?

The East Zion and southern Utah region is home to mule deer, coyotes, jackrabbits, lizards, hawks, eagles, ravens, and a variety of desert songbirds. Mountain lions are native to the area but extremely rarely encountered. Rattlesnakes are present in the region but generally avoid human contact — wearing closed-toe shoes and watching where you place your hands is good practice.

Do tours run in bad weather?

Most tours run rain or shine. However, if severe weather creates unsafe conditions, we will offer guests a different date or a full refund. For tours involving dirt road access (such as Candy Cliffs and White Pocket), road conditions after rain may require rescheduling.

Cancellation Policy

  • 10% non-refundable, non-transferable fee of the total reservation amount if you cancel any time after booking, until 30 days before arrival.
  • Cancellations made within 30 days prior to your arrival date, but outside of 48 hours, will incur a 50% non-refundable, non-transferable fee of the total reservation amount.
  • No refunds will be provided for cancellations made within 48 hours of arrival.
  • "No show" reservations will not be refunded
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Availability

March 2027

SuMoTuWeThFrSa

Reviews

4.9
(8313)
4.9 (8313)

Location

Address

Twin Knolls Road

East Zion, UT, 84755

US

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