We headed out on an impromptu weekend adventure in the Irish Canyons, located about 30 minutes south of Hanksville, Utah, which offers an unforgettable experience. These canyons, accessible yet challenging, provide a playground for both novice and seasoned hikers. We decided to explore all of these canyons over 24 hours with our buddy Drew who was on his final stretch of a 4-month-long RV road trip from NY. We’re so glad that we squeezed this slot canyon adventure in.

Day 1: Leprechaun Canyon

Our first day began with a dog walk/hike in Leprechaun Canyon, a 0.9-mile hike ascending 121 feet from the trailhead. This slot canyon features a variety of experiences, including a tight keyhole subway section known as Belfast Boulevard. As the narrowest canyon we explored, Leprechaun Canyon is not for the claustrophobic. Although no technical gear is required to hike up from the bottom, the canyon eventually gets to a very tight squeeze at which point we turned around and head back for happy hour.

Day 2: Morning Hike in Blarney Canyon

Next, we tackled Blarney Canyon, our favorite of the Irish Canyons. We hiked the entire East Fork from bottom to top, navigating small obstacles that required basic skills like chimneying, stemming, and slickrock scrambling. Despite the challenges, these were manageable without technical equipment. Each obstacle offered a chance to decide if it was worth the effort, reminding us to always consider our abilities and safety.

We would often get to a technical spot and consider the capabilities and desires of the group along with the risk and decide to take on the obstacle or make smart choices and turn around.

Day 2: Afternoon Adventure: Shillelagh Canyon

After a refreshing PB&J lunch, water fills, and bandages on bleeding fingers, we headed to Shillelagh Canyon. We explored the right fork, which ends in a stunning amphitheater with towering walls over 80 feet high. The 0.6-mile hike (plus an additional 0.5 miles to reach the fork) was a fantastic experience, showcasing the canyon’s unique beauty and rugged terrain.

Day 2: Late afternoon finish in the Lucky Charms Canyon

Our last adventure took us to Lucky Charms Canyon. Although one of the shorter canyons, it presented a 25-foot climb that we chose to bypass. We covered about half a mile of the 1.2-mile trail, appreciating the accessible and fun nature of this canyon.

Why We Loved the Irish Canyons

The Irish Canyons are accessible by hiking in and you can experience them all within a couple of days. They had easy road access and minimal need for technical skills. These canyons are perfect for those canyoneering-curious adventurers without the complexities of rappelling or rope climbs. The varied routes and options provide a playground-like experience, where you can choose your adventure, whether it involves stemming, Spider Manning, or simple scrambling. Drew will demonstrate them all for you.

Tips for a Safe and Enjoyable Hike

Canyoneering is not without its risks. Be mindful of flash floods and prepare adequately. Even on cooler days, temperatures can vary dramatically between the canyon tops and depths. Research thoroughly, follow Leave No Trace principles, and consider a guided trip if you’re unsure about your abilities.

On our come backlist

Our stoke level after hiking the Irish Canyons in Utah was a 10/10. We loved playing around in the canyons and wanted to explore deeper and further but we were limited by the lack of gear (and skill). We already planned a Canyoneering trip to the North Wash this May and are excited to get out on a full-day guided canyoneering trip from Moab to explore these canyons with the professions and rappel down into them.