Canyoneering in East Zion

The approach hike begins within Zion National Park boundaries, but all the technical portions are just east of the park on BLM land. Park near Checkerboard Mesa (coordinates 37.225233, -112.878881) and hike up the canyon just west. There are several cairns along the way.

Continue to follow the cairns over a pass and to the west where you will cross a shallow drainage and ascend a ridge. From the top of the ridge you will be able to look down and see potholes and a relatively open canyon. Start down the steep canyon wherever you can, and once you get to the bottom hike down canyon until the slot canyon begins. You will need technical gear and knowledge of how to rappel and retrieve ropes from sometimes tricky anchors. Please go prepared with a couple sets of rope. The longest rappel is 40 feet.

Continue down canyon for a series of slot canyon experiences and open sections as well. At the end you come to a dark cavern with two natural bridges and then you drop into the crystal clear waters of a natural spring that is 20 degrees warmer than the other water you've just gone through. The exit begins with a beautiful hike through a half mile section of the Virgin River and some narrows, followed by a steep climb out of canyon and a very long hike back to your car. Be prepared for a 8-10 hour day.