Page/Kanab: Adventurous Buckskin Gulch Day Hike

If you’re craving a rugged outdoor experience away from crowds, the Buckskin Gulch Day Hike offers a compelling adventure through one of Utah’s most breathtaking landscapes. While we haven’t personally tackled this specific tour, detailed reviews and the itinerary paint a vivid picture of what awaits. This guided trip promises an intimate exploration of the longest slot canyon in the world, combining stunning scenery, physical challenge, and a good dose of adventure.

What we love about this experience is how it balances spectacular scenery with the solitude of a private tour. Plus, the inclusion of a hearty lunch and snacks turns the day into a well-rounded outing, perfect for those who enjoy being active in nature. One thing to consider is the physical demand—this isn’t a casual stroll but a full-day trek that requires endurance and a comfort with heights.

This tour suits fit and adventurous hikers looking for a unique challenge and a chance to explore an iconic Utah feature without the crowds often found at places like Zion or Antelope Canyon. If you’re eager for a physically engaging day in a remote setting, this could be just the right fit.

Good To Know

• Longest slot canyon in the world with access to private, crowd-free sections
• Physically demanding full-day hike suitable for fit hikers
• Includes a hearty lunch and snacks, with vegetarian and special dietary options available
• Steep Class 3 scramble that’s not suitable for those with a strong fear of heights
• Weather-dependent; rain could lead to cancellations with full refunds
• Small group size (limited to 8 participants) for personalized guidance

You can check if your dates are available here:

What Makes This Tour Special

The Buckskin Gulch Day Hike offers an opportunity to experience Utah’s remote wilderness in a way that larger, more commercialized tours cannot match. The highlight is its claim to fame—the longest slot canyon in the world—which promises a continuous, awe-inspiring corridor of sculpted Navajo sandstone. Unlike the crowded Antelope Canyon or Zion, this trip provides a more solitary and authentic adventure with fewer travelers.

The tour begins with a pickup in Page, AZ, or at the Paria Contact Station near Kanab, UT, making it accessible from popular base points in southern Utah and northern Arizona. The early start, around 7:00 AM, ensures you beat the heat and crowds, and the drive through the scenic desert landscape sets the tone for the day ahead.

The Itinerary: From Panoramic Views to Narrow Passages

The day kicks off with a 45-minute walk across open desert terrain, leading to a vantage point offering sweeping views of the Vermillion Cliffs. This initial stretch is a gentle warm-up, giving you time to soak in the landscape and get prepared for the more challenging parts ahead.

The real adventure begins with a steep descent into the canyon—a 100-foot drop that involves a Class 3 scramble. This is where the tour’s physical demands come into focus. The scramble is steep and requires steady footing and a bit of confidence height-wise. According to reviews, this part is exhilarating but not suitable for anyone with a strong fear of heights.

Once at the bottom, you’re enveloped in the cool, shaded world of sculpted sandstone walls and narrow passages. The canyon narrows dramatically, with just enough space for the sky to peek through a thin slit above. Here, you’ll have the chance to see ancient petroglyphs left by the Ancestral Puebloans—an unexpected bonus that adds a touch of history and mystery to the day.

The exploration time is flexible, ranging from as little as five hours to a full ten, depending on how far you want to venture. Several hours are spent wandering the labyrinth of twists and turns, with plenty of opportunities for photos, snacks, or just soaking in the silence of this rugged wilderness.

Highlights Within the Canyon

• Narrow slot sections that test your agility and sense of adventure
• Ancient petroglyphs etched into the rocks, offering a glimpse into the past
• Cool, shaded environment that provides relief from the desert heat
• Panoramic views from the initial open section of the hike

After exploring, you’ll retrace your steps back up the same route, climbing out of the canyon to the trailhead. Expect a mostly uphill hike, which can be strenuous but rewarding after completing the descent into this remote world.

What to Expect in Terms of Fitness and Preparation

This is a full-day, physically demanding hike covering roughly 6 to 10 miles with an elevation change of about 500 feet. The initial hike across the desert is nearly 1.2 miles, followed by a steep scramble into the canyon. Proper footwear—sturdy, broken-in shoes with good tread—is essential, especially since the terrain can be rugged and sometimes muddy.

The guide emphasizes preparation, recommending you bring a small backpack with 2-3 liters of water and sun protection—a wide-brimmed hat, sunscreen, lip balm, and sunglasses. Cold weather gear may be necessary if the temperature dips, including a fleece and jacket.

Since recent rain can make the terrain muddy and pools of water possible, neoprene socks are provided to keep your feet warm when conditions are wet. The weather is closely monitored, and the guide may cancel if flash flood risks are high, with full refunds offered in such cases.

More Great Thing To Do Nearby

Logistics & Inclusions

The tour is priced at $200 per person, which covers a day use permit, transportation, and professional guide services. You’ll also receive a hearty lunch, snacks, electrolyte drinks, and a wooden hiking stick if needed. The small group size (up to 8 participants) ensures personalized attention and a less crowded atmosphere.

Transportation is included from Page or Kanab, with pickup times early in the morning to maximize your day. The guide will call the evening before to confirm details, so keeping your phone handy is recommended.

What’s Not Included

• A backpack or hydration bottles (bring your own)
• Additional water bottles or other personal gear

Additional considerations

• This experience is suited only for adults and older teens (recommended age 10+).
• Not recommended for anyone uncomfortable with heights or steep scrambles.
• Participants should be prepared for variable weather and terrain.

Final Thoughts on Value and Suitability

This tour delivers a unique opportunity to walk through the world’s longest slot canyon, far from the crowds that flock to Zion or Antelope Canyon. The detailed itinerary, combined with a small group setting, helps ensure a personal and immersive experience. The inclusion of a substantial lunch and snacks, plus the guidance on gear and safety, makes this a well-rounded package.

For adventurous, fit hikers eager to challenge themselves and explore a remote corner of Utah, this trip offers both physical rewards and unforgettable scenery. The chance to see ancient petroglyphs and walk in narrow, sculpted passages makes it a memorable outing.

However, this hike isn’t for everyone. The steep scramble, length, and exposure mean it’s best suited for those comfortable with heights, good knees, and a reasonable level of fitness. If you’re looking for a relaxed day or have mobility concerns, this might not be the best choice.

To sum it up, if you want to experience the raw beauty of Utah’s slot canyons in a private, guided setting, this tour offers a remarkable combination of adventure, scenery, and history—truly a bucket-list worthy experience.

FAQs

Is this hike suitable for children?
This tour is recommended for participants aged 10 and above. The steep scramble and physical demands make it unsuitable for very young children.

How long does the hike last?
The total duration can vary from 5 to 10 hours, depending on how far you wish to explore the canyon. Most of the time is spent in the canyon itself, with some time for lunch and breaks.

What should I bring on the tour?
Bring a small backpack, 2-3 liters of water, sturdy footwear, sun protection (hat, sunscreen, sunglasses), and clothing appropriate for the weather. A fleece or jacket might be necessary if it’s cold.

Will weather affect the hike?
Yes, recent rain can lead to muddy conditions or pools of water. The guide monitors weather closely and may cancel if flash flood risks are high, with full refunds provided.

What kind of terrain will I encounter?
Expect a mix of open desert landscape, steep scramble descents, narrow canyon passages, and smooth sandstone walls. Good grip on footwear is essential.

Are there any age restrictions?
Yes, the tour is generally suitable for those aged 10 and older, mainly because of the physical nature and height challenges involved.

Is transportation included?
Yes, transportation from Page or Kanab is part of the package, with pickup times arranged in advance.

What is the group size?
The tour is limited to 8 participants, ensuring a more personalized experience.

Can I cancel if the weather is bad?
Absolutely. Full refunds are available if weather conditions make the hike unsafe or if the guide cancels due to flash flood risk.

Overall, the Buckskin Gulch Day Hike presents a fantastic option for those seeking adventure, solitude, and a chance to see a truly iconic natural wonder in Utah. It’s a physically engaging experience that rewards those prepared to scramble, trek, and marvel at the stunning landscape.

You can check if your dates are available here: