Buckskin Gulch and Wire Pass Hike – A Full Day of Amazing Slots!

Traveling to Zion National Park is an adventure filled with awe-inspiring landscapes and unforgettable experiences. While many visitors chase the famed Wave formation, which has become a must-see since the 90s, not everyone scores a permit. Luckily, this tour offers an equally impressive alternative: a full-day journey through the Wire Pass Slot Canyon and the expansive Buckskin Gulch, North America’s longest slot canyon.

What we love about this experience is its combination of spectacular scenery, expert guiding, and the chance to explore some of Zion’s most stunning geological features without the hassle of permits. Plus, the tour’s small group size (max 9 travelers) fosters a more intimate, personalized adventure. One potential consideration? It’s a full-day outing, so packing snacks and ensuring good physical fitness helps make it even more enjoyable.

This tour is ideal for outdoor lovers, canyon enthusiasts, and those curious about Zion’s lesser-known but equally captivating slot canyons. If you’re after a hassle-free, well-guided exploration of Zion’s amazing geological formations, this trip ticks many boxes.

Good To Know

• Incredible Slot Canyons: Visit Wire Pass and Buckskin Gulch, two of Zion’s most captivating formations.
• All-Inclusive: Water, transportation, and guided expertise included for a smooth experience.
• Flexible & Customizable: Can be paired with other tours or tailored to specific interests.
• Small Group Advantage: Max 9 travelers for personalized attention and better interaction.
• Moderate Physical Effort: Suitable for those with decent fitness, as it involves some walking and navigating narrow passages.
• No Permits Needed: Explore stunning formations without the hassle of lottery or permits.

An Authentic Look at the Full-Day Zion Slot Canyon Adventure

Starting Point and Transportation

The tour begins at 681 Chinle Dr, Kanab, UT, typically at a convenient early morning time. The vehicle is air-conditioned, ensuring comfort during the drive between locations—especially appreciated after a hot day of hiking. The group size is capped at nine, which is perfect for maintaining a friendly, less crowded atmosphere that many travelers find more enjoyable.

Stop 1: Wire Pass

Your first stop is the Wire Pass Slot Canyon, a narrow, winding corridor that leads into Buckskin Gulch. The guides are well-versed and friendly, often sharing insights into the geology and history of the formations. Many reviewers praise guides like “Jim” for their knowledge and approachable attitude, describing them as “super helpful and enthusiastic.”

The admission ticket for this part is included, so no surprises there. Expect to spend about an hour exploring the winding canyon, marveling at the smooth, curving walls that showcase ancient sediment layers. The slot’s tight passages require some scrambling and bending, so good mobility helps, but the experience is doable for most with moderate fitness.

Stop 2: Buckskin Gulch

Next, you’ll venture into Buckskin Gulch, renowned as the longest slot canyon in North America. This part of the tour offers roughly three hours of exploration, where you’ll walk through a corridor filled with towering walls that sometimes just leave enough space for you to walk through. The guides often share fascinating facts about how the canyon was formed, giving visitors a deeper appreciation of this natural marvel.

Traveler reviews mention the “amazing views” and “the sense of being in a hidden world,” which truly captures the essence of Buckskin Gulch. Some sections are more narrow, requiring you to squeeze through, but nothing that adventurous hikers can’t handle. Be prepared for uneven terrain, and as with most canyon walks, the use of sturdy footwear is recommended.

What’s Included & What You Need to Bring

The tour provides bottled water—crucial for staying hydrated during the hike—and you’re encouraged to bring a backpack to carry your supplies comfortably. Since the transport is air-conditioned, you’ll stay cool during transit, a bonus in the warmer months.

Note that lunch is not included, so packing your own snacks and a hearty lunch is advisable. While the guide provides water, having extra snacks or electrolytes can help maintain energy levels. Gratuities are appreciated but not obligatory; if you feel the guides add value, tipping is a nice gesture.

Duration & Physical Considerations

This is an 8-hour tour, suitable for those with a moderate physical fitness level. You’ll be on your feet for most of the day, with some sections requiring crawling or squeezing through tight spots. If you’re comfortable with this kind of activity and enjoy scenic hikes, you’ll find it very rewarding.

Weather & Cancellation Policy

The experience is weather-dependent, with clear, dry conditions ideal. Should the weather turn poor, the tour can be canceled or rescheduled, and a full refund is offered if that happens. Flexibility is key, so checking the forecast beforehand is wise.

Value for Money

At $240 per person, this tour offers good value considering the included transportation, guiding, and entry fees. Given the small group size, you’ll receive personalized attention, and the experience is designed to be both fun and educational. Many travelers mention that guides are “knowledgeable” and make the day even more memorable.

Why This Tour Works

The combination of beautiful slot canyons, the expert guidance, and the convenience of all-inclusive planning makes this a standout Zion experience. It’s perfect for travelers wanting a full day of adventure without the stress of planning logistics or permits.

While it’s not a beginner’s hike—some narrow passages and uneven terrain are involved—most with a moderate fitness level will find it manageable and thoroughly enjoyable. The tour also offers a chance to see Zion’s lesser-visited sides, away from the crowded paths of Angels Landing or The Scenic Drive.

Who Should Consider This Tour?

This experience is ideal for adventure seekers, geology lovers, and small group enthusiasts. If you’re after a day filled with stunning visuals and authentic canyon exploration that doesn’t require special permits, this is a perfect choice. It’s also suitable for travelers who prefer guided tours for safety and insight, rather than self-guided hikes.

Final Thoughts

This Buckskin Gulch and Wire Pass tour combines spectacular scenery, expert guidance, and good value into one compelling Zion experience. It offers a chance to see some of the park’s most captivating formations in a manageable, well-organized way.

Travelers will appreciate the intimate group size, the knowledgeable guides, and the chance to explore vast, dramatic slot canyons that feel worlds away from the crowds. It’s a fantastic way to enjoy Zion’s geology and natural beauty, especially if you’re not lucky enough to secure a permit for the Wave.

Whether you’re a seasoned hiker or a curious visitor craving striking landscapes, this tour provides a memorable day out in one of Utah’s most impressive natural settings.

FAQ

Do we need a permit for this tour?
No, permits are not required for this experience. The tour is organized by Kanab Tour Company and includes all necessary entries, making it hassle-free.

What should I bring for the hike?
Bring a backpack with snacks, a lunch if desired, and plenty of water. Wear sturdy footwear suitable for uneven terrain. Pack sun protection and possibly a hat or sunglasses.

Is this tour suitable for children or less mobile travelers?
It requires a moderate physical effort and involves navigating narrow passages, so it’s best suited for those with decent mobility and fitness.

How long does the tour last?
The whole experience is approximately 8 hours, including travel, exploration, and breaks.

What’s included in the price?
The fee covers transportation, guided expertise, bottled water, and admission tickets for Wire Pass and Buckskin Gulch.

Can I cancel if the weather looks bad?
Yes, the tour offers free cancellation if you do so at least 24 hours in advance. In case of poor weather, the tour might be canceled or rescheduled, with a full refund provided.

To sum it up, the Buckskin Gulch and Wire Pass hike offers a fantastic way to experience Zion’s incredible slot canyons without the need for a permit or complex planning. It’s a well-balanced adventure suited for travelers seeking scenic beauty and manageable physical activity, guided by knowledgeable hosts who make the journey as informative as it is breathtaking.