Hidden Gem

Paria Canyon Canyoneering

Straddling the Arizona-Utah border within Vermilion Cliffs Wilderness, Paria Canyon is known for its expansive slot canyons and surreal rock formations. Canyoneering here includes Buckskin Gulch, one of North America’s longest slot canyons, offering a remote adventure in a dramatic Southwest landscape.

About the experience

Paria Canyon, located on the Arizona-Utah border, offers a stunning and adventurous canyoneering experience, with narrow slot canyons, colorful sandstone walls, and unique natural features. Here’s what makes it a breathtaking canyoneering destination:

  • Dramatic Slot Canyon Scenery: Paria Canyon is known for its winding, narrow passageways with towering red, orange, and pink sandstone walls. The canyon’s smooth, curving walls create a surreal and awe-inspiring environment.
  • Challenging Multi-Day Hike: Canyoneering through Paria Canyon is a multi-day adventure that requires physical endurance and careful planning. The route, which can stretch 38 miles from White House Trailhead to Lees Ferry, includes river crossings and camping under the stars.
  • Famous Landmarks – The Wave and Buckskin Gulch: Nearby attractions like The Wave and Buckskin Gulch offer equally stunning landscapes. Buckskin Gulch, one of the longest and deepest slot canyons in the world, is often included as part of the Paria experience, making for an epic canyoneering trip.
  • Permit Required for Access: Due to its popularity and environmental sensitivity, permits are required to hike Paria Canyon. These are limited and must be obtained in advance to preserve the area’s pristine condition.

Paria Canyon Canyoneering is an extraordinary adventure that combines the beauty of remote desert landscapes with the thrill of navigating narrow slot canyons, creating a memorable experience for skilled hikers and outdoor enthusiasts.

Interactive Map

Schedule

Paria Canyon is accessible year-round, but the best times to visit are spring and fall due to favorable weather conditions.

Entrance Fee

$6
Permit required: $6 per person; advanced reservations recommended.
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