Getting through a slot canyon is a bucket list experience in Utah for any adventurer. Narrow and deep canyons carved out by wind and water over centuries are abundant in the American West. Zebra Slot Canyon, located near Escalante, Utah, provides a beautiful canyoning experience. It got its name due to amazing pink stripes that make it one of the most photographed places in the park.
The 5.3 mi (8.5-km) trail through Zebra Slot offers scenic views and is best used during spring and fall, namely April through June, and September through November. Winters are too cold, and summers—too hot at this desert-like place. The canyon itself is about 300 feet long. It is wide enough for one person at a time. The rest of the trail offers hiking and nature watching.
Zebra Slot Canyon can be reached from Rock Road (a few miles from Hwy 12). Soon after walking to Harris Wash you will see its narrowing to a slot canyon. Hikers don't need special equipment for this trail.
Practical info
What are the best times to visit?
Visiting Zebra Slot Canyon is best done during mild temperature periods in April-June or September-November, avoiding summer's extreme heat and winter's cold. The canyoning and scenic experience make them the ideal times to visit. Adventurers can enjoy the beautiful landscape of the area, and hiking through Zebra Slot Canyon is an excellent option. Show more
What are the specifics of the trail?
The length of the trail in Zebra Slot Canyon is approximately 5.3 miles (8.5 kilometers) from the trailhead. The canyon is 300 feet long, and only one person can pass-through at a time. The rest of the trail provides hikers with a scenic view and beautiful hiking experience. Although the challenge is not significant, hikers must be careful where they step as the terrain can be difficult to navigate even for experienced visitors. Show more
Where is it located?
Zebra Slot Canyon is situated in the Grand Staircase—Escalante National Monument near Escalante, Utah. It can be accessed via Rock Road, a few miles from Hwy 12. Visitors can start the trail by walking into Harris Wash. The site is a famous destination for trekkers and explorers who love unique and fantastic scenery not found in other slot canyon areas. Show more
What equipment is necessary?
Hiking in Zebra Slot Canyon only requires comfortable shoes because the trail can become slippery in wet conditions. Carrying enough water and snacks is advisable for the day hike, and anyone traveling should stay on the path for safety. To ensure visitors' safety, it is not advisable to hike during rains since flash floods are a severe concern in any slot canyon area. Show more
What makes this slot canyon unique?
Zebra Slot Canyon stands out from other slot canyons in Utah because of the pink stripes on its walls. This rare pattern was created by water erosion, making it among the most photographed places found in the Grand Staircase—Escalante National Monument. The stripes' stunning pink color shows visitors a unique feature of this canyon, providing unforgettable and photogenic experiences. Show more
