Southern Utah is home to several small towns that are worthy of a getaway. Some of these small towns are near multiple state parks, national parks, lakes, hiking trails, and more. But, there is one that is within two hours of six popular slot canyons. That small town is Orderville.
Orderville has quite a rich pioneer history and was founded in 1875. Today, this small town is tucked away in western Kane County and sits along Highway 89. Approximately 600 people call Orderville home.
Today, the town may be small, but it is a paradise for outdoor enthusiasts. In fact, within two hours of this town, you can visit six incredible slot canyons. Orderville is truly the perfect base camp for countless adventures.
One of the most popular slot canyons in the area is Red Hollow. Located just a mile outside of town, this is a short, easy, and colorful slot canyon that any adventure-seeker will enjoy.
The hike to this slot canyon is just over one-mile round-trip. The trail is sandy so make sure you wear proper footwear but overall, the path is quite easy to follow. The slot canyon itself is beautiful with red and white canyon walls surrounding you.
Elkheart Cliffs Canyon is a short slot canyon that will make you feel like you are on another planet. To reach the trailhead, you only have a 10-minute drive from Orderville.
You will need some technical skills for this slot canyon but it is not as challenging as other slot canyons in the area. And while the slot canyon itself is pretty remarkable, the views along the hike are just as spectacular.
Just over 20 miles outside of town is Pine Creek Gorge Slot Canyon. Located within Zion National Park, this is a technical slot canyon where rappelling skills are essential.
Not only is this slot canyon absolutely stunning, but you’ll see incredible natural features like arches and towering canyon walls. Be prepared to rappel up to 100 feet in this canyon — it's not one for beginners.
Near the Utah and Arizona state line and approximately 60 miles south of Orderville is Buckskin Gulch, one of the more popular slot canyons in Utah.
There are multiple access points to the canyon and once you enter it, the views are remarkable. This is one of the most photographed slot canyons in Utah and as you walk through, you will quickly see why.
Willis Creek Narrows sits within Grand Staircase-Escalante National Monument and is approximately 70 miles from Orderville.
This is one of the best slot canyons in Utah for those new to exploring these remarkable canyons. The hike is easy, you do not need any technical skills, and the views are unforgettable.
Boundary Technical Slot Canyon is another technical slot canyon that is just under 70 miles from Ordervile. If you are experienced and skilled, this slot canyon has it all — long rappels, waterfalls, and the most incredible adventure.
Summer or fall is the best time to explore this slot canyon due to high water levels in the spring. This slot canyon can take nearly all day to tackle or make it an overnight trip and exit via The Narrows. A permit is needed if you are camping overnight.
Orderville may be a small town but there are so many incredible places to explore. In fact, if you are willing to drive three or four hours out of town, you’ll find even more slot canyons that are waiting for you.
Before entering any slot canyons, check the weather report and do not enter if there is a chance of rain or thunderstorms. Always pack water and let others know where you are going and take a buddy with you.
Have you spent time in the charming town of Orderville? What are some of your favorite things to do here? Is there a slot canyon nearby that you love? Let us know in the comments!
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