Pine Creek Canyon (technical) - Image 1
1 / 3

Pine Creek Canyon

4.5
·23 reviews·Hurricane, United States

Experience the dramatic slot canyons of Zion or the vast gorge of Pennsylvania's Grand Canyon. Adventure awaits!

Highlights

Highlights

Must-see attractions

Social content

Social

From TikTok & Reddit

Best Time

Spring & Fall (Utah)

Ideal temps for hiking & canyoneering

CrowdMedium
Loading map...
Pine Creek Canyon (technical) - Image 1

Pine Creek Canyon

Best Time

Spring & Fall (Utah)

Ideal temps for hiking & canyoneering

CrowdMedium
Highlights

Highlights

Must-see attractions

Experience the dramatic slot canyons of Zion or the vast gorge of Pennsylvania's Grand Canyon. Adventure awaits!

4.5
(23 reviews)

"A classic Zion adventure, well worth the trip even with crowds and permit challenges."

Vertical photo
TIP

Permit Power! 🎟️

Last-minute permits for Zion's Pine Creek Canyon can be easier to snag than you think. Plan ahead but stay flexible!

Wetsuit Wisdom 💧

The water in Utah's Pine Creek Canyon is cold! Wetsuits are highly recommended for a more comfortable canyoneering experience.

Third hero image

Highlights

Discover the most iconic attractions and experiences

Zion's Slot Canyon Adventure

Zion's Slot Canyon Adventure

Zion National Park, Utah

Navigate narrow slot canyons, rappel down waterfalls, and swim through cool water for an unforgettable canyoneering experience.

Pennsylvania Grand Canyon Views

Pennsylvania Grand Canyon Views

Pine Creek Gorge, Pennsylvania

Marvel at the vastness of the Pine Creek Gorge from overlooks like Leonard Harrison and Colton Point State Parks.

Historic Pine Creek Trail

Historic Pine Creek Trail

Red Rock Canyon, Nevada

Hike through remnants of early 20th-century homesteads and enjoy a scenic desert landscape.

Your AI travel agent

Plans like a pro.
Thinks like you

Start Chatting

Planning Your Visit

Know Your Pine Creek Canyon

Pine Creek Canyon is a name shared by multiple stunning locations. Ensure you're researching the right one: the dramatic slot canyons of Utah's Zion National Park, or the expansive gorge in Pennsylvania. Both offer incredible natural beauty, but require different preparations. Check weather and permit requirements, especially for canyoneering in Utah.

Gear Up for Adventure

Whether you're hiking, climbing, or canyoneering, proper gear is crucial. For Utah's slot canyons, wetsuits are often recommended due to cold water, and sturdy, quick-drying shoes are a must. In Pennsylvania, comfortable hiking boots are key for exploring the rim trails and the canyon floor. Always check specific activity requirements before you go.

Best Times

When
Spring & Fall (Utah)
Why
Ideal temps for hiking & canyoneering
Crowd
Medium
When
Summer Mornings (PA)
Why
Beat the heat and crowds
Crowd
Medium
When
Weekdays (Both)
Why
Fewer crowds, better permits
Crowd
Low

Insider Tips

from TikTok, Instagram & Reddit

If you’re heading to Arizona, do not miss this experience of Secret Antelope Canyon & Horseshoe Bend Tour! Highly recommend booking your tour with Horseshoe Bend Tours! This 3-hour combo tour is way less crowded than Upper or Lower Antelope Canyon, and you get: ✨Access to Secret Antelope Canyon via a 6-mile off-road ride in a 4x4 truck ✨A peaceful, private viewpoint of Horseshoe Bend (no crowds!) ...
@shameikalhsmith
11.3K likes • 126.9K views

Permit Power! 🎟️

Last-minute permits for Zion's Pine Creek Canyon can be easier to snag than you think. Plan ahead but stay flexible! Reddit

Wetsuit Wisdom 💧

The water in Utah's Pine Creek Canyon is cold! Wetsuits are highly recommended for a more comfortable canyoneering experience. Reddit

Hail to Hanuman is a 4-pitch 5.12b in Pine Creek Canyon. Here’s @tylerkarow onsighting the crux pitch with a belay from Mija @michaelpedre. Gripped was on hand for several days in the Eastern Sierra with @patagonia to learn about their new Free Wall Kit - a collection built for multi-pitch rock climbing. More to come on the kit, and if you’re looking for a climbing guide near Bishop touch base wit...
grippedmagazine
179 likes • 4.4K views
🌲 What to do in Pine and Strawberry, Arizona! 1. Start the day with a cozy cup from Windmill Coffee. 1. Explore the historic Strawberry School House. 2. Stroll through the beautiful Pine Creek Canyon Lavender Farm. 3. Stop by the Honey Stand for some sweet treats. 4. Hike at Tonto Natural Bridge State Park. #PineAndStrawberryAZ #ArizonaAdventures #WeekendGetaway #ExploreArizona #supportlocal
wanderfullarizona
208 likes • 9.3K views

Footwear First! :athletic_shoe:

Sturdy, quick-drying shoes are essential for navigating rocky terrain and water in slot canyons. Reddit

Rim Views Galore! :camera_with_flash:

For the Pennsylvania Grand Canyon, visit both Leonard Harrison and Colton Point State Parks for distinct, breathtaking perspectives. Instagram+1

We had the most amazing time exploring the PA Grand Canyon (Pine Creek Gorge) in @thepawilds! Here are our top recommendations for a visit to the area: (Make sure to save for later!) 🏠 Rent a modern cabin at Hills Creek State Park. They sleep 6 and are very budget-friendly. Bonus: This park is great for kids! 🥾Hike the Turkey Path at Leonard Harrison and Rim Trail at Colton Point. 🪨 Take in...
kim.hiked.it
6.3K likes • 203.4K views

Tips

from all over the internet

Permit Power! 🎟️

Last-minute permits for Zion's Pine Creek Canyon can be easier to snag than you think. Plan ahead but stay flexible! Reddit

Wetsuit Wisdom 💧

The water in Utah's Pine Creek Canyon is cold! Wetsuits are highly recommended for a more comfortable canyoneering experience. Reddit

Footwear First! :athletic_shoe:

Sturdy, quick-drying shoes are essential for navigating rocky terrain and water in slot canyons. Reddit

Rim Views Galore! :camera_with_flash:

For the Pennsylvania Grand Canyon, visit both Leonard Harrison and Colton Point State Parks for distinct, breathtaking perspectives. Instagram+1

Pack Smart for History 📜

The Pine Creek Trail in Red Rock Canyon offers a glimpse into the past. Wear comfortable shoes and bring water for this historical hike. Instagram

What Travellers Say

4.5
(23 reviews)

Reviews Summary

Visitors rave about the dramatic beauty of Pine Creek Canyon, whether it's the challenging slot canyons of Zion or the expansive gorge in Pennsylvania. The unique geological formations and adventurous activities are consistently praised. However, some find the technical demands and necessary gear for canyoneering to be a barrier, and crowds can be an issue during peak times.

"I saw it from above while hiking the Pine Creek Canyon Overlook Trail, and the view was truly impressive. The deep, winding slot canyon cuts through the desert landscape with dramatic curves and narrow passageways, offering a glimpse into the power of erosion over time."

Eric L

"A classic Zion adventure. Even though permits can sometimes be hard to get and this canyon may be crowded, it is well worth the trip. It's best done when full of water, and last minute permits seem to be reasonably easy to get."

Austin Farnworth

"Great canyoneering. Narrow slot, large rappel to finish, several places where we had to swim. The hike from the canyon exit to the parking lots was a long scramble over a bunch of boulders, don't be deceived if it looks short on a map."

Steven Scott

What People Like

Stunning natural beauty
Thrilling canyoneering
Breathtaking overlooks

What People Dislike

Crowded during peak
Technical gear needed

Frequently Asked Questions

🚇 🗺️ Getting There

Pine Creek Canyon is accessible within Zion National Park. You'll typically need to hike or use park shuttles to reach trailheads. For canyoneering, the approach involves hiking into the canyon. Reddit

The Pine Creek Gorge is best accessed by car. Key viewpoints and trailheads are located at Leonard Harrison State Park (east rim) and Colton Point State Park (west rim). Instagram+1

Within Zion National Park, a shuttle system operates to various trailheads. For the Pennsylvania Grand Canyon, public transport is limited, and a car is highly recommended for exploring the area. Instagram

In Zion, you cannot drive directly into the slot canyon. Access is via hiking or guided tours. In Pennsylvania, you can drive to the overlooks at the state parks, but driving into the gorge itself is not permitted. Instagram

For Zion's Pine Creek Canyon, the closest major airport is Las Vegas McCarran International Airport (LAS). For Pennsylvania's Pine Creek Gorge, Williamsport Regional Airport (IPT) is nearby, or you can fly into Harrisburg (MDT) or Wilkes-Barre/Scranton (AVP). Instagram

🎫 🎫 Tickets & Entry

While general park entry to Zion requires a fee, specific permits are needed for overnight stays or certain activities. For canyoneering Pine Creek, permits are often required and can be obtained through a lottery system or last-minute walk-ups. Reddit+1

Zion National Park has an entrance fee per vehicle. Check the official NPS website for current pricing. Permits for specific activities like canyoneering are separate. Reddit

Pennsylvania State Parks generally do not have entrance fees. However, there may be fees for specific facilities like camping or parking during peak times. Instagram

Yes, booking guided tours for canyoneering in Zion's Pine Creek Canyon is highly recommended, especially during peak season, as they often include necessary permits and gear. TikTok

Zion National Park is open year-round, 24 hours a day, though visitor centers have specific hours. Pennsylvania State Parks are typically open from dawn to dusk. Always check official park websites for the most up-to-date information. Instagram

🎫 🏞️ Onsite Experience

For an adventurous experience, canyoneering through the slot canyon is popular, involving rappelling and swimming. For a less technical option, hiking the Pine Creek Canyon Overlook Trail offers stunning views from above. Reddit+1

Leonard Harrison State Park and Colton Point State Park offer the most iconic and breathtaking views of the Pine Creek Gorge. Both provide different perspectives of the vast canyon. Instagram+1

Canyoneering in Zion's Pine Creek Canyon is considered technical and requires experience or a guide. The Overlook Trail is a moderate hike suitable for most. In Pennsylvania, many trails are beginner-friendly. Reddit

The Pine Creek Trail is about 3.4 miles round trip and can take 1.5 to 2 hours to complete, depending on your pace and how much you stop to explore the historical remnants. Instagram

In Zion, you might see mule deer, bighorn sheep, and various bird species. Pennsylvania's Pine Creek Gorge is home to deer, black bears, and a rich diversity of birdlife. Always maintain a safe distance. Instagram

📸 📸 Photography

The slot canyon itself offers dramatic light and shadow play. The Pine Creek Canyon Overlook Trail provides panoramic shots of the canyon's curves. Reddit

Sunrise and sunset offer the most dramatic lighting for capturing the vastness of the Pine Creek Gorge. Midday can be harsh, but still offers impressive scale. Instagram+1

A waterproof camera or a good phone case is advisable due to water. Wide-angle lenses are great for capturing the narrow confines of slot canyons. TikTok

Drone usage is generally restricted in National Parks like Zion and often in State Parks. Always check the specific park regulations before flying a drone. Instagram

Capture the winding Pine Creek river from above, the dramatic cliff faces, and the lush forest canopy. The sheer scale of the gorge is a photographer's dream. Instagram

For Different Travelers

Tailored advice for your travel style

👨‍👩‍👧 Families with Kids

For families, the Pennsylvania Grand Canyon offers accessible trails and beautiful scenery. Hills Creek State Park cabins are a budget-friendly option, and the park itself is great for kids. Instagram The Pine Creek Rail Trail is also a fantastic, flat option for family bike rides. Instagram

In Zion, while full canyoneering might be too intense, the Pine Creek Canyon Overlook Trail provides stunning views without extreme difficulty. For a more relaxed experience, consider exploring other family-friendly trails within Zion National Park. Reddit

💰 Budget Travelers

The Pennsylvania Grand Canyon region can be very budget-friendly. Renting cabins at Hills Creek State Park is economical, and many of the state park's attractions are free to access. Instagram Camping is also an option in many areas surrounding the gorge. Instagram

For Zion, while park entry has a fee, hiking and exploring the main canyon areas can be done without expensive tours if you are prepared with your own gear and knowledge for less technical routes. Consider packing your own food to save on dining costs. Reddit

🧗 Adventure Seekers

Zion's Pine Creek Canyon is a playground for canyoneers. The technical nature of the slot canyon, with its rappels and swims, offers a serious challenge. Reddit+2 Ensure you have the proper gear and experience, or hire a reputable guide. TikTok

Rock climbing is also a significant draw in areas like the Pennsylvania Grand Canyon, with routes like 'Hail to Hanuman' in Pine Creek Canyon attracting climbers. Instagram

Deep Dives

In-depth insights and expert knowledge

Canyoneering in Zion's Pine Creek

Pine Creek Canyon in Zion National Park is a premier destination for canyoneering, offering a thrilling mix of rappelling, swimming, and scrambling through narrow slot canyons. This adventure is not for the faint of heart and requires specific gear and knowledge. Temperatures within the canyon can be significantly cooler than the surrounding desert, making wetsuits a necessity for comfort and safety during longer trips. Reddit+1

Key considerations for canyoneering Pine Creek include:

* Permits: Essential for entry, often obtained via lottery or last-minute walk-ups. Reddit
* Gear: A full canyoneering kit, including ropes, harnesses, helmets, and wetsuits, is mandatory. Sturdy, quick-drying footwear is also crucial. Reddit
* Conditions: The canyon is best run when full of water, but flash flood potential must always be monitored. Check weather forecasts diligently. Reddit

Many visitors opt for guided tours, which provide necessary equipment and expertise, making the experience accessible and safer for those new to canyoneering. TikTok

Exploring the Pennsylvania Grand Canyon

The Pine Creek Gorge, often called the 'Grand Canyon of Pennsylvania,' is a spectacular natural wonder stretching 46 miles and reaching depths of nearly 1,500 feet. Carved by Pine Creek over millions of years, it offers a dramatic contrast to its western counterparts with its lush forests and rolling terrain. The best way to experience its grandeur is from the overlooks at Leonard Harrison State Park on the east rim and Colton Point State Park on the west. Instagram+1

Activities and viewpoints include:

* Scenic Overlooks: Both parks offer stunning vistas, with Leonard Harrison providing more developed facilities and Colton Point offering a more rugged, natural feel. Instagram+1
* Hiking: Numerous trails wind along the rim and descend into the gorge, including the popular Turkey Path. Instagram
* Biking: The Pine Creek Rail Trail, a former railroad bed, offers a relatively flat and scenic route for cyclists along the creek. Instagram

This region is a haven for outdoor enthusiasts, offering opportunities for hiking, biking, fishing, and simply enjoying the immense natural beauty. Instagram

History and Hiking at Red Rock's Pine Creek Trail

Located within the Red Rock Canyon National Conservation Area near Las Vegas, the Pine Creek Trail offers a unique blend of natural beauty and historical intrigue. This moderate 3.4-mile out-and-back hike leads visitors through a picturesque desert landscape dotted with remnants of early 20th-century homesteads, including the foundations of Wilson's home and evidence of a once-extensive garden. Instagram

The trail is popular for hiking, trail running, and rock climbing, providing a less crowded alternative to some of Red Rock's more famous routes. The historical aspect adds a layer of discovery to the scenic desert vistas, making it an engaging experience for those interested in local history. Instagram

Tips for visiting:

* Water: Carry plenty of water, as desert hikes can be dehydrating. Instagram
* Footwear: Wear comfortable hiking shoes suitable for rocky terrain. Instagram
* Timing: Early mornings or late afternoons are best to avoid the midday heat. Instagram

You may also like

1 of 2