At only 5.2 miles roundtrip, the trail is relatively short, though navigating the slot itself can be physically demanding, tight, and sometimes wet. In the narrowest spots, the canyon shrinks to just 10 inches wide, requiring hikers to squeeze through carefully and confidently. If you're up for it, the experience is unforgettable.

Zebra Slot Canyon is a stunning, short slot canyon tucked into the heart of Grand Staircase-Escalante. Known for its narrow passageways and the beautiful striped Navajo sandstone walls that give it its name, this hike offers a rewarding challenge for adventurers looking for something unique and visually striking—often drawing comparisons to Arizona’s Wave formation, but far more accessible.

Getting There: From the town of Escalante, turn onto Hole-in-the-Rock Road and reset your odometer. Drive 7.8 miles down the graded dirt and gravel road to the third cattleguard. Just past it, on the right, you’ll see a parking lot that serves as the trailhead. Hole-in-the-Rock Road is usually passable in a sedan, but a higher clearance SUV or 4WD is ideal, especially after any rain—mud can make the road impassable even for capable vehicles. The trail starts directly across the road from the parking area.

The Hike: The trail begins easy and well-defined, heading east across open desert and gently descending toward Harris Wash. Along the way, you’ll pass through beautiful open canyons and vibrant red-and-pink rock formations. After entering Harris Wash, navigation gets a bit trickier. The trail turns left along the west bank of the wash—do not cross over to the opposite side, even though some false trails may appear.

Expect water—depending on recent conditions, there may be ankle to waist-deep pools in the slot canyon. The water is often cold and murky, so bring shoes you’re okay with getting wet. Merrell Hydro Mocs, sandals, or trail shoes that dry quickly are great options. Be prepared for some climbing and maneuvering, especially in tight spaces.

Dog Friendly? Yes—with caution. Zebra is pet-friendly, but only for small or very agile dogs. Some sections are too narrow for medium-to-large dogs to safely pass through. If your pup is small enough to carry, you may be able to complete the canyon with them, but consider skipping the slot itself with larger pets.

Camping: You’re welcome to camp at the parking area—it’s a popular option for those wanting an early morning start or a quiet base after a late afternoon hike. The lot is spacious, allowing for several vehicles, vans, or small rigs. It’s not the most level or scenic campsite, but it’s convenient and free, with incredible stargazing under Utah’s dark skies. There are no amenities, so be sure to pack in and pack out everything, and follow Leave No Trace guidelines.

Photography Tips: Light in the slot canyon is best during midday, when the sun is directly overhead and able to bounce off the narrow walls. Early morning and late afternoon also offer soft light for the trail leading to the slot. If you're into drone or aerial photography, this region offers incredible terrain—just check for any local restrictions in Grand Staircase before flying.

Weather & Safety: Summer is hot and dry, so bring plenty of water, sunscreen, and a hat. In winter, expect cold temps and icy water in the slot. Flash floods are a serious danger during the monsoon season (July–September), so always check the weather forecast and avoid entering the canyon if rain is expected.

Trailhead Coordinates:
📍 N37° 38' 22"
📍 W111° 26' 44"

Zebra Slot Canyon is one of Escalante’s most iconic and beautiful short hikes—offering a little bit of everything: desert solitude, water crossings, rock scrambling, and some of the most photogenic walls in the region.