EAST ZION JEEP FIELD GUIDE
East Rim Jeep Tour: One Hour from Pine Forests to the Jolly Gulch Slot
A one‑hour rugged Jeep outing that stops at Checkerboard Mesa and Jolly Gulch; this guide lays out the route, logistics, and what to bring.
East Rim Jeep Tour: One Hour from Pine Forests to the Jolly Gulch Slot.
The East Rim Jeep Tour threads a rugged line through pine forest to a high vantage above Checkerboard Mesa, then drops several hundred feet into Jolly Gulch for a close encounter with a narrow slot; the full loop climbs back across river beds to the Ponderosa plateau and returns in about an hour.
Highlights
Outing Highlights
Checkerboard Mesa Overlook
The tour winds through pine forest to a striking overlook of Checkerboard Mesa—one of the two primary viewpoints on this route.
Top‑Down View into Jolly Gulch
At the route's second stop there is an optional, unguided two‑minute hike to a top‑down view into the Jolly Gulch slot canyon, a narrow chute that drops roughly 200 feet into its walls.
Rugged Descent and Riverbed Crossings
Expect a rugged descent of several hundred feet into the gulch and a climb back out that crosses the river bed several times en route to the Ponderosa plateau.
What the day feels like
What the Hour Feels Like
The loop is compact and kinetic: a short run through pine, a pause for the Checkerboard Mesa prospect, a steep, rugged descent to Jolly Gulch with an optional two‑minute walk to peer into the slot, then a return that crosses riverbed channels and climbs back to the plateau—snacks and water are provided on board.
THE LANDSCAPE
Checkerboard Mesa Overlook
The tour winds through pine forest to a striking overlook of Checkerboard Mesa—one of the two primary viewpoints on this route.
THE CANYON
Top‑Down View into Jolly Gulch
At the route's second stop there is an optional, unguided two‑minute hike to a top‑down view into the Jolly Gulch slot canyon, a narrow chute that drops roughly 200 feet into its walls.
THE RIDE
Rugged Descent and Riverbed Crossings
Expect a rugged descent of several hundred feet into the gulch and a climb back out that crosses the river bed several times en route to the Ponderosa plateau.
Suitability
Who it's for
Who this tour suits — and who should think twice.
Practical planner
Details to review before reserving
The tour lasts about 1 hour.
Guests should arrive 15 minutes early to ensure a timely departure.
Bring a camera; snacks and water are included. Dress warmly in fall, winter, and spring.
The tour may not operate during severe weather conditions.
Review cancellation policies before reserving.
Frequently asked questions
Planning Your Outing
How long is the East Rim Jeep Tour?
The tour is approximately 1 hour in duration.
Is there an age minimum?
Children aged 2 and older are accepted on the tour.
Are snacks and water provided?
Yes—snacks and water are included.
Is there any hiking during the tour?
There is an optional, unguided two‑minute hike at the Jolly Gulch stop to see a top‑down view of the slot canyon.
What happens in bad weather?
The tour may not operate during severe weather conditions; schedules can be adjusted or cancelled for safety.
What should I bring?
Bring a camera and dress warmly for fall, winter, and spring; snacks and water are provided on the tour.