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Bryce Canyon's best-kept secret? 4 epic backcountry adventures beyond the crowds

Bryce Canyon's best-kept secret? 4 epic backcountry adventures beyond the crowds

(ROAM)


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Estimated read time: 4-5 minutes

A Utah-owned adventure company expands into Bryce Canyon Backcountry, going where most have never been. Utah is home to the iconic BIG 5 national parks—and Bryce Canyon continues to draw millions each year. In 2023 alone, it saw more than 2.3 million visitors, making it the second-most visited national park in the state, according to the Kem C. Gardner report.

But beyond the main viewpoints lies a wilder side of Bryce most travelers never see.

That's where ROAM comes

The locally owned, highly rated Utah adventure company has expanded into Bryce Canyon's backcountry with four new guided experiences—designed to take guests beyond the crowds and into terrain few access, yet built to accommodate a wide range of ages and ability levels.

From stargazing under some of the darkest skies in the country, to rappelling and hiking through impressive slot canyons, to cruising remote desert overlooks by UTV—these tours offer a deeper, more immersive way to experience Bryce - away from the crowds and into nature.

For those who want more than the standard viewpoint, ROAM does Bryce Canyon differently.

Bryce Canyon's best-kept secret? 4 epic backcountry adventures beyond the crowds
Photo: ROAM

Willis Creek UTV slot canyon hiking

Ease into the magic of Utah's slot canyons at Willis Creek—one of the most family-friendly and scenic narrow canyons in the Grand Staircase–Escalante region. A gentle stream winds through the canyon floor year-round, and the towering Navajo sandstone walls gradually rise and narrow as you walk deeper in.

In winter, ice and reflected light shimmer off the canyon walls. In warmer months, the cool creek and shaded passages make for an unforgettable hike.

All you need are solid hiking shoes and sunscreen. ROAM handles the UTV access, guide, and water—so you can just show up and explore.

Bryce Canyon's best-kept secret? 4 epic backcountry adventures beyond the crowds
Photo: ROAM

Grand to Bryce Overlook UTV Tour

Sit back — or take the wheel — on this 2.5-hour thrilling backcountry ride through Southern Utah's vibrant desert terrain. This all-ages UTV adventure winds across rugged landscapes most visitors never get to see.

The grand finale? A sweeping overlook where the Grand Staircase unfolds toward Bryce Canyon country and the Paria River valley — an epic Southern Utah panorama.

Bring a camera, good shoes and a light layer if it's evening. ROAM will handle the rest.

The Bryce Canyon Drop

Step into real adventure inside Dunham Slot Canyon. The Bryce Canyon Drop is a four-hour guided canyoneering experience designed for ages 6 and up who want more than just a hike.

Descend through towering limestone walls on three exhilarating rappels—building up to an unforgettable 85-foot finale. It's a hike in, hike-out journey that delivers the full slot canyon experience in a safe, confidence-building setting led by ROAM's expert guides.

ROAM provides all technical gear and a bottle of water. You bring sturdy hiking shoes, at least one liter of water, and snacks.

Bryce Canyon's best-kept secret? 4 epic backcountry adventures beyond the crowds
Photo: ROAM

Stargazing S'mores Tour

Experience Bryce Canyon's backcountry after dark — where the sky truly comes alive. Far from city lights, this region offers some of the darkest skies in the country. On clear nights, the Milky Way stretches overhead and shooting stars regularly streak across the horizon.

Your evening begins with a scenic UTV ride along rugged desert trails. Take the wheel yourself or relax while your guide drives. At the Grand to Bryce Overlook, you'll step out, hike to a sweeping viewpoint, then gather around a campfire for s'mores under a sky packed with stars.

This two-and-a-half-hour adventure is perfect for all ages — even the littlest explorers.

Bring a jacket. ROAM will bring the fire and the stars.

See Utah as you've never seen it before

ROAM's newest Bryce Canyon Backcountry location is just one of five across Southern Utah. You can also explore with their expert guides in Kanab, East Zion, Escalante, and exclusively inside Coral Pink Sand Dunes State Park.

Locally owned and operated, ROAM is built by people who live here, work here, and know these landscapes beyond the map. That means deeper access, better routes, and stories you won't hear anywhere else.

From first-time adventurers to seasoned explorers, there's a tour built for you. With safety as the top priority, you're free to focus on what matters — soaking in the moment and experiencing Utah the right way.

To celebrate the grand opening of the Bryce Canyon location, ROAM is offering 20% off the four tours listed above. Use code ROAMBRYCE when you check out to secure the discounted price.

Bryce Canyon's best-kept secret? 4 epic backcountry adventures beyond the crowds
Photo: ROAM

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