Benefits of Hiring a Guide in the Greater Zion Area

Growing up, my family vacations often revolved around visiting state and national parks. This early exposure instilled in me a deep love for nature, history, and traveling for which I am incredibly grateful. We used guides on several occasions—whether a cycling guide who showed us around an island and shared its history or a raft guide who navigated us through whitewater. These experiences were fundamental in shaping my decision to become a guide myself.

When I was about seven, my family hired a cycling guide to lead us around Mackinac Island, off the coast of Michigan. The island notably prohibits motor vehicles, so biking and horseback riding are the primary modes of transportation. Even now, 24 years later, I remember our guide, known as “Doc,” and the captivating stories he told. One story that stands out is about a European explorer who spent a night in a cave and awoke to find himself surrounded by a pile of bones. The cave, now known as Skull Cave, might have been less memorable if we’d only read a sign, but Doc’s eccentric and educational storytelling made it stick with me for decades.

Me on my first guided tour, a bike tour around Mackinac Island in Michigan.

Fast forward to 7th grade: my family took our first vacation to Zion National Park. We entered from the east side and were struck by the contrast between the high desert ecosystem we had just seen and the majestic views of Zion. We scampered up the Navajo Sandstone for a few photos before heading to the Canyon Overlook trail, where I vividly recall seeing Big Horn Sheep roaming near the trail. I also remember standing at Middle Emerald Pools, holding onto the chain, and feeling a bit of a sinking sensation being so close to the edge.

In 7th grade, my family took our first vacation to Zion. Here's me standing in an alcove in the Navajo Sandstone.

Today, I spend most of my time hiking, canyoneering, and practicing yoga outdoors with fellow explorers from around the world sharing the history, geology, and my favorite things to do in the Zion area. Reflecting on how these childhood experiences shaped who I am and influence my guiding style, I am dedicated to sharing why Washington County has so much to offer. 

Hiring a guide for your adventure here can be incredibly advantageous. Some benefits include: 

1. Education A guide provides valuable insights into the natural history, geology, and human history of an area. A good guide dedicates significant time to researching and learning about their area of expertise, driven by a genuine passion for it. Guides, like “Doc”, are skilled storytellers, refining their narratives based on audience reactions and interests. They also share oral histories and anecdotes that might not be widely known. 

2. Safety Reputable guides are typically Wilderness First Responders, offering peace of mind when exploring the wilderness. They come equipped with a first aid kit and are trained to handle emergencies. Guides also prepare for various situations by carrying essentials such as electrolytes, rain gear, and extra layers—preparations that guests often overlook, especially in unpredictable weather. We have flash flooding and extremely high temperatures here that can be dangerous if you aren’t prepared. 

3. Local Tips Hiring a guide provides a valuable opportunity to gain insider knowledge about local spots and experiences you might otherwise miss. For example, Deep Creek is my favorite spot for coffee and breakfast in Springdale, while Bit N Spur is my top choice for an evening hangout, especially with live music on Mondays! If staying in the La Verkin or Hurricane area, then River Rock is my go to restaurant anytime of day. In St. George, my favorite dinner spot is Red Fort, an iconic Indian restaurant in town. Your guide can also fill you in on any local events happening at that time. 

4. Great for Kids and Teens Guides have a unique ability to engage children and teenagers in ways that parents sometimes find challenging. When kids are moody or uncooperative, a guide’s fresh perspective and enthusiasm can make a big difference. Guides often use fun, interactive activities and educational games to capture their attention and foster a positive experience, making the adventure enjoyable for the whole family.

5. Technical or Specialized Expertise If you're interested in trying a new activity but aren't sure where to start or whether you'll enjoy it, a guide can be invaluable. Southern Utah offers a range of outdoor activities such as rock climbing, canyoneering, yoga, backpacking, and mountain biking. A guide can help you learn the basics and ensure a safe and enjoyable experience. When my family went on a whitewater rafting trip in West Virginia growing up, there was no way that we had the skills and gear to float down the river safely, so we used a guide service. 

   

   Canyoneering in Zion National Park

6. Leave No Trace With the increasing number of people venturing into the outdoors, adhering to Leave No Trace principles is crucial for preserving these beautiful places. As a Leave No Trace certified guide, I am committed to teaching these seven principles to guests and ensuring we follow them on every trip. For example, I often see people disposing of items like orange peels and eggshells by simply tossing them on the side of the trail. There are several reasons why this is problematic: these items decompose slowly in the desert, attract unwanted animals, pose health risks to wildlife that might eat them, and detract from the natural beauty for other visitors. A guide can educate guests not only about the principles themselves but also about the reasoning behind them.

In the Zion area, there are numerous activities you can enjoy with a guide. Here are a few options to consider:

• Canyoneering: Southern Utah is known as the "slot canyon capital of the world." Canyoneering—combining hiking, downclimbing, and rappelling through narrow canyons—requires technical skill and has the potential to be dangerous if done incorrectly, so using a guide is a great way to experience a slot canyon. 

• Guided Yoga and Hiking Excursions: Recent studies highlight the benefits of spending time outside, hiking, and practicing meditation. A guided yoga and hiking excursion is a great way to connect with your group in nature. 

• E-Bike Tours: Zion is the third most visited national park in the US. To avoid the shuttle lines, consider a guided e-bike tour up the canyon, offering a more immersive experience. 

• Hiking: The most popular hikes in Zion are Angel’s Landing and the Narrows. If you're uncomfortable going solo or dealing with Narrows rental gear, hiring a guide is a great option. Guides can also help you explore less-traveled paths if you prefer.

• Rock Climbing: Zion is a renowned rock climbing destination. Even if you're not a professional, you can still ascend walls in the area by using a guide that can supply you with the gear and knowledge of how to set up the rock climbs and stay safe. 

Rock climbing in Zion National Park.

I hope this information helps in planning your trip to the Greater Zion area!

Happy Trails!

Brooke Hirschy