Uploaded June 2023 | Updated September 2026, 1 day ago
May 2023.
Between running the Zion Ragnar, I had about a 4-hour window to squeeze in a quick canyon. Originally, the plan was to bring the family along, but at the last minute they decided to sit this one out—so I ended up running it solo.
This wasn’t my first time canyoneering solo, but it was my first solo descent of Keyhole Canyon.
Keyhole Canyon is one of the most popular short technical slot canyons in Zion. Despite its short length, it packs in narrow sections, sculpted rock, a few rappels, and usually some water—making it a great introduction to Zion canyoneering.
This video shows the entire route from start to finish so you can get a realistic feel for timing, terrain, and overall flow of the canyon.
📍 Route Overview
Keyhole Canyon features a very short approach from the roadside, dropping quickly into a narrow slot canyon.
Inside, you’ll encounter tight narrows, shallow downclimbs, a few short rappels, and potholes that often hold water—sometimes requiring wading or even short swims depending on conditions.
The canyon is typically completed quickly and exits right back near the road, making it one of the most efficient technical routes in Zion when you’re short on time.
📊 Route Stats
Time: ~1–3 hours
Distance: ~0.5–1 mile total
Difficulty: Moderate (technical slot canyon)
Rappels: Several short rappels (~10–30 ft range)
Water: Frequently present; can be cold and require wading/swimming
Approach: Very short roadside access
Location: Zion National Park, Utah
💡 Important Info
Permit required for canyoneering in Zion
Water conditions can change quickly—be prepared for cold water
Flash flood risk is present—always check weather conditions
Solo canyoneering increases risk—plan accordingly
Subscribe for full-route adventures—hiking, canyoneering, running, and urban exploring.
May 2023.
Between running the Zion Ragnar, I had about a 4-hour window to squeeze in a quick canyon. Originally, the plan was to bring the family along, but at the last minute they decided to sit this one out—so I ended up running it solo.
This wasn’t my first time canyoneering solo, but it was my first solo descent of Keyhole Canyon.
Keyhole Canyon is one of the most popular short technical slot canyons in Zion. Despite its short length, it packs in narrow sections, sculpted rock, a few rappels, and usually some water—making it a great introduction to Zion canyoneering.
This video shows the entire route from start to finish so you can get a realistic feel for timing, terrain, and overall flow of the canyon.
📍 Route Overview
Keyhole Canyon features a very short approach from the roadside, dropping quickly into a narrow slot canyon.
Inside, you’ll encounter tight narrows, shallow downclimbs, a few short rappels, and potholes that often hold water—sometimes requiring wading or even short swims depending on conditions.
The canyon is typically completed quickly and exits right back near the road, making it one of the most efficient technical routes in Zion when you’re short on time.
📊 Route Stats
Time: ~1–3 hours
Distance: ~0.5–1 mile total
Difficulty: Moderate (technical slot canyon)
Rappels: Several short rappels (~10–30 ft range)
Water: Frequently present; can be cold and require wading/swimming
Approach: Very short roadside access
Location: Zion National Park, Utah
💡 Important Info
Permit required for canyoneering in Zion
Water conditions can change quickly—be prepared for cold water
Flash flood risk is present—always check weather conditions
Solo canyoneering increases risk—plan accordingly
Subscribe for full-route adventures—hiking, canyoneering, running, and urban exploring.
