Become a Member

Get access to more than 30 brands, premium video, exclusive content, events, mapping, and more.

Already have an account? Sign In

Become a Member

Get access to more than 30 brands, premium video, exclusive content, events, mapping, and more.

Already have an account? Sign In

Brands

News

This Zion Documentary is Beautiful and Terrifying

Zion's slot canyons offer endless adventure, but beware of sudden rain.

Heading out the door? Read this article on the new Outside+ app available now on iOS devices for members! Download the app.

Zion National Park is renowned for its vivid red sandstone, towering rock walls, and sprawling networks of slot canyons. With a natural appeal to adventurers of all stripes, it’s little wonder that the park attracted nearly 3 million visitors in 2014. Earlier this year, outdoor photographer (and BACKPACKER contributor) Eric Hanson went canyoneering as part of an ongoing effort to capture Zion’s wild spirit on film. In addition to bringing back plenty of gorgeous footage, he survived a flash flood, filming firsthand the primal terror of being in the slots when heavy rain begins to fall. The resulting documentary, Zion: Rock of Refuge, debuted last month on Vimeo. Check it out:

Read more:

• See more tips for exploring slot canyons.

• Find secret hikes in Zion.

• Get a canyoneering primer from our expert field scout.

How to Pack for Backcountry Skiing

Get to know the winter safety gear you need in your pack.

Keywords: