Private Jeep Tour of Zion National Park: Smith's Mesa, Kolob Terrace & Grafton Ghost Town
Difficulty
moderate
Duration
3–4 hours
Fitness Level
Moderate fitness — able to handle short uphill walks of 20–40 minutes and stand for photo stops; vehicle does most of the distance.
Overview
Leave the park road behind and climb onto Smith’s Mesa in a private Jeep Rubicon, where petroglyph panels, sweeping West Temple views, and a near-intact ghost town await. This 3–4 hour afternoon tour pairs local guide knowledge with backcountry access you won’t get on your own.
Private Jeep Tour of Zion National Park: Smith's Mesa, Kolob Terrace & Grafton Ghost Town
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The Jeep bumps off the pavement and suddenly the canyon's scale rearranges itself. Red sandstone cliffs lean in like old friends and the air thins as the vehicle climbs out of Springdale, leaving tourist shuttles and selfie sticks behind. On a private afternoon Jeep tour, a local guide pilots a 2020 Rubicon across backcountry Mesa Roads, switching between open desert, pinyon-juniper flats, and narrow overlooks where Zion’s West Temple dominates the horizon.
Adventure Photos
Adventure Tips
Bring layered clothing
Temperatures swing quickly from canyon heat to cooler mesa winds—bring a light jacket even for an afternoon tour.
Hydrate and carry snacks
Guides provide bottled water but bring an energy bar for the optional 30-minute walk to the petroglyph panel.
Wear sturdy shoes
Short hikes and uneven sandstone surfaces demand closed-toe shoes with good traction.
Protect gear from dust
Backcountry roads kick up dust—use a camera cover or ziplock for lenses and keep electronics protected.
Local Insights
Wildlife
- Common raven
- Desert bighorn (occasional)
History
The area reflects overlapping histories: ancestral Puebloan and Fremont rock art, 19th-century Mormon settlements like Grafton, and later National Park protection that preserved these features.
Conservation
Stay on established routes and follow guide directions to protect fragile desert varnish and petroglyph panels; avoid touching rock art and pack out all waste.
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Adventure Hotspots in Springdale
Frequently Asked Questions
Recommended Gear
Sun hat and sunglasses
Sun protection is crucial on exposed mesa roads.
summer specific
Light insulated jacket
Afternoon tours can cool quickly on higher terraces.
spring specific
Sturdy hiking shoes
Provides traction on slickrock and uneven trails during walks.
Camera with dust protection
Allows you to capture wide vistas and petroglyph details while protecting gear from grit.