If there’s one thing Southern Utah knows how to do right, it’s combining jaw-dropping views with good old-fashioned outdoor fun. And while Zion National Park’s cliffs, hikes, and slot canyons hog most of the spotlight, there’s an underrated gem winding right through the area: the Virgin River. Whether you’re into floating lazily downstream while working on your questionable farmer’s tan or paddling your way through gentle ripples, Virgin River tubing is one of the best ways to cool down and experience the region from a whole new angle. Sure, you could sweat it out on the trails, but why not let the river do the heavy lifting for once?
Why the Virgin River Deserves Your Summer Attention
Tubing the Virgin River isn’t just a way to beat the heat, it’s the ultimate Southern Utah summer vibe. Imagine drifting through a canyon framed by towering sandstone cliffs, the water gliding you past cottonwoods and willows, and the occasional heron or deer appearing like they were hired for ambiance. It’s one of those “yep, I’m in a postcard” moments. For families, couples, and friend groups, it’s also incredibly accessible. You don’t need to be an athlete, a survivalist, or even particularly good at sitting upright for extended periods (though that does help). This is one of the few outdoor activities near Zion where “effort” mostly involves not spilling your drink.
Best Spots for Tubing and Kayaking
The Virgin River offers several stretches ideal for tubing and kayaking, each with its own personality. Near the town of Virgin, you’ll find calm, meandering waters perfect for a leisurely float, think of it as the river’s “brunch” setting. As you get closer to La Verkin, the current picks up slightly, offering a bit more of a ride without venturing into whitewater territory. For kayaking, head farther upstream near Springdale for a mix of light paddling and scenic glory. These routes tend to be best from late spring through early fall, when the water levels are Goldilocks-perfect, not too high and fast, not too low and rocky.
While the river is generally safe for beginners, always check current conditions before heading out. Snowmelt, recent rain, or the whims of Mother Nature can turn a gentle float into an unplanned thrill ride. Local outfitters usually post updates online, or you can give them a quick call before you commit to launching.
Rental Options (or BYOT, Bring Your Own Tube)
When it comes to Virgin River tubing near Zion, you have a few smart options to choose from. If you don’t want to hassle with gear, two local outfitters handle the setup for you.
Zion Tubing (tubingzion.com) is located right in Virgin and makes the whole experience effortless. They rent out deluxe tubes, complete with headrests, handles, and cup holders, provide life jackets, and shuttle you both to the river start and back to your car at the end. Their stretch of the river is family-friendly, calm, and perfect for ages four and older. They also inspect the river daily to ensure safe, obstacle-free conditions. Rentals, walk-ins, and reservations are welcome from mid-May to early September, 9:00 AM–4:00 PM, and they offer seasonal float passes for repeat visitors.
Float Zion / Zion Virgin River Tubing Adventures (floatziontubing.com) operates from the Zion River’s Edge location and offers tubing trips suitable for ages six and up. The experience typically lasts 60–90 minutes as you leisurely float along the river, spot wildlife, and take in the towering cliffs of Zion. Your gear includes a super deluxe tube, lifejacket, and complementary transportation. Note they recommend a max bodyweight of about 250 pounds per tuber for comfort and safety. Walk-ins are welcomed daily from 9 AM to 5 PM, starting around $35 per person.
Prefer to float at your own pace or already packed great tubes in the RV? That works too! Many people bring their own tubes, just make sure they are sturdy and designed for river use. You’ll still need a lifejacket (state law requires them for children and strongly recommends for adults), but otherwise you’ll skip rental fees. If you’re using your own gear, you’ll need to arrange transport to your entry point and back, as shuttles are typically reserved for outfitter customers. This DIY approach gives flexibility on timing, route, and snack breaks, but requires a bit more logistical planning.
Safety Tips That Aren’t Just “Wear Sunscreen”
Look, I’m all for a laid-back river float, but water is water, treat it with respect. First, wear that lifejacket. I know, you’re an Olympic-level floater, but currents can be sneaky, and slippery rocks don’t care about your ego. Second, footwear is your friend. Flip-flops have a tendency to vanish into the current faster than your motivation on a Monday morning, so opt for water shoes or sandals with straps.
Keep your valuables dry or leave them behind. A $20 waterproof phone pouch beats trying to explain to your insurance company that your phone took a swan dive mid-float. Finally, know your route and exit points. Both outfitters mentioned earlier make this easy, but if you’re DIY-ing it, do some scouting beforehand so you don’t end up explaining to strangers why you’re trespassing across their backyard to get back to your car.
Family-Friendly Fun
One of the best parts about Virgin River tubing is how family-friendly it can be when conditions are right. Both Zion Tubing and Float Zion cater to kids, providing appropriately sized gear and keeping routes safe and easy. For parents, this means your kids get an adventure while you get to relax, at least until someone inevitably drops a flip-flop, loses a snack, or needs to pee 15 minutes in.
Pro tip: bring a small dry bag with snacks, drinks, and sunscreen. The river might cool you off, but the sun in Southern Utah plays by desert rules, hydration and SPF are non-negotiable.
Why Tubing Beats… Well, Most Things
Let’s be honest. On a hot summer day, you could hike Angels Landing, but that comes with switchbacks, crowds, and the constant reminder that you maybe should have done more cardio in the spring. Or you could pull up a chair in an air-conditioned café, but then you’re just another tourist staring at Zion from a distance. Tubing the Virgin River gives you the best of both worlds: you’re in the landscape, soaking up the sights, without breaking much of a sweat. Plus, it’s one of those rare activities where everyone, from your thrill-seeking cousin to your book-club aunt, can have a good time.
Planning Your Float
For the best Virgin River tubing experience, aim for late morning or early afternoon. Mornings can be cooler, and late afternoons risk thunderstorms. If you’re renting, book ahead on weekends or during peak summer to avoid missing out. For DIY floats, double-check river flow rates online; too low means you’ll be walking your tube half the time, too high means conditions might not be safe. And yes, sunscreen again, because you will roast without it.
Whether you go for the full-service outfitter experience or roll your own adventure, tubing the Virgin River is one of the most laid-back, joy-filled activities you can do in Southern Utah. It’s easy, scenic, and makes for the kind of memories that stick with you long after the river current fades.
