Camp My Way

Nestled in the heart of Utah’s grand landscapes, Kanab is a gateway to some of the most enchanting natural wonders. For families looking for accessible adventures, Kanab offers a plethora of easy trails that lead to breathtaking formations, from whimsical hoodoos to serene slot canyons. Here’s a personalized guide to easy trails around Kanab, perfect for every member of the family.

1. Wire Pass Slot Canyon

Distance: 3.4 miles
What to Expect: A narrow slot canyon that leads into the wider Buckskin Gulch. It’s a fantastic introduction to slot canyons for kids and adults alike.
Best Seasons: Spring and fall for mild temperatures.
Kid-Friendly: Yes, with supervision in narrow sections.
Fee Required: Yes, pay at recreation.gov.
ATV Rides: Not suitable due to the protected nature of the area.

2. Skylight Arch

Distance: 2 miles
What to Expect: A unique arch with an opening that looks like a skylight. The trail offers scenic views of the surrounding desert.
Best Seasons: Accessible year-round, but spring and fall offer the best weather.
Kid-Friendly: Yes, though the drive requires an SUV or better.
Fee Required: No.
ATV Rides: The rough road to the trailhead may be suitable for ATVs, respecting local guidelines.

3. Sand (Moqui) Caves

Distance: 0.5 miles
What to Expect: Small but picturesque caves carved into the sandstone, offering a fun photo op and a bit of easy scrambling.
Best Seasons: Year-round access.
Kid-Friendly: Yes, kids love the short scramble into the caves.
Fee Required: No.
ATV Rides: Not applicable; it’s a short walk from the parking area.

4. The Nautilus

Distance: 1 mile
What to Expect: A swirling rock formation resembling a nautilus shell. The hike is short and sweet, with great visual rewards.
Best Seasons: Visit in spring or fall for the best experience.
Kid-Friendly: Absolutely, it’s like stepping into a natural wonderland.
Fee Required: No.
ATV Rides: Not suitable; the trail is easily accessible by foot.

5. Toadstool Hoodoos

Distance: 1.8 miles
What to Expect: Mushroom-shaped rock formations that seem out of a fairy tale. The trail is relatively flat and offers spectacular views.
Best Seasons: Spring and fall for cooler temperatures.
Kid-Friendly: Yes, it’s a magical landscape for children to explore.
Fee Required: No.
ATV Rides: Not recommended; the trail is designed for hikers.

6. Cottonwood Narrows

Distance: 2-3.7 miles
What to Expect: A beautiful narrow canyon with easy hiking. The area is less crowded, offering a peaceful nature experience.
Best Seasons: Late spring through fall; the road can be impassable when wet.
Kid-Friendly: Yes, an excellent adventure for families.
Fee Required: No.
ATV Rides: The road conditions may limit ATV access, especially when wet.

7. Lick Wash

Distance: 2-4 miles
What to Expect: A hike through a wide slot canyon with towering walls. It’s an easy walk, suitable for all ages.
Best Seasons: Accessible from late spring to fall.
Kid-Friendly: Yes, with interesting rock formations along the way.
Fee Required: No.
ATV Rides: Not suitable; the trail is best enjoyed on foot.

8. Willis Creek Narrows

Distance: 2.8 miles
What to Expect: A gentle stream winds through this slot canyon, making for an enjoyable hike with minimal elevation gain.
Best Seasons: Summer and fall are ideal.
Kid-Friendly: Very. The creek provides a fun splash for kids.
Fee Required: No.
ATV Rides: Not suitable due to the natural trail environment.

9. White Pocket

Distance: 1.2 miles
What to Expect: Otherworldly rock formations with vibrant colors. The area is remote, and the journey is part of the adventure.
Best Seasons: Year-round, but a high-clearance 4×4 is required.
Kid-Friendly: Yes, it’s like exploring another planet.
Fee Required: No, but the drive requires preparation.
ATV Rides: High-clearance 4×4 vehicles are essential due to deep sand.

10. Belly of the Dragon

Distance: 0.5-1.8 miles
What to Expect: A man-made tunnel that feels like stepping into a dragon’s belly. It’s an easy and unique hike, great for photos.
Best Seasons: Accessible year-round.
Kid-Friendly: Definitely, with an adventurous vibe kids love.
Fee Required: No.
ATV Rides: Not applicable; it’s a short and easy hike from the parking area.

Bonus: Red Hollow Slot Canyon and Peek-a-boo Canyon

Both offer easy to moderate hikes into stunning slot canyons, perfect for a half-day adventure. No fees are required, and both are excellent for families, though Peek-a-boo is particularly magical for kids.

Check Conditions: Always verify road and trail conditions before heading out, especially for the more remote locations.
Permits and Fees: While many of these sites are free, some require fees or permits, so plan accordingly.
Seasonal Considerations: Spring and fall generally offer the best weather for hiking in Utah, but many of these trails are accessible year-round.
ATV Use: Respect local regulations regarding ATV use. Many of these trails are designed for hiking and do not accommodate ATVs.

Exploring Kanab’s easy trails offers a unique blend of adventure and accessibility, making it a perfect destination for families and hikers of all levels. Whether you’re marveling at the whimsical shapes of the Toadstool Hoodoos or wandering through the serene beauty of Cottonwood Narrows, each trail promises a memorable journey into Utah’s natural wonders.