3 Short Hiking Trails in Kanab, Utah
Kanab, Utah is a rural city nested right in the middle of three famous wonders of nature: Zion National Park, Grand Canyon National Park, and Bryce Canyon National Park. Explorers and adventurers of these parks often choose Kanab as their vacation basecamp – not only for its convenient location, but also to discover its hidden gems among desert landscapes and red rocks.
Where is Kanab?
Kanab, Utah touches the southern border of Utah, surrounded by beautiful rural scenery including deserts, forests, mountains, and canyons. This location makes Kanab an ideal basecamp for adventurers exploring the nearby wonders of Zion National Park, Grand Canyon National Park, and Bryce Canyon National Park. But Kanab is more than just a pit stop – it’s a destination in its own right, offering hidden gems and outdoor activities among breathtaking landscapes.
Here, you’ll find the peace and serenity you crave away from the hustle and bustle of city life. Although it’s a 4.5-hour drive from Salt Lake City and 1.5 hours from St. George (the nearest city), spending a night or two in Kanab is well worth it. Whether you’re an avid hiker looking for new trails or a nature enthusiast new to Southern Utah, Kanab has something for everyone. Pack your hiking gear, leave the city behind, and prepare for an unforgettable adventure exploring Kanab!
What Makes Hiking in Kanab Special?
As the city of Kanab itself advertises, it is “Magically Unspoiled!” Hiking in Kanab, Utah, offers tourists and outdoor enthusiasts beautiful trails, unpopulated settings, and diverse landscapes. This area boasts world-famous red sand and rocks in the form of sand dunes, slot canyons, and mountains, making it a hiker’s paradise. Whether exploring the iconic Wave, wandering through Buckskin Gulch, or trekking up to the breathtaking views from the Vermilion Cliffs, hiking in Kanab, Utah, will make you want to stay and play all day. The picturesque trails provide an ideal backdrop for both seasoned hikers and beginners seeking adventure.
When Not to Hike in Kanab?
Summer in Kanab
Extreme temperatures are common during peak summer months in Kanab, so if possible, avoid planning your hiking adventures in July or August when the sun and heat are relentless. Be sure to pack plenty of water during any summertime exploration on the trails of Kanab because the dry desert heat will surely cut your adventure short if you don’t plan accordingly! Hiking in Kanab, Utah, is an incredible experience, but preparation is key to ensuring a safe and enjoyable journey.
Winter in Kanab
Although snow is less common in Kanab, the winter month temperatures of January through March will have you hiking right back to your fireplace. These months also present dangers of ice and mud, which compromise the sure footing needed for the rocky hiking paths of the area. Be sure to visit when you can safely admire the post-worthy trails, and when you can enjoy the picturesque views of desert flowers and green leaves against their red backdrop (you will surely miss out out on this during winter!).
Top 3 Short Hiking Trails in Kanab
While Kanab and its surrounding area has countless trails and paths designated for hiking, many of which maintained are by the Bureau of Land Management Kanab Field Office, three of which have particularly gained popularity in recent years for their extra-special trails and destinations. These have been chosen as featured hikes for their intermediate level of difficulty and their wondrous views, so avid hikers be sure to check out the featured list on AllTrails for more advanced adventures.
#1 Dinosaur Tracks Trail in Kanab, Utah
This trail is a short but steep climb (about 1 mile roundtrip), but well worth the view! Don’t worry about the path you take, they will all lead you to the same view. Just look ahead and use your judgement as certain paths are more difficult to climb than others. Be careful descending the the path after your fun – each trail is made of sandy gravel, making it easy to slip and lose your footing.
As you reach the overlook where dinosaurs roamed, take a moment to look below at the path you just conquered, and look out over the canyon. After taking in the beauty, wander around the ridge and be on the lookout for dinosaur tracks – some are hard to spot. Previous tourists have encircled many of the tracks along the path in small rocks, making them easier to admire. This is also the perfect photo opportunity to compare your hand to the track left by an extinct animal from millions of years ago. How will yours compare?
See additional hiking and navigation details for this trail here.
#2 Kanab Sand Caves Hike
Another steep climb (1.2 miles roundtrip), these man-made caves are a popular stop for hikers and explorers. This hike requires trekking up a sandstone rock face, so please do not attempt this hike with any mobility issues, and be especially sure of your footing at all times during your descent.
The picture you get here will surely be a hit on your social media feed, but you aren’t the only one! Many people now hike this trail for the famous pictures that come from it, so you may need to wait your turn. When you reach the cave mouth, just take a minute to catch your breath and rehydrate as you wait, because the climb will surely test you. Don’t worry, even though it’s tough it’s also short. The colorful sand and beautiful views will be worth it.
See additional parking, hiking, and navigation details for this trail here.
#3 Greenhalgh Trail in Kanab, Utah
Pronounced “green-off”, this trail offers a couple options. About .5 miles beyond the trailhead, this path splits in two. The lower path maintains a fairly steady elevation and will come to a dead end at a beautiful cliff face with greenery that enjoys growing in the shady area. If you are lucky you might get to see a small waterfall! The upper path leads to a steady climb in elevation, which will eventually take you over the mountain ridge. Feel free to turn around at any point you are satisfied because this trail is out-and-back, but make sure to enjoy all the lookouts over the canyon below. Please be sure to pack out anything you may take with you.
See additional hiking and navigation details for this trail here.
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