Kanarra Falls

How to Get There

From Cedar City (13 mi): Take I-15 south to Exit 51 for Kanarraville, turn onto Old US Highway 91, continue through town on 100 North, and follow the road east to the trailhead parking area at the mouth of the canyon.

Overview

The Kanarra Falls trail offers one of the most memorable slot canyon hiking experiences in the American Southwest. Beginning in a narrow canyon carved by Kanarra Creek, the route gradually transitions from a pleasant streamside walk into a dramatic passage between towering red sandstone walls. Hikers frequently travel directly through cool flowing water as the canyon narrows around them, creating an immersive journey through sculpted rock formations and shaded corridors. The highlight of the hike is a series of picturesque waterfalls reached by climbing ladders installed within the canyon, providing both adventure and exceptional photo opportunities.

Careful visitor management has helped preserve the area's natural beauty while maintaining access to one of southern Utah's most sought-after hikes. The surrounding landscape combines elements of desert cliffs, mountain-fed streams, and colorful canyon geology that reflect the transition zone between the Colorado Plateau and the Great Basin. Seasonal snowmelt and summer monsoon rains can dramatically alter water levels, making every visit slightly different. For travelers seeking a blend of natural beauty, physical activity, and unique canyon scenery, the trail delivers an experience that stands apart from more traditional hiking destinations.

This article uses material from the Wikipedia articles and official tourism pages for Kanarra Falls, the Bureau of Land Management, and regional tourism resources, which are released under the Creative Commons Attribution-Share-Alike License 3.0.