The Belly of the Dragon is a fun and unique stop for anyone passing through the area! This short hike takes you through a man-made tunnel, created initially as a water culvert under Highway 89. Over time, flowing water shaped the walls into rippled patterns, giving the tunnel its cool and distinctive look.
I would not consider the Belly of the Dragon a destination location. Still, it is a perfect spot to stretch your legs, picnic, or take great photos traveling between Zion National Park and Bryce Canyon National Park from Kanab. It’s just a short detour and both the tunnel and parking are free to the public.
Kids will especially love playing in the tunnel, though younger children may need help climbing in and out. With its unique lighting and rippled walls, it’s also an excellent spot for photography—perfect for capturing some creative shots.
Despite gaining popularity on social media in recent years, the Belly of the Dragon still offers a quiet and peaceful experience. Even when there are other visitors, most people don’t stay long, so you can usually enjoy some time alone to explore or snap pictures.
Difficulty Level
The Belly of the Dragon is a short, easy hike, perfect for families and pets. It’s only about 0.5 miles round trip, making it a quick and fun stop. The main challenge is the uneven ground and the darkness inside the tunnel, so bringing a flashlight or using the light from your phone is a smart idea to help you navigate the tunnel safely.
Directions to the Belly of the Dragon
Google Maps will direct you to the Belly of the Dragon Parking area, and phone reception is strong for most providers. I recommend printing this handy map, courtesy of the Kane County Utah Office of Tourism, before you go.
Directions:
The Belly of the Dragon is located approximately 16 miles north of Kanab or 1/2 mile south of Carmel Junction along HWY89. The dirt road is on the west side of the road between two guard rails. To get to the parking area, you will drive a well-maintained dirt road until you see the parking area on the left. You will see the Belly of the Dragon Trail Head from the parking lot.
Flash Flood Warning
Since the Belly of the Dragon is a water culvert, it’s important to avoid entering the tunnel if there’s rain in the area, as water can rush through unexpectedly. The Southwest is prone to dangerous flash floods, which can occur even when it’s not raining directly where you are. Always check the weather in your area and surrounding regions, and remain aware of your surroundings for safety.
More Hikes to Consider
Bryce Canyon National Park
Bryce Canyon National Park is famous for its stunning natural amphitheaters filled with thousands of towering, red-orange rock formations known as hoodoos. The park’s unique landscape offers incredible hiking opportunities and panoramic views.
Coral Pink Sand Dunes
Coral Pink Sand Dunes State Park, located near Kanab, Utah, offers a variety of activities, including hiking, sandboarding, ATV riding, and camping. The dunes are stunning, with several hiking trails that lead to ancient ruins. Some hikes are easily accessible, while others may require a four-wheel drive or ATV for exploration.
Inchworm Arch
Inchworm Arch, also near Kanab, Utah, is a natural arch that resembles its namesake, an inchworm. This fascinating geological feature is a hidden gem, perfect for photographers and those seeking a unique hike. The trail itself is short, about 0.5 to 1-mile round trip, but reaching the arch requires navigating several miles down a dirt road.
Kanab Sand Caves
The Kanab Sand Caves are a series of short tunnels and chambers carved into the soft sandstone cliffs outside Kanab, Utah. Originally created for glass mining, the sand caves now offer an exciting spot for hikers and explorers. Accessing the caves involves a brief, moderately challenging climb, but the reward is a fascinating look into the area’s mining history.
Peekaboo Slot Canyon
Peekaboo Slot Canyon is known for its narrow passageways and beautiful light patterns. The name “Peekaboo” comes from the way sunlight filters through the canyon’s slim openings, casting mesmerizing patterns on the walls. While the hike inside the canyon is under a mile and relatively easy, getting to the trailhead requires a high-clearance vehicle or a 9-mile round-trip hike through deep sand.
Zion National Park
Zion National Park is known for its stunning scenery. From massive sandstone cliffs to serene rivers and waterfalls, it makes it a haven for hikers, rock climbers, and photographers alike. The park’s varied landscapes, from desert terrain to forested plateaus, offer a truly immersive experience in nature.
Leave the Belly of the Dragon Better Than You Found It
Always leave a place better than you found it. The last time I stopped at the Belly of the Dragon, I noticed names being scratched into the walls. Even though the tunnel isn’t a natural wonder, it’s still a fun stop, and graffiti of any kind should never be applied. Remember to respect nature and follow ethical practices when engaging in outdoor activities. Always leave a place better than you found it, and practice the principles of Leave No Trace. Enjoy your time exploring the trails and discovering the area’s hidden treasures!