Peekaboo Slot Canyon, also known as Red Canyon, is a mesmerizing natural wonder nestled in the heart of southern Utah’s rugged landscape. This slot canyon offers not only a thrilling adventure but also a serene escape into the breathtaking beauty of the desert Southwest.
As you embark on your journey through Peekaboo Slot Canyon, you’ll hike through narrow sandstone passageways, where towering walls of vibrant red rock surround you on all sides. The play of light and shadow creates a mesmerizing display, casting intricate patterns and hues. One of the highlights of the hike is the famous “peekaboo” feature, where a small opening in the canyon wall allows beams of sunlight to filter through, creating a magical play of light and shadow that adds to the enchantment of the experience.
Whether you’re an avid adventurer or a nature enthusiast craving a tranquil retreat, Peekaboo Slot Canyon offers something for everyone. So lace up your hiking boots, pack plenty of water and snacks, and prepare for an unforgettable journey through one of Utah’s most captivating natural wonders.
Getting There
Getting to Peekaboo Slot Canyon is the hardest part. The roads are incredibly sandy, and you must have a 4-wheel drive or ATV. If you don’t have one of those options, you can still get to the canyon by taking a tour, renting a Jeep (or other 4-wheel drive), or renting an ATV. All of those options are available in the nearby town of Kanab, Utah. The last option is to hike to the canyon from the parking lot. If you choose to hike, it’s a 9-mile round-trip venture through the sand. Finding the actual location is still slightly challenging once you have a way to get through the sand.
Directions to the Trailhead
From Kanab, head north on US Highway 89 for 8.6 miles, then turn right. There is a dirt parking lot here. If you don’t have 4-wheel drive, you will need to park here and begin your hike. If you have a 4-wheel drive, you will continue down the dirt road. Follow the road trail for 3.1 miles until you reach a wash. This is the same drainage as the slot canyon. Bear left and continue west 0.9 miles up the wash to reach the canyon’s entrance.
Hiking Peekaboo Slot Canyon
Hiking Peekaboo Slot Canyon in Kanab, Utah, offers an exhilarating adventure through narrow sandstone passageways, towering walls, and unique rock formations. Here’s some information to help you plan your hike.
Trail Difficulty: The hike through Peekaboo Slot Canyon is considered moderately strenuous, with some scrambling required and sections of narrow passages that may require squeezing through tight spaces.
Trail Length: The round-trip distance for the hike through Peekaboo Slot Canyon is approximately 3 miles. The hike typically takes around 2-3 hours to complete, depending on your pace and how much time you spend exploring and taking photos.
Trail Conditions: The trail through Peekaboo Slot Canyon involves navigating through sandy washes and scrambling over rocks. In some sections, you may encounter obstacles such as boulders.
Fun Facts About Peekaboo Slot Canyon in Kanab
- A slot canyon is a long, narrow passageway with sheer rock walls often reaching 100 feet or higher.
- Utah has the highest concentration of slot canyons in the world, with an estimated 1000 in the southern part of the state.
- There are two Peek-A-Boo slot canyons in Utah. One is near Kanab, Utah, and the other is in the Escalante-Grand Staircase National Monument.
- Anasazi Indians used the canyon to store their grain. The moki steps carved into the sandstone can be seen.
Nearby Hikes and Places to Explore
- Buckskin Gulch
- Catstair Canyon
- Coral Pink Sand Dunes
- Horseshoe Bend
- Lower Antelope Canyon
- Kanab Sand Caves
- Toadstools
- Upper Antelope Canyon
- White Pockets
Leave It Better Than You Found It
Remember to respect Peekaboo Slot Canyon 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!