The Kanab Sand Caves are a great roadside stop. They are the perfect place to take a break and stretch your legs if you’ve been in the car for a while. They are also fun to hike if you’re in the Kanab area and looking for something quick and easy to access.
The Kanab Sand Caves are man-made caves that were once used for sand mining. The sand was used primarily for glass making. Today, the caves are only used for recreation.
Personally, I would not make a special trip to see these caves because they have a lot of graffiti (names and such carved into the sandstone walls), but if you are in the area, they are worth checking out.
Directions to the Kanab Sand Caves
If you are coming from Kanab, the Sand Caves are located 5.7 miles north of Kanab on Highway 89. Parking is just before the caves on the right side.
If you are coming from the north, the Sand Caves are about 11.5 miles south of Mount Carmel Junction. The parking area will be on the left.
I recommend printing this handy map, courtesy of the Kane County Utah Office of Tourism before you go.
Hiking to the Kanab Sand Caves
The hike to the sand caves is about a half-mile round trip. A clear trail heads through the brush from the parking area. The trail is easy to moderate. You do have to walk up the side of a semi-steep mountain. Good shoes are needed for the hike. Walking inside the caves is fun, and the views are great!
Nearby Hiking Areas
Kanab, Utah, is surrounded by stunning natural landscapes, making it a popular destination for outdoor enthusiasts. Here are some notable hikes in and around Kanab.
- Buckskin Gulch: Known as one of the longest slot canyons in the world, Buckskin Gulch offers a challenging and visually stunning hike. Permits are required, and it’s important to be prepared for potential flash floods.
- Coral Pink Sand Dunes State Park: While not a traditional hike, this state park features massive sand dunes that are perfect for exploring. It’s an excellent spot for photography and sandboarding.
- Johnson Canyon Arch: This relatively easy hike takes you to a natural arch with beautiful views of the surrounding red rock landscape. It’s a great option for families and those looking for a shorter excursion.
- Kanab Rim Trail: Offering panoramic views of Kanab and the surrounding area, the Kanab Rim Trail is a moderate hike that provides a good workout and opportunities for bird-watching.
- The Wave: While not a traditional hike, The Wave is a famous sandstone formation located in the Vermilion Cliffs National Monument. Due to its popularity, a permit is required, and only a limited number of people are allowed each day.
- Toadstool Hoodoos: A short and easy hike leads to a collection of unique rock formations known as hoodoos. It’s a great spot for photography and geological exploration.
- Wire Pass to Buckskin Gulch: A less strenuous alternative to hiking the entire Buckskin Gulch, the Wire Pass trailhead leads to the confluence with Buckskin Gulch. It’s a great option for those looking for a shorter hike.
Leave It Better Than You Found It
Always remember to do your part to keep the area beautiful by packing out everything you pack in and not changing the landscape. The Kanab Sand Caves already have a lot of graffiti; however, that does not mean it’s okay to add more. 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.
