Belly of the Dragon
A surreal, man-made tunnel carved into sandstone, offering a quick, otherworldly adventure perfect for photos and families.
Highlights
Must-see attractions
Social
From TikTok & Reddit
Best Time
Quick and easy stop
Belly of the Dragon
Best Time
Quick and easy stop
Highlights
Must-see attractions
A surreal, man-made tunnel carved into sandstone, offering a quick, otherworldly adventure perfect for photos and families.
"Walk through a surreal, sculpted sandstone tunnel that feels like another world. Perfect for photos!"
🔦 Bring a Flashlight
Essential for navigating the darker sections of the tunnel and capturing great photos.
👟 Easy Walk, Not a Hike
The main attraction is the tunnel itself, requiring minimal walking. The extended trail is optional.
Highlights
Discover the most iconic attractions and experiences
The Dragon's Belly Tunnel
Main drainage tunnel
Walk through a surreal, sculpted sandstone tunnel that feels like another world. Perfect for photos!
Sculpted Sandstone Walls
Inside the tunnel
Marvel at the mesmerizing patterns carved by water flow, creating an eerie and beautiful natural wonder.
Easy Access & Family Fun
Tunnel entrance
A short, easy walk suitable for all ages and fitness levels, making it a great stop for families.
Plans like a pro.
Thinks like you
Planning Your Visit
Quick Stop, Big Impact
Beyond the Tunnel
Best Times
Insider Tips
from TikTok, Instagram & Reddit
🔦 Bring a Flashlight
Essential for navigating the darker sections of the tunnel and capturing great photos.
👟 Easy Walk, Not a Hike
The main attraction is the tunnel itself, requiring minimal walking. The extended trail is optional.
📸 Perfect Photo Spot
The unique tunnel formations offer incredible photo opportunities. Don't forget your phone!
🚗 Roadside Convenience
Located right off Highway 89, with free parking and easy access. Ideal for a quick stop.
Tips
from all over the internet
🔦 Bring a Flashlight
Essential for navigating the darker sections of the tunnel and capturing great photos.
👟 Easy Walk, Not a Hike
The main attraction is the tunnel itself, requiring minimal walking. The extended trail is optional.
📸 Perfect Photo Spot
The unique tunnel formations offer incredible photo opportunities. Don't forget your phone!
🚗 Roadside Convenience
Located right off Highway 89, with free parking and easy access. Ideal for a quick stop.
🐶 Pet-Friendly Adventure
Leashed pets are welcome, making it a great stop for travelers with furry companions.
What Travellers Say
Reviews Summary
Visitors rave about Belly of the Dragon as a unique and easily accessible roadside attraction, perfect for a quick stop and fantastic photos. While some note the extended trail is less impressive, the tunnel itself is consistently praised for its surreal beauty and family-friendly nature. It's a highly recommended, low-effort adventure.
"We had a great time walking this trail. You will need a flashlight as the “belly” gets dark in the center. A couple tricky spots to walk, but nothing too bad."
Irene Estlund
"Ok, if you're in this area (Hwy 89 south of Orderville) then it worth making this stop (right off the highway) for this very short hike - and especially if you have kids. Dirt parking lot, but the entrance is not even 30 yards and the man made "tunnel" is kinda cool to walk through. Try and remember to bring a flashlight because it's dark in the middle. The hike through the tunnel (and back) is maybe 20-30 mins."
Dale Hicks
"Very cool short walking tunnel. Helps to use the flashlight on your phone. It takes roughly 10 mins to go through and turn around and come back. Makes for some cool pictures."
Rebecca Ellison
What People Like
What People Dislike
Frequently Asked Questions
🚇 🗺️ Getting There
Belly of the Dragon is conveniently located just off Highway 89, north of Kanab, Utah, near Orderville. There's a dirt parking lot right next to the entrance, making it very easy to access. No 4WD is required.
Yes, Belly of the Dragon is a short drive from Zion National Park, particularly its east side. It's a great stop if you're driving between Kanab and the park.
Search for 'Belly of the Dragon' on your GPS or mapping app. It's typically well-marked on most navigation systems and is situated directly off Highway 89.
Absolutely! A regular car is perfectly fine for reaching Belly of the Dragon. The access road and parking area are generally well-maintained dirt paths, not requiring specialized vehicles.
Public transportation options are very limited in this remote area. It's best to visit Belly of the Dragon with your own vehicle or as part of a guided tour.
🎫 🎫 Tickets & Entry
No, there are no tickets or permits required to visit Belly of the Dragon. Access to the tunnel and the surrounding area is free for all visitors.
Belly of the Dragon is an outdoor natural attraction and is accessible 24/7. However, visiting during daylight hours is recommended for safety and better photo opportunities.
There is no entrance fee for Belly of the Dragon. It's a free roadside attraction that anyone can visit at any time.
While not strictly necessary due to its easy access, some local tour operators in Kanab may offer guided trips that include Belly of the Dragon as part of a larger itinerary.
As it's a quick stop, crowds can fluctuate. Early mornings or late afternoons might offer a more solitary experience, though it's generally not overly crowded.
🎫 🧭 Onsite Experience
Most visitors spend about 10-30 minutes exploring the tunnel itself. The actual hike beyond the tunnel is longer but less remarkable for many.
Comfortable walking shoes are recommended, especially if you plan to explore beyond the main tunnel. The ground can be uneven.
Yes, Belly of the Dragon is very family-friendly. The tunnel is easy to walk through, with only minor, very light rock climbing for toddlers.
The area around the tunnel is mostly flat with some uneven dirt paths. Inside the tunnel, the ground can be a bit rough and wet in places.
There are no restrooms or facilities directly at Belly of the Dragon. It's a natural attraction, so plan accordingly.
📸 📸 Photography
The interior of the tunnel, with its sculpted walls and dramatic shadows, is the prime photography location. Experiment with different angles and use your flashlight for dramatic effect.
Use a wide-angle lens to capture the tunnel's scale. A tripod can be helpful for low-light shots. Consider using your phone's flashlight to illuminate subjects or create interesting light trails.
Yes, the center of the tunnel can be quite dark, which is why a flashlight is highly recommended. This darkness also contributes to its unique atmosphere and photographic potential.
Drone usage regulations can vary. It's always best to check current FAA guidelines and local restrictions before flying a drone in the area.
While the tunnel is atmospheric anytime, mid-day light can create interesting contrasts. However, the unique shadows and textures are visible throughout the day.
For Different Travelers
Tailored advice for your travel style
👨👩👧 Families with Kids
Bring a flashlight to make the darker parts even more fun, and be prepared for some very light, easy scrambling that even toddlers can manage. The free parking and no-permit entry make it a stress-free outing. Plus, it's pet-friendly if your furry family members want to join!
📸 Photographers
Experiment with wide-angle lenses to capture the scale of the tunnel. Mid-day light can create interesting contrasts, but the atmospheric darkness in the center, enhanced by your own light source, is where the magic truly happens. It's a quick, accessible location for some truly memorable shots.
🚗 Road Trippers & Day-Trippers
No need for special gear or permits, just pull over, explore the tunnel, snap some photos, and be back on your way in under an hour. It's an easy way to add a unique and memorable stop to your journey without significant effort.
Deep Dives
In-depth insights and expert knowledge
Understanding the Belly of the Dragon
+1This unique formation has gained significant popularity through social media, attracting visitors eager to experience its surreal beauty. While the tunnel itself is the main attraction, the surrounding area offers a glimpse into the rugged desert landscape of southern Utah.
It's important to note that while it resembles a slot canyon, its origins are artificial. This distinction doesn't diminish its visual appeal, but it's a key piece of information for understanding this unique geological (and man-made) wonder.
Navigating the Tunnel and Trail
Inside, the sculpted sandstone walls create a dramatic and somewhat eerie atmosphere. A flashlight is highly recommended, as the central part of the tunnel can be quite dark, enhancing the experience and aiding in photography. The ground can be uneven and occasionally wet, so sturdy footwear is advisable.
For those seeking a longer excursion, a trail extends beyond the tunnel. However, many visitors and online reviews suggest that the extended hike is less visually striking than the tunnel itself. The primary appeal and the most rewarding part of the visit for most is the unique experience of walking through the sculpted tunnel.
Social
from TikTok, Instagram & Reddit