
Slot Canyons Near Kanab Utah
Explore the mesmerizing, narrow slot canyons near Kanab, Utah, offering unique adventures and breathtaking natural beauty.

Highlights
Must-see attractions
Social
From TikTok & Reddit
Best Time
Pleasant temperatures, fewer crowds

Slot Canyons Near Kanab Utah
Best Time
Pleasant temperatures, fewer crowds

Highlights
Must-see attractions
Explore the mesmerizing, narrow slot canyons near Kanab, Utah, offering unique adventures and breathtaking natural beauty.
"A hidden gem absolutely amazing, its off the beat and path. Its a must and especially the picture and views you will get."

🚗 4x4 Vehicle Essential
Many slot canyon roads are sandy and require 4x4. Consider tours if you don't have one.
⚠️ Flash Flood Warning
Never enter slot canyons if rain is forecast. Check conditions before you go!

Highlights
Discover the most iconic attractions and experiences

Peekaboo Slot Canyon
Grand Staircase-Escalante National Monument
A stunning, narrow slot canyon with unique formations. Great for adventurous families and photographers.

Spooky Slot Canyon
Grand Staircase-Escalante National Monument
Known for its extreme narrowness, this canyon offers a thrilling, squeeze-through experience.

Buckskin Gulch
Arizona/Utah border
One of the longest slot canyons in the world, offering an immersive, multi-mile adventure.

Wire Pass Slot Canyon
Near Buckskin Gulch
A popular slot canyon hike that leads to Buckskin Gulch, often requiring a permit.
Plans like a pro.
Thinks like you
Planning Your Visit
Vehicle & Road Conditions
Flash Flood Safety
Best Times
Insider Tips
from TikTok, Instagram & Reddit
🚗 4x4 Vehicle Essential
Many slot canyon roads are sandy and require 4x4. Consider tours if you don't have one.
⚠️ Flash Flood Warning
Never enter slot canyons if rain is forecast. Check conditions before you go!
🚶♀️ Guided Tours Recommended
Guides ensure safety and enhance the experience, especially for less experienced hikers.
💧 Pack Plenty of Water
Desert conditions are dry. Stay hydrated on your hikes.
Tips
from all over the internet
🚗 4x4 Vehicle Essential
Many slot canyon roads are sandy and require 4x4. Consider tours if you don't have one.
⚠️ Flash Flood Warning
Never enter slot canyons if rain is forecast. Check conditions before you go!
🚶♀️ Guided Tours Recommended
Guides ensure safety and enhance the experience, especially for less experienced hikers.
💧 Pack Plenty of Water
Desert conditions are dry. Stay hydrated on your hikes.
📸 Camera Ready!
These canyons offer incredible photo opportunities. Capture the unique light and formations.
🚫 No Cell Service
Download offline maps before you go.
What Travellers Say
Reviews Summary
Visitors rave about the magical and unique beauty of the slot canyons near Kanab, calling them a 'hidden gem.' The adventurous nature of the hikes, especially Peekaboo and Spooky, is a major draw, offering stunning photographic opportunities. However, many strongly caution about the necessity of a 4x4 vehicle for access and the potential dangers of flash floods.
"Nice little walk after a fun drive. Probably best to go with a guide unless you have a legit 4x4 with a skilled driver. Excellent views and a great experience, highly recommend for adventurous folks with a little time to kill in the Kanab area. The walk is short and easy but well worth it."
Bear Johns
"So much fun….however do not even think about going there unless you have a legit 4x4. You will get stuck in the sand. We had a Jeep Wrangler that had trouble getting back out.
No cell service, so getting there with Google Maps worked well, but trying to get back without a signal was a challenge. Just one major turn 0.8 miles from the road.
The slot canyon was very cool. Goes on for a bit but not super long. Neat sending the end with the rocks piled up."
Jim Cielencki
"A hidden gem absolutely amazing
Our tour guide Brent and Lauren were awesome. We booked a private tour with atvs. We went sandboarding first and then we went to the peek a book canyons. It was beyond what we expected. Its off the beat and path. Its a must and especially the picture and views you will get. 100% worth it!"
Nick Haralambou
What People Like
What People Dislike
Frequently Asked Questions
🚇 🗺️ Getting There
A high-clearance 4x4 vehicle is highly recommended, especially for roads like Hole in the Rock Road leading to Peekaboo and Spooky Canyons. Sandy conditions can easily trap regular sedans or even some SUVs. If you don't have a suitable vehicle, consider booking a guided tour or renting an ATV.
These canyons are located off Hole in the Rock Road, which is a rough, unpaved road. It's about a 5-mile hike from the trailhead to the canyons. Always check with the local BLM office for current road conditions before you depart.
No, there is no public transportation directly to the slot canyons near Kanab. You will need your own vehicle or to arrange a tour that includes transportation.
Google Maps can be helpful for the initial drive, but cell service is unreliable in the area. It's best to download offline maps before you go and be aware of key turns, especially on the return journey.
Some slot canyons, like Wire Pass and Buckskin Gulch, require a permit and fee, which can often be obtained at recreation.gov or on arrival. Peekaboo and Spooky Canyons are generally free to access, but always verify current regulations.
🎫 🎫 Tickets & Entry
Generally, Peekaboo and Spooky Slot Canyons do not require a permit for day use. However, it's always wise to check with the local BLM office for any last-minute changes or specific regulations.
Slot canyons are natural formations and do not have set operating hours. They are accessible during daylight hours. However, access can be restricted due to weather conditions, particularly flash flood risks.
Many slot canyons, like Peekaboo and Spooky, are free to enter. However, some, such as Wire Pass and Buckskin Gulch, require a permit fee. Guided tours will have their own pricing structures.
Yes, for guided tours, it is highly recommended to book in advance, especially during peak season, to secure your spot. Some permits for longer hikes like Buckskin Gulch may also need advance booking.
While there are no strict age restrictions for most slot canyons, the narrow passages and scrambling can be challenging for very young children or individuals with mobility issues. Peekaboo is often considered more family-friendly than Spooky.
🎫 🏞️ Onsite Experience
The difficulty varies. Peekaboo Slot Canyon involves some scrambling and narrow passages, making it moderately challenging. Spooky Slot Canyon is significantly narrower and can be claustrophobic, requiring more physical maneuvering. Buckskin Gulch is a longer, more strenuous hike.
A typical hike through Peekaboo and Spooky Slot Canyons can take anywhere from 2 to 4 hours, depending on your pace, how much you stop for photos, and how crowded it is. The video footage often shows only a small portion.
Wear sturdy, closed-toe shoes with good grip. Lightweight, durable clothing is recommended, as you may brush against canyon walls. Layers are a good idea as temperatures can vary.
While the canyons are generally well-defined, it's possible to miss turns, especially in Spooky Gulch. Downloading offline maps and paying attention to trail markers or guide instructions is crucial.
Some slot canyons, like Peekaboo, are dog-friendly, but always check specific regulations. Ensure your dog is comfortable with narrow spaces and can handle the terrain. Leashes are typically required.
📸 📸 Photography Tips
The best light for photography is typically mid-morning to early afternoon when sunlight can penetrate the narrow openings, creating dramatic light beams. Golden hour in the late afternoon also offers beautiful, warm light.
A wide-angle lens is useful for capturing the scale of the canyons. A tripod can help with low-light conditions. Consider a polarizing filter to manage reflections and enhance colors. Protect your gear from dust and sand.
Use a wide-angle lens and get low to the ground to emphasize the verticality and narrowness. Experiment with different angles and perspectives to showcase the unique shapes and textures.
The twists and turns of Peekaboo offer many photogenic spots. In Spooky, the extreme narrowness itself is the main photographic subject. Look for areas where light beams are visible.
Challenges include low light, dust and sand, and the confined spaces. Be prepared for quick adjustments and protect your equipment. Patience is key to waiting for the best light.
For Different Travelers
Tailored advice for your travel style
👨👩👧 Families with Kids
Consider booking a guided tour, as guides can make the experience more engaging and ensure everyone's safety. Many tours are equipped to handle families and can tailor the pace. Remember to pack plenty of snacks and water, and be prepared for some scrambling.
📸 Photography Enthusiasts
Bring a wide-angle lens to capture the scale and unique formations. A tripod can be helpful for low-light conditions. Be mindful of dust and sand, and protect your gear. The sculpted sandstone walls provide endless opportunities for creative shots.
🚗 Road Trippers
Plan for at least half a day to explore one or two canyons. If you don't have a 4x4, look into ATV tours or guided excursions that can take you to these incredible locations, ensuring you don't miss out due to vehicle limitations.
Deep Dives
In-depth insights and expert knowledge
Navigating Hole in the Rock Road
It's crucial to check the latest road conditions with the local Bureau of Land Management (BLM) office before attempting to drive this road. They can provide up-to-date information on washouts, sand traps, and any closures. If you are not confident in your vehicle's capabilities or your driving skills, opting for a guided tour that provides appropriate transportation is a much safer and more enjoyable option.
For those with suitable vehicles, driving slowly and steadily is key. Avoid sudden stops or turns in deep sand. The journey itself can be an adventure, offering glimpses of the rugged desert landscape, but preparedness is paramount to ensure a successful and safe visit to the slot canyons.
Slot Canyon Safety: Flash Floods
Always check the weather forecast meticulously before and during your visit. Look for any mention of rain in the surrounding areas, not just your immediate location. If there is even a slight chance of rain, or if the sky looks ominous, it is imperative to stay out of the slot canyons.
Many local guides and park rangers emphasize that slot canyons are not safe to enter during or immediately after rainfall. The water level can rise rapidly, trapping hikers. Heeding these warnings and prioritizing safety over exploration is essential for enjoying the beauty of these natural wonders responsibly.
Choosing Between Peekaboo and Spooky
Spooky Slot Canyon, on the other hand, lives up to its name. It is significantly narrower, sometimes squeezing down to just 10 inches wide, making it a challenging and potentially claustrophobic experience. This canyon is best suited for those who are comfortable with tight spaces and don't mind a bit of a squeeze. It's an exhilarating adventure for the more daring explorer.
Many visitors combine both Peekaboo and Spooky into a single hike, as they are located near each other. This allows you to experience the contrast between the two. Remember that Spooky can be a one-way experience due to its narrowness, so planning your route accordingly is important.



Social
from TikTok, Instagram & Reddit