Kanarra Falls
A breathtaking slot canyon hike in Utah with cascading waterfalls, requiring a permit for an intimate adventure.
Highlights
Must-see attractions
Social
From TikTok & Reddit
Best Time
Beat the crowds and heat
Kanarra Falls
Best Time
Beat the crowds and heat
Highlights
Must-see attractions
A breathtaking slot canyon hike in Utah with cascading waterfalls, requiring a permit for an intimate adventure.
"The most magical hike we've done in Utah yet!"
👟 Waterproof Shoes are Key
Embrace getting wet! Waterproof shoes with good grip are essential for navigating the stream and rocks.
💧 Pack a Dry Change
Bring dry socks and clothes for the car ride back. You'll definitely get soaked!
Quick Facts
Rating
4.8 · 1,179 reviews
Type
Hiking Area
Highlights
Discover the most iconic attractions and experiences
The Slot Canyon
Main trail
Towering, narrow canyon walls create a magical, otherworldly experience. A must-see!
Cascading Waterfalls
Along the trail
Multiple beautiful waterfalls, including a dramatic main fall, offer stunning photo opportunities.
The Log Climb
Past the first waterfall
A unique and memorable challenge involving climbing over a log to continue the hike.
The Ladder Ascent
Past the first waterfall
Navigate a ladder to reach higher sections of the canyon and more secluded falls.
Plans like a pro.
Thinks like you
Planning Your Visit
Book Your Permit Early!
Embrace the Water
Best Times
Insider Tips
from TikTok, Instagram & Reddit
👟 Waterproof Shoes are Key
Embrace getting wet! Waterproof shoes with good grip are essential for navigating the stream and rocks.
💧 Pack a Dry Change
Bring dry socks and clothes for the car ride back. You'll definitely get soaked!
🚶♀️ Hiking Poles Help
Consider trekking poles for stability on slippery rocks and in the water.
📸 Capture the Magic
The slot canyon and waterfalls are incredibly photogenic. Don't forget your camera!
Tips
from all over the internet
👟 Waterproof Shoes are Key
Embrace getting wet! Waterproof shoes with good grip are essential for navigating the stream and rocks.
💧 Pack a Dry Change
Bring dry socks and clothes for the car ride back. You'll definitely get soaked!
🚶♀️ Hiking Poles Help
Consider trekking poles for stability on slippery rocks and in the water.
📸 Capture the Magic
The slot canyon and waterfalls are incredibly photogenic. Don't forget your camera!
🚫 No Dogs Allowed
Leave your furry friends at home; pets are not permitted on the trail.
What Travellers Say
Reviews Summary
Kanarra Falls is widely praised as an absolutely amazing and unique hike, offering a magical slot canyon experience with beautiful waterfalls. Visitors love the adventure of wading through the stream and the stunning natural scenery. Some find the hike challenging due to the water and rocks, and the need for advance permit booking can be a hurdle, but most agree it's well worth the effort.
"An absolutely amazing hike. Quite an enjoyable hike, roughly in and out of the trail head 2-3 hours. Easy to Moderate. You will get wet regardless of the season. I’ve been in the winter and spring both had their own moments of joy and specialness. I’ve gone with no water, with water, small bags, never walking sticks. It’s honestly an easy hike.
Would recommend water proof shoes with good grip or shoes you don’t care about getting soaked. Early mornings are best, after 9am/10am it gets packed and you have to deal with all the commotion that comes with it.
Dogs are NOT welcomed but my dog is ASA certified so keep that in mind."
Aaron
"If you are an experienced hiker then you will have no trouble with this hike. We are not much of hikers so we struggled a bit walking through the stream with all the rocks. There are spots you have to climb up some rocks too. We did manage to do it but our feet were not happy with us. The waterfall was beautiful though and the slot canyons were awesome. I've never seen anything like it in person before. It really was beautiful! It wasn't too crowded either which was nice."
J.S W
"I thought this hike to the falls would be boring but I thoroughly enjoyed walking up the creek. Beautiful views! Some stones to climb over but well worth it.
We didn't make it to the 2nd falls. There's a boulder to climb up and over to get there (.25 miles). Didn't realize it until we came back to the parking lot."
Edmund Green
What People Like
What People Dislike
Frequently Asked Questions
🚇 🗺️ Getting There
Kanarra Falls is located in Kanarraville, Utah, about a 45-minute drive from Zion National Park. Take I-15 South to Exit 42, then head east on UT-17 and follow signs for Kanarraville. Parking is free near the trailhead.
Public transport options to Kanarra Falls are very limited. It's best to have your own vehicle or arrange a ride. The trailhead is easily accessible by car from the main road in Kanarraville.
The trailhead is located in the town of Kanarraville, Utah. Simply follow the signs from the main road. Parking is available and generally free.
The drive to Kanarra Falls from Zion National Park is approximately 45 minutes to an hour, depending on traffic and your starting point within Zion.
Kanarraville is a small town. For more extensive accommodation options, consider staying in nearby towns like Cedar City or Springdale (closer to Zion).
🎫 🎫 Tickets & Entry
Yes, a permit is required to hike Kanarra Falls. You must book your permit online in advance through the official Kanarra Falls website.
The permit fee for Kanarra Falls is $12 per person. This fee helps manage visitor numbers and maintain the trail.
Only 150 people are allowed into the canyon daily to preserve the experience and environment. Book your permit well in advance!
No, permits are non-refundable and non-transferable. Make sure to choose your date carefully when booking.
Permits must be purchased online in advance from the official Kanarra Falls website. They are not available for purchase at the trailhead.
🎫 🏞️ Onsite Experience
The hike is generally considered moderate to challenging. While the distance is manageable (around 3.7 miles roundtrip), navigating the water, rocks, and occasional climbs can be strenuous for some.
Most visitors spend 2-4 hours completing the Kanarra Falls hike, including time for photos and enjoying the scenery.
Yes, you will definitely get wet! The trail involves hiking in a stream, with water levels varying from ankle-deep to waist-deep in some sections.
Wear quick-drying clothing and waterproof shoes with good grip. Neoprene socks are also recommended for comfort in the cold water.
Yes, hiking poles are highly recommended for stability on slippery rocks and in the water, especially if you're not accustomed to stream hiking.
📸 📸 Photography
The slot canyon itself offers dramatic lighting and textures. The main waterfall at the end of the hike is also a prime subject. Don't miss the unique log and ladder sections for interesting shots.
The narrowness of the slot canyon can make it challenging to get wide shots, but the intimate scale creates beautiful, dramatic photos. Be mindful of water spray.
A wide-angle lens is useful for capturing the slot canyon. A waterproof camera or a good phone case is advisable due to the water. Consider a tripod for waterfall shots.
Early morning or late afternoon can offer softer light and fewer crowds. However, the dramatic light filtering into the slot canyon can be stunning at any time.
Drone usage is typically restricted in natural areas like Kanarra Falls to protect wildlife and the visitor experience. Check local regulations before flying.
Social
from TikTok, Instagram & Reddit