Kanarra Falls: Hike Utah’s Best Slot Canyon

As soon as our kids said they wanted to go to Las Vegas for Spring Break, we knew we had to include Kanarra Falls in our road trip itinerary. When we were in Zion years ago, we wanted to hike the Narrows so badly, but the water level was too high for our little guy. While Kanarra Falls is not The Narrows, they both allow you to trudge through the water while hiking in a stunning slot canyon.

In this guide, we’ll explore everything you need to know to plan your trip to Kanarra Falls, from how to get there and what to pack, to tips for navigating the trail and making the most of your adventure.

About Kanarra Falls

Kanarra Falls is a natural wonder located in Southern Utah, surrounded by Zion National Park and managed by the Bureau of Land Management. The main feature of Kanarra Falls is the slot canyon, which has been carved out by the flowing waters of Kanarra Creek. The slot canyon is narrow and the canyon walls are steep, providing a unique and challenging experience for hikers.

Like many slot canyons in Utah, Kanarra Falls can be prone to flash flooding during periods of heavy rainfall. It is important for you to check the weather conditions before starting the hike and to be aware of the potential dangers of flash flooding.

Despite the challenges, Kanarra Falls is considered one of the best day hikes in Utah. We hike A LOT and Kanarra Falls is easily one of the best hikes we have done. This hike is suitable for hikers of all levels, including families with older children. I wouldn’t recommend hiking this trail with small children though. Depending on the current conditions, the water level can be high and the current can flow fast knocking down small children. On top of that, there are chances of flash flooding. The trail to the falls is approximately 3.7 miles out and back and requires wading through the creek and navigating through the slot canyon.

One of the highlights of Kanarra Falls is the beautiful waterfalls and pools, which are fed by multiple water sources along the trail. The water is cold and refreshing, making it a great place to cool off during the hot summer months. That being said, we went in early April and the water was not refreshing, it was just plain cold.

Although Kanarra Falls is not as well-known as other slot canyons in the area, such as Zion Narrows, it is a unique and stunning natural attraction that should not be missed by those visiting Southern Utah.

*Kanarra Falls has multiple names. We refer to it as Kanarra Falls and so does its official website, but others sometimes refer to it as Kanarraville Falls, Kanarra Creek Canyon Trail, or Kanarra Creek Falls.

Where Is Kanarra Falls

Address: 385 E 100 N St, Kanarraville, UT 84742

Kanarra Falls is located in the southwestern region of Utah, in the remote town of Kanarraville. It is in close proximity to several major cities and towns. The small town of Kanarraville, Utah is the nearest town to Kanarra Falls and is located approximately 13 miles from Cedar City and 40 miles from St. George.

Kanarra Falls is also located near the Kolob Canyons section of Zion National Park, which is known for its stunning rock formations and scenic drives. The Kolob Canyons section of Zion National Park is located approximately 7 miles from Kanarraville. And if you haven’t been to Zion National Park yet the visitors center is only about an hour away from Kanarraville.

How To Get To Kanarra Falls

If you are visiting Kanarra Falls from another state, the easiest way to get there is by flying into one of the nearby airports and then driving to the trailhead. The closest airports to Kanarra Falls are Cedar City Regional Airport (CDC) and St. George Regional Airport (SGU), both of which are located less than an hour’s drive from Kanarraville.

Once you arrive at the airport, you can rent a car and drive to Kanarraville. The drive from Cedar City Regional Airport to Kanarraville is approximately 15 miles and takes about 20 minutes, while the drive from St. George Regional Airport to Kanarraville is approximately 54 miles and takes about 51 minutes.

We chose to drive to Kanarra Falls as it was part of a larger road trip that we had planned. The quick drive through Kanarraville didn’t disappoint. The beautiful scenery was full of mountain views. The easiest way to reach Kanarra Falls is by driving to the town of Kanarraville and then following the signs to the trailhead. The town of Kanarraville is located just off Interstate 15, making it easily accessible from both Cedar City and St. George.

Parking At Kanarra Falls

The parking situation at Kanarra Falls is centered around the Kanarra Creek Trailhead, which is the starting point for the Kanarra Falls trail. The trailhead parking lot is paved and is the main designated parking area for visitors to Kanarra Falls. Parking in this lot is FREE.

As a popular destination, the parking lot can fill up quickly, especially during peak tourist season. I am guessing that the parking lot can accommodate at least 50 cars, but remember they give out 150 permits a day. We arrived on Sunday around 3:30 and there were only a couple of other cars in the parking lot.

My best advice to you is to keep an eye on how many permits are available on your selected day. If most of the permits are purchased, I’d plan on arriving as early as possible to make sure you can get parking. When we went in early April, most of the permits were still available on the day we selected making parking extremely easy.

In addition to parking, the Kanarra Creek Trailhead also has other amenities available for visitors, including restrooms and picnic tables. There are also 2 shoe wash stations to help hikers clean their shoes and prevent the spread of invasive species. The shoe wash stations weren’t working when we were there, thankfully we had extra bags that we were able to put our shoes in.

Do not wash your shoes in the bathroom sink. If you really want your shoes rinsed, bring an extra jug of water with you and rinse your shoes with that.

Kanarra Falls Permit

To hike the Kanarra Falls trail, a hiking permit is required for each hiker. The permit system is in place to manage the number of hikers on the trail and to help preserve the natural environment. They only give out 150 permits a day.

To obtain a hiking permit, you can visit the Kanarra Falls website and follow the instructions provided. The website offers a calendar with available dates for the future, you can select the date you wish to hike and the number of hikers in your group. Permits are non-transferable and non-refundable.

The payment must be made with a credit card during the online application process. The cost of the permit is $12 per hiker.

It’s important to plan ahead and obtain a hiking permit before arriving at Kanarra Falls. The number of permits available for each day is limited to 150 people, so it’s recommended to book early. Tickets can be purchased at the trailhead, however, I don’t recommend it as they are known to sell out. Hiking without a permit can result in a fine.

At the start of the trail, you’ll be greeted by a tiny house where you will have to show the park ranger your permits. Then you’ll have to fill out waivers for each person hiking before you can officially start your journey to Kanarra Falls.

Safety & Flash Floods Kanarra Falls

When hiking Kanarra Falls, it is essential to prioritize safety to ensure a memorable and enjoyable experience. Here are some tips for staying safe while hiking Kanarra Falls:

1. Check the weather forecast before you start your hike. Flash floods are a common occurrence in slot canyons like Kanarra Falls, and heavy rain can quickly turn a peaceful hike into a dangerous situation.
   
   Also, be aware of the possibility of flash floods. If you hear thunder or see rain clouds, exit the canyon immediately.
   
   Flash floods can occur suddenly, and the water can rise quickly, leaving you stranded or trapped.
   
2. Wear appropriate clothing and shoes that will protect you from the sun, water, and rough terrain. Consider wearing shoes with good traction, as the rocks and boulders in the canyon can be slippery.
   
3. Bring plenty of water and snacks to stay hydrated and energized during your hike.
   
4. Follow the marked trail and any posted signs. Stay on the designated path to avoid getting lost or injured. The trail is marked with orange flags.
   
5. Be mindful of other hikers and respect the environment by packing out all trash and waste.

Kanarra Falls Hike

• Length: 3.7 miles
• Route Type: Out and Back
• Difficulty: Moderate
• Elevation Gain: 649 ft.
• Dog Friendly: No
• Recent Reviews

The hike begins with a short walk up a dirt path incline. Once you’re at the top of the incline, the trail starts to level out. Pretty quickly you’ll come across a vault toilet. Continue on the dirt path until you stumble across a stream. From here you’ll continue to follow the trail where you’ll cross a few more streams. This part seems to carry on forever. We were constantly thinking, the slot canyon has to be near, but it wasn’t. Eventually, Kanarra Falls Creek starts to narrow and you’ll be forced to walk in the water full of slick rocks and boulders. This is where things get exciting. The water gets louder and you’ll quickly see the start of the slot canyon.

*From the start of the trail to the slot canyon is approximately 1.3 miles.

From here, you’ll navigate through a narrow slot canyon with shallow water, large boulders, and breathtaking high canyon walls. Shortly after entering the slot canyon, you’ll come across the iconic first waterfall, which features a metal staircase (It used to be a handmade wooden ladder) that leads up to another waterfall.

Once you reach the top of the ladder, you’ll see another waterfall which is small and has giant boulders to the side of it.

We stopped at this waterfall. But if you are feeling brave, you can climb the giant boulders to reach another waterfall. If you made it that far, you might as well continue walking until you reach another slot canyon. Just inside the slot canyon is what is considered the second waterfall.

When you’ve seen all you wanted to see, hike back the same way you came.

It’s important to note that the Kanarra Falls hike involves hiking in water and that you should wear appropriate footwear and clothing. Additionally, you should be aware of the risk of flash floods and check weather conditions before heading out on the trail. I say more on these topics a little later.

Kanarra Falls Weather & Best Time To Visit

Kanarra Falls experiences different weather conditions depending on the season. Kanarra Falls is open from dusk to dawn year round but will close due to snow storms & flash flooding.

Winter

Visiting Kanarra Falls in the winter can be a unique and exciting experience, but it also comes with some potential risks and challenges. The weather during the winter months can be unpredictable and harsh, with temperatures dropping below freezing and snow and ice covering the trails. As a result, the hiking conditions can be more challenging and require special preparation and equipment such as warm clothing, waterproof shoes, and traction devices like crampons or ice cleats. It is also important to check for weather closures or trail conditions before heading out. While the water levels may be lower in the winter, it is important to be aware of the risk of flash floods, which can still occur during the colder months. However, with the right preparation and caution, visiting Kanarra Falls in the winter can offer a peaceful and unique experience with fewer crowds and stunning snow-covered scenery.

Spring

Spring weather in Kanarra Falls can be unpredictable and variable. While the air temperatures can be mild and pleasant, the water temperatures can be close to freezing. You should also be aware of the possibility of sudden snowstorms and flash floods. In the spring, the snow from the winter months begins to melt, and the resulting water runoff can cause the water levels in the slot canyon to rise rapidly.

If you are planning a trip to Kanarra Falls in the spring should be prepared for varying weather conditions and bring appropriate gear, such as neoprene socks, neoprene pants, and waterproof shoes. It is also important to check the weather forecast and any potential weather closures before heading out on the hiking trail.

Despite the potential for unpredictable weather, visiting Kanarra Falls in the spring can also be rewarding. The surrounding landscape is lush and green, and the waterfalls are often at their fullest and most spectacular during this time of year.

We went in early April and loved it even though the water was ice cold. My daughter and I wore neoprene pants & socks. I also wore rain boots and my feet never got cold. I highly recommend wearing some sort of waterproof shoes. My husband and kids wore neoprene socks with water shoes and their feet got cold.

Summer

The peak season for Kanarra Falls is usually during the summer months when the weather is hot and the water is warm enough for swimming. You should be aware of the heat of the summer and bring plenty of water and sunscreen to protect yourself from the sun. Summer is also prone to thunderstorms which can cause flash flooding and Kanarra Falls to close.

Kanarra Falls is a popular destination during the summer months when the weather is hot and the water is refreshing. It’s a great place to cool off and enjoy the beauty of the canyon and waterfalls. However, summer is also the busiest time of year at Kanarra Falls, so expect crowds, plan to arrive early to get parking, and get your permits in advance.

Water levels are typically higher in the summer due to snow melt and increased rainfall, which can make the hike more challenging but also more rewarding as the waterfalls are more impressive. It is important to stay hydrated and protect yourself from the sun by wearing sunscreen and a hat, as well as bringing plenty of water and snacks.

I’m writing this article in April and many of the dates in June are already sold out. If your planning on visiting Kanarra Falls this summer, grab your permits now.

Fall

Visiting Kanarra Falls in the fall can be a beautiful and pleasant experience, with cooler temperatures and colorful autumn foliage. The crowds are typically smaller than during the peak summer season, making it a great time to explore the falls and the surrounding area. The water levels are usually lower in the fall, which makes it easier to hike through the slot canyon and enjoy the waterfalls. Keep in mind that while the water levels may be lower the water will be cold. The risk for flash floods can still occur in the fall, especially during periods of heavy rain. Flash floods can happen at any time but are most common in July, August, and September.

Best Time To Visit Kanarra Falls

The best time to hike Kanarra Falls is during the spring and fall months, specifically April-May and September-October. During these months, there are fewer crowds, and the weather is typically mild and comfortable for hiking, with cooler temperatures and less risk of heatstroke. Additionally, water levels are usually lower during the spring and fall, making it easier and safer to navigate the narrow slot canyon and creek crossings.

It’s also important to note that the hike can be closed or restricted due to weather conditions, such as flash floods or heavy snowfall. Be sure to check the Kanarra Falls website or with the Bureau of Land Management before planning your trip to ensure that the trail is open and safe to hike.

If you choose to hike Kanarra Falls during the summer months, be sure to start early in the morning to avoid the heat of the day and crowds. And always be aware of the risk of flash floods during monsoon season, which typically occurs in July and August. Ultimately, the best time to hike Kanarra Falls depends on your personal preferences and hiking abilities, so be sure to plan accordingly and stay safe while enjoying the beautiful scenery.

What To Pack For Kanarra Falls Hike

Some of these items that I’m going to list may be weather-dependent. Plan ahead and know what kind of weather to expect when you plan on visiting. This way you will only have to pack the items you’ll need and not the whole list.

Neoprene Socks – These are the exact ones that we used and they kept our feet a lot warmer than they would have been without them. They are a must unless you are hiking in the summer.

Neoprene Pants – Again my daughter and I used these. I’m not sure they were necessary because the water level was pretty low when we went. However, it was nice being able to walk in the water and not worry about the freezing water touching our legs.

Rain Boots – I hiked in a pair of Walmart’s Time and Tru Rain Boots and while it was weird to hike in rain boots, my feet stayed warm and dry the entire time. I highly recommend rain boots in you are hiking when the water temp. is cold.

Ice Cleats – If there is a chance of ice on the trail, I highly recommend bringing these.

Hydration Backpack – Having plenty of water is a must and a hydration backpack makes that easy plus has room to store your other belongings. We love the one that I linked. It’s affordable and amazing quality. We’ve had ours for over 6 years. The only downside is that it is not very big but don’t get me wrong it still holds plenty of stuff.

Layered Clothing – Wearing layers on this hike is important because when you start the hike there is no shade but when you enter the canyon the giant canyon walls block the sun making the temperatures cooler.

Dry Bag – With all this walking in the water, there’s a great chance that you’ll fall in. It’s best to keep all your electronics protected if they are not waterproof.

Water Shoes – We love these and they’ll be perfect for hiking Kanarra Falls when the water is warmer. You’ll want to wear shoes to protect your feet from sharp objects.

Phone or Camera – Trust me, you’ll want to take pictures!

Trail Map – We thought the trail was pretty well marked but it can get a little confusing sometimes. Cell reception may not be the greatest so downloading the trail map to your phone before you get there is wise. We love using AllTrails, but feel free to use your favorite trail program. Here are some of the best apps to use for hiking.

Sun Protection – Sunglasses, Sunscreen, Hat

Change of Clothes – You’ll most likely want to change out of your wet clothes when you finish hiking.

Where To Stay When Visiting Kanarra Falls

When visiting Kanarra Falls, there are several accommodation options available in the nearby cities and towns. The town of Kanarraville itself is quite small and does not offer any lodging options, but nearby cities such as Cedar City and St. George have a range of hotels, motels, and vacation rentals.

Cedar City, located about 12 miles from Kanarraville, is home to several hotels and motels, including national chains such as Courtyard Cedar City Marriott, Best Western Plus, and more.

St. George, located about 37 miles from Kanarraville, has a wider range of lodging options, including luxury hotels and resorts, budget motels, and vacation rentals. We stayed at TRU by Hilton and have no complaints. TRU hotels are our kids’ favorite hotels. The rooms are smaller but they enjoy the game room, pool, and they like their FREE breakfast options.

If you prefer a more rustic experience, there are also several campgrounds and RV parks located near Kanarra Falls, including the Red Ledge RV Park and St. George/Hurricane KOA Journey.

Helpful Resources We Can’t Live Without

Accommodations- We love and swear by HiltonHonors, but when we want to stay someplace different, we use Hotels.com. You can search for deals on hotels, cabins, houses & more.

Getting There- Roadtripping with our car is how we prefer to travel. That being said, Skyscanner has great deals on flights and RVShare has deals on RV rentals.

Other Favorites-
Save money on gas- Upside
Find pit stops on your route- RoadTrippers
Deals on local food & attractions- Living Social
Explore top city attractions at a fraction of the price- CityPASS

Looking for gear? See the best deals on clothing & gear here, & best travel essentials here.
Looking for road trip food ideas? Check out food for road trips you’ll love.
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Things to do Near Kanarra Falls

• Road Trip through Utah’s National Parks: Read our Utah National Parks Road Trip Guide.
• Zion National Park: Easy Hikes
• Explore Valley of Fire
• Meow Wolf: Learn everything you need to know before visiting Meow Wolf Las Vegas.

Read More: Destination Dupes – Alternate places for popular destinations

Final Thoughts

Kanarra Falls is an incredible natural wonder that provides a unique and unforgettable hiking experience. From the stunning slot canyon to the beautiful waterfalls and refreshing pools, Kanarra Falls has something for everyone. However, it’s important to be prepared and stay safe while exploring this beautiful destination. Make sure to check the weather and water levels before your trip, wear appropriate clothing and footwear, bring plenty of water, and always follow the Leave No Trace principles. By doing so, you’ll be able to fully enjoy the beauty and majesty of Kanarra Falls while respecting and preserving the natural environment.

Do you still have questions about Kanarra Falls? Ask us below in the comments.

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