Have you heard of the Kanab Sand Caves, also known as Moqui Caves? This place is fascinating! I highly recommend checking it out if you’re ever near Kanab in Southern Utah. You don’t need a lot of time here and the hike is pretty easy!
What are Sand Caves?
The Kanab Sand Caves are mad-made caves that were once used for sand mining. This process was short lived, and now these caves are a little hidden gem for hikers and tourists to explore!
Getting There
This is such a unique place, right off the main highway that leads to Bryce Canyon or Zion National Park, just five miles outside of Kanab! We parked right off Highway 89 in a large, marked parking lot for the Sand Caves. You can’t miss it!
The Hike
Kanab Sand Caves Trail – Distance: 1.2 miles | Time: 45 minutes | Level: Easy
The hike to the caves was very simple. Once you park, you’ll follow a sandy path that takes you under the caves.
Keep following the path and you should see a hill that you can begin walking up. It looks steep, but as long as you keep going, it will be easy to maneuver. When you get to the top, the trail flattens out and you can continue the walk to the caves.
Once inside, we realized that the caves were a lot bigger than we had expected! We explored as deep as we could go, took in the views, and had a small photoshoot. It was a super fun adventure close to the town of Kanab, which is where we were staying.
Highlights
- This hike was very short and easy! You only need an hour or so to enjoy the caves.
- It’s FREE to park and take the hike!
- It was not too crowded at all inside the caves.
- The views were amazing!
Things to Know
- Location: US-89, Kanab, UT 84741. You’ll see a sign for Best Friends Animal Sanctuary and the parking lot is nearby!
- There is a semi-steep climb up to the caves and back down. For us, it was easy, but we did notice some people struggling on the way down.
- Always bring water & snacks when hiking.
- Keep close watch of your kids, the caves are open to steep ledges and drop-offs.
- Don’t forget your camera!
- Follow Leave No Trace Principles so we can continue to enjoy this amazing site for years to come!
More Utah Adventures!
If you are planning a trip to Southern Utah, then check out my complete 7-Day Itinerary that includes stops in Kanab, Bryce Canyon, and Zion National Park!
