Kanarra Falls
A favorite destination for adventure seekers. This water hike requires you to hike along and through the stream all the way up the canyon, a 20′ aluminum ladder, and several boulders.
Due to the uneven terrain, hiking poles and good water shoes are recommended. Hike at your own risk. Never hike alone; remember to tell others where you are going and when you will return. PERMITS ARE REQUIRED.
This beautiful slot canyon river hike is located just 13 miles south of Cedar City in the town of Kanarraville. Within the slot canyon resides Kanarra Creek, which supplies the beautiful waterfalls throughout the terrain. Being so close to Kolob Canyon’s section of Zion National Park, the trail is also surrounded by beautiful red rock walls and slick sandstone. The hike has gained notoriety as a favorite destination for adventure seekers, and the peaceful atmosphere and breathtaking views this natural wonder provides are sure to fill the nature lover’s soul.
Permitting
Permits can be obtained at www.kanarrafalls.com or at the trailhead. The cost is $12 per person and is limited to 150 people per day. Once the daily limit is reached, no further permits will be sold. Only credit or debit cards are accepted. No cash payments accepted and absolutely no refunds. Group permits are no longer available. Parking is FREE. www.kanarrafalls.com/
Getting There
Starting on Cedar City Main Street heading south, turn left to merge onto I-15 S. Continue south on I-15 for 5.6 miles. Take exit 51 toward Kanarraville/Hamilton Ft., then turn left onto Old U.S. Hwy 91. Continue on Old Hwy 91 for 4.7 miles. Follow 100 North as it winds east, becomes 250 North, and enters the mouth of the canyon.
Parking: There is a designated parking area that is free of charge with the purchase of your permit. There are additional parking options with charge if the designated parking is full. Please do NOT park in front of homes or driveways.
The Trail
From the Kanarra Falls parking lot, head through the hiker’s gate and follow the old access road (approximately 0.8 miles) as it wanders up into the Hurricane Cliffs and enters the lower open sections of the canyon. The trail will cross the stream several times along the road. The road ends by the water well and the trail continues, hiking in the stream most of the time. (You will get wet, and good water hiking shoes are highly recommended.)
At this point, the trail is mostly overgrown and you will be alternating between hiking in the water (usually less than a foot deep) and hiking on one of the many short trails on both sides of the stream. Whatever route you choose, please do your best to avoid causing any erosion to the banks. After about a half a mile, the canyon slots up and continues to the first major landmark of the hike: Kanarraville Falls, a 15-foot-high rock-jam waterfall.
⚠️ Flooding Updates: Kanarraville Falls Trail
The first ladder on the Kanarra Falls Trail (pictured) washed away in the flooding that occurred over the weekend. Visitors can still access the falls, though without the ladder you will not be able to climb past.
At this time refunds are not being issued for permits already purchased. Condition updates and additional information can be found online at kanarrafalls.com or by phone at (435) 233-2467. ⚠️
Be prepared and hike and your own risk
Not Recommended for Small Children
Kanarra Falls can be considered a family-friendly canyoneering excursion, in that it does not require special gear or climbing equipment; however, it can be challenging for younger children and is not recommended for anyone with physical limitations. Be aware that there are obstacles to climb over, slippery/uneven surfaces, and unstable ladders to traverse.
Flash Floods Can Kill
Kanarra Creek is in a slot canyon and there is a very real danger from flash flooding and rockfall. Flash floods can occur at any time of year but are most common in July, August, and September during monsoon season. Check the local forecast and remember conditions change quickly; you can also call the National Weather Service at (801) 524-3057.
*Know your escape routes, be aware of rising water levels, stronger currents, and sudden changes in water clarity. By entering a narrow canyon or wash, you are assuming a risk. Do not hike this trail if it is raining or if there is a threat of heavy rain.
Limited Facilities
“Go Before You Go” – There is one restroom located near the beginning of the Kanarra Falls Trail as well as one in the town parking lot. Please pack out ALL your trash (including human waste) and follow the Leave No Trace principles.
Absolutely NO Pets!
Leave pets at home – Kanarra Creek is the watershed for Kanarraville town. Human and animal feces can cause contamination.
REMEMBER, YOUR SAFETY IS YOUR RESPONSIBILITY!
Last but not least, HAVE FUN!
Plan Your Trip
Permit required
Only credit or debit cards accepted.
No cash payments.
No refunds.
Cost is $12 per person.
NO group permits.
Permits are available at: www.kanarrafalls.com
Information
Call Kanarra Falls Manager, Holly Hadley, at (435) 590-7490 or email manager@kanarrafalls.com.