If you have kids that enjoy short hikes with unique rock formations and lots to explore, then you should check out the Toadstool Hoodoos located near Kanab, Utah!

Our first stop on our recent road trip to Utah was to the Toadstool Hoodoos! My boys loved this trail and we all had such a fun time exploring the area. Plus, it was not crowded at all. Several different times during our visit we were the only people there!

What are Hoodoos?

Hoodoos are unique, thin spires of rock formed by weathering and erosion that can be caused by wind, ice and rain. There are several different sized hoodoos on this trail and it truly felt like we were on another planet! The entire landscape was nothing like we’d ever explored before. 

The Hike

The Toadstool Hoodoos – Distance: 1.8 miles | Time: 45 min. | Level: Easy

The out and back hike to the toadstools is mostly flat and extremely easy. At the beginning of the trail you will find lots of rocks to climb and small caves to explore. My boys loved this part! The trail was easy to follow and the views were great.

To reach the toadstools, you’ll continue north on the trail. I don’t remember seeing any trail signs, but the sandy path was clear.

Once at the toadstools, you’ll find a couple of unique clusters of hoodoos! The area is beautiful with unique rock formations surrounded by white and orange hills.

Highlights

• Kid-friendly trail – This is a fun family hike that has cool features to explore and is easy enough that our boys weren’t tired or complaining! If you are just getting into hiking with your kiddos, this is a great trail!
• Caves – we really enjoy exploring caves, so when we happen to stumble across a few on our hikes, we’re pumped! This was an unexpected surprise!
• Landscape – the toadstools, the desert plants, the sand, and the hills surrounding the trails really made for a gorgeous adventure!
• Lack of Crowds – the best part was the lack of crowds we encountered during our hike. It’s always nice to have an entire place mostly to yourself, to spend as much time as you want taking in the sights!

When to Visit

Considering that this is a desert landscape, spring and fall is the ideal time to visit. We went during the middle of the day over our spring break and the temperatures were very pleasant. If you plan to go in the summer, I’d recommend going early in the morning or later in the evening so that you aren’t too hot.

Things to Know

• This trail is located off Highway 89, 45 miles east of Kanab, Utah.  
• There are no fees or permits required for this hike.
• This dog-friendly trail is open year round.
• The parking lot is small, but we didn’t encounter any crowds.
• There are two small portable bathrooms in the parking lot.
• Please follow Leave No Trace Principles so we can all continue to enjoy this trail!  

We had a fantastic hike and our first taste of Southern Utah at the Toadstool Hoodoos! Utah is such an amazing state and we cannot wait to venture back that way!

More Utah Adventures

If you are planning a trip in Southern Utah, then check out my complete 7-Day Itinerary that includes stops in Kanab, Bryce Canyon, and Zion National Park!