The final day of our spring break trip to Southern Utah was a fun one! This was our first visit to the area, so we wanted to pack in as much as we could during our week in Kanab. We visited Bryce Canyon National Park, Zion National Park, and hiked the Toadstool Hoodoos! But, hiking Peek-A-Boo Slot Canyon was the highlight of our trip!
What is a Slot Canyon?
A slot canyon is a narrow, deep canyon with steep, vertical walls formed by the erosive power of flowing water. These canyons are typically formed in regions with soft sedimentary rock, such as sandstone or limestone, where water has carved intricate channels over thousands or millions of years.
As unique as slot canyons are, they can also be dangerous during rainstorms or flash floods, because water can rapidly fill the narrow canyon walls, posing a significant risk to anyone caught inside.
Getting There
First, a high clearance four wheel drive vehicle is extremely necessary. I drive a 4WD Expedition and it would not have made the drive to the canyon. Luckily we had borrowed my mom’s Jeep for this trip and had no trouble off-roading the 3+ miles to the slot canyon. The trail is easy and fun, the sand is just very deep!
To find Peek-A-Boo Slot Canyon from Kanab, follow Highway 89 North out of Kanab for about nine miles. You will see a sign for Peek-A-Boo and a parking lot area on the right hand side of the road. Turn into the parking lot and then immediately turn left. This will take you onto BLM Route 102. Follow this until you reach the wash (almost like a dry riverbed). Here, turn left and follow the wash, this will be on BLM Route 106H and it will lead you straight to the slot canyon.
The Hike
Peek-A-Boo Slot Canyon – Distance: 0.7 miles | Time: 45 minutes | Level: Easy
From the parking area, you’ll embark on a short hike to reach the entrance of the slot canyon. Once inside, you’ll be greeted by towering walls of red rock that rise dramatically on either side of you.
This easy hike involves navigating through narrow passages, twisting turns, and occasional obstacles such as boulders or small drop-offs.
Highlights
- This is a very easy hike!
- The views are incredible and change with each turn!
- Off-roading to the trailhead is super fun!
- We had the entire trail to ourselves!
- It’s free and requires no guide or reservation!
Things to Know
- Get familiar with the drive to Peek-A-Boo before you begin your adventure.
- Download a map, cell service & GPS do not work well on this trail.
- Check the weather before you visit any slot canyon. Even a small amount of rain can cause flash flooding, which can be extremely dangerous for hikers.
- Take water and snacks on any trail you hike.
- Bring your camera! Even an amateur like me will get great shots along the trail.
- Follow Leave No Trace Principles so we can continue to enjoy this amazing trail 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!
Road Trip Queen 