Also known as the Moqui Caverns, the Kanab Sand Caves in southern Utah are a unique adventure for all ages of hikers. This relatively short trail involves a bit of rock scrambling to get up into the sand caves, but is well worth the climb!
I will explain the history of the sand caves, provide directions to the trailhead, and offer tips for making the most of this experience.
- Cost: Free!
- Distance: 1.2 miles out-and-back
- Elevation gain: ~120 feet
- Kid-friendly, dogs allowed on leashes
- Scramble hike
History of the Sand Caves
The Moqui Sand Caves are man-made caverns, created in 1930-1940. They mined sand from the caves to make molds for casting iron and bulletproof glass. Although this isn’t a naturally-formed structure, the soft sandstone walls and unique geology of the rock layers are interesting to see up close.
There are multiple “rooms” within the cavern that look out onto the road below.
Location of the Kanab Sand Caves Trailhead
The Kanab Sand Caves are visible from the main road (Highway 89). The trailhead parking area is located right off of the turn for Best Friends Animal Sanctuary – the largest no-kill animal rescue in the country.
The dirt parking lot has plenty of spaces and rarely fills up. From here, it’s about a half mile trek to the sand caves entrance.
Map for Sand Caves Parking
Cave Coordinates: 37°07’01.7″N 112°33’37.8″W
Navigating into the Sand Caves
Keep your eyes open looking for the cavern openings above – you will pass by these overhead and continue walking. The trail will navigate you to a slightly imposing rock face. The farther northwest you walk, the more gradual the incline becomes. Meaning, the easiest way to get up there is to take the least direct approach.
You’ll have to scramble up the side of the rock face slowly and carefully. While this may sound daunting, the trail is regularly traversed by hikers of all ages. When I was there, I saw a multi-generational family with grandparents and grandchildren making their way up and down the sides of the rock. Still, it’s recommended to wear sturdy shoes with good traction. My trusty Merrells make me feel safe and confident with each step.
Inside the Moqui Caverns
If you’re visiting on a hot day in the spring or summer, the dip in temperature once inside the caves feels especially nice.
The sand is slightly deep but manageable to walk in. Be careful, especially with small children, near the cave openings as there is a straight drop out each window.
Take plenty of pictures, play in the sand, and enjoy exploring the entire cavern!
In total, we only spent about an hour hiking and exploring inside the sand caves. It’s well worth the stop and is perfect for pictures during sunset (the caves face west).
Leave No Trace
With this area’s increasing popularity and visitation unfortunately comes vandalism in the form of litter and graffiti on the rock walls. Protect this special place by leaving it undisturbed without carving, etching, or painting anything into the soft sandstone rock.
What to Bring on Your Hike
- Water with or without electrolytes, particularly if visiting in warm weather.
- Again, wear shoes with good grip since some parts of the mountain can be rather smooth.
- Download the trail map or take screenshots before beginning to make yourself familiar with the layout of the trail and your surroundings.
- Sunscreen or layered SPF clothing for before and after you’ve explored the sand caves.
Other Hikes Near Kanab Utah
The sand caves lie less than 6 miles from Kanab’s city center. Kanab is a fantastic base camp for exploring southern Utah with many different adventures within a couple hours drive. Here are some nearby options if you’re staying locally and want to explore more:
- Stop at the Moqui Cave Museum just down the road to learn more about the sand caves.
- Hike the Belly of the Dragon Trail – another great option for families.
- Hike some of the many other nearby trails in Kanab (Bunting Trail, Dinosaur Tracks Trail, Mansard Trail, Inchworm Arch, etc.)
- Hike to Buckskin Gulch via Wire Pass Trail
- Enter the lottery system to explore the famous Wave in northern Arizona
- Visit the unique Toadstool Hoodoos also off highway 89 in Grand Staircase Escalante National Monument.
Full-Day Adventures Near Kanab
- Drive to Zion National Park
- Head north to Bryce Canyon National Park
- Drive east to Page, Arizona to see Horseshoe Bend and explore Lake Powell
- Go south to see the North Rim of Grand Canyon National Park
