A quick trip from Kanab, the Belly of the Dragon is a family friendly cave and an easy way to explore some of Utah’s unique trails.
The Belly of the Dragon is a convenient side trip if you’re traveling to and from Kanab. Located just 20 minutes north of Kanab along Highway 89, this kid-friendly and dog-friendly hike can be done in less than an hour. Kids will likely climb around the rocks (as they should!) so expect them to get dusty and dirty.
Details:
Directions (Google Maps): To get to the Belly of the Dragon, search for Belly of the Dragon Trail outside of Kanab, Utah or click here.
Directions (old school maps): From Kanab, take Highway 89A north just over 16 miles and then turn left onto the dirt road area that leads to the trailhead. If you hit the Mt Carmel Junction with Highway 9 you’ve gone too far.
Driving Info: The turn off the highway takes you onto a dirt road but it’s easy for any kind of car to traverse. Be cautious during wet or icy conditions.
Time & Weather: We hiked this trail in early March and started hiking around 1pm. The weather was crisp at 50 degrees. No need for sunscreen or hats since the entire walk is through the cave tunnel.
Gear: This is such a quick hike that clothing is not important. However, most people will prefer to climb up or around some rocks so good footwear is important.
Trail Navigation: No trail to follow, just walk through the cave tunnel and be careful with the limited lighting.
Water & Food: No need to plan for water or snacks since this is such a short hike, but in summer months it gets very hot so always stay hydrated.
Trailhead Info: There is ample parking along the dirt road and turnout. Just find the opening to the cave and start exploring.
Pictures of the Belly of the Dragon:
From the parking spots it’s just a few steps before you enter the man-made cave. With limited lighting, be careful where you step. And expect the kids to get dirty.
After hiking through the cave you can continue a short while longer through a washed out riverbed. Often times there’s a trickle of water running down the rocks at the turnaround point. Then turn back and re-enter the cave as shown below.
This is a quick and dirty (literally) hike that is family friendly and accessible right off Highway 89. For something similar nearby, check out the Moqui Caves. It’s about 10 miles south on Highway 89. You park right off the highway and then do some light scrambling to get to the spectacular wind-carved caves. Wear shoes with traction and be careful.
Going to be in the Kanab area? There's a ton of hiking, camping and outdoor activities to get up to. Check out our Ultimate Hiking & Travel Guide for our tips on the most amazing hikes within a few hours of Kanab.
