Sand Caves, Lake Powell Travel Guide

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Explore man-made caverns with stunning views on a quick hike just north of Kanab, Utah. A unique roadside attraction!

The Kanab Sand Caves, also known as Moqui Caverns, are man-made caves carved into the sandstone cliffs just north of Kanab, Utah. Created in the 1970s for sand mining, these photogenic caverns offer a brief, easy hike with rewarding views.

A brief summary to Sand Caves

US-89, Kanab, Utah, 84741, US

From Eve

Know before you go

Hi, I'm Eve. Here are a few practical things to know before exploring Sand Caves.

Wear shoes with good traction for the climb up the sandy slickrock.
Visit in the late afternoon or early evening for the best lighting for photos.
Keep a close eye on children due to steep drop-offs near the cave openings.
Bring water and sunscreen, as the hike is exposed with little shade.

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Getting There

Driving

From Kanab, drive north on US-89 for approximately 5 miles. Look for the signed parking lot for the Sand Caves on the right side of the highway, just past the turnoff for Best Friends Animal Sanctuary. The parking lot is well-marked. There is no fee to park.
Walking

From the Sand Caves parking lot, head west on the sandy trail. The trail descends into a wash and continues along the base of the cliff. After a short distance, the trail ascends the slickrock slope to reach the cave entrances. The climb is short but can be slippery. Wear appropriate shoes. The hike is about 1 mile round trip.

Discover more about Sand Caves

The Kanab Sand Caves, also referred to as the Moqui Caverns, present a distinctive and easily accessible attraction just a short drive from Kanab, Utah. These caves weren't naturally formed; instead, they were created in the 1970s when miners extracted sand for glass production. The mining operations have long ceased, leaving behind a series of interconnected chambers within the Navajo Sandstone cliffs.Hiking to the caves is a relatively easy endeavor, making it suitable for families and those seeking a quick outdoor adventure. The trail leads to openings that provide stunning views of the surrounding desert landscape and Highway 89. The caves themselves feature smooth, sandy floors and unique light and shadow interplay, making them a popular spot for photographers.While the caves are a fascinating place to explore, visitors should be aware of certain safety considerations. There are steep drop-offs near the cave openings, so caution is advised, especially when visiting with children. Also, the popularity of the caves has unfortunately led to some graffiti on the sandstone walls. Please leave no trace during your visit.

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