The Belly of the Dragon
Explore a man-made tunnel transformed into a natural wonder near Zion National Park. A short, unique hike for all ages!
The Belly of the Dragon is a unique, man-made tunnel near Mt. Carmel Junction, Utah, that has been naturally sculpted by water erosion. Originally built as a drainage tunnel under Highway 89, it has become a popular hiking spot due to its distinctive, cave-like appearance.
A brief summary to The Belly of the Dragon (Trailhead)
- Mt Carmel, Mount Carmel, Utah, 84755, US
- Monday 12 am-12 am
- Tuesday 12 am-12 am
- Wednesday 12 am-12 am
- Thursday 12 am-12 am
- Friday 12 am-12 am
- Saturday 12 am-12 am
- Sunday 12 am-12 am
Local tips
- Wear sturdy shoes for the scramble into the tunnel and the uneven terrain inside.
- Bring a flashlight to navigate the darker sections of the tunnel and to better see the carved patterns in the sandstone.
- Visit during the day for the best light and to see the orange colors at the end of the tunnel.
- Check the weather forecast and avoid visiting during or after rain due to potential flash flooding.
- Respect the environment by not carving on the walls and packing out all trash.
Getting There
-
Driving
From Mt. Carmel Junction, head south on US-89 for approximately 0.5 miles. Look for a dirt road on the west side of the highway, indicated by a 'Dead End' sign between two guardrails. Turn onto this road and proceed for about 0.3 miles to the parking area on your left. The Belly of the Dragon trailhead will be visible from the parking area. There are no parking fees.
-
Walking
From the parking area, walk towards the tunnel entrance. The entrance requires a short, 4-5 foot scramble down into the drainage canal. Natural handholds in the rock make the descent manageable. Once down, you're at the entrance to the Belly of the Dragon.
Discover more about The Belly of the Dragon (Trailhead)
Iconic landmarks you can’t miss
Twin hollows campground
0.6 km
Discover Twin Hollows Campground: A serene escape in Utah's breathtaking natural landscape, perfect for camping and outdoor adventures.
Best Western East Zion Thunderbird Lodge
1.3 km
Experience comfort and adventure at Best Western East Zion Thunderbird Lodge, your ideal base for exploring the breathtaking landscapes of southern Utah.
Thunderbird Restaurant
1.3 km
Discover the culinary delights of Thunderbird Restaurant in Mt. Carmel, Utah, where American flavors meet warm hospitality.
89 & Nine Motel
1.5 km
Discover comfort and affordability at 89 & Nine Motel, your perfect base for exploring the natural wonders of Mount Carmel Junction, Utah.
Mt. Carmel Motel and RV Park
3.6 km
Experience comfort and outdoor adventure at Mt. Carmel Motel and RV Park in the heart of Utah's stunning landscapes, perfect for families and nature lovers.
Arrowhead Country Inn and Cabins
5.0 km
Discover the perfect blend of comfort and adventure at Arrowhead Country Inn and Cabins in scenic Mount Carmel, Utah.
Mt. Carmel, Utah
5.0 km
Experience the enchanting landscapes and rich heritage of Mt. Carmel, Utah – your gateway to adventure and natural beauty in the American Southwest.
Sinclair Gas Station
8.3 km
Experience convenience and local flavor at Sinclair Gas Station in Orderville, Utah – your go-to stop for fuel and snacks on the road.
East Zion Resort
8.8 km
Experience the breathtaking beauty and adventure of East Zion Resort, your ultimate getaway in Utah's stunning landscapes.
Cordwood
11.2 km
Experience the best of Utah's local cuisine at Cordwood, a restaurant in Mount Carmel that combines rustic charm with delicious flavors.
Co-op Cafe
15.4 km
Discover the flavors of Utah at Co-op Cafe, a cozy restaurant in Mount Carmel offering locally-inspired dishes and a warm atmosphere.
Hi-Road Basecamp
15.4 km
Discover Hi-Road Basecamp in Utah, where outdoor adventure meets cozy accommodations, perfect for RV enthusiasts and nature lovers alike.
Checkerboard Mesa View Area
17.3 km
Experience the breathtaking beauty of Checkerboard Mesa in Zion National Park, where nature's artistry creates stunning checkerboard landscapes.
Zion Ponderosa Ranch Resort
18.1 km
Discover adventure and relaxation at Zion Ponderosa Ranch Resort, your gateway to the stunning landscapes of Utah and Zion National Park.
Nomad Cafe
19.0 km
Discover Nomad Cafe in Kanab, Utah - a cozy cafe serving fresh, locally sourced meals and the perfect coffee to fuel your adventures.
Unmissable attractions to see
Mt. Carmel Highway Scenic Drive
1.8 km
Explore the stunning vistas and unique landscapes of Mt. Carmel Highway Scenic Drive, a must-see tourist attraction in Utah.
Elkheart Cliffs Slot Canyon Trailhead
2.8 km
Explore the stunning Elkheart Cliffs Slot Canyon Trailhead in Utah, where breathtaking rock formations and serene hiking trails await nature lovers and adventurers.
Red Caves
4.4 km
Explore the breathtaking Red Caves of Orderville, Utah, where stunning red rock formations and scenic trails await your adventure.
Red Hollow Canyon Trailhead
8.3 km
Discover the stunning beauty of Red Hollow Canyon Trailhead in Orderville, Utah, a paradise for hikers and nature lovers alike.
Zion Mountain Ranch
11.2 km
Experience the serene beauty of Zion Mountain Ranch, a perfect mountain cabin retreat near Zion National Park, ideal for nature and adventure lovers.
Red Canyon Slot (Peekaboo Kanab)
11.7 km
Discover the breathtaking beauty of Red Canyon Slot, a stunning hiking destination in Kanab, Utah, renowned for its vibrant red rock formations and serene landscapes.
Red Canyon Slot Aka Peek a boo trailhead
11.8 km
Discover the enchanting beauty of Red Canyon Slot in Kanab, Utah, where stunning slot canyons offer an unforgettable hiking adventure.
Visitor Information - Grand Staircase-Escalante National Monument
14.3 km
Explore the stunning geological formations and diverse ecosystems of Grand Staircase-Escalante National Monument, a nature lover's paradise in Utah.
Moqui Cave
14.7 km
Explore Moqui Cave in Kanab, Utah - a captivating natural history museum filled with geological wonders and Native American artifacts.
Sand Caves
15.2 km
Explore the stunning Sand Caves of Kanab, Utah, where natural beauty and adventure await in a breathtaking desert landscape.
South Fork Indian Canyon Trailhead
16.5 km
Discover the beauty of the South Fork Indian Canyon Trailhead in Kanab, Utah – a hiking paradise filled with stunning views and diverse trails for every adventurer.
East Rim Trailhead
17.2 km
Discover the East Rim Trailhead: A hiking paradise in Zion National Park with stunning views and diverse trails for all adventurers.
East Zion Adventures
18.1 km
Discover exhilarating outdoor adventures at East Zion Adventures, your gateway to Zion National Park's breathtaking landscapes and thrilling activities.
Dinosaur Tracks Trailhead
19.3 km
Explore real dinosaur tracks at Dinosaur Tracks Trailhead in Kanab, Utah – a must-visit hiking destination blending history with stunning natural beauty.
Keyhole Canyon
19.3 km
Experience the breathtaking beauty of Keyhole Canyon, a top hiking destination in Utah featuring stunning rock formations and scenic views.
Essential places to dine
Blue Mule Cafe and Bakery
5.0 km
Discover delightful homemade meals and irresistible pastries at Blue Mule Cafe and Bakery in scenic Mount Carmel, Utah.
Archie's Food to Die For
8.8 km
Discover Archie's Food to Die For in Orderville: A fast food paradise serving up delectable dishes in a cozy atmosphere.
The Cave Cafe
14.7 km
Discover unique flavors and cozy vibes at The Cave Cafe in Kanab - where every meal feels like an adventure!
Angel Village Cafe
14.8 km
Discover healthy vegan delights at Angel Village Cafe in Kanab - where fresh ingredients meet flavorful creativity.
Ponderosa Eats
18.1 km
Experience delightful dining at Ponderosa Eats in Orderville, Utah - where every meal tells a story of flavor and hospitality.
Kanab Creek Bakery
22.6 km
Discover delectable pastries and artisanal breads at Kanab Creek Bakery, your go-to spot for breakfast and lunch in scenic Kanab, Utah.
Giff's Barbecue
22.6 km
Discover mouthwatering smoked meats and homemade sides at Giff's Barbecue in Kanab—a must-visit destination for barbecue lovers.
Chuckwagon Cookouts
22.6 km
Savor authentic barbecue while exploring cowboy culture at Chuckwagon Cookouts in Kanab, Utah—a must-visit destination for every traveler.
Adria's Restaurant
22.7 km
Experience the flavors of Utah at Adria's Restaurant in Kanab - where every meal tells a story.
Rocking V Cafe
22.8 km
Discover delightful dishes at Rocking V Cafe in Kanab - where local flavors meet culinary creativity.
Coyote Sky Tacos
22.8 km
Discover authentic tacos bursting with flavor at Coyote Sky Tacos in Kanab - a culinary highlight for every traveler.
Tacos Sinaloa
22.9 km
Experience the vibrant flavors of authentic Mexican cuisine at Tacos Sinaloa in Kanab – where every bite tells a story.
FUSION HOUSE
22.9 km
Experience an exquisite blend of Asian flavors at Fusion House in Kanab - where culinary artistry meets deliciousness.
The Dining Room at Parry Lodge
22.9 km
Experience authentic regional flavors at The Dining Room at Parry Lodge in Kanab, Utah – where every meal tells a story.
Parry Lodge
22.9 km
Discover Parry Lodge: A perfect fusion of comfort and fine dining in scenic Kanab, Utah.
Markets, malls and hidden boutiques
Chevron
1.3 km
Chevron in Mount Carmel offers travelers a convenient gas station and well-stocked convenience store with clean facilities and friendly service.
Thunderbird Gift Shop
1.3 km
Discover unique treasures and local crafts at Thunderbird Gift Shop, a must-visit destination in beautiful Mount Carmel, Utah.
Thunderbird Resort
1.3 km
Experience the perfect blend of relaxation and adventure at Thunderbird Resort, your gateway to Utah's breathtaking landscapes and unique local charm.
Shell
1.4 km
Discover convenience at the Shell Gas Station in Mount Carmel, Utah, your essential stop for fuel, snacks, and travel necessities.
White Mountain Trading Post
1.4 km
Explore the charming White Mountain Trading Post in Orderville, Utah, for unique souvenirs and local crafts that capture the spirit of your travels.
Rock Shop Indian Jewelry Pottery Souvenirs
1.5 km
Explore a treasure trove of authentic Native American jewelry and pottery at Rock Shop Indian Jewelry Pottery Souvenirs in Mt. Carmel, Utah.
Rustic Mountain Furniture
1.6 km
Discover unique handcrafted furniture at Rustic Mountain Furniture in Mt Carmel, Utah, where rustic charm meets modern design.
Orderville Mine Rock Shop
7.4 km
Explore the Orderville Mine Rock Shop, a gem-filled paradise for rock enthusiasts and curious travelers in Utah.
Family Dollar
7.5 km
Explore Family Dollar in Orderville for unbeatable savings on everyday essentials, clothing, toys, and more – perfect for budget-conscious travelers!
The Rock Stop
7.5 km
Explore The Rock Stop in Orderville, Utah - a unique gift shop and coffee haven showcasing stunning rocks, minerals, and handcrafted treasures.
The Shop Coffee Co
8.3 km
Discover the inviting atmosphere of The Shop Coffee Co in Orderville, Utah, where expertly crafted coffee meets a cozy retreat for every traveler.
Terry's Food & Drug
8.4 km
Explore Terry's Food & Drug in Orderville, UT - a grocery store offering fresh produce, camping supplies, and local favorites in a welcoming atmosphere.
Long Valley Hardware
8.4 km
Discover the heart of Orderville at Long Valley Hardware, where essential supplies and local charm unite for every adventurer.
Antiques Americana USA
8.4 km
Explore Antiques Americana USA, a treasure trove of vintage collectibles and history in the heart of Orderville, Utah.
Joe's Rock Shop
8.8 km
Explore Joe's Rock Shop in Orderville, Utah, for an exciting showcase of geology with unique minerals, rocks, and fossils.
Essential bars & hidden hideouts
Thunderbird Golf Course
1.3 km
Discover the serene beauty of Thunderbird Golf Course, a 9-hole oasis in Mount Carmel, perfect for golfers of all skill levels.
Cowboys & Angels Speakeasy Cocktail Parlor
28.2 km
Uncover a hidden gem in Springdale at Cowboys & Angels Speakeasy Cocktail Parlor, where craft cocktails and a cozy atmosphere await.
FeelLove Coffee & Cafe Zion
28.2 km
Discover the perfect blend of nature and flavor at FeelLove Coffee & Cafe, just steps from Zion National Park.
Dulivia Ristorante Italiano
28.3 km
Savor authentic Italian cuisine at Dulivia Ristorante Italiano, a cozy oasis near Zion National Park, perfect for tourists seeking a delicious meal.
Jack's Sports Grill
28.3 km
Experience the perfect blend of flavor and fun at Jack's Sports Grill, a beloved spot for tourists in beautiful Springdale, Utah.
Buckskin Tavern
28.3 km
Discover the vibrant atmosphere of Buckskin Tavern in Fredonia, Arizona, where great drinks and local charm come together.
King's Landing Bistro
28.6 km
Experience exceptional American cuisine at King’s Landing Bistro, where local flavors meet breathtaking views in Springdale, Utah.
Wild Thyme Cafe at Trees Ranch
29.9 km
Discover the charm of American cuisine at Wild Thyme Cafe, a culinary gem in Springdale, Utah, near the majestic Zion National Park.
Pinewoods Grille
34.0 km
Experience culinary excellence at Pinewoods Grille, where every meal is a celebration of nature and local flavors in Duck Creek Village.
Trail Stop
34.7 km
Discover Trail Stop in Duck Creek Village, where fast food meets the stunning landscapes of Utah, offering a delightful dining experience.
Aunt Sue's Chalet
34.8 km
Discover the charm of Aunt Sue's Chalet, where delicious American cuisine meets a cozy café atmosphere in the heart of Duck Creek Village.
Hot Mama's Pizza & Brew
34.8 km
Discover the best pizza in Duck Creek Village at Hot Mama's Pizza & Brew, where flavors meet adventure in the heart of Utah.
DC Pub & Grill
34.9 km
Experience the vibrant flavors of DC Pub & Grill in Duck Creek Village, where delicious chicken wings, burgers, and sandwiches await you.
Balcony One
45.7 km
Experience the best of American cuisine at Balcony One in Virgin, Utah, where flavor meets stunning scenery and warm hospitality.
Cedar Breaks National Monument
49.3 km
Explore the stunning amphitheater, vibrant wildflowers, and rugged trails of Cedar Breaks National Monument in beautiful Southern Utah.
