Kanab’s Top 5 Non-Technical Slot Canyons Everyone Can Enjoy
You are probably familiar with Antelope Canyon – the famous red rock slot canyon located near Page on the Navajo Nation, prized by photographers from all over the world. Access to Antelope Canyon is possible only with a Navajo guide and subject to strict rules: no lingering, no tripods, no video. This makes sense given that Antelope Canyon sees approximately 350 visitors each hour, which requires Antelope Canyon guides to prioritize efficiency above all else.
Looking for a slot canyon experience that combines breathtaking beauty, outstanding photography, and a more “off-the-beaten-path” experience than what Antelope Canyon can offer? Come to Kanab, Utah, a mere one hour and fifteen-minute drive from the city of Page.
Kanab and the public lands surrounding it are home to several wonderful non-technical slot canyons that are nowhere near as mainstream as Antelope Canyon; due to their location on public lands, these canyons are open to the public with or without a guide. Here are our top five:
Buckskin Gulch via Wire Pass.
This slot canyon is accessible with a 2-wheel-drive vehicle in good weather, but it also carries an extreme flash flood risk, which caused multiple fatalities in 2023 alone. (Read this article and learn how to assess flood risks.)
Peekaboo Slot Canyon.
An amazing red rock slot canyon, Peekaboo is located just north of Kanab and rivals Antelope Canyon in richness of color and photographic potential. It doesn’t see anywhere near as many visitors as Antelope Canyon. If you are a serious photographer, you’ll be delighted to know that tripods are welcome here. Those perks don’t come without a trade-off, though: reaching Peekaboo entails an extremely deep sand road that can bog down even the most experienced off-road drivers.
Willis Creek.
Accessed via Skutumpah Road, this is a one-of-a-kind sculpted canyon with a small perennial creek. Explore on your own or hire a guide.
Bull Valley Gorge.
A few miles south on Skutumpah Road is Willis Creek’s more adventurous cousin. Bull Valley is narrow, scrambly, and spectacular.
Sunshine Slot.
This hidden gem is not known by even most locals. Located along the Paria Canyon drainage, this small but spectacular slot canyon combines striking red and orange colors with a beautiful arch—solitude is guaranteed!
Make sure you have the requisite skills and experience, or hire a guide to be on the safe side when it comes to any of these hikes… If you’re looking for a deeper experience with any of these adventures, Kanab’s Dreamland Safari Tours is a great option.
