Hiking the Moqui Sand Caves Trail in Kanab, Utah
Distance: 1.2 miles / 1.9 km
What was once a local side-of-the-road secret has since been built up into the trail shown here in this post.
Below is a photo of the old parking area from above where it is now illegal to park.
Moqui Sand Caves Trailhead Parking
Parking for the Moqui Sand Caves is located in a large dirt parking lot just off of Hwy 89 north of Kanab.
Don’t park in the old parking lot in the photo above or you risk receiving a fine.
Google Maps Directions: Moqui Sand Caves Trailhead
Southwest Hiking Checklist
Here is a complete list of must-have things that you will want for any hike in the Southwest U.S.
Hiking the Moqui Sand Caves Trail
On the far end of the parking lot, the trail descends down to a typically dry wash.
At this first split, go left.
All of these little splits essentially lead to the same place.
At this split in the two photos below, turn right and head directly toward the caves on the cliff above.
You should now start seeing the Moqui Caves in the cliff above.
Hiking Up to the Caves
When you reach the base of the cliffs shown in the photos below, you can either head straight up if you feel comfortable for the most direct but most challenging route, or walk down the cliff to the left until it becomes easier to climb up.
The photos below show the most direct path heading up to the caves, and the easier, more gradual path that I took when I returned.
The Kanab Sand Caves
The caves are busier than they once were, but I still think they’re a cool place to stop and check out.
For the best photos, I recommend this hike mid to late afternoon so that there is the most light in the caves. While this can make for a very hot hike during the summer, the caves are typically over 10° cooler so they make for a great place to sit and rest.
Please don’t contribute to all of the carvings on the walls of the cave.
Hiking Down (The Easier Route)
The easier route that I took back down follows the cliffside to where it gradually descends shortly ahead.
These are the two areas where most people climb up.
Easier Route - Moqui Sand Caves Trail
From here, it should be easy enough to make it back on the trail to the parking area.
Safety
From hot summer days to snowy/ icy sandstone, adventures in the southwest can have varying conditions throughout the year.
Always check the local weather conditions, and come prepared for the season you are visiting.
