Trying Not to Fall at Kanarra Falls

On day 19 of our road trip, and on our wedding anniversary eve, we decided to try the Kanarra Falls hike. The falls are at the town of Kanarraville, UT just a few minutes north of Zion's Kolob Canyon section.

There are 3 major falls/obstacles along the 4-mile round trip hike, and 650 feet of elevation gain. About half of the hike is in the creek, which is cold spring fed water. Fortunately, the creek is only about ankle deep in most places and with some skilled rock stepping, you can minimize your toe chilling time.

The early part of the trial is dry land with a couple of minor creek crossings. There are a few small, scenic waterfalls along the way.

Creek crossings and small waterfalls along the way

Eventually the canyon narrows, and you are in and out of the creek. The walls narrow into a slot canyon, and you can hear a water fall echoing around the bend. You round a corner and see a 12' high water fall. Many stop here. If you want to continue you used to have to climb a wooden pole ladder, but the town recently installed this aluminum ladder that made it much easier to continue - almost like an escalator it was so easy.

Slot canyon hiking

The former "ladder" (left) and the new fancy ladder (right)

Shortly after the first fall is the Big Boulder. The only way to get over it is to scramble up some wooden poles and sticks that have been piled into the corner. We made it up and over and continued up the stream.

Resting before climbing over Big Boulder

We got to the final waterfall and scrambled up to the top of it. You can continue, but the water becomes deeper and there aren't any more major features ahead.

At the final waterfall

We turned around and headed back down the creek - sometimes down is harder than up. We made it out without incident and back to the van to find Bebop taking a solid nap. What a great hike that was.

- Paul