Peekaboo Slot Canyon, also known as Red Canyon, is a beautiful and relatively easy-to-access slot canyon located north of Kanab, Utah.

With its red sandstone walls and narrow, winding passages, it provides an incredible hiking experience.

Peekaboo Slot Canyon is a great option for families, photographers, and anyone looking to explore the natural beauty of Utah’s slot canyons.

To avoid confusion there are two different Peekaboo Slot Canyons in this area of Utah (and another peekaboo trail in Bryce Canyon)! The one in this article is 9 miles north of Kanab, Utah.

The other Peekaboo Slot Canyon is located 26 miles down Hole-in-the-Rock Road from Escalante, Utah, and is often hiked together with Spooky Slot Canyon.

This version is longer, significantly narrower, and involves more climbing up and down. It is not recommended for those who are claustrophobic. For more details, visit the Bureau of Land Management Website.

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Peekaboo Canyon Hiking Stats

• Trail Length: Approximately 1.5 miles round trip
• Difficulty: Easy to Moderate
• Elevation Gain: Minimal
• Hiking Time: 1-2 hours
• 10 degrees cooler in Slot Canyon
• No permits required

How to Get to the Peekaboo Slot Canyon Trailhead

To reach Peekaboo Slot Canyon, follow these directions from Kanab:

Firstly, the route consists of deep sand and requires a four-wheel drive vehicle with high clearance, along with experience in driving on sandy terrain.

Despite having a 4WD/high clearance vehicle and skilled driving, getting stuck is still a possibility. ATVs and UTVs are the most common and reliable ways to reach the trailhead.

You might wonder if you can hike the dirt road instead of driving. While it’s about 4 miles each way, I don’t recommend it. The road is filled with deep, loose sand, and passing vehicles often kick up a lot of sand and dust, making the hike challenging and unpleasant.

Peekaboo Canyon is one of the most popular tours out of Kanab, you can book a guided tour from Kanab, which is a convenient option if you don’t have a suitable vehicle or prefer a guided experience.

If you are driving:

1. From Kanab drive north on US-89 for about 9 miles.
2. Turn Right onto BLM Road 102 after the Peekaboo sign along the highway.
3. Go up a small hill and cross a cattle guard before entering a large parking area.
4. On the eastern side of the parking area, you will find BLM Road 102.
5. Follow 102 until you reach a drive riverbed.
6. From there follow BLM Road 106H west.
7. Follow 106H (dry riverbed) until it ends at the Slot Canyon.

Hiking Description

The hike to Peekaboo Slot Canyon begins at the trailhead parking area. From here, you’ll follow a sandy wash that gradually narrows as you approach the entrance to the slot canyon. The path is easy to follow.

Inside Peekaboo Slot Canyon

As you enter the canyon, you’ll be greeted by towering red sandstone walls that create a stunning contrast against the blue sky, The canyon narrows significantly, creating a series of twists and turns.

The hike through Peekaboo Canyon is relatively short, but you’ll want to take your time to fully appreciate the beauty and capture photographs.

Safety Tips

• Check Weather Conditions: Always check the weather forecast before your hike. Slot canyons are prone to flash floods.
• Be Prepared: Do not attempt to drive without a 4WD and high clearance vehicle; the deep sand is challenging and can be even more difficult in the summer, sometimes requiring the use of ATVs or UTVs. Most visitors opt for a tour company, which provides a stress-free experience.
• Bring Water: Even though it is a short hike, you’re in the desert so hydration is needed (most tours provide water).
• Cooler in Slot Canyon: Dress for the weather, it is about 10 degrees cooler in the Slot Canyon so be prepared.

Best Time to Go

This is always a tough question, as I think any time is good if you are prepared for the conditions and there is no rain in the forecast.

The best time for most to visit Peekaboo Slot Canyon is in the spring (March to May) and fall (September to November) when temperatures are mild.

The summer months can be extremely hot, and winter brings colder conditions.

What to Bring

• Daypack
• Clothing – Layer for the weather (10 degrees cooler in Slot Canyon)
• Sunscreen, Hat, Sunglasses
• Comfortable Hiking or Walking Shoes
• Water
• Face Covering if you are going by UTV or ATV for sand and dust
• Camera Gear

Peekaboo Slot Canyon is a must-visit destination for anyone exploring the Kanab area. Its stunning red sandstone walls, narrow passages, and accessibility make it a perfect adventure. Whether you’re capturing the perfect photography or simply marveling at the natural wonder, Peekaboo Slot Canyon will leave you with unforgettable memories.

Additional Adventures Near Kanab:

Wire Pass to Buckskin Gulch: An Epic Day Hike

Hiking the Unique Toadstool Hoodoos Utah

The Wave Coyote Buttes North: The Ultimate Guide From Permits to Photography

Zion National Park: A Comprehensive Guide to Exploring and Photographing

Zion’s Angels Landing: From Permits to the Summit

Hikers Ultimate Guide to The Narrows in Zion

Bryce Canyon National Park: A Comprehensive Guide to Travel, Hiking, and Photography

Hiking Yant Flat: A Guide to Utah’s Stunning Candy Cliffs

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