Red Canyon (aka Peek-a-Boo Canyon)

The trailhead for the slot canyon is located near Kanab, Utah. The most direct access is via a challenging sandy road that requires a high-clearance 4WD vehicle. The 4x4 Parking Lot is the typical starting point for those driving in.

To reach the slot canyon's entrance directly, you absolutely need a high-clearance 4WD vehicle. The road is notoriously difficult with deep, soft sand and bumpy sections. Even with a 4WD, it's advised to air down your tires. All-wheel-drive vehicles are generally not sufficient and often get stuck.

If you don't have a suitable 4WD vehicle, you can still hike to the slot canyon. This involves walking the sandy access road, which adds a significant distance to your trek. Expect an 8-mile round trip or more just to reach the canyon entrance from the staging area. This can be strenuous due to the deep sand and full sun exposure.

The difficulty largely depends on how you access it. If you drive to the slot canyon entrance, the hike through the canyon itself is considered easy, lasting about 30-60 minutes. However, if you hike the entire access road, it becomes a moderate to strenuous trek due to the long distance (around 8.7 to 10.3 miles round trip) and challenging deep sand.

Inside the slot canyon, the terrain is relatively easy. The floor is sandy and generally free of standing water or potholes. You might encounter a short ladder or a slight scramble over polished white rock, but these are typically manageable for most hikers. The canyon is largely non-technical.

The best seasons to hike this canyon are fall, winter, and early spring. This helps you avoid the extreme heat of summer, which can make the sandy approach particularly challenging. Always be prepared for full sun exposure on the approach.

Yes, the slot canyon is generally considered dog-friendly. Dogs can usually manage the short ladder or scramble with a little help. However, be mindful of the challenging sandy access road if you plan to hike it with your dog, especially in warmer weather.

Based on available information, there are no specific permits or entrance fees required to hike the Red Canyon (aka Peek-a-Boo Canyon) trail.

Inside the canyon, you'll be treated to stunning red sandstone walls sculpted into swirling and twisting shapes. When the light hits just right, the orange and red hues become incredibly vibrant, creating magical sunbeam effects. You might also spot green moss and ancient 'Moqui steps' carved into the canyon walls, adding a historical touch to the natural beauty.

Regardless of how you access the canyon, always carry plenty of water. If you're hiking the access road, consider sun protection like a hat and sunscreen. Downloading a trail map beforehand is also a good idea, as cell service can be spotty in the area.

The slot canyon portion itself is relatively short, typically taking about 30-60 minutes to hike out-and-back. This estimate does not include the time it takes to traverse the challenging access road if you are hiking it.

Yes, a portion of this route, approximately 11%, follows the official Red Canyon trail.