Hiking Spring Creek Canyon Trail in Kanarraville, UT
If you’re seeking solitude in the slot canyons in Southern Utah, Spring Creek Canyon Trail is a hidden gem nestled near more popular…and MUCH more crowded hikes.
While Spring Creek Canyon might not have the stunning waterfalls of Kanarra Falls or the fame of Kolob Canyons in Zion, it is actually an equally incredible hike through a slot canyon where you won’t have to deal with the crowds at those more well-known trails.
Everything You Need to Know About Hiking Spring Creek Canyon Trail
Get off the beaten path in southern Utah by hiking the Spring Creek Canyon Trail in Kanarraville, Utah.
This trail is located just 5 minutes away from the very popular Kanarra Falls hike. It makes an awesome alternative since it does not require a permit, it’s way less crowded, and it is one of coolest slot canyons in southern Utah!
LOCATION
Spring Creek Canyon is in Kanarraville, which is 10 minutes north of the Kolob Canyons area of Zion National Park and 20 minutes south of Cedar City. From I-15, take Old US-Hwy 91 to Spring Creek Road to get to the trailhead. CLICK HERE FOR DRIVING DIRECTIONS
DIFFICULTY
Spring Creek Canyon Trail is moderate overall and is totally doable with kids, although the slot canyon section can be more challenging for the little ones. While there’s not a ton of elevation gain on this trail, you will find lots of ups and downs, pebbly stream beds, and a few spots where you have to scramble over some big boulders.
LENGTH
5 miles round trip.......to get to the slot canyon section it is about 1/2 mile in. This is an out and back hike. If you don't go the full 5 miles it is still a great hike!
BEST TIME TO HIKE SPRING CREEK
I’ve hiked Spring Creek Canyon Trail in spring, summer, winter and fall, and I would recommend spring or fall as the best seasons for this hike. Spring is awesome because the creek is flowing, but it slows to a trickle in the summer and is totally dry in fall and winter.
Even though the creek isn’t running in the fall, you’ll find vibrant fall foliage on this hike in October…and possibly as early as late September.
TRAIL DETAILS
Don’t be discouraged by the start of this trail…the first mile or so is not that exciting, but trust me, the good stuff is yet to come. Soon you’ll reach towering sandstone cliffs that will totally take your breath away! Head into the canyon, which will narrow in several spots, but never become too tight of a slot canyon to struggle through.
Winding your way through the depths of Spring Creek Canyon will definitely provide the amazing red rock experience that you come to the desert of southern Utah to explore…but without the crowds of the busier hikes in the area.
Always be respectful of the land. Do not write on the canyon walls and pack out your trash. Leave it better than you found it.
GOOD TO KNOW
While there are pit toilets at the trailhead, there isn’t any water, so be sure to bring all the water you need for this hike with you.
There is a convenience store just a few miles away if you need to grab some beverages and snacks before or after hiking Spring Creek Canyon Trail.
As with all slot canyons in southern Utah, do NOT do this hike if rain is in the forecast due to the serious potential of dangerous flash flooding.
Be sure to bring bug spray if you hike Spring Creek Canyon in the spring or summer because all the water means there will be LOTS of bugs. Summer can get ridiculously hot in the desert, so make sure you’re prepared for the heat if you choose to hike this trail then. While the canyon section stays cooler, the first part of this trail is exposed with no shade.
LIST OF THINGS TO BRING WITH YOU
HIKING SHOES OR HIKING SANDALS - Wear water shoes like Teva's or Chaco's when hiking Spring Creek in the summer. Keen also has great water shoes for kids. Click here for my favorite hiking sandals on the planet.....I'm a Teva's girl!
HIKING CLOTHES - Wear comfortable, light and breathable clothes if visiting in the summer. If visiting in the spring/fall, bring a light jacket. Chances are it will warm up mid-day.
SUNSCREEN - Always take sunscreen with your wherever you go in the desert!
HAT & SUNGLASSES - The sun is intense. Having a hat and sunglasses is a must.
SNACKS, AND LOTS OF WATER - Always hike with snacks and plenty of water
HIKING DAY PACK - You will want a small backpack to carry snacks, water, camera & phone.
WHERE TO STAY WHEN VISITING SPRING CREEK
I recommend staying a few days in the Hurricane Valley to explore all the different sections of Zion. There is so much to see and do.
The Hurricane Valley is located 30 minutes from the west entrance of Zion National park, 2 hours from Bryce Canyon, 2 hours from the north entrance of the Grand Canyon, and 30 minutes from Spring Creek Trail.
LOCAL TIP FOR WHERE TO EAT
Located just minutes from the trailhead for Kanarra Falls is the most amazing barbecue restaurant in Southern Utah. Fire & Smoke is a locally owned Texas style BBQ joint that specializes in brisket, ribs, pulled pork, smoked Turkey, sausage links, smoked chicken and wings. I was so blown away by this place! You can not go to Kanarra Falls without making a stop here after your hike. You can thank me later!
15 HIKES + THINGS TO DO CLOSE TO SPRING CREEK CANYON TRAIL
2 - Hike Timber Creek Overlook Trail
6 - Hike Lambs Knoll
10 - Hike Watchman Trail
11 - E-bike The Canyon
13 - Hike Ashdown Gorge
15 - Canoe Navajo Lake
Spring Creek slot canyon trail is such a great trial in Southern Utah to enjoy some solitude and get those stunning red rock cliffs. Get out and enjoy!
Happy Adventuring,
Arika
