What is Belly of the Dragon?
The Belly of the Dragon is a man-made drainage culvert under Highway 89, about 1 mile south of Mount Carmel Junction (or about 16 miles north of Kanab).
Belly of the Dragon
Man-made drainage tunnel—short, quirky walk under Highway 89
At a glance
The short version
Belly of the Dragon is ~60 min from Duck Creek Village Inn and fits travelers who want man-made drainage tunnel—short, quirky walk under highway 89. The Belly of the Dragon is a man-made drainage culvert under Highway 89, about 1 mile south of Mount Carmel Junction (or about 16 miles north of Kanab).
Quick facts
| Distance | ~60 min |
|---|---|
| Tier | Tier2 |
| Best for | Man-made drainage tunnel—short, quirky walk under Highway 89 |
Good to know
- ~100 yards through the tunnel; 1–2 minutes to walk
- Free; no fee or permit
- Optional longer hike: continue up the wash ~4 miles to a slot canyon
Note: Do not enter during or before rain—flash flood risk. Scramble entry may be difficult for some visitors.
The Belly of the Dragon is a man-made drainage culvert under Highway 89, about 1 mile south of Mount Carmel Junction (or about 16 miles north of Kanab). Water flowing through it has eroded the sandstone walls into rippled, cave-like patterns, so it feels like walking through a short tunnel cave. The walk through the tunnel is only about 100 yards and takes a minute or two; it never gets fully dark because light comes from both ends. Getting in requires a small scramble down a concrete wall or slick rock—sturdy shoes and care are recommended.
Highlights
- ~100 yards through the tunnel; 1–2 minutes to walk
- Free; no fee or permit
- Optional longer hike: continue up the wash ~4 miles to a slot canyon
- Parking via Barracks Road near mile marker 90
Tips
Do not enter if rain is forecast—flash floods are a serious hazard in this drainage. The scramble in and out can be tricky; younger children may need assistance. Once inside, the path is easy when dry. Dogs allowed.
When to go
Accessible year-round when the road is passable. Avoid during or after rain due to flash flood risk.
Reviewed March 2026 by Duck Creek Village Inn editorial team
Use official access updates before a cave day
Cave access, forest roads, and shoulder-season weather can change faster than people expect around Duck Creek. We use guest trip-planning experience here, but always recommend checking the official sources below before you commit to the drive.
Planning Belly of the Dragon
Cave basics, driving distance, and what to know before you go.
How far is Belly of the Dragon from Duck Creek Village Inn?
Belly of the Dragon is about ~60 min from Duck Creek Village Inn in the current cave guide.
What should I know before visiting Belly of the Dragon?
Do not enter during or before rain—flash flood risk. Scramble entry may be difficult for some visitors.
Stay Here, Explore Belly of the Dragon Tomorrow
Book your room or cabin at Duck Creek Village Inn — ~60 min from Belly of the Dragon.