What is Sand Caves (Kanab)?
The Sand Caves (Kanab Sand Caves) are large, sculpted sandstone caverns about 5 miles north of Kanab on Highway 89, between Best Friends Animal Sanctuary and Moqui Cave.
Sand Caves (Kanab)
Man-made sandstone caverns from sand mining—popular hike
At a glance
The short version
Sand Caves (Kanab) is ~60 min from Duck Creek Village Inn and fits travelers who want man-made sandstone caverns from sand mining—popular hike. The Sand Caves (Kanab Sand Caves) are large, sculpted sandstone caverns about 5 miles north of Kanab on Highway 89, between Best Friends Animal Sanctuary and Moqui Cave.
Quick facts
| Distance | ~60 min |
|---|---|
| Tier | Tier2 |
| Best for | Man-made sandstone caverns from sand mining—popular hike |
Good to know
- ~1.2 miles round trip; easy to moderate; some steep rock to reach caves
- Man-made caves with dramatic arches and light
- Parking on the west side of Highway 89; no fee
The Sand Caves (Kanab Sand Caves) are large, sculpted sandstone caverns about 5 miles north of Kanab on Highway 89, between Best Friends Animal Sanctuary and Moqui Cave. They were created in the 1970s when sand was mined from the ridge for glassmaking. Today they are a very popular hiking and photography destination. The out-and-back hike is about 1.2 miles with some light scrambling on the final approach to the cave openings.
Highlights
- ~1.2 miles round trip; easy to moderate; some steep rock to reach caves
- Man-made caves with dramatic arches and light
- Parking on the west side of Highway 89; no fee
- Best lighting for photos 1–2 hours before sunset
Tips
Wear shoes with good grip—the trail is sandy and can be slippery. There are no formal trail markers; staying toward the left on the approach is often easier. Bring water. Suitable for kids around 9+ with supervision.
When to go
Popular year-round. Little snow in winter; summer afternoons are hot—mornings and evenings are more comfortable.
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 Sand Caves (Kanab)
Cave basics, driving distance, and what to know before you go.
How far is Sand Caves (Kanab) from Duck Creek Village Inn?
Sand Caves (Kanab) is about ~60 min from Duck Creek Village Inn in the current cave guide.
What should I know before visiting Sand Caves (Kanab)?
Wear shoes with good grip—the trail is sandy and can be slippery. There are no formal trail markers; staying toward the left on the approach is often easier. Bring water. Suitable for kids around 9+ with supervision.
Stay Here, Explore Sand Caves (Kanab) Tomorrow
Book your room or cabin at Duck Creek Village Inn — ~60 min from Sand Caves (Kanab).