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.

Stay planning

Once this stop is on your list, use Plan Your Days for itinerary ideas or compare our rooms and cabins to match the style of trip you want.

Why trust this guide

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.

Questions: Belly of the Dragon

Cave basics, driving distance, and what to know before you go.

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).