We love exploring slot canyons. The first time we experienced hiking through a slot canyon was in Utah and every time we want to explore another one we find ourselves back in this amazing state. You won’t have to look very far. Located throughout the central and southern Utah, the likelihood is high that one will be in your area. For this trip we wanted to get back to Kanab to try our luck at getting the coveted Wave permit but we failed both days we tried and so we found Red Canyon Slot. If it is your first time exploring a slot canyon, this would be a great first one to try.

Some of the largest and longest slot canyons are on some of the most dangerous hikes lists. You wouldn’t want to be caught in one during a flash flood or rain when you are 10+ miles in and walking through 200′ rock walls. Red Canyon Slot is short enough to be safe throughout the year. The main obstacle with Red Canyon Slot is actually the road getting there from the Peek A Boo Staging area. We provide two options of getting to this stunning slot canyon.

Exploring Red Canyon Slot (aka Peek A Boo [Not in Escalante])

If you have done any research, you will notice that there is a lot of question about how to get there and how close you can get. Do you have to have a 4×4 to get to Red Canyon Slot? No, but you will need to be willing to hike along a sandy and dusty road. The experience at the slot canyon will be the same. Either half a mile out and back or half a mile loop. This road is mandatory 4×4 high clearance vehicle starting at Peek a Boo Staging Area.

Getting to Red Canyon Slot

The main parking lot for the area is Peek A Boo Staging area right off Highway 89. As I mentioned, you have two options of getting to Red Canyon Slot. Hiking or driving.

This sign is your greeting sign and where everything begins.

Hike to Red Canyon Slot

If you decide to hike the road, be forewarned that during the hot summer days this can be a challenging hike. Deep sand and hot temperatures are not always a good mix. If you plan to hike, make sure to bring plenty of water and snacks. You may think that you can walk on the side of the road, but it is even more challenging. We decided to do this on a cool day in November and the road was slightly compact from the driving and the dew from the morning (You can see from the picture below). It was actually a beautiful hike with the different rock formations, vibrant colors and some of the flora was actually green!

8 Miles ~ 650′ elevation gain

Drive to Red Canyon

You can drive right up to the entrance with a 4×4 high clearance, or dune buggy. There are multiple tour companies in the area that will rent you a buggy or take you on the tour. All starting from the Peek a Boo Staging Area. Or if you have your own, this looked like it would be a fun adventure.

Exploring Red Canyon Slot

Once you arrive at the canyon, you can either do a .5 mile out and back or a .5 mile loop. Whichever you decide, make sure to start on the left next to the sign.

It is a very short slot canyon, but it is beautiful!

Soon after, you will notice the opening of the end of the slot.

Here is where you have the choice to loop or return back and see the slot through a new view. We chose to loop and get a view from the top. It is a short climb through deep sand, so be prepared for sand to be everywhere!

As always, please remember to leave no trace. This is a remote area without any services.

After you make your way back to the car, you will probably be ready for a tasty meal. If you are heading back to Mt. Carmel Junction then check out Thunderbird Restaurant. If you are heading towards Kanab, then check out Havana Cabana The Taste of Cuba.

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