KANARRA CREEK 
ROUTE INFORMATIONVIEW PHOTOS!

Overview:
Kanarra CreekKanarra Creek is a cute little canyon in BLM land north of the Kolob section of Zion National Park -- the Hurricane Cliffs just east of the little town of Kanarraville. From the center of Kanarraville, look for the obvious dirt road that heads east into the hills. Once up in the hills, it is less than a mile to a little parking area on the left. Park here and begin hiking up the road. (Note: The access road continues further, but it becomes 4WD territory and parking and turn-around spots are sparse.)

IMPORTANT NOTE!
As of Fall 2006, many residents of Kanarraville have voiced their displeasure about the number of hikers visiting Kanarra Creek. The major concerns are large groups leaving trash and trampling the plant life as well as people speeding through Kanarraville en route to the hike. Kanarra Creek is the town's water source; if you choose to visit here, please be respectful and tread lightly to guarantee access for future visitors!

Detailed Description:
Kanarra Creek is a fairly-strenuous day hike up a beautiful little canyon that has several slot sections. Unlike its neighboring canyons, Kanarra Creek has quite a bit of water flow, so water shoes/sandals are recommended over normal hiking boots. The hike first follows the access road, then as the canyon narrows, you will be hiking in the (usually less than a foot-deep) water. After about half-a-mile, the canyon suddenly slots up and you are in the magic section of the hike.

Kanarra CreekWhile the hike is mostly non-technical, there are two major obstacles in the canyon: two 15-foot high rock-jam waterfalls that must be climbed over. (See photos.) Several logs, ladders, and rope handholds have been constructed to help hikers; depending on the condition of these aids, getting past the obstacles could be easy or difficult. I should warn you to be extremely careful and judge whether or not you can safely make it past these obstacles; use the logs at your own risk; the wood is slippery, parts of the ladders can break, and old ropes can fail. If the aids have been washed away or are not in useable condition, only those with climbing skills would be able to pass. Please be careful!

After about a mile of narrows, the upper canyon starts to open up. There are a few sections where the water gets waste deep and a few smaller boulders to scramble over. Hike as far as you like, then return the way you came.

Kanarra Creek topo map Kanarra Creek Map.
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Technical Challenges:
I would almost call this a family hike if it wasn't for the two major obstacles and a few sections of rock-scrambling. You are walking/wading in water for most of the hike, so dress appropriately.

Equipment Needed:
A run of webbing might be useful for handlines to help weaker members of your party get past some of the scrambling obstacles.

Joe's Spin:
This is a great little hike! It's not as majestic or stunning as the Zion Narrows proper, but it is quite a beautiful little canyon. The flowing water and slot sections make it more interesting than its neighboring canyons.

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