Belly Of The Dragon Utah: The Ultimate Guide To This Unique Kanab Adventure

Have you ever driven past a seemingly ordinary drainage tunnel under a highway, only to discover it’s actually a whimsical, walkable canyon carved through sandstone? Welcome to one of Southern Utah’s most quirky and accessible hidden gems: the Belly of the Dragon. This isn't your average hike; it’s a short, surreal journey through a natural tunnel that sparks the imagination of kids and adults alike. If you’re planning a trip between Zion National Park and Bryce Canyon National Park, or exploring the adventure hub of Kanab, Utah, this is the perfect, quick stop that delivers big on scenery and fun. This comprehensive guide covers everything—from exact directions and parking to a detailed trail walkthrough, photos, safety info, and the best nearby stops like the Sand Caves and Orderville.

What Exactly is the Belly of the Dragon?

The Belly of the Dragon is an old, man-made drainage tunnel bored directly through a sandstone ridge alongside Highway 89, just north of Kanab, Utah. Its official purpose is functional: it acts as a crucial drainage channel for the upper canyons that feed into the North Fork River, preventing washouts during Utah’s intense monsoon storms. But its cultural and recreational purpose is far more magical. The tunnel’s smooth, curved sandstone walls and the way it disappears into the rock have given it its famous name—it looks exactly like the belly of a colossal, sleeping dragon.

This attraction is a perfect example of utilitarian infrastructure turned into an adventure. The tunnel is approximately 300 feet long, wide enough for several people to walk abreast, and tall enough to stand comfortably in most sections. The rock formations surrounding the entrance are stunning, with layers of red, orange, and cream-colored sandstone telling a geological story millions of years in the making. It’s a quick, easy, and incredibly photogenic stop that belies its simple description as "just a tunnel."

Location, Location, Location: Where is the Belly of the Dragon?

A common point of confusion is the precise location. The Belly of the Dragon is located near Kanab, Utah, in Kane County. Its coordinates place it just off U.S. Highway 89, about 5 miles north of the town of Kanab. It is not in Orderville, Utah, though that charming town is a short drive east and makes a great pairing with this hike. The trailhead is on the west side of Highway 89, so if you’re driving north from Kanab towards Bryce Canyon, you’ll see a small pullout on your left. The GPS coordinate for the parking area is approximately 37.150°N, 112.538°W.

Trail Essentials: Difficulty, Distance, and What to Expect

So, how hard is the Belly of the Dragon hike? The answer makes it perfect for virtually everyone. The Belly of the Dragon is considered an easy hike that covers roughly 1.7 miles round-trip from the parking area to the tunnel’s end and back. The elevation gain is a negligible 177 feet, meaning the terrain is nearly flat. The "trail" is essentially a sandy, wide wash that leads to the tunnel mouth. The real adventure begins when you step into the cool, dimly lit tunnel.

What to expect on the walkthrough:

• The Approach: A gentle walk through a sandy arroyo, surrounded by towering sandstone walls.
• The Tunnel: The entrance is dramatic. As you enter, look up to see the curved sandstone ceiling. The floor is usually dry, sandy, and easy to walk on. A flashlight or phone light is recommended, as the tunnel is pitch black in the middle, even on sunny days. The light at the far end creates a beautiful, hopeful glow.
• The Exit: You’ll emerge on the other side of the ridge into another stunning sandstone amphitheater. You can explore the area briefly before turning back.
• The Experience: It’s a short, adventurous, and scenic little hike that feels like exploring a secret passage. The acoustics inside are fun, and the temperature drops noticeably, providing a cool respite from the summer heat.

Trail Tips & Packing List

• Footwear: Sturdy sandals or athletic shoes are fine. The sand can be loose.
• Light Source:Bring a headlamp or flashlight. Your phone light will work, but a dedicated light is brighter and leaves your hands free.
• Water: Always carry water, even for short hikes in the desert.
• Camera: This is a highly photogenic spot. Wide-angle lenses work great to capture the tunnel’s scale.
• Timing: Allow 30-60 minutes total for the hike and photos.

Planning Your Visit: Directions, Parking, and Best Time to Go

Getting There & Parking: From Kanab, head north on US-89 for about 5 miles. Look for a small, dirt pullout on the left (west) side of the road. It’s unmarked but obvious, often with a few vehicles parked. There is no fee or formal parking lot. The trailhead is directly across the highway from the pullout—use extreme caution when crossing the fast-moving highway. For real-time navigation, use the GPS coordinates provided above.

Best Time to Visit:

• Spring (April-May) & Fall (September-October): Ideal. Daytime temperatures are pleasant (60s-80s°F), and the desert is in bloom (spring) or beautifully crisp (fall).
• Summer (June-August): Can be very hot (90s-100s°F). Go early morning to avoid peak heat and crowds. The tunnel offers a cool escape.
• Winter (November-March): Possible, but check weather forecasts. Snow or ice can make the sandy approach slippery and the highway conditions may be challenging. The tunnel will be cold.

Crowds: This is a popular stop, so weekends and midday in peak season (spring/fall) will be busiest. Arriving at sunrise offers the best light for photos and maximum solitude.

Respecting the Dragon: Safety and "Leave No Trace" Etiquette

The Belly of the Dragon’s popularity has a downside: graffiti. Vandalism inside the tunnel has been a persistent problem, marring the natural sandstone. A critical part of this guide is the plea: Please don’t add to the graffiti — visit with respect. This is a natural and historical feature. Touching the sandstone can damage the fragile desert crust (cryptobiotic soil) surrounding the area. Pack out all trash. By following Leave No Trace principles, we ensure this unique spot remains pristine for future visitors.

Safety Notes:

• Highway 89: This is a busy, fast highway. Park safely, cross with extreme vigilance, and use the designated crossing point.
• Flash Floods: The tunnel is a drainage channel. Never enter the tunnel if there is any sign of rain or flash flooding in the forecast. Water can rise rapidly and with tremendous force. Check weather alerts before you go.
• Stability: While the tunnel is stable, use common sense. Don’t climb on the walls or engage in risky behavior.

Beyond the Dragon: Perfect Pairings & Nearby Stops

The Belly of the Dragon is a fantastic, easy stop between Zion and Bryce Canyon. But the area around Kanab is a treasure trove of short, unique adventures. Here’s how to build a perfect day:

1. The Sand Caves (A Must-Do Pairing)

Just a 5-10 minute drive north from the Belly of the Dragon parking lot (towards Bryce) is the turnoff for the Sand Caves. This is another easy, family-friendly hike (about 1 mile round-trip) that leads to a stunning amphitheater of massive, wave-like sandstone alcoves. The contrast between the cool, dark tunnel of the Dragon and the vast, sandy, sun-drenched caves is incredible. Both are great short and unique hikes that can be done in the same afternoon.

2. Explore Orderville, Utah

The historic town of Orderville, Utah, is a 20-minute drive east of Kanab. It’s a quiet, charming Mormon pioneer-era town that makes a pleasant stop for a picnic or to stretch your legs. It’s also the gateway to some beautiful, less-crowded slot canyons in the East Fork of the Virgin River.

3. Kanab Itself: Adventure Hub

Kanab is an adventure lover’s dream, packed with unreal landscapes and hidden gems. While in town, consider:

• Coral Pink Sand Dunes State Park: Hike or slide down brilliant pink sand dunes.
• Johnson Canyon / Dead Horse Point State Park: A short, easy walk to a stunning overlook.
• Grand Staircase-Escalante National Monument: Access to countless slot canyons and scenic drives like the Hole-in-the-Rock Road.

Camping and Extended Stays

For those wanting to linger, camping options abound. The Belly of the Dragon itself has no camping, but dispersed BLM (Bureau of Land Management) camping is allowed in many areas surrounding Kanab. Look for established sites along dirt roads off Highway 89. For amenities, Kanab has several campgrounds and RV parks. Staying overnight allows you to explore the area’s many scenic spots in Utah at a leisurely pace, from sunrise at the Dragon to sunset at the Sand Caves.

The Perfect Road Trip Stop: A Real Family Experience

Imagine this: You left Southeast Idaho and headed toward Kanab, Utah. After hours on the road, you stop in Beaver, Utah at The Creamery for a legendary lunch and ice cream—a perfect family fun ritual. With wiggles out and bellies full, you jump back on the road. Your first stop was the Belly of the Dragon hike. The kids’ eyes widen as they walk through the "dragon’s belly." It’s a #travelwithkids moment that costs nothing but creates lifelong memories. After exploring, you might head to the Sand Caves for more adventure before checking into your #airbnb in Kanab. This is the essence of #travelasafamily—finding those unique, spontaneous stops that define a trip.

When is the Absolute Best Time to Go?

While the trail is accessible year-round, the optimal window is late April through early June and September through October. During these months, you’ll enjoy:

• Mild, comfortable hiking temperatures (50s-80s°F).
• Lower risk of dangerous flash floods (though always check forecasts).
• Beautiful lighting for photography, especially in the late afternoon when the sun hits the tunnel entrance.
• Generally fewer crowds than the peak summer months of July and August.

Final Thoughts: Why the Belly of the Dragon is a Must-Visit

The Belly of the Dragon is more than just a checkbox on a Utah road trip list. It’s a testament to how exploring Utah landscapes can turn the most mundane features into sources of wonder. It’s proof that the best adventures are often free, quick, and right off the highway. In a state famous for its monumental national parks, this little tunnel reminds us to look for the hidden gems near Lake Powell and along the way. It’s a stunning attraction near Zion National Park that offers a completely different, playful experience.

So, as you plan your Utah travel adventures, slot this into your itinerary. Pack a light, bring a headlamp, respect the rock, and step into the belly of the dragon. It’s a 1.7-mile journey that sparks the imagination and perfectly encapsulates the spontaneous, family-friendly magic of the American Southwest. Just remember: leave only footprints, take only photos, and keep the dragon’s belly clean for the next adventurer.