Belly of the Dragon Trail

The Belly of the Dragon Trail is located near Kanab, Utah, just off Highway 89. The trailhead is easily accessible, and there is a designated dirt parking area right off the highway. You'll find it a convenient stop if you're traveling between Zion National Park and Bryce Canyon National Park.

Yes, the Belly of the Dragon Trail is generally considered dog-friendly. Its short length and easy nature make it a good option for pets, provided they can manage the initial 5-7 foot scramble down into the tunnel. Always keep your dog on a leash and be mindful of other hikers.

The trail can be hiked year-round, but spring and fall offer the most pleasant temperatures. Summers can be very hot in southern Utah, so if you visit then, go early in the morning or late in the afternoon. Avoid hiking during or immediately after heavy rain, as the tunnel can be prone to flash floods and the ground becomes very slippery.

No, you do not need a permit, and there are no entrance fees to hike the Belly of the Dragon Trail. It's a free and accessible attraction.

Yes, this is an easy hike suitable for most ages and abilities, including families with children and beginners. The main tunnel portion is quite short, about 0.1 to 0.5 miles round trip. The only potential challenge is a 5-7 foot scramble to enter the tunnel, which might require assistance for younger children or those with limited mobility.

Inside the tunnel, the terrain is uneven, rocky, and sandy. The walls are smooth and undulating, sculpted by water erosion over time, resembling a dragon's belly. While it's never completely dark due to light at both ends, the middle section can be dim. It's advisable to bring a flashlight or use your phone's light for better visibility and to watch your footing, especially after rain when surfaces can be slippery.

The most important safety tip is to never enter the tunnel if there is rain in the area or flash flood warnings are in effect. Water can rush through unexpectedly and dangerously. Also, be mindful of the uneven and potentially slippery ground inside. A flashlight or headlamp is recommended for better visibility, and sturdy shoes with good grip are helpful for navigating the rocky entrance scramble and tunnel floor.

For this short hike, essential items include water, sturdy closed-toe shoes with good grip, and a flashlight or headlamp (your phone's light can work too). If hiking in summer, consider a hat and sunscreen. For families, a small backpack for snacks and water is always a good idea.

The trail is unique because it's a man-made drainage culvert that has been transformed by natural water erosion into a captivating, cave-like tunnel. The smooth, ribbed sandstone walls inside truly resemble the 'belly of a dragon,' making it a popular and highly photogenic spot. It's a quick, accessible adventure that offers a distinct aesthetic experience.

Yes, after exiting the main tunnel, you emerge into a sandy, dry wash. You can explore this wash further for a short distance, enjoying the desert scenery with plants like sagebrush, juniper, and cacti. However, the primary attraction and the most unique part of the trail is the tunnel itself.

The Belly of the Dragon Trail is primarily an out-and-back experience. You enter the tunnel, walk through it, and can then either turn around and go back through the tunnel or explore the wash beyond for a short distance before returning the way you came.