Quick Facts
Location: Kanab, Utah
Coordinates: 37.18616529781224, -112.45893191282285
Length: .5 Miles
Difficulty: Easy
Elevation Gain: 100’
Dog Friendly: Yes
Introduction:
When I first heard about the Great Chamber, I figured it might be just another rocky overlook. Nope. It’s one of the coolest hidden gems in southern Utah, a massive open cave with a giant sand dune spilling inside like something straight out of a dream. If you’re itching for a little off-road fun and a short hike, this is your sign to pack up and head out.
How to Get There:
Getting to the Great Chamber is half the adventure. Do NOT follow Google Maps trying to find the trail. I did and it lead me a hour in the wrong direction! You’re going to head north on Highway 89 and look for signs for Best Friends Animal Sanctuary and turn right onto Angel Canyon Road (GPS: 37°06’47.7″N 112°33’17.2″W). Continue down this road passing all the sanctuary buildings and watch the right side of the road for 4WD and ATC trail markings. Take Trail 100 (GPS: 37°08’43.2″N 112°32’26.8″W) to Trail 103 (GPS: 37°07’47.6″N 112°27’25.7″W). Follow Trail 103 straight to the parking lot (GPS: 37°11’09.7″N 112°27’32.2″W).
Parking Information:
There’s no fancy parking lot waiting for you. Just a sandy clearing that acts as a makeshift parking area near the trailhead. It’s free, but you’ll want to be smart about where you pull in unless digging out your truck sounds like a fun workout. Check the latest road conditions before you go, since bad weather can turn those dirt tracks into a messy, tire-sinking playground.
Description of the Landscape:
Picture this: endless rolling desert, craggy sandstone cliffs, and a giant natural alcove tucked into the hillside. Inside the chamber, a massive, soft sand dune rises up like nature’s red carpet. The walls curve around you, framing the sky perfectly. When the light hits just right, it’s pure magic like stepping into a real-life desert cathedral.
Trail Difficulty and Length:
The hike to the Great Chamber is short but, man, it’s a leg burner. It’s only about half a mile, but most of that distance is uphill through deep, loose sand. Think climbing a giant beach dune while carrying your backpack and you’ll get the idea. It’s tough, but it’s over pretty quick, and the payoff is absolutely worth every huff and puff.
Is It Dog Friendly?
Yep, bring your pup! Dogs are welcome, but remember to keep them on a leash and watch those paws. The sand can get crazy hot during the day, and you don’t want to turn your happy hiking buddy into a sad, overheated mess. Also, do everyone a favor and pick up after your dog.
Local Regulations:
The Great Chamber sits on public BLM land, which means you’ve got a little more freedom but also more responsibility. Stay on established paths, leave no trace, and absolutely no carving your name into the rock walls (seriously, don’t be that person). Always double-check for any temporary closures or access updates before you roll out.
Other Nearby Trails:
If you’re not ready to call it a day, the nearby Coral Pink Sand Dunes State Park is begging for a visit. You can ride ATVs, hike around, or just kick back and watch the sand sparkle in the sun. Peek-a-Boo Slot Canyon is also close and offers a different kind of adventure, tight, twisty passageways that look straight out of an Indiana Jones movie.
Non-Hiking Attractions Nearby:
Kanab itself is packed with low-key adventures. You can tour the Best Friends Animal Sanctuary, explore the quirky Moqui Cave, or stroll through the old sets at Little Hollywood Movie Museum. It’s the kind of town that makes you want to slow down, grab a cold drink, and soak up every second.
Best Time to Visit:
The sweet spot for hitting the Great Chamber is spring or fall. Summers here are brutal, we’re talking fry-an-egg-on-the-rocks hot and winters can turn the roads and trails into a muddy, icy mess. If you can swing it, go early in the morning. Watching the sun creep into the chamber and light up that sand dune is something you’ll never forget.
For those who want to capture these breathtaking views and bring a piece of nature home, Unicorn Adventure offers high-quality nature photography prints. Check out their collection and find the perfect image to remind you of your hiking experience!
