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CEDAR CITY — It’s the time of year when hiking inside and outside our national forests and parks is often an easy way to get exercise and to cool off. That is especially true if you are visiting or live in the St. George area, where temperatures routinely clear the century mark in July and August.
You may never have heard of the Kanarraville Falls or the hike that takes you up to the majestic waterfalls, but once you have experienced it, you will want to return again and again.
The trailhead begins in the town of Kanarraville about 11 miles south of Cedar City. You will need to pay a $10 fee for parking unless you want to walk to and from town, which could tack an additional mile or more onto the overall hike.
The hike begins on a dirt road that takes you about a mile and a half up a canyon until the trail narrows as you come across some soaring sandstone walls.
From this point on, the trail takes you through an active stream bed where water levels can be ankle deep or even higher. The trail is winding and surrounded by lush foliage.
It’s still considered a moderate difficulty hike but sturdy shoes, even water shoes with a good sole on them, would be useful.
Soon, you will reach the 15-foot Kanarraville Waterfalls with a ladder built out of a large log and metal steps to take climbers to the top. There are also ropes attached to the wall beside the ladder to make climbing a bit easier.
Remember the ladder could be a bit slick from the moisture and young children will definitely need some help climbing it.
If you choose to continue hiking past the big waterfalls, you will discover more breathtaking views and another small waterfall. The scenery is well worth the hike if you and your fellow hikers are up to it.
The round-trip hike from the trailhead to the upper falls and back is about 4.8 miles and will take anywhere from 2 1/2 to four hours. It’s challenging for the novice hiker but manageable.
With the exception of the waterfall ladders and some other obstacles along the trail, this is a fantastic family hike that will have kids and adults returning throughout the spring, summer and fall months.
For more information about this hike or other hikes in your area, click here.Jenniffer is a Special Projects Producer who heads up the Your Life Your Health, Zero Fatalities and High 5 initiatives. For questions, feedback or possible story ideas, please email jmichaelson@ksl.com.
