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Discovering Paria Canyon's Hidden Caves Tucked away in northern Arizona, Paria Canyon is a natural wonder that embodies the essence of the American West.

Discovering Paria Canyon's Hidden Caves

Tucked away in northern Arizona, Paria Canyon is a natural wonder that embodies the essence of the American West. This rugged and scenic canyon, carved by the Virgin River, offers breathtaking landscapes, fascinating geology, and opportunities for exploration.

The Allure of Paria Canyon

Paria Canyon is a unique destination that combines the beauty of the Grand Canyon with the intimacy of a smaller, more accessible wonderland. The canyon's sheer size and remote location make it an ideal spot for those seeking solitude and adventure. As you wander through the winding river and surrounding hills, you'll discover hidden caves, crystal-clear water pools, and some of the most spectacular rock formations in Arizona.

Deer in the Woods
A deer gracefully moves through a dense forest, surrounded by tall trees and lush green undergrowth. The scene captures the serene beauty of a woodland environment.

The canyon's geological history dates back millions of years, with layers of sandstone, limestone, and shale creating a kaleidoscope of colors and textures. Hike through the riverbed or explore the surrounding hills to uncover unique rock patterns, fossils, and ancient petroglyphs left behind by Native American tribes.

Exploring Paria Canyon's Caves

One of the most thrilling experiences in Paria Canyon is exploring its extensive cave system. Spanning over 45 miles, this labyrinthine network offers an array of cave types, from small overhangs to massive caverns. As you navigate through the winding passages and chambers, keep your eyes peeled for formations like stalactites, stalagmites, and delicate crystals.

The most accessible caves are located near the Paria Canyon River confluence with the Colorado River, approximately 15 miles downstream from the canyon's entrance. Please note that spelunking in Arizona requires special permits and guides, so be sure to research and obtain any necessary permits before embarking on your adventure.

Sunset Over Calm Water with Silhouetted Mountains
A serene sunset paints the sky with warm hues of orange and pink, silhouetting distant mountain ranges against a tranquil body of water. The calm surface reflects the fading light, creating a peaceful and picturesque scene.

Practical Tips for Visiting Paria Canyon

  • Best time to visit: Spring (April-May) or fall (September-October), when temperatures are mild and crowds are smaller.
  • Required gear:

    • + Comfortable hiking shoes or boots + Backpack with water, snacks, and first aid kit + Map and compass or GPS device + Sun protection (sunscreen, hat, sunglasses) + Flashlight or headlamp for cave exploration

  • Important: A free permit is required to hike through Paria Canyon. Obtain a permit from the Bureau of Land Management's (BLM) Kanab Field Office.

Getting There and Getting Around

Paria Canyon lies about 100 miles north of the Arizona-Utah border, near the towns of Kanab, Utah, and Fredonia, Arizona. The closest airport is in Las Vegas, Nevada (LAS), but more convenient access can be achieved via the nearby town of Cameron, Arizona.

Practical Info

  • Hours: The BLM's Kanab Field Office issues permits from 8 am to 4 pm.
  • Fees:

    • + Free permit required for hiking and camping + No entrance fees for Paria Canyon or its caves

  • Location hints:

    • + From the town of Cameron, Arizona, follow Highway 64 north toward the Utah border. Turn left onto County Road 321 (also known as the Paria Canyon Road). + Continue on this rough dirt road for approximately 17 miles to reach the canyon's entrance.

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