Cannonville, United States Guide
If your idea of a perfect escape involves towering hoodoos, vast red rock landscapes, and skies so dark the Milky Way feels within reach, then Cannonville should be firmly on your radar. Tucked away in Southern Utah, this small but mighty outpost serves as an ideal base for exploring some of the American West's most iconic natural wonders. You’ll find yourself just minutes from the eastern entrance to Bryce Canyon National Park, offering a slightly less crowded entry point than the main highway, and it’s also perfectly situated for venturing into the expansive, rugged beauty of Grand Staircase-Escalante National Monument. Beyond the grand scenery, the pace here is slow and reflective, inviting you to truly disconnect and immerse yourself in the awe-inspiring surroundings, whether you're hitting the trails, scouting for the perfect photo op, or simply gazing at the stars. While the natural splendor is undeniably the main event, Cannonville also offers a peek into the region's rich past. Just a short drive away, the Anasazi State Park Museum provides a fascinating glimpse into the lives of ancient Puebloan people who once thrived in this challenging environment. However, it's worth noting that due to its remote location and small size, amenities in Cannonville are quite limited; think a handful of lodging options, a general store, and maybe one or two places to grab a bite. This means planning ahead for gas, food, and supplies is crucial, especially if you're exploring the more secluded parts of Grand Staircase-Escalante. Cell service can also be spotty, which can be either a blessing or a challenge depending on your perspective!
Food & Cuisine
Dining options in Cannonville are limited but offer a taste of classic American comfort food. Expect hearty portions and friendly service at local restaurants. While there isn't a specific 'local cuisine' unique to Cannonville, you'll find staples like burgers, sandwiches, steaks, and homemade pies. The town has a few small restaurants that cater to tourists and locals alike. While there are no large markets within Cannonville, a small general store provides basic groceries and supplies. For a wider selection of dining options, visitors may consider traveling to nearby towns like Tropic or Escalante.
Nightlife
Nightlife in Cannonville is very limited, reflecting its small-town atmosphere and focus on outdoor recreation. After a day of hiking or exploring, most visitors are content to relax and enjoy the peace and quiet. There are no nightclubs or late-night bars within the town. Some restaurants may stay open slightly later during peak tourist season, but generally, the town quiets down early in the evening. Stargazing is a popular nighttime activity due to the minimal light pollution.
Best Time to Visit
The best time to visit Cannonville is during the spring (April-May) or fall (September-October). These months offer pleasant temperatures for hiking and outdoor activities, avoiding the extreme heat of summer and the potential for snow in winter. Spring brings wildflowers and vibrant landscapes, while fall showcases stunning autumn foliage. Summer (June-August) can be very hot, especially during the day, but is still a popular time to visit due to school holidays. Winter (November-March) can bring snow and cold temperatures, making some trails and roads inaccessible.
Transportation
Cannonville is a small town with limited public transportation options. There is no bus, tram, or subway/metro service available. The primary mode of transportation is by personal vehicle. Rental cars are highly recommended for visitors who wish to explore the surrounding national parks and monuments. Some local tour operators may offer shuttle services to specific trailheads or attractions, but these are typically pre-booked and not readily available on demand.
Airport
The closest major airport to Cannonville is Cedar City Regional Airport (CDC), located approximately 100 miles (160 kilometers) west of Cannonville. However, McCarran International Airport (LAS) in Las Vegas, Nevada, is a larger airport with more flight options and is located approximately 250 miles (400 kilometers) southwest of Cannonville. From either airport, the most convenient way to reach Cannonville is by renting a car. There are no direct public transportation options from either airport to Cannonville.
Attractions
Cottonwood Canyon Road
Cottonwood Canyon Road is a scenic drive that offers breathtaking views of the surrounding red rock cliffs, canyons, and desert landscapes. Visitors can enjoy the rugged beauty of the area while driving through the remote and picturesque terrain of Grand Staircase-Escalante National Monument.
Bryce Canyon National Park
Bryce Canyon National Park is known for its unique rock formations called hoodoos, which create a stunning landscape for hiking, photography, and stargazing. Visitors can explore the park's trails, viewpoints, and scenic drives to experience the beauty of the natural amphitheaters and spires.
Willis Creek Slot Canyon
Willis Creek Slot Canyon offers a picturesque slot canyon hike with towering walls, narrow passageways, and beautiful light filtering through the openings above. This family-friendly hike is perfect for all skill levels and provides a unique opportunity to explore the natural beauty of the area.
Kodachrome Basin State Park
Kodachrome Basin State Park is a geological wonderland, famed for its towering sandstone spires and vibrant colors. Hike among the 67 monolithic stone spires, explore the Chimney Rock Trail, or simply marvel at the panoramic views. The park offers camping, hiking, and stargazing opportunities, making it a perfect destination for outdoor enthusiasts and photographers seeking unique landscapes.
Cannonville Town Hall
Cannonville Town Hall is a historic building that serves as the center of community activities and events in the town. Visitors can learn about the history and culture of Cannonville while exploring the town hall's architecture and design.
Peekaboo Slot Canyon
Peekaboo Slot Canyon is a stunning slot canyon with narrow passageways, colorful rock formations, and unique light patterns that create a magical atmosphere for hikers and photographers. Visitors can explore the slot canyon's twists and turns to discover hidden alcoves and natural arches.
Devil's Garden
Devil's Garden is a natural rock formation in Grand Staircase-Escalante National Monument that features hoodoos, arches, and other geological wonders. Visitors can hike through the garden to see unique rock formations and enjoy panoramic views of the surrounding landscape.
Secret Spire Trail
The Secret Spire Trail is a shorter, easier hike in Kodachrome Basin State Park that leads to a hidden spire tucked away among the rock formations. It's a great option for families or those looking for a less strenuous walk. The trail offers unique perspectives of the park's geology and a sense of discovery as you find the 'secret' spire.
Chimney Rock Trail
The Chimney Rock Trail is a popular hiking trail within Kodachrome Basin State Park. This moderate trail winds through the park's unique geological formations, offering close-up views of the towering spires and colorful rock layers. It's a great way to experience the park's beauty and get some exercise while enjoying the stunning scenery.
Panorama Trail
The Panorama Trail in Kodachrome Basin State Park lives up to its name, offering sweeping views of the entire basin. This moderate hike takes you through diverse landscapes, including colorful rock formations, juniper forests, and open meadows. It's a fantastic way to appreciate the park's vastness and capture stunning panoramic photos.
Kodachrome Basin State Park
Kodachrome Basin State Park is a geological wonderland, famed for its towering sandstone spires and vibrant colors. Hike among the 67 monolithic stone spires, explore the Chimney Rock Trail, or simply marvel at the panoramic views. The park offers camping, hiking, and stargazing opportunities, making it a perfect destination for outdoor enthusiasts and photographers seeking unique landscapes.
Shakespeare Arch
Shakespeare Arch is a natural sandstone arch located within Kodachrome Basin State Park. It's a relatively short and easy hike to reach the arch, offering stunning views of the surrounding landscape. The arch is a popular spot for photography, especially during sunrise and sunset when the light enhances the colors of the rock formations.
Day Trips
Explore the stunning hoodoos and rock formations of Bryce Canyon National Park. Hike along the rim or venture down into the amphitheater for breathtaking views.
30 minutes by car from Cannonville Explore the vast wilderness of Grand Staircase-Escalante National Monument, known for its rugged canyons, slot canyons, and stunning rock formations. Hike to Calf Creek Falls or explore the Devil's Garden.
2 hours by car from Cannonville Visit the Escalante Petrified Forest State Park to see ancient petrified wood and learn about the geological history of the area. Enjoy hiking trails, fishing, and boating on Wide Hollow Reservoir.
1.5 hours by car from Cannonville Discover the unique sandstone spires and rock formations of Kodachrome Basin State Park. Enjoy hiking trails, picnicking areas, and stunning views of the surrounding landscape.
1 hour by car from Cannonville Bryce Canyon National Park is famous for its unique geology, featuring crimson-colored hoodoos, which are spire-shaped rock formations. Visitors can hike along the rim, descend into the canyon on various trails, and enjoy stunning panoramic views. The park also offers ranger programs, stargazing opportunities, and a chance to learn about the area's natural and cultural history.
Approximately 30 minutes by car Capitol Reef National Park protects a nearly 100-mile long wrinkle in the earth's crust known as the Waterpocket Fold. The park offers scenic drives, hiking trails, historic orchards, and opportunities to learn about the area's geology and pioneer history. Visitors can explore the historic Fruita district, hike to Hickman Bridge, or drive the scenic Capitol Reef Scenic Drive.
Approximately 2 hours 30 minutes by car Escalante Petrified Forest State Park showcases colorful petrified wood scattered across the landscape. Visitors can explore the Petrified Forest Trail, which winds through the petrified wood deposits, and learn about the geological processes that created them. The park also features Wide Hollow Reservoir, offering opportunities for fishing, swimming, and boating.
Approximately 1 hour by car While a full exploration of Zion National Park requires more than a day, a day trip to the east side of the park is possible. You can drive the scenic Zion-Mount Carmel Highway, hike the Canyon Overlook Trail for stunning views, and explore the unique rock formations and landscapes. Note that access to the main canyon requires using the park's shuttle system, which can add to travel time.
Approximately 2 hours 30 minutes by car to the East Entrance Grand Staircase-Escalante National Monument is a vast and diverse landscape encompassing canyons, mesas, forests, and deserts. Day trip options within the monument include exploring slot canyons like Peek-a-Boo and Spooky Gulch (near Escalante), hiking to Lower Calf Creek Falls, or visiting the Anasazi State Park Museum. The monument offers endless opportunities for outdoor adventure and exploration.
Varies depending on the specific location within the monument (30 minutes to 2 hours by car) Grand Staircase-Escalante National Monument is a vast and diverse landscape encompassing canyons, mesas, forests, and deserts. While the entire monument is too large to explore in a single day, several accessible areas near Cannonville offer incredible day trip opportunities. Explore slot canyons, hike to waterfalls, or simply marvel at the panoramic views. The monument is a haven for outdoor enthusiasts and those seeking solitude in nature.
Varies depending on the specific location within the monument (15 minutes to 2 hours driving) Boulder, Utah, is a remote and charming town nestled in the heart of the Grand Staircase-Escalante National Monument. Known for its stunning scenery and peaceful atmosphere, Boulder offers a glimpse into a simpler way of life. Visit the Anasazi State Park Museum to learn about the area's ancient inhabitants, hike to nearby waterfalls, or simply enjoy the tranquility of this unique desert oasis. The drive to Boulder along the scenic Highway 12 is an attraction in itself.
Approximately 1 hour 30 minutes driving Bryce Canyon National Park is a wonderland of otherworldly beauty, famous for its unique geology. Instead of a traditional canyon, Bryce is a collection of giant natural amphitheaters filled with thousands of distinctive geological formations called hoodoos. These crimson-colored spires offer breathtaking views and incredible hiking opportunities. The park is relatively compact, making it easy to explore several viewpoints and trails in a single day.
Approximately 30 minutes driving Escalante Petrified Forest State Park offers a fascinating glimpse into the ancient past. The park is home to a significant collection of petrified wood, remnants of a forest that existed millions of years ago. Visitors can explore the petrified wood on display, hike among the colorful rock formations, and even fish or boat on Wide Hollow Reservoir. The park provides a unique blend of geological wonders and recreational opportunities.
Approximately 45 minutes driving Kodachrome Basin State Park is a hidden gem known for its towering sandstone chimneys and vibrant colors. The park boasts a unique landscape with 67 monolithic spires that vary in color from white to pink to red. It's a fantastic place for hiking, photography, and enjoying the quiet solitude of the Utah desert. The park's name was originally given by National Geographic Society in 1948, after the color film Kodachrome, due to the park's vibrant colors.
Approximately 10 minutes driving Bryce Canyon National Park
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Grand Staircase-Escalante National Monument
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Escalante Petrified Forest State Park
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Kodachrome Basin State Park
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Bryce Canyon National Park
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Capitol Reef National Park
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Escalante Petrified Forest State Park
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Zion National Park (East Entrance)
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Grand Staircase-Escalante National Monument (Various Locations)
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Grand Staircase-Escalante National Monument (Various Locations)
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Boulder, Utah
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Bryce Canyon National Park
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Escalante Petrified Forest State Park
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Kodachrome Basin State Park
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