Cannonville, Utah, United States Guide
Cannonville, Utah, is a small, charming town nestled in the heart of Southern Utah's stunning red rock country. It serves as a gateway to Bryce Canyon National Park and the Grand Staircase-Escalante National Monument, offering visitors a peaceful base from which to explore these natural wonders. The town's friendly atmosphere and proximity to outdoor adventures make it a popular destination for those seeking a more intimate and less crowded experience than staying directly in the national park. Beyond its location, Cannonville offers a glimpse into a simpler way of life. Visitors can enjoy the quiet beauty of the surrounding landscape, engage in stargazing under exceptionally dark skies, and discover the unique geological formations that characterize this region. While amenities are limited compared to larger cities, Cannonville provides a genuine and authentic experience for travelers seeking a connection with nature and a respite from the hustle and bustle of modern life.
Food & Cuisine
Cannonville offers a few local dining options, primarily focusing on American cuisine with a home-style feel. Expect hearty meals and friendly service. While there aren't any Michelin-starred restaurants, you can find satisfying meals at local cafes and diners. Many visitors also choose to pack their own lunches and snacks for day trips into the national parks. For a wider variety of dining options, consider driving to nearby towns like Tropic or Escalante.
Nightlife
Nightlife in Cannonville is very limited, reflecting the town's small size and focus on outdoor activities. Entertainment primarily revolves around stargazing, enjoying the quiet evenings, and relaxing after a day of hiking or exploring. There are no nightclubs or bars with late-night hours. Some restaurants may stay open slightly later during peak tourist season, but generally, the town quiets down considerably after dark.
Best Time to Visit
The best time to visit Cannonville is during the spring (April-May) or fall (September-October). These seasons offer pleasant temperatures for hiking and outdoor activities, avoiding the extreme heat of summer and the potential for snow in winter. Spring brings wildflowers, while fall showcases the vibrant colors of the changing foliage. Be sure to check weather forecasts before your trip, as conditions can change rapidly in the high desert.
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 exploring the surrounding national parks and monuments. Some tour operators may offer shuttle services to specific attractions.
Airport
The closest major airport to Cannonville is Cedar City Regional Airport (CDC), located approximately 100 miles (160 km) west of the town. Rental cars are available at the airport and are the most convenient way to reach Cannonville. Another option is McCarran International Airport (LAS) in Las Vegas, Nevada, which is about 250 miles (400 km) away, but offers more flight options. From either airport, a rental car is necessary to reach Cannonville.
Attractions
Mossy Cave Trail
Mossy Cave Trail is a short and easy hike in Bryce Canyon National Park that leads to a small waterfall and a mossy alcove. The trail is perfect for families and offers a glimpse of the park's unique geology and vegetation. Visitors can enjoy the peaceful surroundings and learn about the area's natural history.
Cottonwood Canyon Road
Cottonwood Canyon Road is a scenic drive that winds through Grand Staircase-Escalante National Monument, offering stunning views of red rock cliffs, slot canyons, and desert landscapes. The unpaved road is an adventure in itself, with opportunities for hiking, camping, and wildlife viewing along the way. Visitors can experience the beauty of Utah's backcountry on this remote route.
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, attend ranger-led programs, and enjoy breathtaking views from viewpoints like Sunrise Point and Inspiration Point.
Queens Garden Trail
Queens Garden Trail is a scenic hiking trail in Bryce Canyon National Park that leads to a picturesque garden of hoodoos and rock formations. The easy to moderate trail offers stunning views of the amphitheater and allows visitors to explore the unique geology of the park up close. Hikers can enjoy the beauty of the landscape and the tranquility of nature.
Peekaboo Loop Trail
Peekaboo Loop Trail is a popular hiking trail in Bryce Canyon National Park that offers panoramic views of the amphitheater and hoodoos. The moderate to strenuous loop takes visitors through the heart of the park's unique rock formations, providing opportunities for photography and wildlife spotting. Hikers can enjoy the challenge of the trail and the beauty of the surrounding landscape.
Willis Creek Slot Canyon
Willis Creek Slot Canyon is a hidden gem near Cannonville, offering a scenic slot canyon hike with colorful walls, narrow passages, and occasional water crossings. The easy trail is suitable for all skill levels and provides a peaceful escape into nature. Visitors can admire the unique rock formations and enjoy the tranquility of the canyon.
Day Trips
A mere stone's throw from Cannonville, Bryce Canyon National Park is an absolute must-see. While technically not a canyon, Bryce is a collection of giant natural amphitheaters filled with thousands of distinctive geological formations called hoodoos. The vibrant colors of the rock, ranging from deep reds and oranges to soft pinks and creams, create a breathtaking landscape that changes dramatically with the light throughout the day. Sunrise and sunset are particularly magical times to visit.
Approximately 30 minutes driving A scenic drive east will bring you to Escalante Petrified Forest State Park. This park offers a fascinating glimpse into the past, with its collection of petrified wood scattered across the landscape. The petrified wood, formed millions of years ago, displays a stunning array of colors and patterns. In addition to the petrified wood, the park also features a small reservoir for fishing and boating, as well as hiking trails that offer panoramic views of the surrounding area.
Approximately 45 minutes driving Venture a bit further northeast, and you'll discover Capitol Reef National Park, a hidden treasure of Utah's national park system. Capitol Reef is characterized by its Waterpocket Fold, a 100-mile long warp in the earth's crust. This geological feature has created a stunning landscape of canyons, cliffs, domes, and bridges. The park also boasts a rich history, with evidence of early Fremont culture and pioneer settlements.
Approximately 2 hours driving Take a scenic drive along the Burr Trail to the isolated town of Boulder, Utah. This charming town, once one of the most remote settlements in the United States, offers a glimpse into a simpler way of life. Explore the Anasazi State Park Museum, which preserves the ruins of an ancient Anasazi village, or simply enjoy the stunning views of the surrounding canyons and mesas. The drive itself is an adventure, with its winding roads and breathtaking scenery.
Approximately 1 hour 30 minutes driving (via Burr Trail) Located just a short drive from Cannonville, Kodachrome Basin State Park is a hidden gem known for its unique geological formations. The park features 67 monolithic spires, or sedimentary pipes, that rise dramatically from the desert floor. These formations, along with the colorful layers of sandstone, create a surreal and captivating landscape. It's a fantastic place for hiking, photography, and simply soaking in the beauty of the Utah desert.
Approximately 15 minutes driving Bryce Canyon National Park
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Escalante Petrified Forest State Park
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Capitol Reef National Park
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Boulder, Utah
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Kodachrome Basin State Park
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