I hesitate as I post anything about Kanarraville Falls.

So the other day, I went with our church youth group on the most delightful hike. I almost didn’t post anything about it because I’m not sure I want anyone to know about this place. I’ve heard Kanarraville Falls called one of Utah’s “best-kept secrets.” Maybe the first rule of Kanaraville Falls is that you don’t talk about Kanarraville Falls or something. But this place is too gorgeous not to post about.

The trail begins in a parking lot in the tiny town of Kanarraville, which is maybe 20 minutes south of where I live. There’s a small parking lot, and you’ve got to pay to park there. Once you head up the access road and into the valley, though, the scenery becomes exquisite.

The first half hour or so goes up the rapidly narrowing canyon, crossing the creek again and again. Eventually, you come to a slot canyon that is truly a marvel: 10-20 feet across, at least 100 feet up, with layers and striations and fascinating textures. The top of the slot has a crude ladder that takes you up and out of the slot.

After that comes some more rock-hopping and waterfall action. Then you get another narrow slot ending in another waterfall. Both of these sections of narrows are at least a quarter mile in length.

You really have to see Kanarraville Falls to believe it. In any other state, this would be a major attraction. But since this low-key state park is surrounded by the likes of Zion, Bryce Canyon, Cedar Breaks, and so on, it’s easily missed.

Don’t miss it.