Family-Friendly Hiking in Kanab, UT: The Toadstools Trail Guide

When your kids announce they are tired of looking at boring rocks on their their hikes, take them to see toadstools. They will feel like they are stepping into a Star Wars set with the vast expanse of white and red rock in various mushroom-like formations. These hoodoos are rock formations where a large, harder rock sits on top of a narrower, softer rock pedestal making it look like a mushroom or toadstool. These enormous formations feel more like a natural sculpture garden than the mushrooms the kids jump on playing Mario Brothers, but the kids enjoyed them almost as much. We hit this trail with two teens, two kids, grandparents, and our dog in tow. It was a hit with everyone!

This is a relatively short out and back hike. Plan for a few hours to hike to the formations and then wander around checking them out. Packing a snack to snack to eat while absorbing the silence and presence of these structures is a good idea. Just remember that everything you brought with you on the way in must go with you back to your vehicle – including tiny wrappers, gum, and bottle caps!

This hike is fully exposed meaning there is NO shade. Sunscreen is a good idea year round. The hike works during any season, but plan to do this hike early in the AM or in the evening when the temps are high. Layers are a good idea during the shoulder seasons since the desert can be chilly early and late in the day. Finally, remember to pack enough WATER. I cannot emphasize enough how important water is for desert hikes!

• Toadstools hike is 30 miles west of Page, AZ on HWY 89 and parking will be on your right hand side.
• Toadstools hike is 45 miles east of Kanab, UT on HWY 89. Parking on your left.
• The trailhead is just past milepost 20.

The parking area for the Toadstools hike is clearly marked off Highway 89 in Utah. The lot is gravel and has space for plenty of cars although during tourist season it can get busy. There is no overflow parking for this hike. Portable restrooms are located in the parking lot and were clean (ish) when we visited in March (off season). There were no hand washing options. We always pack extra toilet paper, plastic bags for garbage, and ways to safely wash our hands when out on hiking adventures.

The trailhead is clearly marked at the edge of the parking lot. There are not many trail markers on the hike, but it is easy to follow the trail. Remember to avoid getting off the trail or taking shortcuts. The trail is accessible to those who can move without assistance in loosely packed sand/soil/rock and can navigate safely on slickrock. Strollers, walkers, and wheelchairs will not work well on this trail. Small children and babies will be best in a carrier.

For your convenience, I have a single page printable with all this information available in one concise spot. Save the Toadstools Adventure Guide to your files for easy digital access or print and take with you. Enjoy!