About Cottonwood Trail
Cottonwood Trail is a 10-mile roundtrip out-and-back hiking and equestrian trail on the southwest side of Kanab, UT. The trail slopes up and down several drainages as it weaves through the foothills at the base of the Vermilion Cliffs. As it passes through pinion and juniper trees, Cottonwood trail provides a great opportunity to enjoy native plants and wildlife.Cottonwood Trail is open to foot and horse traffic only; bicycles and motorized vehicles are not allowed. Dogs are welcome, but their waste must be packed out. The trailhead offers a graveled parking area, an informational kiosk, and a small picnic area with a table and grill, but no other amenities. For more information and detailed maps, visit the Kanab Visitor Center (BLM) in Kanab, UT.Cottonwood Trail is primarily clay based. Please refrain from using the trail when it is wet or snow covered to protect the trail surface.
How to Get There
From the intersection of Highway 89 and Highway 89A in Kanab, UT, travel south on Highway 89A for 0.9 miles to Kanab Creek Drive. Turn right onto Kanab Creek Drive, and follow it for 1.9 miles to Stansfield Drive. Turn right onto Stansfield Drive, and continue 0.5 miles to the trailhead.
Driving directions (Google Maps) →Plan Your Visit to Cottonwood Trail
Heading to Cottonwood Trail? A few things to know before you go:
- Reservations: popular sites fill up fast — check Recreation.gov 6 months in advance
- Fees: day-use and camping fees vary; check current rates on the official park page
- Trash & pack-out: follow Leave No Trace principles
- Wildlife: store food in bear boxes where provided; never feed wildlife
- Weather: the 5-day forecast above is updated every 6 hours; verify just before you go
Frequently Asked Questions
Do I need a reservation for Cottonwood Trail?
No central reservation system listed for Cottonwood Trail. Check the official page (https://www.recreation.gov/recarea/16438) for the latest entry policy and availability.
How do I get to Cottonwood Trail?
From the intersection of Highway 89 and Highway 89A in Kanab, UT, travel south on Highway 89A for 0.9 miles to Kanab Creek Drive. Turn right onto Kanab Creek Drive, and follow it for 1.9 miles to Stansfield Drive. Turn right onto Stansfield Drive, and continue 0.5 miles to the trailhead.
How do I contact Cottonwood Trail?
You can reach the park at phone: 435-644-1300 or email: blm_ut_kn_mail@blm.gov.
References & Official Resources
