Coral Pink Sand Dunes State Park offers one of Utah’s most stunning natural settings for outdoor enthusiasts.
Situated in southern Utah near Kanab, it covers roughly 3,730 acres of soft salmon-colored dunes created by windblown Navajo sandstone.
The park provides endless opportunities for recreation and relaxation, drawing adventure seekers, photographers, and families looking for a peaceful escape.
Its vivid pink hues contrast beautifully with the surrounding red cliffs and blue skies, creating an unforgettable backdrop for every visit.
Visitors can enjoy sandboarding, off-highway vehicle rides, hiking, camping, and stargazing all within a single weekend trip.
@mimi.alxt almost died but so much fun🤠🙂↕️ #kanab #coralpinkdunes #zionnationalpark #visitutah #coralpinksanddunes #coupleactivities #couple #dunebuggy #sandboarding #america ♬ Super Mario 64 Slider Racing Song – namasty.woman
Getting There
Traveling to Coral Pink Sand Dunes State Park offers more than just a drive; it feels like a gradual entry into a world of shifting sands and vast desert beauty.
Visitors enjoy scenic desert highways that curve through red rock canyons and open plateaus before arriving at one of Utah’s most colorful natural attractions.
Reaching the park is simple, and several nearby cities make it easily accessible for both locals and travelers on longer road trips.
- Located about 20 miles west of Kanab in southern Utah.
- Roughly 1.5 hours from Cedar City, a popular southern Utah hub.
- Around 3 hours from Las Vegas or 5 hours from Salt Lake City.
- Accessible via U.S. Highway 89, followed by a well-marked road to the park entrance.
The final stretch features striking desert scenery, with sandstone cliffs and rolling dunes visible in the distance.
Drivers will find clear signage pointing toward the park, and once inside, paved roads lead directly to parking areas near the visitor center.
Spaces are available for standard vehicles, RVs, and trailers, with easy access to picnic areas and trailheads.
Best Time to Visit
@thejennaricciardi When we visited Utah with @Visit Utah in April, one of my must-dos on our itinerary was the Coral Dunes State Park (you know we love a good sand dune, we visited the Imperial Sand Dunes in Cali last summer). This one was so cool because you can rent boards to go down the dunes (you can also rent ATV’s too) – this was such a crazy experience & definitely recommend checking out when you are in the area. You know these types of activities are welllllll out of my comfort zone, but I make myself do it anyway for the girls to have these experiences. There is a lot of walking to get to the dunes so make sure you prepare, bring sunblock & tons of water. Also, is the sun actually out today???????? We have been waiting!🖤 #visitutah #utahcheck #utahcheck #visitutahparks #coralpinksanddunes #travelfamily #familytravel #familytrip #familycreator #creatorsoftiktok #familytrips ♬ Don’t We – Morgan Wallen
Choosing the right season can make a huge difference in comfort and enjoyment at Coral Pink Sand Dunes.
Each time of year brings distinct conditions, and planning around them helps ensure a memorable experience.
- Spring, early summer, and fall offer mild temperatures and light winds ideal for sandboarding, hiking, and photography.
- Summer brings extreme heat, especially during midday, making strenuous activity dangerous without proper hydration.
- Winter provides solitude and crisp air, appealing to those who prefer quiet camping or photography, but colder nights require adequate gear.
The park is open daily throughout the year during daylight hours. Visitors should prepare for changing desert conditions, carrying essentials such as water, sunscreen, wide-brimmed hats, and breathable clothing.
Mornings and evenings often present the most comfortable conditions for active pursuits like hiking or sandboarding.
Sandboarding & Sledding
Sandboarding and sledding form the heart of Coral Pink Sand Dunes’ outdoor fun. Rolling dunes of soft salmon-colored sand stretch for miles, providing endless slopes for thrill-seekers.
Before hitting the dunes, it helps to know where to rent equipment and how to make the most of the experience.
- Rentals available at the park’s visitor center for sandboards and sleds.
- Designated non-motorized area ensures a safe environment free of vehicle traffic.
- Beginner-friendly dunes for practice and larger slopes for experienced riders.
- Early morning or late afternoon sessions offer firmer sand, cooler temperatures, and better lighting for photography.
Sandboarding provides faster, smoother motion due to the texture of the dunes, while sledding offers a more laid-back option for families with young children.
Both activities are safe when proper footwear and balance techniques are used. Visitors can also bring their own gear but should ensure it’s made for sand rather than snow.
Other Recreational Activities
Coral Pink Sand Dunes offers far more than sandboarding. Adventurers, photographers, and casual visitors alike can find exciting things to do across the park’s terrain.
Activities include off-highway vehicle riding, hiking, and nighttime stargazing.
Off-Highway Vehicle (OHV) Riding
OHV riding ranks among the most exhilarating experiences available at Coral Pink Sand Dunes. With nearly 90% of the dunes open to riders, it’s a paradise for those who love the feel of sand beneath their tires.
- Popular trails such as the Sand Highway and the South Boundary Trail.
- Expansive terrain ideal for beginners and experienced riders alike.
- Permit requirement for vehicle operation within park boundaries.
- Safety gear including helmets and goggles recommended for all participants.
Riders can explore the open dunes, climb steep sandy ridges, and enjoy spectacular vistas of the desert’s shifting patterns. Early mornings and late afternoons often bring the best riding conditions, avoiding the intense midday heat.
Hiking and Scenic Exploration
Those on foot can discover a variety of trails and geological wonders scattered throughout the park.
Short nature paths provide relaxing strolls, while longer hikes venture into the sandstone cliffs and slickrock formations that define southern Utah’s terrain.
- Diana’s Throne hike, known for slickrock scrambles and panoramic views.
- Boardwalk trails near the visitor area that offer easy access to viewing points.
- Scenic overlooks providing perfect spots for photos and rest breaks.
Trail routes vary in difficulty, making them suitable for families, solo hikers, or anyone seeking a scenic walk through colorful desert terrain.
Photography & Stargazing
Photographers and night-sky enthusiasts often list Coral Pink Sand Dunes as one of Utah’s hidden treasures for capturing natural light.
Golden hour transforms the dunes into glowing shades of pink and red, while the night reveals an endless sky filled with stars.
- Sunrise and sunset bring the most vivid dune colors and striking contrasts.
- Night skies are free of major light pollution, perfect for astrophotography.
- Estimated 400 billion visible stars can often be seen on clear nights.
Tripods, wide-angle lenses, and long-exposure settings allow for exceptional night photography.
Stargazers can expect a mesmerizing view of the Milky Way and constellations stretching across the desert horizon.
Camping and Lodging
Spending a night under the stars or nearby in Kanab adds another layer of enjoyment to the Coral Pink Sand Dunes experience.
Multiple options accommodate every traveler’s preference, from basic campsites to comfortable boutique hotels.
Campgrounds within the Park
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- Loop A (Sites 1–22): Offers dry camping for tents and smaller vehicles.
- Loop B (Sites 23–34): Equipped with water and electrical hookups for RVs.
Additional amenities include:
- Hot showers and flush toilets for comfort.
- Dump stations for RV waste disposal.
- Picnic tables and fire pits at most sites.
Reservations can be made through Reserve America, and early booking is advised during peak seasons like spring and fall.
Nearby Camping Options
Several nearby locations cater to campers who prefer different levels of comfort or a change of scenery.
- Dark Sky RV Campground for premium amenities and night-sky viewing.
- Kanab RV Corral for convenient access to local attractions.
- Ponderosa Grove Campground offering a quieter forested setting.
- Dispersed camping available in surrounding public lands for free stays with fewer facilities.
Each site provides a distinct atmosphere, giving travelers the flexibility to tailor their experience.
Lodging in Kanab
Kanab offers comfortable lodging and excellent dining options for those who prefer a warm bed after a day in the dunes.
Visitors can find cozy inns or boutique hotels with modern amenities and local character.
- Canyons Boutique Hotel and BaseCamp 37 for stylish stays close to nature.
- Restaurants such as Wild Thyme Cafe, Escobar’s Mexican Restaurant, and Peekaboo Canyon Wood-Fired Kitchen offer satisfying meals after a day outdoors.
- Kanab’s welcoming atmosphere and proximity make it an excellent home base for multi-day visits to Coral Pink Sand Dunes.
Guided Tours & Adventure Companies
Guided experiences provide a great way to learn about the area’s natural history and geology while enjoying thrilling adventures.
Two reputable companies operate near the park, offering tours suited to different interests and activity levels.
ROAM Outdoor Adventure Co.
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ROAM Outdoor Adventure Co. specializes in adrenaline-filled experiences across the dunes and nearby desert features.
Participants can explore the terrain through guided UTV rides or join tours combining off-road exploration with night-sky observation.
- UTV rides across shifting dunes.
- Slot canyon adventures revealing narrow sandstone passages.
- Stargazing tours under crystal-clear desert skies.
- Local folklore tours featuring stories like “Bigfoot sightings.”
Each trip blends adventure with education, led by experienced guides familiar with the park’s geological and cultural background.
All Ways Adventure
All Ways Adventure caters to visitors seeking physical challenges such as rock climbing and rappelling.
The company’s certified instructors emphasize safety and technique while tailoring each experience to the skill level of participants.
- Rock climbing on nearby sandstone cliffs.
- Rappelling experiences into slot canyons and open rock faces.
- Flexible scheduling and customized tours for individuals or groups.
Participants gain confidence and outdoor skills while experiencing the raw beauty of southern Utah’s desert terrain under expert supervision.
The Bottom Line
Coral Pink Sand Dunes State Park delivers a perfect balance of excitement and serenity.
Vast salmon-colored dunes, stunning sunsets, and star-filled skies create a setting ideal for both adventure seekers and nature lovers. Visitors can ride, board, camp, or simply admire the ever-changing desert beauty in peace.
Ideal for families, solo travelers, and road-trippers, it remains one of southern Utah’s most captivating destinations, offering unforgettable memories in an extraordinary natural setting.