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State park · Kanab, Utah
Coral Pink Sand Dunes
A state park west of Kanab with coral-colored sand dunes amid pines and red cliffs. You can walk along the ridges and slide down the dunes on a board.
Illustrative images. The pictures in this guide are illustrations based on the real place, not photographs, and may differ from it.
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About Coral Pink Sand Dunes
The Coral Pink dunes lie in a valley about 30 km west of Kanab, between the Moquith and Moccasin cliffs. The sand comes from erosion of the surrounding Navajo sandstone and is blown through a gap between mountains where wind speed drops and grains accumulate. The pink color comes from iron oxide.
The state park protects roughly 1,500 hectares of dunes, some dozens of meters high, amid pines and desert shrubs. A short boardwalk leads from the parking area to a viewpoint over the dune field, and from there visitors are free to walk on the sand. Part of the area is open to off-road vehicles, and another section is closed to protect a rare beetle, the Coral Pink tiger beetle, which is found only here.
You can rent sandboards at the park store to slide down the dunes. The campground sits among the pines on the edge of the dune field.
In summer the sand becomes very hot at midday; the coolest hours, in the morning and late afternoon, also offer softer light.
Before you go
Practical information
Cidade Turismo reviews its information regularly, but something may have changed. Check with the place before planning your trip.
How much time to set aside
Two to three hours.
Best time
In the morning or late afternoon, spring through fall. After rain, the sand firms up and is easier to climb.
How to get there
By car, departing Kanab via US-89 and paved local roads, in about half an hour. There is no public transport.
Tip
Wear closed shoes or walk barefoot only in cool hours: the sand burns in the sun. A vehicle entry fee is charged; see prices on the official website.
Official website
Get your questions answered
Frequently asked questions about Coral Pink Sand Dunes
Can you sandboard down the Coral Pink dunes?
Yes. The park allows sliding on the dunes and rents boards at the shop. The board slides better when dry and not too hot.
How long from Kanab to the Coral Pink dunes?
About a half-hour drive on paved roads west of town.
Why is Coral Pink sand pink?
The sand comes from the erosion of the Navajo sandstone cliffs around the area and contains iron oxide, which gives it the coral color.