Falls along Sand Caves cliffside require multiple search and rescue responses over two weeks

Kane County officials and local emergency ser­vices are looking for ways to improve the safety of the Sand Caves north of Kanab, after multiple falls over the course of the last week have prompted cliff­side rescues. According to a report from Kane County Sheriff’s Office Search and Rescue (SAR), “Over a re­cent three-day period, two individuals suffered falls while navigating the popu­lar Sand Caves, both re­quiring transportation by ambulance for traumatic injuries. These incidents have raised concerns about the safety of the access routes to this attraction.”

Left to right: Despite their reputation as a short, local climb, the cliffs at the Sand Caves have called for multiple high-risk rescues in recent months. Visitors are advised to exercise caution. SUN file photos.

County officials, as well as some visitors, stated guide lines and trail mark­ers may have contributed to “a false sense of security for visitors attempting to ascend and descend the area,” with some recent visitors to the sand caves noting prior visitors had drawn lines on the cliffs which could potentially be mistakenly interpreted as guide lines.

Per SAR, “Recognizing the need for improved safe­ty measures, the Sheriff’s Office Search and Rescue is collaborating with the Bu­reau of Land Management to assess the situation and implement enhancements aimed at ensuring safer access to the Sand Caves. Visitors are encouraged to exercise caution and remain aware of their sur­roundings when exploring the Sand Caves.”

Hikers familiar with navigating the Sand Cave area emphasize the im­portance of high-traction footwear like hiking boots, and patience and willing­ness to stick to longer trails instead of taking shortcuts across more treacherous terrain to reach the caves. Safety officials also recom­mend ensuring children are never unattended while climbing and along the cliffs, and do not recom­mend bringing young chil­dren on the hike. Search and rescue representatives urge hikers who find them­selves in a risky situation, with a party member who has fallen or is stuck on a cliff, to stay calm, stay put where they are, and call 911 for help.