Experience Kane County Enchantment
By Myrna Cox

Kane County offers unique scenic adventures, even for those not wanting to spend an entire day in the car. Take a short trip north of Kanab on Highway 89 for a visual treat.

It's a photographer's paradise, traveling north to the Coral Pink Sand Dunes. Cactus, cedar trees and wild game are found in abundance. Occasionally, you can catch a shot (camera, of course) of an animal as you cross this stretch of road. Large mule deer, rabbits and fox often honor travel-ers with a brief appearance. Scenic coral sand sets the stage for the panoramic view offered as you drive into the Valley, an area settled in the 1800's by early pioneers. The majestic mountains of Zion National Park rise in sequence to the west. To the north, green fields, vegetation and moun-tain areas tempt the backpackers.

Coral Pink Sand dunes
Coral Pink Sand Dunes

As you drop into Mt. Carmel Junction, the first thing you see is a well-groomed golf course. A little haven of facilities is found at the Junction, including an abundance of motel rooms. Kick back, play some golf and get a bite before you travel on! Mt. Carmel is the next stop on High-way 89, a quaint little farming community which features a historical landmark, and the historic Old Rock Church, which is still used occasionally for community gatherings.

The town of Orderville was once the sight of a unique, but short-lived Mormon Church experi-ment. Take time to learn about the community's fascinating background. The historic Daugh-ters of the Utah Pioneers building is open to the public, and has many interesting items from early Mormons who settled this area.

Glendale is famous for its apples, and even boasts a town stand, which sells apples and delicious cider.

The elevation climbs as you travel northward. A K.O.A. campground lies in the shadow of tall, rock towers, much like those seen at Bryce Canyon.

Your journey continues uphill, traveling northward on Highway 89. Pine trees line the hills bordering the green, lush mead-ows. A grazing herd of elk or deer can occasionally be viewed.

Continue on to Cedar Mountain, for a refreshing visual treat. Duck Creek Village on Cedar Mountain hosts the annual Duck Creek Chili Contest every August. This has become a very popular event. There is a continuous schedule of games and events for kids and those young at heart. There is a mock jail where you can be arrested and locked up for such heinous crimes as not wearing western clothing, or saying hello to a stranger. The fun filled day ends with a steak dinner with all the trimmings

The next stop past Duck Creek would have to be Cedar Breaks National Monument. Turn right off of Highway 14 on Highway 148 and follow the signs. The scenery is similar to Bryce Valley's reddish colored spires.


*Article taken from the Kanab Area Vacation Guide.