Kanab sits at the crossroads of Utah’s most famous national parks. This small town offers access to some of the Southwest’s most incredible landscapes.
Red rock canyons, towering sandstone walls, and colorful rock formations surround the area.
The town earned its nickname as “Little Hollywood” after hosting over 100 Western films. Today, visitors come for outdoor activities and natural wonders. You’ll find slot canyons to visit, dunes to climb, and historic sites to visit.
This guide covers the best things to do in Kanab, Utah. From challenging hikes to family activities, there’s something for everyone.
Local restaurants and day trips to nearby parks round out your options. Whether you have two days or a full week, you’ll find plenty to fill your time.
Best Outdoor Activities in Kanab
Kanab’s location makes it a base camp for outdoor lovers. The surrounding desert holds some of the most interesting geological features in the country.
Wire Pass to Buckskin Gulch
Wire Pass Trail leads you into one of the longest slot canyons in the world. The narrow passage features walls that rise hundreds of feet overhead. Sunlight filters down to create dramatic shadows and light shows.
The hike to the confluence with Buckskin Gulch covers about 3.5 miles round-trip. You’ll need a permit from the BLM to access this area.
Many things to do in Kana, but it requires permits, so plan and check the current requirements before your visit.
The Wave (Lottery System)
The Wave stands out as one of the most photographed rock formations in America. Swirling patterns in the sandstone create flowing lines that look almost painted. The colors shift from red to orange to pink depending on the time of day.
Getting a permit requires winning a lottery system. You can apply online up to four months in advance or try the daily lottery in person.
Only 64 people per day can visit, making this one of the hardest things to do in Kanab, Utah, to actually access.
Peekaboo Slot Canyon (Red Canyon)
This slot canyon offers a less crowded alternative to more famous spots. You’ll need a high-clearance 4WD vehicle to reach the trailhead.
The dirt road can get rough, but local tour companies offer guided trips if you don’t have the right vehicle.
The actual hike through the canyon is short but memorable. Narrow passages force you to squeeze through tight spaces. The canyon walls display layers of red and orange rock that make great photos.
Toadstool Hoodoos
These mushroom-shaped rocks sit just off Highway 89. The easy 1.5-mile round-trip trail works well for families with kids. No special permits or 4WD vehicles needed here.
The hoodoos formed over millions of years as softer rock eroded beneath harder capstones. You can walk right up to them and see the details up close.
This is one of the most accessible things to do in Kanab, Utah, for visitors of all fitness levels.
Coral Pink Sand Dunes State Park
Miles of pink and coral colored sand create a playground for outdoor activities. You can hike, rent sandboards, or bring ATVs and dirt bikes to the designated areas. The colors look best at sunrise and sunset.
The park includes a campground if you want to spend the night. Day use fees apply, and you’ll find restrooms and picnic areas on site. Kids love running down the dunes and climbing back up.
White Pocket
White Pocket gives you Wave-like scenery without the lottery headache. The rock formations show swirling patterns in white, red, and orange. This remote location requires a 4WD vehicle and good navigation skills.
Most visitors hire a guide service to reach White Pocket. The route crosses sandy washes and rocky terrain that can damage regular vehicles. GPS coordinates help, but the roads aren’t marked clearly.
Sand Caves
These caves formed when miners dug into the sandstone hillside decades ago. The short hike from the parking area takes about 15 minutes. You can climb up into the caves and visit the chambers.
Bring a headlamp or flashlight to see inside the deeper sections. The caves stay cool even on hot days. Photographers love the way light enters through the openings.
Belly of the Dragon
A drainage tunnel runs beneath Highway 89 near milepost 64. You can walk through this short tunnel in just a few minutes. The curved walls and ceiling create interesting light patterns.
Pack a flashlight because it gets dark in the middle section. The tunnel is wide enough to walk through comfortably. This quick stop makes a fun addition when you’re driving between other locations.
The Nautilus
This spiral rock formation looks like a giant nautilus shell. A natural rock slide next to it provides entertainment for kids and adults. You’ll find it near the White House Trailhead area.
The hike to reach The Nautilus is relatively short. Families often spend 30 minutes to an hour here. The rock formations in this area show interesting patterns and textures.
Museums and Cultural Attractions
After days spent hiking, Kanab’s museums and cultural sites offer a different pace. The town’s history as a filming location and pioneer settlement comes alive through these attractions.
- Best Friends Animal Sanctuary: Free tours of the facilities let you see rescued animals up close. You can volunteer to walk dogs or socialize cats during your stay. The sanctuary also maintains hiking trails on its property.
- Little Hollywood Land Museum: Old Western movie sets preserve the town’s filming history. Entry is free, and you can walk through authentic building facades used in famous films.
- Kanab Heritage House Museum: This historic home shows what life looked like for early settlers. Tours reveal details about pioneer families who built the town.
- Moqui Cave Museum: Natural cave formations combine with Native American artifacts and a historic bar. The cave stays cool year-round and offers interesting displays.
- Parry Lodge: This downtown hotel housed Hollywood stars during the filming era. The walls display signed photos from actors who stayed here while making movies.
These indoor activities provide a break from the sun and offer insight into local history. Most charge minimal admission fees or accept donations. You can visit several in a single afternoon when checking out things to do in Kanab, Utah, beyond hiking.
Day Trip Destinations from Kanab
Kanab’s central location puts you within driving distance of several major attractions. You can base yourself here and take day trips to different parks and monuments.
- Zion National Park: The east entrance sits just 30 minutes away, giving you access to incredible hikes and viewpoints. This proximity makes Zion an easy morning trip.
- Bryce Canyon National Park: Located 90 minutes north via scenic Highway 12. The park is famous for its orange and red hoodoos that fill massive amphitheaters.
- Horseshoe Bend: About an hour drive to Page, Arizona, gets you to this dramatic Colorado River curve. The viewpoint offers photos of the iconic horseshoe shape.
- Old Paria Ghost Town: Remains of a settlement abandoned in the 1930s after repeated flooding. You can walk through old structures and imagine frontier life.
- Pipe Spring National Monument: This historic fort teaches visitors about pioneer and Native American history. Rangers offer guided tours of the preserved buildings.
Each destination deserves at least half a day, so choose based on your interests and available time.
Starting early helps you avoid crowds at popular spots like Horseshoe Bend. These day trips expand your list of things to do in Kanab, Utah, significantly.
Where to Eat in Kanab
After a long day outdoors, Kanab offers several good dining options. The restaurant scene covers everything from casual to upscale.
- Peekaboo Canyon Wood Fired Kitchen: Italian food with vegetarian and vegan options in a comfortable setting. The wood-fired pizzas and pasta dishes get high marks from visitors.
- Kanab Creek Bakery: Opens early for breakfast and offers fresh French pastries throughout the day. Great spot for coffee and a quick bite before hitting the trails.
- Rocking V Cafe: Upscale dining with creative menu items and a nice atmosphere. Reservations are recommended during busy seasons.
- Escobar’s Mexican Restaurant: Family-friendly portions and traditional favorites. Good option when you want casual dining with large groups.
- Sego Restaurant: Asian fusion cuisine with fresh ingredients. The menu changes seasonally and offers something different from typical tourist town food.
- Big Al’s Burgers: Classic drive-in style burgers and shakes. Ideal for a quick, satisfying meal without breaking the budget.
Most restaurants stay busy during peak season, so consider making reservations when possible.
Prices generally run lower than you’d find in gateway towns closer to the national parks. Local spots give you a chance to refuel and plan your next day of activities.
Key Tips for Visiting Kanab
Planning makes your trip smoother and safer. These practical tips help you prepare for your visit.
- Cell Service: Phone service drops off quickly once you leave town. Download offline maps before heading to trailheads so you can navigate without signal.
- Best Times to Visit: Spring months from March to May and fall from September to November offer ideal hiking weather. Summer temperatures regularly exceed 100 degrees.
- Lodging Options: The town has several hotels and the Best Friends Roadhouse. Book early during peak season as rooms fill up quickly.
- Grocery Stores: Honey’s Marketplace and Glaziers Market provide groceries if you’re preparing your own meals. Stock up on snacks and water before day trips.
- 4WD Vehicle Rentals: Consider renting a high-clearance vehicle if you want to access backcountry locations on your own. Several local companies offer rentals.
- Tour Guide Services: Professional guides can take you to difficult-to-reach spots. This option works well if you don’t have the right vehicle or navigation experience.
- Flash Flood Awareness: Slot canyons can fill quickly during rainy weather. Check forecasts and avoid canyons when storms threaten the area.
- Water and Sun Protection: Pack plenty of water, sunscreen, and hats for any outdoor activity. The desert sun is intense, and dehydration happens fast.
- Trail Etiquette: Stay on marked trails and pack out all trash. These simple steps protect the landscape while you enjoy things to do in Kanab, Utah.
Respecting the natural environment keeps these areas open for future visitors. Following Leave No Trace principles ensures others can experience the same natural wonders you do.
Conclusion
Kanab serves as the ideal base for visiting some of America’s most remarkable landscapes. The town combines easy access to outdoor activities with comfortable amenities. You can challenge yourself with permit-required hikes or keep things simple with family-friendly trails.
Cultural attractions and local restaurants add variety to your trip. Day trips to nearby national parks and monuments extend your options even further. Most visitors find that two or three days barely scratch the surface.
Consider spending four or five days to really experience what the area offers. Respect the natural environment by following Leave No Trace principles. Check weather conditions and permit requirements before heading out.
Research which activities match your interests and fitness level. Book accommodations early during peak season. Kanab waits to show you why it’s called the gateway to the Southwest’s greatest activities.
Frequently Asked Questions
Do I need a 4-wheel drive vehicle to visit Kanab?
Most attractions in town and along paved roads don’t require 4WD. However, backcountry destinations like White Pocket and Peekaboo Slot Canyon need high-clearance vehicles. You can rent 4WD vehicles locally or book guided tours.
What is the best time of year to visit Kanab?
Spring, from March through May, and fall, from September to November, er provide ideal conditions. Temperatures stay comfortable for hiking, and you’ll avoid extreme summer heat. Winter can bring cold weather and occasional snow.
Are dogs allowed on trails around Kanab?
Most trails welcome leashed dogs, but rules vary by location. BLM lands generally allow dogs, while some areas restrict them. Check specific trail regulations before bringing your pet along on hikes.
How many days should I spend in Kanab?
Plan for at least two to three days to cover the highlights. Four to five days let you visit more thoroughly and take day trips to nearby parks. A full week allows permit-required hikes and relaxed pacing.
Can I visit Kanab on a budget?
Yes, many activities cost nothing beyond fuel and permits. Free attractions include the Little Hollywood Museum and the Best Friends Sanctuary. Lodging and food cost less than in towns closer to major parks. Camping provides the most affordable overnight option.
