20+ Jaw-Dropping Things to do In Kanab, Utah
We first visited Kanab in 2022, and wow, this little town is incredible! We spent an entire week exploring and filled our itinerary with so many adventures (seriously, there’s so much to do).
We off-roaded to Cutler Point, wandered around the Coral Pink Sand Dunes, squeezed through Peekaboo Slot Canyon, climbed around the Moqui Sand Caves, and even did a day trip to Tuweep to take in the vertigo-inducing views of the Grand Canyon. It’s definitely become one of our favorite places in southern Utah.
If you’re planning a trip to Kanab, you’re in the right place! This guide will cover everything you need to know to make the most of your visit. We’ll share all the must-do activities and hikes, the best time to visit, what to know before you go and so much more!
Kanab Map of things to Do
Kanab is one of those small towns that just charms the heck out of you. It’s super cute and welcoming and it’s surrounded by some of the most stunning scenery in all of southern Utah.
The area was first settled back in 1864 when a fort was built as a defense against Native Americans and as a base for exploration. While the fort didn’t last long (it was abandoned by 1866), in 1870, ten Mormon families moved in and officially established the town.
The name Kanab actually comes from a Paiute word meaning “place of the willows,” which feels super fitting. Over the years, though, Kanab picked up another nickname “Little Hollywood.” In 1924, this little town and its stunning landscapes became the backdrop for over 100 Hollywood productions! Movies and TV shows like The Lone Ranger, Stagecoach, Gunsmoke, El Dorado, and Planet of the Apes were filmed here.
What really makes Kanab special, though, is its incredible location. It’s right in the middle of southern Utah’s “Grand Circle,” surrounded by iconic spots like Zion National Park, Bryce Canyon, the Grand Canyon, and Vermillion Cliffs National Monument and endless things to do nearby.
Best things to do In KAnab
1. The Wave
The Wave, located in Vermillion Cliffs National Monument along the Utah-Arizona border, is one of the most stunning and recognizable formations in the Southwest. With its red and orange sandstone swirls, it’s a bucket-list spot for so many adventurers (including us!).
The Wave is a 6.4-mile round-trip hike, and while it’s not the most technical trail, the route is unmarked, and you’ll be hiking through soft sand and overexposed rock in a remote desert area (bring lots of water!).
It was definitely on our radar when we visited Kanab, but we didn’t get to go because the permit is so hard to get. Only 64 people are allowed in each day (half through an online lottery and half through a walk-in lottery in Kanab). Permits cost $9 per person, and competition is fierce, especially during peak seasons.
2. Sand Caves
The Sand Caves, also known as the Moqui Caverns, are such a fun and unique spot to check out near Kanab! My friend Rachel and I made the quick trek out here, and it was such a cool little adventure (it’s dog-friendly, so Bella got to tag along too!).
These “caves” are actually man-made and were created by miners excavating sandstone from the hillside. As they removed the sandstone, they created large caverns that resemble caves. Even though they’re not natural formations, they’re still super interesting to see. The hike itself is less than a mile round trip, but you’ll have to scramble up a sandy, rocky hillside to reach the entrance.
The caves are super easy to find. It’s just a short walk past the turn for Best Friends Animal Sanctuary. Kanab even added a parking lot nearby to make access even easier.
3. Moqui Cave Museum
The museum houses a collection of Native American artifacts, including jewelry, rugs, arts, and crafts from various tribes. They even have games and toys for kids, which makes it a great option for families.
The museum is open Monday through Saturday from 10 AM to 6 PM. And it’s affordable, just $5 for adults. If you’re looking for something fun to do indoors on a super hot day, this cave is a great option since the temperature inside stays nice and cool, never going above 65 degrees!
4. Peek-a-boo Slot Canyon
If I had to pick a favorite thing we did in Kanab, Peek-a-boo Slot Canyon would be it, hands down! This stunning slot canyon, just outside of town, totally blew Jake and I away. It’s kind of like Antelope Canyon but way less crowded and no permit needed.
The hike is a 1.7-miles round trip that is easy, flat, and family-friendly. The canyon walls get super narrow in some spots (like only a few feet apart!), and the way the light filters through the sandstone is seriously magical. When we went, it was a little busy because a lot of people come through on ATV tours, but it didn’t take away from how amazing it was.
If you’re into photography or just want to experience one of the coolest spots near Kanab, this is an absolute must!
The best way to get to Peek-a-boo slot canyon is by driving to the trailhead, but you absolutely need 4×4 to make it! We took our Power Wagon and were totally fine, but we actually had to wench out a Jeep that got stuck in the sand.
If you don’t have a 4×4, you can park further back and hike in, but just know it’s not an easy option. The hike adds a few miles along a long, sandy road, making the total trek about 8.7 miles with over 600 feet of elevation gain. Plus, walking through deep sand is brutal. It’s hot, exhausting, and feels like you’re climbing a StairMaster. And, you’ll have to share the road with off-road vehicles kicking up dust as they pass. If you can avoid hiking it, definitely do!
5. Dinosaur Tracks
This was another fun adventure I did with my friend Rachel, and it was such a cool hike! Just outside of Kanab, the Dinosaur Tracks Trail leads to 185-million-year-old footprints left by a Grallator, a carnivorous dinosaur about the size of a human (how wild is that?!).
The hike is short, just 0.7 miles round trip, but the last part is a bit of a scramble up to the top of the mesa. Once you’re up there, you’re rewarded with incredible views and the chance to see the preserved dino tracks up close, which is totally worth the climb.
To find the trailhead, head to the Utah Port of Entry off Highway 89. Park near the porta-potty (yep, that’s the landmark!) and head toward the plateau. There aren’t any signs, and it’s not on Google Maps as an official trail, so it’s definitely more of a hidden gem.
Make sure to wear sturdy shoes and bring plenty of water because it can get hot out there under the Utah sun. If you’re into dinosaurs or just want a fun, quick adventure, this is one hike you don’t want to miss!
6. Belly of the Dragon
The Belly of the Dragon is such a cool (and refreshing!) hidden gem just outside of Kanab. This man-made tunnel runs under Highway 89 and was originally built as a drainage for the upper canyons that feed into the North Fork River, but now it’s a fun little spot to explore.
What makes it extra awesome is how cool and shady it stays inside, which makes it a great adventure for a hot day. The walk through the tunnel is short, but the carved sandstone walls are so unique and fun to see.
If you’re up for a longer hike, you can continue up the wash for about 4 miles, but even just the tunnel itself is well worth the stop.
7. Paria Townsite
Paria may be a ghost town now, but back in the day, it was a thriving western outpost tucked away in the Paria River Valley, within Grand Staircase-Escalante National Monument.
This once-bustling settlement ultimately couldn’t hold up against the forces of nature. Flash floods and poor dam construction made it impossible for residents to stay.
Eventually, the town was abandoned, but its stunning location kept it alive in a way, turning it into a popular filming location in the 1930s for classic westerns like Clint Eastwood’s The Outlaw Josey Wales.
Jake and I were really excited to explore the remains of the abandoned town in the Paria River Valley but quickly realized that we were going to have a hard time finding it. To get there, you’ll head down a dirt road off Highway 89 (be sure to check road conditions first, as it can get pretty rough after rain).
According to Google maps, there were three different potential locations for the townsite. But try as we might, we couldn’t find it! After some discussion, we decided to cross the river and explore the other side. To our surprise, we found it! We were glad we made the effort because what remained were two separate stone buildings we were able to explore.
Here is the exact location of the abandoned buildings in Paria.37.25143, -111.9439. Just be prepared for a bit of off-road driving and some exploring on foot.
8. The Great Chamber (Cutler Point)
Cutler Point, also called “The Great Chamber,” was easily my second favorite adventure in Kanab, it was so much fun! This massive sandstone dome with a cavernous overhang is absolutely stunning, and getting there is half the experience.
We took our dirt bikes through Hog Canyon to get to Cutler Point, but you could also take ATVs, a side-by-side, or a high-clearance 4×4 vehicle. The trail is about 17.3 miles out and back and takes you through loose sand, rocky sections, and rugged terrain, so having the right vehicle is non-negotiable. Trust me, you don’t want to risk it without 4WD and high clearance (you’ll end up stuck, and there’s no cell service to call for help).
From the parking area, you can actually see the backside of Cutler Point, and you’ll want to go up the right side. The hike isn’t super long, but it’s steep and sandy, so be ready to work for it. We made the climb in our dirt bike boots (which, looking back, wasn’t the most ideal choice but made for some good laughs). Just be sure to bring plenty of water! We went in the spring, but the Utah heat is intense.
9. Toadstool Hoodoos
The Toadstool Hoodoos are such a fun and unique spot to check out near Kanab! These funky rock formations, located in Grand Staircase-Escalante National Monument, look like giant mushrooms popping up in the desert.
They were formed over millions of years as wind and water eroded the softer Entrada Sandstone, leaving harder Dakota Sandstone boulders perched on top. The result? These wild, mushroom-shaped columns that range from just a few feet to over 30 feet tall!
The hike to the Toadstool Hoodoos is super easy and great for all ages and skill levels. It’s a 1.8-mile round trip and mostly flat, making it the perfect quick adventure if you’re in the area. The trailhead is right off Highway 89, so it’s really easy to find.
Even though they look fragile, the hoodoos are actually pretty sturdy and make for some awesome photo ops.
10. Best Friends Animal Sanctuary
Nestled on a stunning 3,700-acre property surrounded by red rock cliffs on Angel Canyon Road, the Best Friends Animal Sanctuary is home to over 1,600 animals, including dogs, cats, rabbits, horses, pigs, goats, and sheep. (I was especially excited to see the pigs—they’re just so cute!)
Founded in 1984, the sanctuary rescues animals from all kinds of tough situations. Some were abused, others abandoned or left behind when their families moved, and Best Friends gives them a second chance to thrive. It’s amazing to see how much love and care they pour into each animal.
While we were there, we got to tour the grounds, meet some of the animals, and learn all about the incredible work they do. They even offer free tours four times a day (just be sure to book ahead!). If you fall in love with one of the animals, you can adopt them! My friend Rachel and I had the best time, so we highly recommend you check this place out!
11. White Pocket
White Pocket is one of those adventures we haven’t been able to cross off (yet!), but it’s definitely high on our list. This stunning area, tucked away on the remote Paria Plateau in Vermilion Cliffs National Monument, is famous for its otherworldly swirls of Navajo sandstone. The patterns and colors here are unreal, ranging from deep reds to bright whites, thanks to varying amounts of iron oxide in the sandstone.
Getting to White Pocket is a bit of an adventure. You’ll need a high-clearance 4×4 vehicle to tackle the sandy, remote roads leading to the trailhead. It’s about 2 hours from Kanab, so it’s definitely an off-the-beaten-path destination. Once you arrive, the hike is relatively short and easy, roughly 1.2 miles round trip, but it’s more about wandering and exploring the intricate formations than following a specific trail.
If you’re planning to go, make sure to prepare for the remote conditions. There’s no cell service, so bring a GPS or download maps ahead of time. Pack plenty of water, snacks, and sun protection because the area is super exposed and can get scorching in the summer months.
12. Hike Buckskin Gulch Slot Canyon
Buckskin Gulch is still on our bucket list, and honestly, I can’t wait to check it out one day! It’s one of the longest and deepest slot canyons in the world, stretching over 13 miles and towering up to 500 feet in some spots. The red rock walls are absolutely stunning, and the canyon is known for some pretty wild obstacles (think rock jams, pools, quicksand, and even the potential for flash floods).
Since Buckskin Gulch stretches 13 miles, exploring the entire canyon is definitely a big commitment. If you’re planning to hike it end-to-end, you’ll need either a backpacking permit (only 20 are issued per day) or a shuttle to help with one-way logistics.
However, the most popular way to explore Buckskin Gulch is by starting at the Wire Pass Trailhead which is a short drainage that joins the Buckskin Gulch slot canyon and is only 5.6 miles out and back. From everything I’ve read, this is the best way to experience the beauty of the canyon without committing to a super long trek.
13. Explore the Hog Canyon ATV Trails
The Hog Canyon OHV Trail System is an absolute blast for anyone who loves off-roading! We spent a day exploring it on our dirt bikes with our friends Blake and Rachel, and it was such a fun adventure. While we rode dirt bikes, this trail system is also perfect for ATVs, side-by-sides, or a high-clearance 4×4.
The entire system has over 25 miles of trails, so you can make this as short or as long as you want. Some of the must-see highlights include The Pinnacles, which is a striking rock formation that feels like a little slice of Mars (pictured below), Peek-a-boo Slot Canyon (another one of my favorite spots in Kanab!), and the incredible Cutler Point, also known as The Great Chamber.
14. Zion National Park
I visited Zion back in 2017 on a solo trip and tackled Angels Landing (before you needed a permit!). It’s still one of the most unforgettable hikes I’ve ever done. The climb is tough, especially the last section with the chains, but the views from the top are absolutely breathtaking.
If you are planning to Visit Zion National Park, be sure to check out our guides to Hurricane, Utah and Sand Hollow State Park for more epic things to do!
15. Visit Toroweap (Tuweep) Grand Canyon
The Grand Canyon is one of the most famous tourist destinations in the United States, drawing millions of visitors each year to its South Rim. However, the North Rim is a less-visited but equally impressive part of the canyon (and made for such an epic day trip from Kanab!)
We dirt biked out to the Toroweap (Tuweep) Overlook, which was about 120 miles round trip, and it was such a fun adventure. The ride out there was half the experience. It was remote, rugged, and the views were insane.
At Tuweep, you’re standing right on the edge of the Grand Canyon, looking down at cliffs that drop 3,000 feet, straight to the Colorado River. The canyon itself is up to 18 miles wide in spots, and the scale is just mind-blowing (and slightly vertigo-inducing).
16. Coral Pink Sand Dunes State Park
Another fun thing we did while in Kanab was visit Coral Pink Sand Dunes State Park, located just 30 minutes outside of Kanab. The dunes get their name from the coral pink sand. The sand comes from pink-colored Navajo sandstone that’s been eroded by wind.
Did you know, the Venturi Effect is what creates the dunes? Basically, the wind whips through the gap between the Moquith and Moccasin Mountains so fast that it picks up the sandstone grains and deposits them here!
The park costs $10 per car to enter, and there’s so much to do once you’re there! You can climb around the dunes, ride an ATV (or book an ATV tour), or rent a sand sled or sandboard for $25. If you’ve never tried it, we highly recommend it.
There are also campgrounds in the park, ranging from $25-$40 per night, if you want to stay longer. But keep in mind that there’s no cell service out there, so be ready to go off-grid for a bit (unless you have Starlink).
17. Bryce Canyon National Park
After spending time in Kanab, Jake and I made the 1.5-hour drive to Bryce Canyon National Park, and it was so worth it. We got up super early to catch the sunrise, and wow, seeing the first light hit the hoodoos was absolutely magical. The colors were unreal.
Later, we hiked the Queens Garden/Navajo Loop trail, which is hands down one of the best ways to explore the park. The 3-mile trail takes you down into the canyon, winding through the hoodoos, and loops back up to Sunset Point.
18. Grand Staircase National Monument
Grand Staircase-Escalante National Monument is one of the most unique and remote places I’ve ever seen. Spanning over 1.9 million acres, it’s a massive wilderness full of stunning landscapes, fascinating geology, and so much wildlife.
With over a thousand miles of trails crisscrossing the monument, the options for exploring feel endless. Whether you’re hiking to hidden slot canyons, climbing through colorful rock formations, or searching for dinosaur tracks, there’s always something incredible to discover.
One of our favorite hikes when we visited was Jacob Hamblin Arch. You can read more in our guide about the easiest way to get to Jacob Hamblin Arch! (pictured below!)
19. Kodachrome Basin State Park
Kodachrome Basin State Park is a small but super scenic park, with dozens of colorful rock formations and fun outdoor activities. The park has plenty of hiking and horseback riding trails, a great campground if you want to stay overnight, and even ranger-led tours where you can learn about the area’s history and unique geology.
Once you’re in the park, be sure to check out the Angel’s Palace Trail—it’s about 1.5 miles round trip, not too steep, and has incredible views of the park. If you have more time, the Shakespeare Arch-Sentinel Trail is another great option. The park is open year-round, but spring and fall are the best times to visit since the weather is cooler and more comfortable for hiking.
20. Little Hollywood Museum
The Little Hollywood Museum downtown Kanab is such a fun stop, especially if you’re a movie buff! Kanab used to be a major hub for film and TV production, earning it the nickname “Little Hollywood,” and this museum celebrates that history in the best way.
Visitors can wander through exhibits showcasing famous Westerns filmed in the area, like Gunsmoke and The Lone Ranger, and even see actual movie sets that were used back in the day. The outdoor set area is super cool, you can walk through old Western towns and imagine what it was like when the cameras were rolling.
Even if you’re not a huge movie fan, the museum is still a great way to learn more about Kanab’s history and its role in the golden age of Westerns. Plus, it’s located right in downtown Kanab, so it’s easy to swing by while you’re exploring.
Best Time to Visit Kanab
Kanab is a year-round destination, but the best time to visit depends on what you want to do and what kind of weather you’re comfortable with.
Spring (March–May): Spring is one of the best times to visit Kanab, with daytime highs ranging from 50–75°F. This is a great time for hiking and exploring slot canyons, as the weather is mild and wildflowers often bloom across the desert. However, March and April can bring Spring Break crowds, especially at nearby parks like Zion and Bryce, so plan accordingly.
Summer (June–August): Summer is the busiest time in Kanab, but it’s also the hottest, with temperatures often exceeding 90°F during the day. Activities like hiking or exploring slot canyons are best done early in the morning or late in the evening to avoid the heat. Summer is also monsoon season (July–August), so be mindful of flash flood risks, especially if you’re planning to visit slot canyons or remote areas.
Fall (September–November): Fall is another fantastic time to visit Kanab, especially late September and October. The summer crowds start to thin out, and the temperatures cool down, with highs in the 60s–80s during the day. It’s perfect for hiking, off-roading, and exploring the area without the extreme heat or the busyness of summer.
Winter (December–February): Winter in Kanab is the quietest time of year, and it has its own charm. Daytime temperatures range from 40–55°F, and the red rock landscapes look stunning dusted with snow. Some roads and trails may be muddy or inaccessible after storms, but if you don’t mind the cold, this is a great time to explore without the crowds. Keep in mind that nearby areas like the Grand Canyon North Rim are closed during winter, so plan accordingly.
Know Before you Go
- Cell Service: Outside of Kanab, cell service can be unreliable, especially in remote areas. Download offline maps (we love AllTrails for hiking) and plan ahead.
- Road Conditions: Many attractions require driving on dirt or gravel roads. After rain, these roads can become muddy and impassable. Always check with the BLM or visitor centers for current conditions before heading out.
- 4WD or High Clearance: While you can access a lot with a standard car, having a high-clearance vehicle (and even better, 4WD) opens up so many more options, like the road to Peek-a-boo slot canyon, Toroweap or White Pocket.
- Flash Floods: If you’re exploring slot canyons or washes, always check the weather forecast. Flash floods can occur even if it’s not raining where you are.
- Permits: Some hikes and spots, like The Wave, require permits. Be sure to research and apply well in advance.
- Pack Essentials: Bring plenty of water, snacks, sunscreen, and layers. The desert sun can be intense, and temperatures can drop quickly in the evenings.
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