Kanab may look like a small desert town, but it offers some of the most memorable adventures in southern Utah. The best things to do in Kanab, Utah include exploring colorful slot canyons, walking through sandstone caves, visiting animal sanctuaries, driving scenic roads, and watching the sunset over pink dunes.
Kanab also works as a convenient base for trips to Zion, Bryce Canyon, Lake Powell, and the Grand Canyon North Rim. Whether you enjoy hiking, photography, family activities, or relaxed sightseeing, this Kanab, Utah travel guide will help you choose the right attractions, understand road conditions, and plan your time wisely.
Quick Answer: What Are the Best Things to Do in Kanab?
If you are wondering about the best things to do in Kanab, Utah, start with Peekaboo Slot Canyon, Best Friends Animal Sanctuary, Coral Pink Sand Dunes State Park, Kanab Sand Caves, The Wave, Belly of the Dragon, and White Pocket. These attractions offer a mix of adventure, photography, family fun, and unforgettable desert scenery.
Kanab is much more than a stop between national parks. It is a destination filled with slot canyons, unique rock formations, scenic drives, wildlife experiences, and hidden gems. Whether you have one day or several days, this Kanab, Utah travel guide will help you choose attractions that match your interests, available time, and travel style.
TL;DR: Kanab Trip Planning at a Glance
| Attraction | Best For | Time Needed | Difficulty | Permit | Vehicle |
| Peekaboo Slot Canyon | Families & photographers | Half day | Easy–Moderate | No | Guided tour or high-clearance recommended |
| Best Friends Animal Sanctuary | Families & animal lovers | 2–4 hours | Easy | Reservation for some tours | Regular car |
| Kanab Sand Caves | Sightseeing & photos | 1–2 hours | Moderate | No | Regular car |
| Belly of the Dragon | Quick stop | 30–45 minutes | Easy | No | Regular car |
| Coral Pink Sand Dunes | Families & adventure | Half day | Easy | State park fee | Regular car |
| The Wave | Experienced hikers | Full day | Challenging | Permit required | High-clearance recommended |
| White Pocket | Photography & off-road adventure | Full day | Moderate | No | 4WD recommended |
Why Kanab Is Worth Visiting
Kanab, Utah sits in the heart of southern Utah, surrounded by dramatic cliffs, colorful sandstone, winding slot canyons, and famous public lands. Its location makes it an excellent base for exploring Zion National Park, Bryce Canyon National Park, Vermilion Cliffs National Monument, and the Grand Canyon North Rim.
The town is also known as Little Hollywood because many classic Western movies were filmed here. Today, visitors come for outdoor adventures, scenic photography, family attractions, and peaceful desert landscapes. Whether you enjoy hiking or prefer easy sightseeing, Kanab attractions offer something for every traveler.
Before You Choose an Activity: Understand the Kanab Area
Planning ahead will make your trip smoother and safer. Some attractions are only a few minutes from downtown, while others require long drives across remote desert roads. Understanding travel distances, permits, and road conditions helps you choose the right experiences and avoid unexpected delays.
Attractions Inside Kanab vs Places Near Kanab
Several popular attractions, such as Best Friends Animal Sanctuary, Little Hollywood, and Downtown Kanab, are close to town. Others, including The Wave, White Pocket, Wire Pass, and Buckskin Gulch, are located much farther away and may require one to two hours of driving before your adventure even begins.
Which Places Require a Permit, Guide, or Reservation?
Not every attraction is open for walk-in visits. The Wave requires a highly competitive permit lottery, while some guided experiences, including canyoneering trips and certain sanctuary tours, should be reserved in advance. Booking early is especially important during spring and fall when visitor numbers are highest.
Where You Need 4WD or High Clearance
Many visitors underestimate desert roads around Kanab. Attractions such as White Pocket, The Great Chamber, and some routes to Peekaboo Slot Canyon often include deep sand or rough terrain. If you are not comfortable driving off-road, choosing a guided tour is usually the safest and easiest option.
Explore Peekaboo Slot Canyon
Peekaboo Slot Canyon, also called Red Canyon Slot, is one of the most beautiful slot canyons near Kanab. Smooth sandstone walls, narrow passageways, and colorful rock textures make it a favorite for photographers and families alike. The canyon is easy to enjoy because guided tours handle transportation across the sandy access road.
The walk through the canyon is relatively short, but always check the weather before visiting. Avoid entering any slot canyon when heavy rain is possible because flash flooding can occur quickly. Morning and late afternoon usually provide the best light for photography.
Visit Best Friends Animal Sanctuary
The Best Friends Animal Sanctuary is one of the most unique things to do in Kanab if you enjoy animals or want a relaxing break from hiking. It is one of the largest companion animal sanctuaries in the United States and cares for dogs, cats, horses, birds, rabbits, and other rescued animals.
Visitors can join guided tours, explore scenic walking areas, or simply enjoy the peaceful surroundings. Families, couples, and solo travelers all appreciate this experience because it offers something different from the area’s desert adventures. Allow at least two to four hours to fully enjoy your visit.
Walk to the Kanab Sand Caves
The Kanab Sand Caves are among the most photographed attractions in the area. Large carved openings, golden sandstone walls, and wide desert views make this short hike rewarding for both photographers and casual visitors. Although the trail is not long, the climb across the sandstone slope requires careful footing.
Many travelers confuse the Kanab Sand Caves with Moqui Cave Museum, but they are completely different attractions. Visit the caves if you want a natural landscape and great photo opportunities, while the museum focuses on local history and geology.
Visit the Moqui Cave Museum
The Moqui Cave Museum offers a different experience from Kanab’s outdoor attractions. Inside, you can learn about local geology, Native American history, fossils, minerals, and the area’s connection to Western movies. It is an excellent stop for families, history lovers, and visitors looking for an indoor activity.
Because the museum is close to several popular attractions, it fits easily into a half-day sightseeing plan. If summer temperatures become too hot or unexpected weather changes your hiking plans, the museum provides a comfortable and educational alternative.
Explore Belly of the Dragon
Belly of the Dragon is one of the easiest and most popular Kanab attractions for visitors of all ages. This man-made tunnel, carved through sandstone for water drainage, now looks like the inside of a giant creature. Its unique shape makes it a favorite stop for photographers and families.
The attraction is only a short walk from the parking area, making it perfect if you have limited time or prefer easy things to do in Kanab. Visit in the morning or late afternoon for softer lighting, and be careful if the tunnel is wet after heavy rain.
Spend Time at Coral Pink Sand Dunes State Park
Coral Pink Sand Dunes State Park is one of the best outdoor destinations near Kanab. The rolling pink dunes create a beautiful landscape where visitors can relax, explore, or enjoy exciting activities. Whether you stay for a few hours or an entire afternoon, this park is worth adding to your Kanab itinerary.
Sandboarding and Sledding
Sliding down the soft pink dunes is fun for both children and adults. You can rent sandboards or sleds nearby and enjoy one of the most unique family-friendly things to do in Kanab.
ATV and Off-Road Experiences
The park also attracts adventure lovers with designated riding areas for ATVs and off-road vehicles. If you enjoy exciting desert landscapes, this is one of the top outdoor adventures in Kanab.
Sunset, Photography, and Family Activities
Many photographers visit just before sunset when the dunes glow with warm colors. Families can enjoy walking across the sand, having a picnic, or simply watching the changing light across the desert.
Hike Wire Pass and Buckskin Gulch
If you enjoy hiking, Wire Pass and Buckskin Gulch should be high on your list. Wire Pass is a narrow slot canyon near Kanab that leads into Buckskin Gulch, one of the longest and most impressive slot canyons in the world.
This hike requires preparation because weather conditions can change quickly. Always check the forecast before entering a slot canyon, carry plenty of water, and understand any current permit requirements. Many travelers choose this hike as an excellent alternative to The Wave when permits are unavailable.
Try for a Permit to Hike The Wave
The Wave is one of the most famous hiking destinations in the American Southwest. Its flowing sandstone patterns attract photographers and hikers from around the world. Because of its popularity, visitors must win a The Wave permit through a lottery before hiking.
The trail is challenging, with no marked path and very little shade. Carry enough water, download offline maps, and start early during warmer months. If you cannot secure a permit, don’t worry—Kanab offers many other incredible places that provide amazing scenery without the same level of planning.
Visit White Pocket Without a Wave Permit
White Pocket is often recommended as one of the best permit-free alternatives to The Wave. The area features colorful rock formations, swirling sandstone, and excellent photography opportunities without requiring a lottery permit.
Although no permit is needed, reaching White Pocket usually requires a 4WD or high-clearance vehicle because of deep sandy roads. Many visitors prefer joining a guided tour, which removes the stress of navigating remote desert terrain while allowing more time to enjoy the landscape.
Take an Off-Road Tour to the Great Chamber
The Great Chamber is one of the most spectacular hidden gems near Kanab. A massive sandstone alcove with a curved opening creates an unforgettable view that photographers love. Many visitors reach this location through guided ATV or UTV tours because the access road crosses deep sand.
After arriving, you will complete a short hike to the viewpoint. Wear sturdy shoes, carry water, and avoid visiting during the hottest part of the day. Sunrise and sunset often provide the best light for photographs.
See the Toadstool Hoodoos
The Toadstool Hoodoos are unusual rock formations shaped by thousands of years of erosion. The short trail is suitable for most visitors, making it one of the easiest places to visit near Kanab for families and casual hikers.
Because there is very little shade, bring water and sun protection, especially during summer. Many travelers combine this stop with Wire Pass or other nearby attractions to make the most of their day in the area.
Discover Kanab’s Little Hollywood History
Kanab earned the nickname Little Hollywood because many classic Western films and television shows were filmed here. Today, visitors can still experience this history through local museums, movie displays, and historic locations around town.
If you enjoy history or classic films, this is one of the best non-hiking things to do in Kanab. It also provides a relaxing break after spending several days exploring the surrounding desert.
Walk Through Downtown Kanab
A walk through Downtown Kanab offers a slower pace after busy outdoor adventures. Local cafés, restaurants, gift shops, art galleries, and historic buildings give visitors a chance to experience the town’s friendly atmosphere.
Spend some time browsing local businesses, enjoying a meal, or simply relaxing before your next adventure. Downtown is especially enjoyable during the evening when temperatures become cooler and the streets feel more peaceful.
Enjoy Easy Outdoor Activities at Jackson Flat Reservoir
Jackson Flat Reservoir is a peaceful place to unwind after exploring Kanab’s rugged landscapes. Visitors come here to walk, enjoy a picnic, watch birds, or simply admire the surrounding scenery. The calm setting makes it a great option for families and travelers looking for a slower-paced activity.
Depending on the season and local conditions, visitors may also enjoy paddle sports or fishing where permitted. It is one of the most relaxing easy things to do in Kanab and works well as a break between longer hikes.
Go Horseback Riding Through the Red-Rock Landscape
Exploring the desert on horseback offers a different way to experience southern Utah. Guided horseback rides take visitors through scenic valleys, sandstone cliffs, and quiet trails that are difficult to appreciate from a vehicle alone.
Most local tours welcome beginners and provide all the necessary equipment. Horseback riding is also a popular choice for couples and families looking for a memorable outdoor experience without tackling a long or difficult hike.
Try Canyoneering with a Local Guide
For travelers seeking adventure, canyoneering in Kanab is an unforgettable experience. Guided trips often include hiking, scrambling, rappelling, and exploring narrow slot canyons that are difficult to reach without local knowledge.
Professional guides provide safety equipment and instructions, making beginner-friendly tours available for many visitors. Always choose a reputable guide and wear appropriate clothing because desert conditions can change quickly throughout the day.
Drive Cottonwood Canyon Road
Cottonwood Canyon Road is one of the most scenic drives near Kanab. The route passes colorful cliffs, dramatic rock formations, and access points for attractions such as Cottonwood Narrows and Grosvenor Arch.
Road conditions can change after rain, so always check local updates before starting your trip. Carry plenty of water, download offline maps, and fill your fuel tank because services and mobile phone coverage are very limited along much of the drive.
Experience Kanab After Dark
Kanab is recognized as a Dark Sky destination, making the evening just as exciting as the daytime. After the sun sets, the desert sky fills with thousands of bright stars, creating excellent conditions for stargazing and night photography. If you enjoy peaceful outdoor experiences, spending an evening under the stars is one of the most memorable things to do in Kanab, Utah.
Go Stargazing
Many open areas around Kanab offer clear views with very little light pollution. Bring a blanket, warm clothing during cooler months, and a flashlight with a red-light setting to protect your night vision.
Join a Campfire or Dark-Sky Tour
Several local companies offer guided stargazing experiences where experts explain constellations, planets, and seasonal night skies. These tours are perfect for first-time visitors who want to learn more about the desert after dark.
Photograph the Milky Way
If you enjoy photography, Kanab is one of the best places to capture the Milky Way. A tripod, wide-angle lens, and clear weather will help you create stunning night images away from city lights.
Best Things to Do in Kanab with Kids
Kanab is an excellent destination for families because it offers adventures that suit different ages and energy levels. Children can enjoy exploring caves, watching rescued animals, sliding down sand dunes, and walking through unique rock formations without needing advanced hiking skills.
Some of the best family things to do in Kanab include visiting Best Friends Animal Sanctuary, exploring the Belly of the Dragon, playing at Coral Pink Sand Dunes State Park, and walking to the Kanab Sand Caves. These attractions combine fun, learning, and beautiful scenery while keeping travel distances relatively short.
Best Things to Do in Kanab Without Hiking
Not every visitor wants to spend hours on hiking trails, and fortunately, Kanab offers plenty of enjoyable alternatives. You can explore Little Hollywood, visit Moqui Cave Museum, drive scenic roads, take a guided UTV tour, or spend time at Best Friends Animal Sanctuary.
Walking through Downtown Kanab, shopping at local stores, enjoying a relaxed meal, or watching the sunset from a scenic viewpoint are also excellent options. These activities allow you to experience the area’s beauty without completing long or difficult hikes.
Free Things to Do in Kanab
You do not need a large budget to enjoy Kanab attractions. Several of the area’s best experiences are free or require only transportation to reach them. Walking through Downtown Kanab, visiting Belly of the Dragon, exploring the Kanab Sand Caves, and watching the stars after sunset are all excellent budget-friendly activities.
Scenic drives and short nature walks also provide incredible desert views without expensive entrance fees. Before visiting, check whether parking fees or seasonal access restrictions apply, as these may change over time.
Easy and Low-Effort Attractions Near Kanab
If you prefer gentle walks and relaxing sightseeing, Kanab has many attractions that require very little physical effort. Belly of the Dragon, Moqui Cave Museum, Jackson Flat Reservoir, and Downtown Kanab are ideal for visitors with limited time or those who simply want a slower travel experience.
You can also enjoy scenic overlooks, short photography stops, and peaceful picnic areas without committing to a challenging hike. These attractions make Kanab suitable for seniors, families with young children, and travelers recovering after longer adventures.
Best Day Trips from Kanab
Kanab’s central location makes it one of the best bases for exploring some of the American Southwest’s most famous landscapes. Many travelers spend several nights here because they can easily visit nearby national parks and scenic destinations while returning to the same hotel each evening.
Zion National Park
Located about an hour from Kanab, Zion National Park offers world-famous hikes, scenic drives, and breathtaking canyon views. It is an excellent day trip for visitors who enjoy dramatic landscapes and outdoor adventure.
Bryce Canyon National Park
Known for its colorful hoodoos, Bryce Canyon National Park is another popular destination within easy driving distance. Sunrise and sunset provide especially beautiful views throughout the park.
Grand Canyon North Rim
The Grand Canyon North Rim offers a quieter experience than the South Rim and provides spectacular viewpoints during its seasonal opening months. Many visitors combine it with other northern Arizona attractions.
Page, Lake Powell, and Horseshoe Bend
A trip to Page, Arizona, allows you to visit Lake Powell, Horseshoe Bend, and nearby water activities. This area is perfect for boating, kayaking, sightseeing, and photography.
Grand Staircase–Escalante National Monument
Adventure travelers will enjoy the remote landscapes of Grand Staircase–Escalante National Monument, where scenic drives, unique rock formations, and quiet hiking trails create unforgettable experiences.
How to Spend One Day in Kanab
If you only have one day, start your morning at the Kanab Sand Caves, then visit the Belly of the Dragon before lunch. In the afternoon, explore Best Friends Animal Sanctuary or enjoy a guided trip to Peekaboo Slot Canyon.
Finish your day by watching the sunset at Coral Pink Sand Dunes State Park before returning to Downtown Kanab for dinner. This itinerary gives you a great mix of adventure, sightseeing, and local experiences.
How to Spend Two Days in Kanab
Spend your first day exploring attractions close to town, including Kanab Sand Caves, Downtown Kanab, Little Hollywood, and Best Friends Animal Sanctuary. End the evening with stargazing if the weather is clear.
On your second day, choose a full adventure such as White Pocket, The Great Chamber, Wire Pass, or Peekaboo Slot Canyon. This balanced itinerary lets you experience both Kanab’s history and its spectacular desert scenery.
How to Spend Three Days in Kanab
With three days available, you can enjoy nearly everything that makes Kanab special. Spend one day exploring the town, another visiting remote attractions like White Pocket or The Wave if you have a permit, and reserve your final day for a national park such as Zion National Park or Bryce Canyon National Park.
This schedule reduces driving stress while allowing enough time to enjoy each destination without feeling rushed.
Best Time to Visit Kanab
Every season offers a different experience in Kanab, so the best time to visit depends on your preferred activities. Spring and fall usually provide the most comfortable temperatures for hiking and sightseeing, while summer offers longer daylight hours for exploring.
Spring
Wildflowers, pleasant temperatures, and ideal hiking conditions make spring one of the busiest seasons for visitors.
Summer
Start outdoor activities early because afternoon temperatures can become extremely hot. Carry extra water and avoid strenuous hikes during the middle of the day.
Fall
Cooler weather, beautiful colors, and fewer crowds make fall another excellent season for exploring Kanab attractions.
Winter
Winter brings peaceful landscapes and fewer visitors. Some remote roads may become difficult after storms, so always check current conditions before traveling.
What to Pack for a Kanab Trip
Packing the right gear helps you enjoy your trip safely. Bring plenty of drinking water, sunscreen, a wide-brim hat, sunglasses, comfortable hiking shoes, lightweight clothing, and extra layers for cool mornings and evenings.
If you plan to visit remote areas, download offline maps, carry a portable charger, snacks, and a small first-aid kit. Visitors driving to White Pocket, The Great Chamber, or other backcountry locations should also prepare for limited mobile phone service and changing road conditions.
What to Do if Weather or Road Conditions Change
The weather can change quickly in the desert, so always have a backup plan. Heavy rain can make dirt roads difficult to drive and increase the risk of flash floods in slot canyons near Kanab. Before leaving, check the latest weather forecast and road reports, especially if you plan to visit The Wave, White Pocket, or Wire Pass.
If conditions become unsafe, choose easier alternatives like the Moqui Cave Museum, Best Friends Animal Sanctuary, Downtown Kanab, or a relaxing meal at a local restaurant. Flexible planning helps you enjoy your trip while staying safe.
Where to Eat and Rest Between Adventures
After spending hours exploring the desert, taking a break is just as important as choosing the next attraction. Downtown Kanab offers a variety of cafés, bakeries, and restaurants where you can enjoy breakfast, lunch, or dinner before heading back on the road.
Many visitors also pack snacks and plenty of water because some remote attractions have no nearby services. Planning your meals will help you spend more time enjoying the best things to do in Kanab, Utah, instead of searching for food during your trip.
Where to Stay in Kanab
Choosing the right place to stay depends on your travel style. Downtown hotels provide easy access to restaurants, local shops, and several nearby attractions. Families often prefer larger hotels with extra amenities, while couples may enjoy quiet cabins or glamping experiences surrounded by desert scenery.
If your itinerary includes White Pocket, The Wave, or other early-morning adventures, staying in Kanab allows you to reach most trailheads without changing hotels every night. This central location makes Kanab one of the best travel bases in southern Utah.
Frequently Asked Questions
How many days do you need in Kanab?
Most visitors spend two to three days in Kanab. This gives you enough time to explore local attractions, enjoy a scenic drive, and take at least one day trip or guided adventure. If you also plan to visit nearby national parks, consider staying even longer.
Can you visit Kanab without a 4WD vehicle?
Yes. Many popular attractions, including Best Friends Animal Sanctuary, Belly of the Dragon, Downtown Kanab, Moqui Cave Museum, and parts of Coral Pink Sand Dunes State Park, are accessible with a regular vehicle. Some remote destinations, however, require high-clearance or 4WD vehicles.
What can you do if you do not win the Wave permit?
There are plenty of excellent alternatives. White Pocket, Peekaboo Slot Canyon, Wire Pass, Buckskin Gulch, Toadstool Hoodoos, and The Great Chamber all offer incredible scenery and memorable experiences without depending on the Wave lottery.
Is Kanab suitable for families?
Absolutely. Families can enjoy Best Friends Animal Sanctuary, Coral Pink Sand Dunes, Kanab Sand Caves, Belly of the Dragon, and many scenic drives. These attractions combine outdoor adventure with activities suitable for different age groups.
Are there things to do in Kanab without hiking?
Yes. Visitors can explore Little Hollywood, visit the Moqui Cave Museum, take a guided off-road tour, enjoy horseback riding, walk through Downtown Kanab, relax at Jackson Flat Reservoir, or spend an evening stargazing under the area’s famous dark skies.
Is Kanab closer to Zion or Bryce Canyon?
Kanab is located between several famous destinations. Zion National Park is generally the closest major national park, while Bryce Canyon National Park, Grand Canyon North Rim, and Lake Powell are also within easy driving distance for day trips.
What is Kanab best known for?
Kanab is best known for its stunning red-rock landscapes, slot canyons, The Wave, Best Friends Animal Sanctuary, and its history as Little Hollywood, where many classic Western movies were filmed. It is also one of the best bases for exploring southern Utah and northern Arizona.
Final Thoughts
From world-famous hikes to peaceful scenic drives, the best things to do in Kanab, Utah offer something for every type of traveler. Whether you want to explore Peekaboo Slot Canyon, visit Best Friends Animal Sanctuary, hike The Wave, photograph White Pocket, or simply enjoy the beauty of Coral Pink Sand Dunes, Kanab delivers unforgettable experiences.
Plan your activities based on your available time, fitness level, vehicle, and the season of your visit. A little preparation will help you enjoy more of Kanab’s hidden gems, stay safe in the desert, and create memories that last long after your trip ends.
