Things To Do In Kanab: Your Ultimate Guide To Utah's Red Rock Paradise

Dreaming of a destination where breathtaking crimson cliffs, iconic film history, and small-town charm collide? Look no further than Kanab, Utah. Tucked away in the state's "Color Country" near the Arizona border, this captivating gateway town is so much more than just a pit stop. It's a vibrant hub for outdoor enthusiasts, photographers, and movie buffs alike. If you're wondering about the best things to do in Kanab, prepare for an adventure that winds through world-famous national parks, surreal landscapes, and a legacy of Hollywood magic. This guide will unpack every incredible experience, ensuring your Kanab itinerary is as epic as the scenery itself.

Kanab’s magic lies in its perfect storm of location and character. It serves as the central basecamp for exploring the Grand Staircase-Escalante National Monument, Zion National Park, Bryce Canyon National Park, and Lake Powell. But the town itself, with its walkable downtown of restaurants, galleries, and the famous Kanab Creek, has a personality all its own. You’re not just visiting a park; you’re immersing in a landscape that has served as the backdrop for countless Westerns and sci-fi epics. From serene hikes under towering sandstone arches to standing on the exact spot where John Wayne once rode, the things to do in Kanab span a spectrum of awe and adventure. Let’s dive into the essential experiences that define this remarkable corner of the American Southwest.

1. Hike the Iconic Trails of the Grand Staircase-Escalante

The vast, untamed wilderness of the Grand Staircase-Escalante National Monument is Kanab’s most immediate and spectacular playground. This isn't a single park but a 1.9-million-acre masterpiece of geological layers, slot canyons, and hidden oases. Hiking here is about discovery and solitude.

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The Wave & Coyote Buttes: A Permitted Masterpiece

Perhaps the most famous thing to do near Kanab is hiking The Wave, a surreal swirl of cross-bedded sandstone in the North Coyote Buttes area. Its fame comes with a catch: access is strictly limited to 64 people per day via a competitive lottery system run by the Bureau of Land Management (BLM). Planning is paramount; applications open months in advance. If you secure a permit, the 6-mile round-trip hike through stunning desert scenery to reach the undulating rock formation is a bucket-list experience. The vibrant oranges, reds, and yellows are most dramatic at midday. For a similar but less restricted experience, consider South Coyote Buttes, which features the famous "Dinosaur Footprint" and doesn't require a permit for day use (though a high-clearance vehicle is often needed for the access road).

Slot Canyon Adventures: The Narrows of the Desert

Kanab is the gateway to some of the world's best slot canyons. Peek-a-Boo Gulch and Spooky Gulch are a classic, moderately strenuous combo. The 3.5-mile loop hike involves navigating narrow, twisting passages where the canyon walls soar overhead, creating dramatic light and shadow. Spooky Gulch lives up to its name with its eerie, dark, and extremely tight sections—you’ll need to turn sideways in places! For a longer, more committing adventure, Buckskin Gulch (the longest slot canyon in the U.S.) and Wire Pass are legendary. These require more preparation, including checking weather conditions for flash flood risks. Always check current conditions with the BLM office in Kanab before heading into any slot canyon.

The Canyon Overlook Trail: A Stunning Short Hike

For those short on time or energy, the Canyon Overlook Trail is a must-do. Located just off Highway 89 east of Kanab, this 1-mile round-trip hike climbs gently to a jaw-dropping viewpoint overlooking the East Kaibab Monocline. You’ll see a dramatic bend in the highway far below, with the layered cliffs of the Grand Staircase as a backdrop. It’s especially magical at sunrise or sunset when the rocks glow. The trail has a few rocky sections and a short, exposed stretch with a steel cable for balance, but it’s manageable for most hikers.

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2. Step Into the Silver Screen: Kanab's Film History

Long before it was an outdoor mecca, Kanab was known as "Little Hollywood." Since the 1920s, its unique landscapes have stood in for everything from the Martian surface in John Carter to Monument Valley in countless John Ford Westerns. Exploring this film legacy is one of the most unique things to do in Kanab.

The Kanab Movie Fort & Historic Sites

The Kanab Movie Fort (also called the "Kanab Movie Set") is a tangible piece of this history. Built in the 1960s for TV and film, this reconstructed frontier town and fort has appeared in shows like The Lone Ranger and Gunsmoke. Today, it’s open for tours and photo ops. While some structures are newer builds, the atmosphere is authentic. Keep an eye out for other iconic spots around town, like the "Historic Kanab" mural on the side of the local bank, which depicts famous scenes filmed in the area. The Parry Lodge, a historic motel, has hosted stars from Clint Eastwood to Charlton Heston and still displays signed photos in its lobby.

The Best Film Location Drive: The "Kanab Movie Tour"

You can create your own self-guided film tour. A key drive is the "Movie Road" (County Road 20), which winds through the Coral Pink Sand Dunes State Park area. These vibrant dunes have been used in films like Thelma & Louise and Westworld. The contrast of the pink sand against red rock cliffs is cinematic. For Planet of the Apes (1968) fans, the iconic final scene was shot at "Ape Canyon" (a side canyon off the main road to the Wave). A visit to the Kanab Visitor Center is essential; they have detailed maps and photos showing film locations and can provide the most up-to-date info on accessible sites.

3. Discover the Otherworldly Landscapes of Southern Utah

Beyond the major named parks, Kanab is surrounded by a constellation of stunning, lesser-known state parks and natural wonders that deserve their own spotlight.

Coral Pink Sand Dunes State Park

Just 15 minutes from Kanab, these are the only major sand dunes in southern Utah not located in a national park. The dunes get their stunning hue from the hematite (iron oxide) coating on the sand grains. It’s a fantastic spot for sunset photography, hiking (the 1.5-mile round-trip Dune Trail is popular), and even sandboarding (rentals available in Kanab). The park offers a unique, almost Martian landscape that feels worlds away from the rocky canyons.

Best Friends Animal Sanctuary: A Heartwarming Visit

A completely different but profoundly impactful thing to do in Kanab is visiting Best Friends Animal Society. This is the largest no-kill animal sanctuary in the United States, nestled in the red rocks. You can take a guided tour (reservations recommended) to meet and learn about the thousands of rescued animals—dogs, cats, birds, horses, pigs, and more. It’s a place of incredible compassion and a wonderful way to spend a few hours, especially for animal lovers. The sanctuary’s mission and beautiful setting make it a truly special Kanab attraction.

The Spectacular Views of Kanab Canyon & the "Dance Hall Rock"

For a scenic drive with minimal effort, head east on Highway 89 toward the Kanab Canyon overlook. The road itself offers constant, stunning vistas. A short, paved side road leads to "Dance Hall Rock," a large, flat-topped sandstone formation that was a popular social gathering spot for early settlers and, later, film crews. The 360-degree view from the top is phenomenal. It’s an easy stop that perfectly encapsulates the grandeur of the area.

4. Savor Kanab’s Local Flavors and Culture

After a day of exploration, experiencing Kanab’s welcoming downtown is one of the most enjoyable things to do in Kanab. The town has cultivated a vibrant, artsy vibe without losing its Western roots.

Dining and Brews

Kanab punches above its weight with excellent dining. For a classic, hearty meal, Jake's Chaparral is a local institution serving steaks and Mexican food in a rustic setting. Sego Restaurant & Juice Bar offers fresh, healthy options and great coffee—perfect for a post-hike refuel. For a memorable dinner, The Rocking V Cafe provides upscale American cuisine in a charming historic building. Don't miss Kanab Brewing Company, the town's first craft brewery, for local beers and a relaxed pub atmosphere on a patio under the stars.

Art Galleries and Shopping

Stroll down Main Street to discover a thriving arts community. Galleries like Moccasin Mountain Artisans showcase local pottery, jewelry, and paintings inspired by the landscape. Kanab Crafters is a co-op featuring work from dozens of regional artists. For unique souvenirs, browse shops selling Native American crafts, Western wear, and geology-themed items. The town’s walkable scale makes shopping and gallery-hopping a pleasant, air-conditioned (in summer) afternoon activity.

Annual Events and the Kanab Library

If your timing aligns, plan around events like Kanab's Western Legends Roundup (August), celebrating the town's film history with celebrity guests, parades, and dances. The Kanab Library is surprisingly notable—it's featured in several films and has a beautiful mural. It’s a quiet spot to learn more about the area's history and geology with free resources.

5. Practical Tips for Your Kanab Adventure: When to Go and How to Prepare

To make the most of the things to do in Kanab, smart planning is essential. The high desert environment is beautiful but demanding.

The Best Time to Visit

Spring (April-May) and Fall (September-October) are ideal. Daytime temperatures are pleasant (60s-80s°F), wildflowers bloom in spring, and fall brings golden aspens. Summer (June-August) is extremely hot (often 100°F+), making strenuous hikes risky. If you visit then, hike only at dawn and dusk, carry excessive water, and be aware of monsoon season flash floods in slot canyons. Winter is cold but quiet, with snow dusting the red rocks—a photographer's dream, but some high-elevation roads may be closed.

Essential Preparation

• Water, Water, Water: Carry at least one gallon per person per day for desert hikes. Hydration is non-negotiable.
• Sun Protection: A wide-brimmed hat, sunglasses, and high-SPF sunscreen are mandatory year-round.
• Footwear: Sturdy hiking boots or shoes with good grip are crucial for rocky, sandy trails.
• Permits & Reservations: For The Wave, Buckskin Gulch, and sometimes Zion's Angels Landing, you must secure permits months in advance. Check the official BLM and National Park Service websites.
• Fuel and Supplies: Fill your gas tank in Kanab. Services become very scarce once you head into the backcountry. Stock up on food and water.
• Check Conditions: Always check the Bureau of Land Management (BLM) Kanab office website or call them for the latest on road conditions, flash flood warnings, and permit availability. The Utah Avalanche Center is also a resource in winter.

6. Day Trips from Kanab: Easy Access to National Parks

One of Kanab’s greatest strengths is its proximity to multiple national parks, making it the ultimate basecamp for a multi-park vacation.

Zion National Park (South Entrance)

The Zion-Mount Carmel Highway (Highway 9) connects Kanab directly to the South Entrance of Zion National Park in about a 1.5-hour drive. This is your route to the Zion Canyon Scenic Drive, The Narrows (top-down hike requires shuttle and permit), and Angels Landing (permit required). From the east entrance, you can drive through the entire park, but note the Zion-Mount Carmel Tunnel has restrictions for oversized vehicles. The drive itself through the tunnel and the Checkerboard Mesa area is stunning.

Bryce Canyon National Park

A slightly longer but equally rewarding drive (about 1.5-2 hours) north on Highway 89 leads to Bryce Canyon National Park. Known for its hoodoos—tall, thin spires of rock—Bryce offers a completely different, almost whimsical landscape. The Sunset Point to Sunrise Point rim walk is an easy, must-do stroll. For more adventure, hike down into the amphitheater on the Queen's Garden or Navajo Loop trails.

Page, Arizona & Lake Powell

Heading south on Highway 89A for about 1.5 hours brings you to Page, Arizona and the shores of Lake Powell. Here, you can tour the Glen Canyon Dam, photograph the famous Horseshoe Bend (a short, hot hike to a dramatic overlook), or take a boat tour on the lake to see Antelope Canyon (the famous slot canyon, access requires a guided tour from Page). This makes for a fantastic full-day or overnight trip from Kanab.

Conclusion: Why Kanab Captivates Every Traveler

The things to do in Kanab reveal a destination of profound depth and beauty. It’s a place where you can stand in a slot canyon so narrow you can touch both walls, gaze upon a vista painted by geological epochs, and walk the same dusty streets as Western film legends—all within a few miles of a cozy downtown with great food and a cold local beer. Kanab defies simple categorization; it’s an outdoor adventure hub, a living film museum, and a serene desert town all at once.

Ultimately, what makes Kanab special is its sense of place. It’s not just a collection of attractions but a cohesive experience where the landscape tells stories—of ancient oceans, volcanic eruptions, Native cultures, pioneers, and movie stars. Whether you're a hardcore backpacker seeking The Wave's solitude, a family looking for easy scenic drives, or a culture buff intrigued by Hollywood's past, Kanab delivers. It’s a reminder that some of the world's most spectacular wonders are found not in isolated pockets, but in the vibrant, welcoming towns that serve as their gateway. So pack your sense of adventure, your camera, and plenty of water. Your unforgettable journey through Utah's red rock heartland begins in Kanab.