25 Best Things to Do in Kanab, Utah: Ultimate Guide for Travelers
If you’re planning a Utah road trip, make sure Kanab is on your list. This Southern Utah gem is home to some of the most exciting outdoor adventures in the Southwest—think colorful slot canyons, scenic hiking trails, epic off-road drives, and unique rock formations. Kanab is the perfect destination for hikers, photographers, and adventure seekers. It’s also a quieter alternative to the busy Utah national parks and a great base for exploring nearby wonders like Zion National Park, Bryce Canyon, and the Grand Staircase-Escalante National Monument. In this guide, we’ll share 25 of the best things to do in Kanab, Utah, with tips to help you plan an unforgettable trip.
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25 Best Things to Do in Kanab, Utah – Our Experiences
Kanab, nicknamed “Little Hollywood” for its history as a filming location for classic Westerns, is the county seat of Kane County, Utah. It’s an incredible year-round destination for outdoor lovers, with endless trails, canyons, and unique rock formations.
Chris and I have been to Kanab more times than we can count—at least ten visits in every season. On one trip, we spent over three weeks here, trying (unsuccessfully!) to win the lottery for permits to hike The Wave.
While we didn’t get lucky that time, we made the most of it by exploring nearly every trail, slot canyon, and attraction in the area.
Kanab has also been a stop on each of our Utah Mighty 5 National Parks road trips, and we never get tired of it. The scenery is stunning, the photo opportunities are endless, and the hiking is some of the best in the Southwest.
Even after so many visits, we keep discovering new places—proof that Kanab always has more to offer. It’s one of our favourite outdoor town in Southern Utah.
What You’ll Find in This Guide
This article is organized into sections so you can easily find what interests you most using the Table of Contents. You’ll find:
- The best hikes in and around Kanab
- Fun things to do in Kanab
- Must-see spots for Western movie fans
- Small-town experiences
- Adventures near Kanab for thrill-seekers
- Ideas for national park lovers
If you’re exploring more of the state, our Utah guide includes the best parks, hikes, and travel tips.
We’ll also share tips on getting around Kanab, when you’ll need a 4WD or high-clearance vehicle, and which activities require permits. For each attraction, we include an estimated time, difficulty level, and whether there’s an entrance fee.
And if you’re wondering—yes, there are incredible budget-friendly options here, too. For example:
- Buckskin Gulch – One of the longest slot canyons in the world, perfect for a day hike or a multi-day trek. It’s an affordable alternative to the pricey tours of Upper and Lower Antelope Canyon near Page.
- Coyote Buttes South – The lesser-known sibling of The Wave, with stunning scenery and easier permit access.
- A walk around downtown Kanab – This small town has real character and charm. While some say there’s not much to do here, we completely disagree. It’s a place where you can soak in authentic Western vibes.
Best Things to Do in Kanab for Hiking Lovers
Kanab is surrounded by some of the most unique and photogenic landscapes in the Southwest. From world-famous formations to hidden gems, here are our favorite hikes—based on our own experiences.
1. The Wave Hike
Time Required: At least 6 hours
4WD Required: Recommended – the trailhead is difficult to reach
Permit Required: Yes – read our detailed guide on getting permits for The Wave
Level of Difficulty: Strenuous
Hiking The Wave is a bucket-list experience for many hikers. The surreal sandstone swirls look like a frozen ocean wave, and the remote setting makes it even more special.
It took us years to finally win a permit—getting one is almost as tough as scoring a pass to Havasu Falls in Arizona. If you’re in Kanab, you can enter the daily geofencing lottery, or try your luck in the Advanced Online Lottery months in advance.
If you win a spot, prepare well. There’s no marked trail, no shade, and no water along the route. We share packing tips, navigation advice, and trailhead details in our dedicated article so you can make the most of this once-in-a-lifetime hike.
2. Coyote Buttes South Hike
Time Required: 5–6 hours
4WD Required: Recommended
Permit Required: Yes – see our detailed guide for Coyote Buttes South
Level of Difficulty: Strenuous
Coyote Buttes South is part of the same protected area as The Wave, but it’s quieter and easier to get a permit for. Here, you’ll find fragile Jurassic Navajo sandstone formations—hoodoos, ridges, and colorful cones—painted in shades of red, pink, yellow, orange, and even green from iron oxide pigments.
There are no marked trails, so navigation skills are essential. We absolutely love this hike—it’s one of our top experiences in the Kanab area.
3. Buckskin Gulch Day Hike
Time Required: Full day
4WD Required: Recommended
Permit Required: Yes – but easy to obtain. Details in my article: Buckskin Gulch Day Hike
Level of Difficulty: Moderate
Buckskin Gulch is one of the longest slot canyons in the world, and it’s truly breathtaking. You can explore it as a long day hike or as a multi-day backpacking trip.
The best part? No complicated lottery and fewer crowds than more famous slot canyons. Just make sure you’re prepared for potentially muddy sections, tight spaces, and no shade.
Agnes’ Advice: Slot canyon conditions can change quickly. On one of our trips to Zebra Slot Canyon near Escalante, we had to turn back due to deep water—always check the weather before you go.
4. The Nautilus Hike Utah
Time Required: 2–3 hours
4WD Required: No
Permit Required: No
Level of Difficulty: Easy
This short, easy hike takes you to a unique rock formation shaped like a seashell. Located between Kanab and Page along US 89, The Nautilus is a perfect stop if you’re looking for something quick but memorable.
No special permits or vehicles are needed, and you can combine it with other nearby attractions in the Paria Canyon–Vermilion Cliffs Wilderness.
5. Paria Rimrocks Toadstool Hoodoos
Time Required: 2–3 hours
4WD Required: No
Permit Required: No
Level of Difficulty: Easy
These whimsical mushroom-shaped hoodoos are fun for all ages. The short Paria Rimrocks Toadstool Hoodoos trail is easy to follow and offers great photo opportunities.
From Kanab, take US 89 east for 44 miles (milepost 19.3) and watch carefully for a small parking lot on the left—it’s easy to miss. This is a great stop if you’re driving between Kanab and Page.
6. Moqui Caverns Hike
Time Required: 1 hour
4WD Required: No
Permit Required: No
Level of Difficulty: Easy
Just a few miles north of Kanab, Moqui Caverns are a quick but fun stop. The short trail (about 0.25 miles) leads to sandstone caves with great views.
Wear shoes with good traction, as the slope can be slippery. From Kanab, drive north on US 89 toward Mt. Carmel Junction—look for a small gravel lot on the left, just before Moqui Caves on the right.
7. White Pocket Hike
Time Required: Full day
4WD Required: Yes – mandatory
Permit Required: No
Level of Difficulty: Strenuous
White Pocket rivals The Wave in beauty, but without the permit lottery. The swirling sandstone is incredible, but getting there requires serious off-road driving skills.
It’s about a 2-hour drive from Kanab, and the deep sand roads make a high-clearance 4WD essential. If you’re not confident in your skills, book a guided tour—many local operators offer full-day trips here.
Once you arrive, expect about 3 miles of hiking over the rock formations. On the BLM website, you can check detailed driving directions.
Best Fun Things to Do in Kanab, Utah
Not every adventure in Kanab has to be long or strenuous—there are plenty of unique and exciting activities that are pure fun. Whether you’re exploring tunnels, cruising on a UTV, or playing in the sand dunes, these experiences will make your trip unforgettable.
8. Hike the Belly of the Dragon
Time Required: 1–2 hours
4WD Required: No
Permit Required: No
Level of Difficulty: Easy
If you’re looking for a short, quirky adventure, the Belly of the Dragon is perfect. This half-mile round-trip trail takes you through a man-made tunnel originally built as a water culvert under Highway 89. Over time, water has carved out smooth, wave-like shapes along the walls, giving it a cave-like appearance.
It’s just 16 miles north of Kanab and makes a great quick stop—especially for families. Bring a flashlight or headlamp to enjoy the textures and shadows inside the tunnel.
9. Take a UTV Ride to Red Canyon (Peek-a-Boo Canyon)
Time Required: 3–4 hours
4WD Required: Only with an ATV/UTV or by hiking
Permit Required: No
Level of Difficulty: Easy
Red Canyon, also called Peek-a-Boo Canyon, is a stunning, less-crowded slot canyon filled with vibrant red walls and unique formations. You can reach it by hiking or by driving through deep sand with an ATV or UTV—this is not a route for regular vehicles.
If you’re an experienced off-road driver, you can rent an ATV in Kanab and go on your own. Otherwise, we highly recommend booking a guided tour—it’s more relaxed, and you’ll get to learn about the area along the way.
10. Explore the Coral Pink Sand Dunes
Time Required: 2–4 hours
4WD Required: No
Permit Required: No
Level of Difficulty: Easy
A walk on the Coral Pink Sand Dunes is one of the most fun things to do in Kanab—especially if you’re traveling with kids. You can rent a sandboard or sled and slide down the dunes for hours of entertainment.
While they’re not as massive as the dunes at Great Sand Dunes National Park in Colorado or White Sands National Park in New Mexico, they’re still beautiful and well worth a visit. The dunes stretch across 3,370 acres, surrounded by striking sandstone cliffs.
The park is just 22 miles west of Kanab via Sand Dunes Road, and the day-use fee is only $10 per vehicle.
11. Go UTV Riding in Coral Pink Sand Dunes State Park
Time Required: 1–3 hours
4WD Required: No
Permit Required: No
Level of Difficulty: Easy
If simply walking on the dunes isn’t enough, why not drive them? UTV riding in Coral Pink Sand Dunes State Park is an adrenaline-filled way to explore the vast, open landscape.
You can rent UTVs on-site or pre-book a guided tour from Kanab. Either way, the feeling of cruising over the rolling sand is pure joy—like being a kid again.
12. Take a Tour to the Great Chamber at Cutler Point
Time Required: 3–4 hours
4WD Required: Absolutely – deep sand and tricky navigation
Permit Required: No
Level of Difficulty: Easy with a guide; extremely strenuous on your own
The Great Chamber (also known as Cutler Point) is a massive sand-filled alcove with breathtaking views—and getting there is half the adventure.
We initially thought we’d drive ourselves in our rented Jeep Wrangler 4WD. But after a few miles of deep sand and twisting paths, we realized just how challenging the route was. We turned back and booked a guided tour instead, and it turned out to be one of the best decisions of our trip.
Our guide not only got us safely to the Great Chamber but also shared fascinating stories about Kanab’s Western movie history and hidden local gems.
Once you arrive, it’s just a short uphill hike (about 15–20 minutes) to reach the alcove, where you’ll be rewarded with one of the most photogenic spots in the entire region. Many tours combine the Great Chamber with Peek-a-Boo Canyon for a full day of fun.
Adventures Near Kanab for Thrill-Seekers
If you’re up for a challenge, Kanab is surrounded by rugged backroads, remote overlooks, and scenic drives that reward the effort with jaw-dropping views.
These adventures are not for casual drivers—most require a high-clearance 4WD vehicle, off-road experience, and careful planning. But if you’re prepared, they’ll be some of the most memorable experiences of your trip.
13. Admire the Colorado River from Toroweap Overlook
Time Required: Full day
4WD Required: Yes – mandatory
Permit Required: Yes (see our full Toroweap Overlook guide)
Level of Difficulty: Strenuous
Toroweap Overlook—also known as Tuweep—is part of Grand Canyon National Park, but it’s one of the most remote and rugged ways to experience the canyon. Here, you’ll stand 3,000 feet above the Colorado River with no guardrails, crowds, or noise—just raw, dramatic scenery.
Reaching it is an adventure in itself. The road is rough, rocky, and slow, taking at least three hours each way. A 4WD vehicle with high clearance is essential, and you’ll need a permit whether you’re visiting for the day or staying overnight at the primitive campground.
The reward? One of the most spectacular and peaceful views in the Southwest. Just make sure you’re well-prepared—this is a trip you can’t do on a whim.
14. Drive the Cottonwood Canyon Road
Time Required: Full day
4WD Required: Yes
Permit Required: No
Level of Difficulty: Moderate
If you want to combine a scenic drive with hiking stops along the way, Cottonwood Canyon Road is an excellent choice. This 46-mile route runs through Grand Staircase–Escalante National Monument, connecting Cannonville to Highway 89.
The drive alone is gorgeous, but the real magic is in the side trips. We especially love Grosvenor Arch and the Cottonwood Narrows hike. Set aside the whole day so you can stop often—there’s stunning scenery at every turn.
15. Tackle the Smoky Mountain Road
Time Required: Full day
4WD Required: Yes
Permit Required: No
Level of Difficulty: Strenuous
For one of the most challenging drives in Utah, head for Smoky Mountain Road. This 77-mile route runs from Escalante (Scenic Byway 12) to Big Water (Highway 89) and is not for the faint of heart.
Expect rocks, sand, deep washes, and plenty of potholes. The landscape is otherworldly—at times it feels like driving across the surface of the moon. It’s exhausting, especially for the driver, but also incredibly rewarding. You’ll see remote scenery few visitors to Utah ever experience.
Ideas for National Park Lovers
One of Kanab’s biggest advantages is its location. This small Utah town is perfectly positioned as a base for exploring some of the Southwest’s most spectacular national parks in both Utah and Arizona. You can easily plan day trips to the Grand Canyon, Zion, and Bryce Canyon—each offering incredible landscapes and hiking opportunities.
Agnes’ Advice: If you’re visiting multiple parks, consider buying the America the Beautiful Pass. It covers entry to all U.S. national parks and federal lands for a year and can save you money compared to paying individual entrance fees. If you plan to explore all Utah national parks, check out our Utah national parks road trip itinerary.
16. Explore the Grand Canyon’s North Rim
Time Required: Full day
4WD Required: No
Permit Required: No
Level of Difficulty: Easy to moderate
Update: Due to wildfire damage in summer 2025, the North Rim is closed. Check the official National Park website for current conditions before your trip.
Only about 10% of Grand Canyon visitors make it to the North Rim, but those who do are rewarded with wilder scenery, cooler temperatures, and fewer crowds than the South Rim.
From Kanab, head through Fredonia and drive 37 miles on US-89A N to the Route 67 junction at Jacob Lake. Then follow Kaibab Plateau–North Rim Parkway (Route 67) for 43 scenic miles through forests and meadows until you reach the rim.
Route 67 closes after the first heavy snow, usually in late November, and reopens around May 15. For the best experience, check our North Rim viewpoints guide and plan your stops ahead of time.
17. Take a Day Trip to Zion National Park
Time Required: Full day
4WD Required: No
Permit Required: No (except for certain hikes)
Level of Difficulty: Easy to moderate
At just 43 miles (about 1 hour) from Kanab, Zion National Park is a must-do. The park is famous for towering sandstone cliffs, lush river valleys, and incredible hikes.
For easy-to-moderate trails without a permit, try the Riverside Walk, Pa’rus Trail, Lower and Upper Emerald Pool Trails, Weeping Rock, Kayenta Trail, or The Narrows via Riverside Walk.
If you’re aiming for bucket-list hikes like Angels Landing or The Subway, you’ll need to apply for permits in advance. Check our Zion National Park guide for tips, shuttle information, and seasonal advice.
18. Visit Bryce Canyon National Park
Time Required: Full day
4WD Required: No
Permit Required: No
Level of Difficulty: Easy to moderate
Just 87 miles (about 2 hours) from Kanab, Bryce Canyon National Park offers some of the most unique scenery in the U.S.—a wonderland of hoodoos, spires, and colorful rock amphitheaters.
One day gives you enough time to drive the scenic loop, stop at major viewpoints like Sunrise Point and Inspiration Point, and tackle a couple of short hikes such as Navajo Loop or Queen’s Garden Trail.
For full details, check our Best Things to Do in Bryce Canyon guide for tips on planning your visit, taking photos, and making the most of your time.
Best Things to Do in Kanab for Western Movie Fans
Kanab has earned the nickname “Utah’s Little Hollywood” thanks to its dramatic landscapes, which have inspired countless filmmakers over the decades. The town and its surrounding areas—especially the nearby Paria Townsite—have served as backdrops for some of the most iconic Westerns and adventure films ever made.
The list of productions shot here is impressive, including Gunsmoke, Planet of the Apes, Wagon Train, Octopussy, The Outlaw Josey Wales, El Dorado, and The Lone Ranger. If you’re a Western movie buff, you’ll love spotting the traces of this cinematic history throughout Kanab. Here are the top spots to explore:
19. Step Back in Time at the Kanab Little Hollywood Movie Museum
Time Required: About 1 hour
4WD Required: No
Permit Required: No
Level of Difficulty: Easy
Open year-round from 9 a.m. to 5 p.m., the Little Hollywood Movie Museum is free to visit and a must-see for film lovers. It’s located right outside the Trading Post, where you can browse Western-themed clothing and quality souvenirs.
The museum grounds are filled with original movie sets from productions filmed in the area—saloon facades, old banks, a cemetery, horse saddles, bathtubs, beds, and more.
While some of the sets show their age, the charm remains. Visit in the morning for the best light, when the sun casts a warm glow over the courtyard and props.
20. Stay or Dine at the Historic Parry Lodge
Time Required: 1 hour (or overnight)
4WD Required: No
Permit Required: No
Level of Difficulty: Easy
Listed on the National Register of Historic Places, Parry Lodge is more than just a hotel—it’s a piece of Hollywood history. Legendary guests have included John Wayne, Gregory Peck, Sammy Davis Jr., Frank Sinatra, Clint Eastwood, Maureen O’Hara, Dean Martin, Roy Rogers, and even Ronald Reagan. Films such as The Lone Ranger and The Outlaw Josey Wales were connected to this location.
Stop by for a hearty breakfast and browse the walls lined with hundreds of photos of movie stars who stayed here. Better yet, book a room—the prices are reasonable, and you’ll be sleeping in the same lodge where Hollywood legends once relaxed after long days on set.
21. Explore the Scenic Paria Townsite
Time Required: 2–3 hours
4WD Required: No
Permit Required: No
Level of Difficulty: Easy
Just a short drive from Kanab in Grand Staircase–Escalante National Monument, the Paria Townsite (also known as Pahreah) was once a bustling settlement between 1870 and 1929. Later, it became a popular filming location for Westerns.
Although the Old Paria movie set was sadly destroyed by fire, the surrounding scenery is breathtaking—towering multi-colored cliffs, winding riverbeds, and wide-open desert vistas. Even without the set, it’s worth visiting for the views alone, making it one of the top side trips from Kanab.
Best Things to Do in Kanab for Small-Town Enthusiasts
Kanab might seem like a quiet stop along the road, but don’t be fooled—this small town is packed with charm, history, and plenty of reasons to linger. Many buildings from Kanab’s early pioneer days are still standing, giving the town a warm, nostalgic feel.
Whether you’re drawn to historic architecture, cozy cafés, or unique local attractions, Kanab has a way of surprising visitors.
22. Stroll the Historic Streets of Kanab
Take a leisurely walk through downtown Kanab and admire the historic buildings, some of which are listed on the National Register of Historic Places in Kane County.
Look for landmarks like the Bowman-Chamberlain House, William Derby Johnson Jr. House, Kanab (Union Pacific) Lodge, Kanab Hotel and Café, Kanab Library, Kanab Post Office, Parry Lodge, Rider-Pugh House, and Stewart-Woolley House.
23. Sip Coffee and Savor Local Flavors
Downtown Kanab is filled with charming shops and galleries, making it perfect for a relaxed afternoon stroll. Stop by Willow Canyon Outdoor—part outdoor gear store, part coffee shop—for a great cup of coffee.
When dinner time rolls around, head to Houston’s Trail’s End Restaurant, a beloved family-owned spot serving up the best ribs in town.
24. Visit the Best Friends Animal Sanctuary
Animal lovers won’t want to miss the Best Friends Animal Sanctuary, located just five miles north of Kanab. As the largest sanctuary for homeless animals in the United States, it’s been a leader in the no-kill movement for over 30 years.
Visitors can take a tour, volunteer, or even meet adoptable animals. It’s an inspiring place that reflects Kanab’s caring community spirit.
25. Take a Day Trip to Page, Arizona
Time Required: Full day
4WD Required: No
Permit Required: No
Level of Difficulty: Easy
If you have an extra day, consider a scenic drive to Page, Arizona, just 75 miles (about 1 hour and 15 minutes) from Kanab via US-89.
Page is home to some of the Southwest’s most photographed landmarks, including the sweeping curve of Horseshoe Bend and the stunning sandstone corridors of Antelope Canyon (Upper, Lower, or Canyon X).
Final Thoughts on Visiting Kanab, Utah
Kanab may be small, but it’s one of the most rewarding destinations in the Southwest. Its location puts you within reach of some of the most iconic landscapes in Utah and Arizona—slot canyons, sand dunes, towering hoodoos, and even the Grand Canyon’s North Rim. Whether you’re here for hiking, off-road adventures, Western movie history, or simply to enjoy the small-town atmosphere, Kanab offers something special for every traveler.
We’ve visited Kanab many times, and each trip has revealed new trails to explore, hidden viewpoints to discover, and friendly locals to chat with over coffee. It’s a place where you can slow down, breathe in the desert air, and still have endless opportunities for adventure.
So pack your hiking boots, bring your camera, and get ready to experience the best of Kanab, Utah. Whether it’s your first visit or your fifth, this little corner of the Southwest will leave you wanting to return.
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