17 Best Things to Do in Kanab, Utah in 2025
Welcome to Utah!
Kanab, a classic western town in southern Utah, is surrounded by massive sandstone cliffs and wide open desert. If you are looking for things to do in Utah that feel a bit more adventurous and less crowded, this place is for you. You can sled or snowboard down the coral-colored dunes at the Coral Pink Sand Dunes State Park, wander through a cave resembling a dragon’s belly, or explore slot canyons without the crowds you would find at more popular spots like Antelope Canyon. Kanab is full of wild, scenic adventures that are still slightly under the radar. If that sounds like your kind of road trip, here are all the best things to do in Kanab, Utah, you will not want to miss!
Oh & as always, practice sustainable tourism while traveling, please :)
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17 Best Things to Do in Kanab, Utah
Me walking through the epic Coral Pink Sand Dunes in Kanab, Utah.
The Best Things To Do In Kanab, Utah
Trekking up the epic sand dunes at Coral Pink Sand Dunes State Park!
Me laughing in the Coral Pink Sand Dunes State Park after I had just taken a tumble!
#1: Coral Pink Sand Dunes State Park
Starting with the most obvious best thing to do in Kanab, Utah, Coral Pink Sand Dunes State Park is sure to fill your day with an adventure! It is one of my favorite places that never gets old, offering something for every type of traveler. You can hike the vast sandy landscape, sled, or sandboard down the soft, coral-colored sand dunes! If you have never tried sandboarding yourself, don’t worry—neither had I. I recommend starting on the smaller hills to build your confidence (unlike I did). Feeling more confident? Head over to the larger dunes to test your sandboarding skills. And the best part? It is sand—a comfy and soft landing to wipe out on (believe me, I would know).
Distance From Kanab, Utah: 20 miles | 20-25 minutes
Hours: Daylight Hours, 7 days a week
Entrance Fees: (State Park)
$15 per vehicle; $10 for Utah seniors 65+
$25 per sandboard (get it from the visitor center after parking)
Reservation Required: Nope! But if you want to surf the dunes via UTV instead, you can join an epic day tour here!
Pro Tip: The dunes are a vast area that is easy to get lost exploring in. Be sure to pack plenty of water and electrolytes, especially if you plan to visit in the summer when temperatures are much higher. I have visited both in the very early spring and summer. Summer is extremely hot.
#2: The Sand Caves
Looking for some family fun in Kanab? Head over to the Sand Caves, sometimes referred to as Moqui Caverns. These man-made sand caves are perfect for those who want a fun little hike to add to their itinerary. The hike is an easy 1-1.2-mile through an old sand mine, filled with cool arches and rocky views. I suggest visiting at golden hour to experience the most unique light filtration through the caves.
The Sand Caves parking is easily accessed off the main road, offering plenty of space.
Distance From Kanab, Utah: 5 miles | 7 minutes
Entrance Fees: Free!
Reservation Required: Nope.
#3: The Belly of the Dragon
Inside of the Belly of the Dragon! One of the best things to do for families in Kanab, Utah!
Have you ever wondered what climbing inside the belly of a dragon would be like? Then this easy 1.8-mile stretch hike through a cave is for you! Of course, you do not have to go all the way through, but if you do, I recommend turning on your phone flashlight. This spot is perfect for families and anyone looking for a fun, accessible adventure. The entire trail is flat and sandy, however, it can be muddy, especially after rain or snowfall.
Distance From Kanab, Utah: 16-17 miles | 20 minutes
Entrance Fees: Free!
Reservation Required: Nope.
Please avoid writing on the rocks or adding to the graffiti. Travel respectfully and sustainably.
#4: Peek-a-boo Canyon
Me wandering through a slot canyon similar to that of Peekaboo Canyon!
Also referred to as Red Slot Canyon, Peek-A-Boo Canyon is another slot canyon near Kanab, Utah, that is more challenging than others in the area. It can only be reached with a high-clearance 4x4 vehicle, and the deep sand makes walking more demanding. But the colorful walls, smooth curves, and narrow passages create a beautiful and rewarding experience. Unlike some of the more popular canyons nearby, this one tends to be quieter, offering a more peaceful adventure if you are up for the effort.
If this hike and drive sounds like too much for you, I recommend trying Antelope Canyon instead!
Distance From Kanab, Utah: 8.5 miles | 10 minutes
Entrance Fees: Free!
Reservation Required: Nope.
#5: Little Hollywood Museum
Me feeding the animals at Little Hollywood in Kanab, Utah.
The Little Hollywood Museum in Kanab, Utah, is a quirky but surprisingly fun little spot to stop at when you want a quick break from hiking. This place is a bit random, but if you are already in Kanab, it is worth a quick stop, especially if you are into old Westerns or movie history. There have been 100+ films filmed in Kanab — insane! It is not huge or fancy, but the Little Hollywood Museum gives you a glimpse into Kanab’s film past, and feeding the animals is a bonus. It is a great stop-off for those with little ones, too.
Distance From Kanab, Utah: 0.5 miles | 2 minutes
Entrance Fees: Free! Donation only - $5 suggested per adult.
Reservation Required: Nope.
#6: Best Friends Animal Sanctuary
I think it is evident that I am truly passionate about animal welfare, and honestly, who doesn’t love snuggling up and spending time with a furry friend? Kanab, Utah, is home to the well-known no-kill animal shelter Best Friends Animal Sanctuary. You can visit and hang out with some of the animals who live there—dogs, cats, horses, pigs, bunnies, and more. They offer tours, lunch with the animals, and even the chance to take one out on a hike or for a little adventure off-site. It is a really special place if you love animals, and perfect for kids and families too!
Distance From Kanab, Utah: 6.7 miles | 10 minutes
Entrance Fees: Donations are welcome!
Reservation Required: Yes for tours, volunteering, or to schedule an outing with one of the animals.
#7: Toadstool Hoodoos
Me standing in front of the Toadstool Hoodoo nearby Kanab, Utah and the perfect stop on your way to some of the Page, AZ things to do you will find further down in the article.
The Toadstool Hoodoos is one of my favorite things to do near Kanab! The 1.7-mile trail is easily accessed, with parking right off the main road. When you pull into the parking lot, you are welcomed by beautiful, rainbow-red sandstone rocks! The trail is easy and doable for all fitness levels and ages— even dogs are allowed!
The trail is far less crowded than other nearby trails, and aside from the Toadstool Hoodoos, there are some other unique rock formations and landscapes to explore around them. Plan to spend around 1.5 hours here, including the hike in and out!
Distance From Kanab, Utah: 44.9 miles | 40 minutes
Entrance Fees: Free!
Reservation Required: Nope.
#8: White Pockets
The White Pockets are an otherworldly spot tucked away in Vermilion Cliffs National Monument, with swirling, multicolored sandstone formations that make you feel like you are on another planet. If you want a bit of adventure off the beaten path, this spot near Kanab is perfect for you. It has some incredibly unique rock formations without the crowds since it is a bit of a challenge to access. I recommend having an off-road vehicle for this adventure with spare vehicle parts, water, snacks, food, and emergency supplies for the journey. You can find more directions to reach the White Pockets here. If you are not feeling confident in your vehicle or prefer a guided experience, you can join a tour where the journey is taken care of for you!
Distance From Kanab, Utah: 75.5 miles | 2+ hours with some off-roading
Entrance Fees: I do not believe there is one.
Reservation Required: Nope!
#9: Zion National Park
An incredible view over Zion National Park near Kanab Utah.
Zion National Park is a popular destination, famous for its towering red cliffs that you can get up close to and take in from all angles. Whether wading through the Narrows or taking it easy on a shorter trail like Pa’rus, you will find something that suits your pace. The park changes with the seasons—spring brings wildflowers, fall fills it with color, and winter dusts it with snow. It is a solid choice for anyone looking to escape to the wild without going too far off the beaten path from Kanab..
For challenging hikes, I reccomend The Narrows or Angel’s Landing (permit required). For easier hikes, I reccomend Pa’rus Trail and Zion Canyon Overlook (shown above).
Distance From Kanab, Utah: 30.1 miles | 34 minutes
Entrance Fees: $20-30— America the Beautiful Passes are accepted.
Reservation Required: Only if you plan to hike Angel’s Landing and the entire length of The Narrows.
#10: Bryce Canyon
A view over Bryce Canyon in April.
Bryce Canyon has to be one of my all-time favorite National Parks in Utah, so of course, it made the list of the best things to do in/near Kanab, Utah. Every time I come to Bryce, it feels like stepping into another universe or straight into a fairytale. Picture yourself dropping down into the canyon, surrounded by hoodoos of all shapes and sizes. You wind through narrow paths, duck under arches, and weave your way around these surreal rock formations. In summer, everything glows this bright orange. In winter, it transforms completely, blanketed in snow and somehow just as magical. No matter when you visit, there is a trail for every kind of hiker.
Some of my favorite hikes include the Navajo Loop to Peekaboo Loop (moderate) and the Navajo Loop to Queens Garden Loop (moderate).
If you prefer viewpoints, I reccomend Yovimpa Point and Rainbow Point.
Distance From Kanab, Utah: 76.5 miles | Under 1.5 hours
Entrance Fees: $20-30— America the Beautiful Passes are accepted
Reservation Required: Nope!
#11: Horseshoe Bend
Me sitting and admiring the iconic Horseshoe Bend—even though this spot is a bit mainstream, I had dreamt of visiting for many years!
A little further out from Kanab, Utah, is Horseshoe Bend, a famous place in Page, AZ, where the Colorado River curves around towering rock cliffs in a perfect horseshoe shape. The hike here is an easy 1.5-mile trail, leading to this amazing overlook. Horseshoe Bend is one of the best things to do near Kanab, Utah, and therefore can get crowded. I recommend visiting at sunrise or sunset for the best experience. Arrive earlier to beat the crowds and claim a prime viewing spot.
Since this spot is a bit further from Kanab, I suggest adding a day to visit Horseshoe Bend, alongside #12 through #15 below. It is a scenic and easy drive, with the Toadstool Hoodoos along the way into Page. Click here for the perfect Page, AZ itinerary with all the best stops in one place!
Distance From Kanab, Utah: 76.8 miles | 1-1.5 hours
Entrance Fee: Motorcycles: $5 | Passenger Vehicles (includes trucks and RVs): $10
Pro Tip: Cash only on weekends and holidays.** | America the Beautiful Passes are not accepted
Reservation Need: Nope!
Be careful exploring this area! The drop around the canyon is over 1,000 feet and is deadly. You never know when a rock may crack or shift.
#12: Antelope Canyon
Another spot, a little further out from Kanab, Utah (but nearby to Horseshoe Bend), is the famous Antelope Canyon, a narrow sandstone canyon in northern Arizona with winding walls and light beams that make it feel like you are walking through a painting. It is easily one of the most popular things to do near Kanab—and in the Southwest in general—so the only way to visit Antelope Canyon is through a guided tour, either to the upper or lower section.
The upper section of Antelope Canyon is the more popular option because it is easier to access—just a 100-yard flat walk into the slot canyon. This is the famous Instagram photo from Antelope Canyon, where light beams shine down into the canyon chambers.
The lower section of Antelope Canyon is usually less crowded (but still crowded). To access this section, you will travel down many descending, narrow metal stairs. The actual length to the bottom of the canyon is only a mile long, but many people prefer the easier option (upper) and skip the lower section.
Distance from Kanab, Utah: 80.5 miles | 1 hour - 1.5 hours
Tour/Entrance Fees: $70+
Reservation Need: Yes. Today, the only way to experience Antelope Canyon is with a pre-booked guided tour.
#13: Glen Canyon National Recreation Area
Glen Canyon Dam in Page, AZ.
Glen Canyon National Recreation Area is a must-visit near Kanab, Utah, especially if you plan to visit Horseshoe Bend or Antelope Canyon. Wahweap Viewpoint, located in Glen Canyon National Recreation Area, offers an incredible view over Lake Powell and Glen Canyon Dam, with Tower Butte, Navajo Mountain, and many other famous landmarks in the backdrop. This view is breathtaking and was one of my favorite places I visited. It is the perfect spot to enjoy your lunch or snack at one of the picnic tables there while taking in the stunning surroundings. If you want a view from higher up with a 360°view, you can head to Wahweap Overlook.
Also in the Recreation Area is Glen Canyon Dam, built in 1966 to control the Colorado River’s flow and to supply water and hydroelectric power for Arizona, Colorado, New Mexico, Utah, Wyoming, and Nevada. I suggest visiting Glen Canyon Dam Overlook and following this short 10-minute trail down some uneven sandstone stairs to an overlook of the 710-foot Glen Canyon Dam and the Colorado River.
Distance from Kanab, Utah: 59.3 miles | 50 minutes or so
Entrance Fee:
To access Wahweap Viewpoint, you must pay the Glen Canyon National Recreation Area entrance fee. You can use your America the Beautiful Pass to enter. Otherwise, it is $15 to enter on foot, $25 by motorcycle, and $30 by car/RV. No cash accepted.
There is no entrance fee for Wahweap Overlook or the Glen Canyon Dam Trailhead.
Reservation Need: Nope!
#14: Lake Powell & Rainbow Arch
The beautiful view at Wahweap Overlook in Page, Arizona. You can see a boat riding through Lake Powell. Further to the left, you can see Tower Butte and Navajo Mountain in the background (not shown in photo)
Since you are already in Page, you might as well enjoy some time exploring Lake Powell, a man-made reservoir from the creation of Glen Canyon Dam in 1966. Today, the lake is a popular boating, kayaking, and fishing spot for locals and vacationers. You can find an awesome kayaking tour of Lake Powell here!
Another well-known monument, Rainbow Bridge, can only be accessed via Lake Powell. I have been trying to sort out how to make it to the Bridge, so if you have any information, please send me a message! :)
Distance from Kanab: 72.1 miles | 1 hour and 10 minutes
Entrance Fee: You will likely need to pay for the Glen Canyon National Recreation Area fee to enter Lake Powell unless you join a tour.
Reservation Need: You may need one for specific activities such as camping and boating on the lake. You can find some information on boating and Lake Powell’s marinas here.
#15: The Wave
The Wave is an incredible sandstone formation with colorful red patterns and smooth, flowing curves that make it feel like you are walking through another world. It is one of the most famous things to do in the southwest, which makes getting a permit difficult. If you are lucky enough to be awarded a permit, you can use these directions to help you find your way to this iconic landmark! You can see some amazing photos of the famous wave here. Also, feel free to tell me all about your experience! I have not been lucky enough to win the lottery while I am in the area.
Distance From Kanab, Utah: 48.8 miles | 1 hour or so
Entrance Fees: $9 Lottery Fee (non-refundable) | Once awarded the permit, an additional $7 per person/dog fee is required.
Reservation Required: Yes, there is a lottery system that often takes years to win.
#16: Valley of Fire State Park
These next 2 spots are a bit further out from Kanab, Utah (around 2.5-3 hours) but are still worth mentioning!
No, this is not The Wave—it is my baby wave in the Valley of Fire for those who (like me) have not been a lucky Wave Lottery Winner. Also known as the Fire Wave.
Second to last on the list of best things to do in/near Kanab, Utah is Valley of Fire State Park! The red rock formations here are wild with twisting shapes, wave-like patterns, and colors that shift from pinks to oranges to reds, and even yellow and white in some places. It is super easy to explore, with shorter trails leading into slot canyons, petroglyphs, and views that feel like they belong on another planet. If you visit in the cooler months, like March, you will pretty much have the place to yourself. (I did!) It is a perfect stop if you are into unique Mars-like landscapes with easier access and hikes.
My favorite trail is The Fire Wave/Seven Wonders/The White Domes Loop.
Distance From Kanab, Utah: 168 miles | 2.5 - 3 hours
Entrance Fees: $10 for NV Residents, $15 for Non-Residents
Reservation Required: Nope!
#17: The Grand Canyon (South Rim)
A breathtaking view over the Grand Canyon from Lipan Point (along the red route).
This one may be a bit farther from Kanab, Utah, but it is still one of the best things to do in the area. The South Rim of the Grand Canyon offers incredible viewpoints of this Natural Wonder of the World and even offers the chance to hike down into the canyon! Some of my favorite viewpoints along this side of the Grand Canyon are Desert Viewpoint, Grand Viewpoint, Duck on a Rock, Powell Viewpoint, Hopi Viewpoint, and Mohave Viewpoint.
If you want to hike in the Grand Canyon, you can head to Kaibab Trailhead or Bright Angel Trailhead.
Distance From Kanab, Utah: 187 miles | 3 hours
Entrance Fees: 35 USD for 7 days. The America the Beautiful Pass can be used.
Reservation Required: Nope!
Do not miss this guide to planning the perfect Grand Canyon trip — click here!
Where to Stay in Kanab, Utah
Best Accommodation Options For Every Traveler
Best Low-Budget: Red Canyon Cabins or Parry Lodge
Best Mid-Budget: Comfort Suites
Best Higher-Mid Budget: La Quinta By Wyndham
Best High-End Budget: Best Friends Roadhouse and Mercantile
Best House Options: White Camel
You can also find hotel deals at Agoda and Hostel World. You can help support my travel blog by clicking and booking through the links at no additional cost to you!
When to Visit Kanab, Utah
You can visit Kanab year-round, depending on your preferred weather. Spring and Fall tend to be busier due to the pleasant weather and temperatures.
Spring is the most ideal, with temperatures from March to May offering comfortable conditions for outdoor activities without the risk of overheating. Average temperatures range from 50°F to 70°F, with a small chance of rain. There are fewer visitors during this period compared to summer.
Fall (September - November) offers similar temperatures to spring, with averages between 40°F and 70°F, making it another busy time to explore the area.
Summer in Kanab has the hottest temperatures (upper 90°F and sometimes over 100°F). If you plan to visit during these months (June, July, and August), pack plenty of water and sunscreen to stay hydrated and protected. Heatstroke is more common during this time, so always pack a backpack with essentials like water, sunscreen, a hat, sunglasses, and sturdy footwear for hiking. Staying prepared will help ensure you enjoy your time safely in the heat. There is more of a chance of thunderstorms during this time.
They say “monsoon season” is July/August, but when I visited in August, it was dry as a bone.
Winter in Kaab is chilly, with temperatures ranging from 10°F to 50°F. Snow is moderate, accumulating around 20-26 inches annually. Winter is a quieter time to visit, but dress in layers and check the weather first.
Pro Tip: Arizona does not practice daylight saving time, so keep this in mind if you plan to cross over the border from Kanab for day trips!
How to Get to Kanab, Utah
Kanab has a municipal airport (KNB) serving mostly private and charter flights. Other nearby airports include:
St. George Regional Airport (SGU): about 80 miles (1.5 hours by car)
Page Municipal Airport (PGA): 74 miles (1.5 hours by car)
Cedar City Regional Airport (CDC): 83 miles (about 1.5 hours by car)
McCarran International Airport (LAS): 200 miles (about 3.5 hours by car)
Salt Lake City International Airport (SLC): 320 miles (about 5 hours by car)
Rent a car from any one of these airports to finish your journey to Kanab, Utah!
To book flights, I suggest looking on Kiwi.com or Skyscanner.com for the best flight deals.
Tips for Visiting Kanab, Utah
Always check the weather before booking your trip to ensure you choose your preferred conditions and know what to pack—especially in the hot summer months when extra water is essential and heat strokes are more prominent. Bringing layers is your best option to accomodation the cooler morning and evenings.
Use NPS (National Park Service) to stay up-to-date on closures throughout the National Parks due to weather, fires, and more.
If you plan to visit Glen Canyon, the Grand Canyon, and other national parks within the same year, I suggest purchasing the America the Beautiful Pass for your trip. The pass will save you money on entrance fees, costing only $80 and even as little as $20 for those 62 years and older.
Do not forget that you must book a tour to visit both upper and lower Antelope Canyon.
The Wave requires a reservation and a permit to access it.
I recommend driving your car or renting one to explore Kanab, Utah, and its best things to do.
Stock your car with snacks, water, and electrolytes to stay hydrated during your travels.
Be sure to know how far destinations are and where the closest gas station is to avoid running out in the middle of nowhere.
Pack sturdy hiking shoes to prevent falls, navigate slippery trails, and avoid injuries. If you are traveling from outside the US, purchase travel medical insurance in case of an emergency. My boyfriend (UK) uses Safety Wing’s US plan while he is here.
If you do not have a US SIM for your phone, I suggest downloading an eSIM such as Airalo to access maps, trails, and emergency phone calls during your trip.
Download AllTrails to your phone so you have access to the trail maps!
Frequently Asked Questions
Is Kanab, Utah visiting?
Yes! There are so many fun things to do right in town, and it is in the perfect proximity to cover places near Page, Arizona (Horseshoe Bend, Antelope Canyon, The Wave, The Grand Canyon South Rim) and National Parks like Zion and Bryce.
How to spend a day in Kanab, Utah?
If you want to stay right in Kanab, I suggest the following:
Little Hollywood Museum
Best Friends Animal Sanctuary
Sand Caves
Coral Pink Sand Dunes State Park
Dragon of the Belly
Why is Kanab, Utah, famous?
Kanab is most famous for being the set for MANY movies and for being near Coral Pink Sands National Park, Zion National Park, and Bryce Canyon National Park.
How many movies have been filmed in Kanab, Utah?
From my research, it looks like over 100! This number includes Planet of the Apes (2001), The Lone Ranger (2013), John Carter (2012), and Looking Glass (2018).
What Places Should I Add to Kanab, Utah For MY Road Trip?
If you want to venture south and explore the Grand Canyon, I reccommend adding on Page and the Grand Canyon South Rim. Other cool places nearby include Flagstaff and Sedona (Arizona).
If you want to head north for places like Arches, I suggest adding Moab with a stop at Capitol Reef National Park.
