Are you thinking about going to Kanab, Utah, and want to find fun things to do there? Don’t look any further! You’ve come to the right place. We’ll talk about the best and most fun things to do in Kanab, Utah so that you can have an amazing trip.
Kanab is in Kane County, Utah. It is often called “Little Hollywood” because it has a movie-making history. It is also a business hub for farming, ranching, and tourism.
This town of 4,300 people is tucked away in one of the national parks in the southwest. The parks have a wide range of western geological features, such as dunes and pink cliffs, volcanic craters and lava flows, deep valleys, and beautiful mountains.
Kanab is a well-known city that is close to the Zion, Bryce, and Grand Canyon National Parks, as well as many other interesting places to visit. Kanab is a lovely place to go on vacation any time of the year.
18 Best & Fun Things To Do In Kanab, Utah (2024)
1. Hike The Waves
Things to do in Kanab, Utah: The Wave is 46 miles east of Kanab, UT. It is in the Vermilion Cliffs National Monument, close to the border between Utah and Arizona, and can only be reached on foot because there is no road there.
This site shows off the beauty of a famous natural rock formation and beautiful sandstone shapes that look just like ocean waves. The round-trip distance is about 6.7 miles, and the steep grade of 1,233 feet may be hard for some.
Getting the desired pass is a must. The experience is even more exclusive because only a few people are allowed in each day.
Having the right camping gear and plenty of water is important for making sure the trip is safe and fun. Prepare to be amazed by the complex patterns that nature has cut into the rock. This is a great place for people who love beautiful scenery.
Address: Kanab, UT, United States.
2. Belly Of The Dragon
Things to do in Kanab, Utah: This amazing trail is just 20 miles east of Zion National Park and is perfect for a family-friendly journey.
Take a short walk through the “Belly of the Dragon,” a beautiful man-made tunnel that looks like a cave. It was built as a water culvert under HWY89, but over time, the flow of water from the upper canyon has changed the sandstone walls into a beautiful, winding path.
This rippling tunnel is great for exploring and is fun for people of all kinds. As one of the fun things to do outside in Kanab, UT, get your family and friends together for an unforgettable adventure full of laughs and discoveries.
Address: Mt Carmel, UT 84755, United States.
3. Zion National Park
Things to do in Kanab, Utah: Zion National Park was first found in 1908, but only Native Americans knew about it until it was made a national park in 1919 and given the name Zion.
You can get to the eastern edge of Zion National Park in just one hour by car from Kanab. Prepare to be amazed by the park’s awe-inspiring beauty. As you explore, follow the Virgin River’s winding path through the park, which creates a green oasis in the middle of the desert.
Keep going deeper into the park to see Zion’s majestic beauty, including its tall cliffs and stunning scenery. Zion has hiking tracks that are perfect for everyone, whether you want to take it easy or push yourself.
Do not miss the famous Narrows of Zion. Here, you can cross the Virgin River as it cuts through a narrow, rocky gorge. It’s an unforgettable journey in the middle of nature’s beauty.
Zion National Park is the perfect place to go on vacation because it has everything you could want within a vacation spot.
Address: Kanab, Utah, United States.
4. White Pocket
Things to do in Kanab, Utah: This secret gem is 75 miles east of Kanab, UT, on the Paria Plateau in Northern Arizona. It’s a peaceful place to get away from the crowds. The area is famous for its unique rock formations, such as swirling, striped sandstone, complex rock designs, and bright colors that make for a stunning sight.
A lot of people come to the famous “Wave” in the North Coyote Buttes, but White Pocket is different because you don’t need a pass to visit. It can only be reached with a four-wheel drive vehicle, and its remote location makes for a peaceful and immersing experience in Vermilion Cliffs National Monument’s rough beauty.
Every step you take in White Pocket makes you feel like you’re on an adventure as you see the beautiful domes and hills that are there. But it’s important to be careful and understand how fragile this natural wonder is.
If you’re looking for something fun to do in Kanab, Utah, one interesting thing to do is to go on a trip to the White Pocket. It’s a great place for people who want to be alone and connected with nature.
Address: Marble Canyon, AZ 86036, United States
5. Kanab Visitor Center
The Kanab Visitor Center is the starting point for exploring the Grand Staircase-Escalante National Monument, which is in the Paria River District of Kanab, Utah.
There are four tourist centers inside the monument, and each has its theme. This one stands out because it is all about “traces in time,” showing how geology and archaeology are connected.
Interpretive displays that are fun to look at explain the geological formations and ancient cultural history of the monument. The experienced and friendly staff at the center can give you up-to-date weather reports, hiking suggestions for people of all skill levels, and important road reports that will help you safely explore the monument’s vast landscape.
The Kanab Visitor Center is a must-see for anyone planning a trip or just wanting to learn more about the town. It gives visitors useful information and interesting facts that make their time there more enjoyable.
6. Moqui Cave
Things to do in Kanab, Utah: Another fun thing to do in Kanab, UT is to go on an early morning trip to see the beautiful Moqui Sand Caves.
Beautiful red rock formations surround this underground wonder and has amazing geological features and a long past that make it an unforgettable experience.
After millions of years of geological action, the Moqui Cave has amazing stalactites, stalagmites, and other rock formations that have changed over time. While you explore its depths, you’ll be amazed by the natural wonders that line its walls.
The Moqui Cave is interesting for more than just its natural features. It is also important for history. The Anasazi people used it in the past, and there is still proof of their presence in the chambers. Later, during Prohibition, the cave was used as a secret Speakeasy, which adds to its interesting history.
Today, people of all ages can go to the Moqui Cave and explore its depths with experienced guides.
Address: 4581 US-89, Kanab, UT 84741, United States.
7. Lake Powell
A unique thing to do outside near Kanab, UT, is to take a boat ride on Lake Powell, which is only a short drive away.
Lake Powell is in the southwestern United States, in the middle of beautiful deserts. It is on the border between Utah and Arizona. Its calm waters are surrounded by steep sandstone hills, making a beautiful setting for outdoor activities.
This site has one of Utah’s biggest lakes, with a surface area of more than 250 square miles when it’s full. There are ancient petroglyphs, cliff houses, and other archaeological sites in the area that are important to culture.
A lot of different fun things can be done at Lake Powell. From boating and fishing to kayaking and paddleboarding, there are lots of different ways to enjoy the beauty of the lake. With its large surface area and private coves, it offers a lot of chances to relax and explore.
Address: Kanab, UT, United States.
8. Kanab Heritage House Museum
The Kanab Heritage House Museum, which is also called the “Jewel of Kanab,” is a fascinating look into the history and culture of southern Utah. In 1894, this Victorian-era masterpiece was built in the Queen Anne style. It is a reminder of the area’s rich past and heritage.
The Heritage House Museum tells stories about Kanab’s past that are still alive. When you walk inside, you’ll be surrounded by old and unique furniture that makes you think of the beauty of the past.
People can learn about the stories and traditions that have shaped Kanab and its people through guided tours that last about 30 to 45 minutes.
At the Kanab Heritage House Museum, you can start an unforgettable trip through the cultural heart of southern Utah.
Address: 115 S Main St, Kanab, UT 84741, United States.
9. Toadstool Hoodoos
When you’re in Kanab, UT, one fun thing to do outside is to see the Toadstool Hoodoos rock creation. It only takes about 40 minutes to finish, so it’s a great trip for a quick break.
Explore the hypnotic beauty of hoodoos, which are unique rock formations that look like huge petrified mushrooms and are spread out across the landscape. These natural wonders, which are made up of big boulders on top of thin spires of entrada sandstone, look like they belong in a magical world.
People who like to watch birds, hike, and run all like this site. Pets are welcome, but they need to be leased.
The Slickrock ground is great for hiking, and there are lots of hoodoos all around you, each with its shape and size.
Address: Kanab, UT, United States.
10. Little Hollywood Movie Set Museum
The free Little Hollywood Movie Set Museum tells the fascinating story of how Kanab became a Hollywood backlot for movies like “Planet of the Apes” and “The Outlaw Josey Wales.”
Famous actors like John Wayne, Frank Sinatra, and Clint Eastwood stayed in this cute town. Movies and TV shows like “The Lone Ranger” and “Gunsmoke” shaped how people thought of the American West.
Set in the beautiful landscape of Kanab, this picturesque location has been a draw for filmmakers for more than 90 years, with its dramatic beauty caught in both color and black-and-white films.
You can look around the old film sets that are now popular tourist spots and give you a look into Kanab’s movie past.
Address: 297 W Center St, Kanab, UT 84741, United States.
11. Great Chamber ATV Tour
One family-friendly thing to do in Kanab, UT is to go on the Great Chamber ATV Tour. This is an exciting getaway that combines beautiful views with exciting action.
One of the world’s biggest cavern systems, this natural adventure is in the middle of Kanab, Utah. It’s more than 4 miles long and up to 200 feet high.
Every moment is full of adventure and wonder, whether you’re climbing tall mountains, navigating winding trails, going for a walk, watching birds, or discovering hidden gems off the beaten road.
From sweeping mountain views to tumbling waterfalls and rough terrain, you can enjoy the beauty of nature while meeting your need for exciting adventures.
Address: Kanab, UT, United States.
12. Dinosaur Tracks
In Kanab, UT, you can hike the Dinosaur Tracks in the morning or in the evening when the sun goes down. This trail, which starts off the highway north of Kanab, goes to dinosaur tracks that are carved into the flat rocks at the top of the cliff.
The Dinosaur Trail also goes to a plateau at the top of the mountain with many dinosaur footprints from 185 million years ago.
The trail is surprisingly steep and rough, with loose dirt and rocks all over the place. This gives it a moderate to strenuous difficulty grade.
As soon as you reach the top, though, enjoy the stunning views and take a picture of your hand next to a Grallator print. You will enjoy adding this short but worthwhile trip to your Kanab plans.
Address: Kanab, Utah, United States.
13. Best Friends Animal Sanctuary
The Best Friends Animal Sanctuary has grown since it opened in 1991. It is in a huge 33,000-acre desert just north of Kanab. The refuge is a loving home for animals in need, with almost 2,000 residents including dogs, cats, horses, pigs, and parrots.
One of the best things to do in Kanab, Utah, with your family is to take a walk of the canyon and meet the many animals that live in the sanctuary.
For people who want to make a change, you could sign up for a day of volunteering and help these animals.
Address: 5001 Angel Canyon Road, Kanab, UT 84741, United States.
14. Vermilion Cliffs National Monument
Sunday through Thursday is a great time to visit the Vermilion Cliffs National Monument near Kanab, UT. The beautiful views, tall hills, and brightly colored rocks are only an hour’s drive from Kanab.
The monument covers more than 280,000 acres in northern Arizona and southern Utah. It has some of the most amazing rock shapes you can see.
As you walk along the narrow roads, you’ll see steep rocks ahead of you. The wind, rain, and sun have shaped these rocks into amazing shapes that make people feel both amazed and awed.
Hiking paths, picnic areas, and lookouts with stunning views of the landscape are all things you can do.
The area is full of wildlife just waiting to be found, surrounded by beautiful nature. The Vermilion Cliffs National Monument is a haven for many animals, such as wolves, foxes, bobcats, and even mountain lions. This will make your trip even more exciting.
Address: Marble Canyon, AZ 86036, United States.
15. Coral Pink Sand Dunes State Park
Coral Pink Sand Dunes State Park is a unique and beautiful place to visit. It’s only a 30-minute drive from Kanab, and the park covers over 3,700 acres and has huge areas of soft, pink dunes that are just ready to be explored and found.
This exciting place has a lot of fun things for families and groups of friends to do. In Coral Pink Sand Dunes State Park, you can do some unique things, like hike, sandboard, and ride an off-road car.
Coral Pink Sand Dunes State Park has places to have picnics and camp, making it a great place for family trips or weekend breaks. It’s a must-see place near Kanab, Utah, with its unique landscape and wide range of things to do.
Address: Kanab, UT 84741, United States.
16. Buckskin Gulch
IN KANAB, UT: If you want to go on an amazing hike near Kanab, UT, take Wire Pass Canyon to get to the Buckskin Gulch slot canyon. The 3.7-mile hike in Wire Pass Canyon is just over an hour’s drive away.
The view is amazing, with canyon walls that are up to 200 feet high and only a few feet apart. One of the many unique things to do in Kanab, Utah is to make your way through tight passages that twist and turn, giving you a thrilling adventure around every corner.
Also, along the way, check out the secret nooks, tight passages, ancient Native American petroglyphs, and stunning rock formations. This hike is one of the most popular in the area because it offers an unforgettable experience.
Address: Kanab, UT, United States.
17. Grand Staircase-Escalante National Monument
Check out the Grand Staircase-Escalante National Monument for something else fun and interesting to do in Kanab. This site is in Utah’s Kane County and Garfield County. It was opened by President Bill Clinton in 1996 and is only a few hours’ drive from Kanab.
Grand Stair-Escalante National Monument is a huge desert area that is ready to be explored. It has hiking trails, places to watch wildlife, and stunning photo possibilities.
Take a scenic drive to this attraction and enjoy a wide range of activities suitable for all adventure seekers. Grand Staircase-Escalante guarantees an unforgettable journey full of one-of-a-kind and unforgettable moments.
Address: 310 S 100 E, Kanab, UT 84741, United States.
18. Slot Canyons
Things to do in Kanab, UT: One fun thing to do in Kanab, Utah is to go to Slot Canyons. The narrow Canyons are 3 feet wide and 300 feet deep. Utah has more slot canyons than any other state in the world. In Kane County alone, there are hundreds of them.
The tall walls and complicated shapes of these geological wonders make them interesting natural draws.
The slot canyons in Kanab are a photographer’s dream, with their changing light and shade, bright colors, and unique rock formations. Make sure you bring your camera so you can record the stunning beauty of these natural sights.
Address: Kanab, UT, United States.
19. Bryce Canyon National Park
Things to do in Kanab, Utah: Another fun thing to do close to Kanab is to check out the breathtaking views at Bryce Canyon National Park. A beautiful natural wonderland with a wide range of hoodoos, towers, and other geological wonders is only an hour and a half drive from Kanab, Utah.
This huge park, which opened in 1928, covers 35,835 acres of beautiful land and has several natural amphitheaters that were formed over millions of years.
The breathtaking views of the red rocks at this beautiful site make for a wide range of one-of-a-kind and unforgettable experiences.
Inspiration Point is known as the most beautiful viewpoint in Bryce Canyon National Park. If you want to see the sunrise there, you’ll never forget it. A short 0.6-mile round trip will take you to the Upper, Middle, and Lower Inspiration Points, where you can see beautiful views of the hoodoos lit up by the sun.
The park has exciting hikes, peaceful camping areas, relaxing nature walks, and amazing chances to look at the stars. It has something for everyone. Stop at the sunset point if you’re thinking about going to Bryce Canyon National Park while you’re in Kanab. It’s a beautiful place to see the sun go down or rise in the morning.
Address: Utah, United States.
20. Cottonwood Canyon Road
In Kanab, Utah, you can go on an exciting off-road trip along Cottonwood Canyon Road, which winds through beautiful landscapes.
Cottonwood Canyon Road is in southern Utah, just two hours from Kanab. It has rough terrain and stunning views that make it the perfect place for a fun-filled day of exploring.
A day on Cottonwood Canyon Road in Utah’s backcountry will be full of adventure, discovery, and moments that will last a lifetime.
Address: Kanab, UT, United States.