Kanab, Utah, United States Guide
Kanab, Utah, often called 'Little Hollywood,' is a charming town nestled in the heart of Southern Utah's stunning red rock country. It serves as a perfect basecamp for exploring iconic national parks, state parks, and breathtaking landscapes. With a rich history rooted in Western film production, Kanab offers a unique blend of outdoor adventure and small-town hospitality. The town boasts a friendly atmosphere, a growing arts scene, and a commitment to preserving its natural surroundings. Visitors can enjoy hiking, canyoneering, ATV riding, and exploring nearby attractions like Zion National Park, Bryce Canyon National Park, and the Grand Canyon North Rim. Kanab provides a welcoming and accessible gateway to some of the most spectacular scenery in the American Southwest.
Food & Cuisine
Kanab's culinary scene offers a mix of classic American fare and Southwestern-inspired dishes. You'll find everything from hearty burgers and pizzas to flavorful tacos and barbecue. Many restaurants feature locally sourced ingredients, adding a fresh and regional touch to their menus. Prominent restaurants include Peekaboo Canyon Wood Fired Kitchen, known for its delicious pizzas and sustainable practices, and Escobars Mexican Restaurant, a local favorite for authentic Mexican cuisine. For a quick bite, consider a stop at one of the local cafes or diners. While Kanab doesn't have large public markets, some local stores offer fresh produce and regional specialties.
Nightlife
Kanab's nightlife is relatively low-key, reflecting its small-town charm. Entertainment options primarily revolve around dining out, enjoying live music at local restaurants or bars, and stargazing. Some establishments offer evening entertainment during peak tourist seasons. While there isn't a specific concentration of venues in one particular neighborhood, several restaurants and bars along Main Street provide a relaxed atmosphere for evening socializing.
Best Time to Visit
The best time to visit Kanab is during the spring (April-May) or fall (September-October). These seasons offer pleasant temperatures, ideal for outdoor activities like hiking and exploring the surrounding national parks. Summer (June-August) can be very hot, with temperatures often exceeding 100°F (38°C), while winter (November-March) can be cold, with occasional snow.
Transportation
Kanab is a small town primarily navigated by car. Public transportation options are limited. There is no bus, tram, or subway/metro system within the town. Rental cars are readily available at the airport and in some cases, in town. Some tour operators may provide transportation to specific attractions.
Airport
The closest major airport to Kanab is McCarran International Airport (LAS) in Las Vegas, Nevada, which is approximately 195 miles (314 kilometers) away. From McCarran International Airport, you can rent a car and drive to Kanab, which takes about 3-4 hours. Alternatively, St. George Regional Airport (SGU) is closer, about 75 miles away, but offers fewer flight options. Rental cars are available at both airports.
Attractions
Old Paria
Old Paria is a ghost town located near the Paria River in the Grand Staircase-Escalante National Monument. Visitors can explore the abandoned buildings and remnants of this former pioneer settlement, which has been used as a filming location for Western movies.
Yellow Rock Trail
Yellow Rock Trail is a moderate hike in the Grand Staircase-Escalante National Monument that leads to a colorful sandstone formation known as Yellow Rock. The trail offers panoramic views of the surrounding desert landscape and is a great spot for photography.
Coral Pink Sand Dunes State Park
Coral Pink Sand Dunes State Park is a unique natural area where visitors can enjoy activities such as sandboarding, ATV riding, and hiking. The park's vibrant pink sand dunes are a stunning sight to behold and provide a picturesque backdrop for outdoor adventures.
Toadstool Hoodoos
The Toadstool Hoodoos are a collection of unique rock formations located in the Grand Staircase-Escalante National Monument. These mushroom-shaped hoodoos are a popular hiking destination and offer stunning views of the surrounding desert landscape.
Little Hollywood Movie Set Museum
The Little Hollywood Movie Set Museum showcases the history of filmmaking in Kanab, which has served as a backdrop for many Western movies and TV shows. Visitors can explore the museum's collection of movie props, costumes, and memorabilia from classic Western films.
The Wave
The Wave is a famous sandstone rock formation located in the Coyote Buttes North area. Access to The Wave is limited and requires a permit, but the unique swirling patterns and vibrant colors of the rock make it a must-see for outdoor enthusiasts and photographers.
Frontier Movie Town
Frontier Movie Town is a replica Old West town that has been used as a filming location for Western movies and TV shows. Visitors can explore the town's saloon, jail, and other buildings, as well as watch live reenactments of gunfights and other Western scenes.
Wire Pass Trailhead
Wire Pass Trailhead is the starting point for the popular Buckskin Gulch slot canyon hike. The trail offers stunning views of the surrounding red rock formations and leads to the famous Wave rock formation. Hikers should be prepared for narrow passages and potential flash floods.
Best Friends Animal Sanctuary
Best Friends Animal Sanctuary is the largest no-kill animal sanctuary in the U.S. Visitors can take guided tours, participate in volunteer programs, and even adopt a furry friend. The sanctuary is home to a variety of animals, including dogs, cats, horses, and more.
Moqui Cave
Moqui Cave is a natural history museum housed in a sandstone cave. Visitors can explore the cave's unique rock formations, dinosaur tracks, and Native American artifacts. The museum also features a gift shop and a collection of fluorescent minerals.
Kanab Heritage House Museum
Kanab Heritage House Museum is a historic home that has been converted into a museum showcasing the history of Kanab and the surrounding area. Visitors can learn about the town's pioneer heritage, Native American culture, and early filmmaking industry.
Day Trips
Zion National Park, a mere hour away, is a must-see. Prepare to be awestruck by its towering sandstone cliffs, the Virgin River carving its way through the canyon, and the diverse hiking trails. From the easy Pa'rus Trail to the challenging Angels Landing (permit required!), there's something for every fitness level. Don't miss the scenic drive along the Zion-Mount Carmel Highway, a marvel of engineering with its famous tunnel.
1 hour by car Prepare to be amazed by the otherworldly landscape of Bryce Canyon National Park. Just a 1.5-hour drive from Kanab, this park isn't actually a canyon, but a collection of giant natural amphitheaters filled with thousands of distinctive geological formations called hoodoos. Sunrise and sunset are particularly magical times to visit, as the light paints the hoodoos in vibrant hues.
1.5 hours by car A little over 2 hours away, Lake Powell offers a completely different landscape. This massive reservoir, formed by the Glen Canyon Dam, is a haven for water sports enthusiasts. Rent a boat, kayak, or paddleboard and explore the lake's many canyons and hidden coves. Don't miss the iconic Antelope Canyon, a slot canyon carved by water and wind (requires a guided tour).
2 hours 15 minutes by car While the South Rim is more famous, the North Rim of the Grand Canyon offers a more secluded and arguably more stunning experience. It's a bit further, about 2.5 hours from Kanab, but the cooler temperatures, lush forests, and panoramic views are well worth the drive. The North Rim is only open seasonally (mid-May to mid-October), so plan accordingly.
2.5 hours by car For a unique desert experience, head to Coral Pink Sand Dunes State Park, practically in Kanab's backyard. These shifting sand dunes, colored by iron oxide, are a playground for off-road vehicles and a stunning backdrop for photography. You can rent ATVs or simply hike and explore the dunes on foot.
20 minutes by car Step back in time at Pipe Spring National Monument, about 45 minutes from Kanab. This historic fort, built around a natural spring, tells the story of early Mormon settlers and their interactions with the local Kaibab Paiute people. Take a guided tour to learn about the fort's history and the challenges faced by those who lived there.
45 minutes by car Cedar Breaks National Monument, a natural amphitheater carved into the Markagunt Plateau, is a hidden gem. At over 10,000 feet elevation, it offers stunning views and cooler temperatures, making it a great escape during the summer months. The vibrant colors of the rock formations are truly breathtaking.
2 hours by car Just a short drive from Kanab, you'll find the mesmerizing Coral Pink Sand Dunes State Park. These shifting dunes, formed by the erosion of Navajo sandstone, offer a unique landscape for hiking, sandboarding, and off-road adventures. The vibrant colors of the sand, especially at sunrise and sunset, create a truly unforgettable experience.
30 minutes by car Witness the otherworldly beauty of Bryce Canyon, a land of vibrant orange hoodoos stretching as far as the eye can see. Hike along the rim for stunning views, or descend into the amphitheater for a closer look at these unique geological formations. Sunrise and sunset are particularly magical times to visit, as the light transforms the landscape into a fiery spectacle.
1 hour 45 minutes by car Head south to Page, Arizona, the gateway to the stunning Lake Powell. Explore the iconic Antelope Canyon (book a tour in advance!), marvel at Horseshoe Bend, and enjoy water activities on the lake. Page offers a blend of natural wonders and recreational opportunities, making it a perfect day trip destination.
1 hour 15 minutes by car Escape the crowds and discover the serene beauty of the Grand Canyon's North Rim. Open seasonally (typically mid-May to mid-October), the North Rim offers a different perspective on this natural wonder, with lush forests and cooler temperatures. Hike along the rim trails, take in the panoramic views from Bright Angel Point, and enjoy the tranquility of this less-visited side of the canyon.
2 hours 30 minutes by car Step back in time at Pipe Spring National Monument, a historic fort built around a natural spring. Learn about the early Mormon pioneers, the Kaibab Paiute people, and the challenges of life on the frontier. The fort offers guided tours, demonstrations, and a glimpse into the past.
30 minutes by car Prepare to be awestruck by the towering sandstone cliffs of Zion Canyon! This iconic national park offers a range of experiences, from easy riverside strolls to challenging hikes with breathtaking panoramic views. Whether you're a seasoned hiker or a casual nature lover, Zion's beauty will leave a lasting impression. Don't miss the iconic Angels Landing (permit required) or the refreshing waters of The Narrows.
1 hour 15 minutes by car Zion National Park
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Bryce Canyon National Park
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Lake Powell (Page, Arizona)
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Grand Canyon National Park (North Rim)
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Coral Pink Sand Dunes State Park
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Pipe Spring National Monument
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Cedar Breaks National Monument
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Coral Pink Sand Dunes State Park
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Bryce Canyon National Park
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Page, Arizona & Lake Powell
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Grand Canyon National Park (North Rim)
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Pipe Spring National Monument
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Zion National Park
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