15 Best Things to Do in Kanab, Utah for Outdoor Lovers

Looking for the best things to do in Kanab, Utah & the surrounding area? You’re in the right place — especially if you love epic hikes, otherworldly landscapes, and off-the-beaten-path adventures.

Kanab is one of those rare places that feels like it was made for outdoor lovers, and after three epic road trips through Southern Utah, I’ve uncovered some seriously incredible gems worth adding to your itinerary.

Over the years, I’ve spent weeks exploring Utah, but Kanab has completely stolen my heart. Tucked between Zion and the Arizona border, it’s a base camp for adventure and a goldmine of natural wonders — from secret slot canyons to Mars-like rock formations you have to see to believe.

I’ve hiked the trails, explored the caves, driven the bumpy backroads, and even done all the tours just to bring you the very best this region has to offer.

I’m positive this post will help you create a one-of-a-kind Kanab itinerary that’s downright epic!

Kate hikes through a narrow slot canyon with her dog, surrounded by tall, smooth red rock walls glowing in the sunlight. She’s wearing sunglasses and a light jacket tied around her waist, looking up in awe at the canyon formations. — Roo and I exploring the Wire Pass Slot Canyon

Best Resources For Planning Your Trip To Kanab

✈️ Cheap Flights: Daily Drop
🛏 Accommodations: Hotels.com
🚐 Tours & Excursions: Viator
🚗 Rental Car: Discover Cars
🌍 Travel Insurance: Safety Wing
💳 Best Travel Card: Capital One Venture X

Map of All The Things To Do In And Around Kanab Utah

Map key:

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If I could only do three things in Kanab, it’d be: White Pocket, Wire Pass Slot Canyon, and Bryce Canyon.

Best Things To Do in Kanab & The Surrounding Area

Kanab is packed with jaw-dropping adventures, both close to town and just a short drive away. From slot canyons to sand dunes, these are the best outdoor experiences you won’t want to miss.

Kate stands at the edge of the Moqui Sand Caves in Utah, with soft footprints in the sand beneath her and sunlit red rock cliffs visible through the cave opening. Light filters in, highlighting the textured sandstone walls around her. — Moqui Sand Caves just ouside of Kanab

Interior view of the Moqui Sand Caves in Utah, with swirling patterns on the sandstone ceiling and soft, rippled sand covering the cave floor. Natural light filters through arch-shaped openings at the far end, creating a warm, earthy glow. — The sand caves are man-made.

1. Moqui Sand Caves

Just 7 minutes north of Kanab, the Moqui Sand Caves are a fun and easy stop with a big payoff.

There’s a large parking lot right off the highway, and from there, a short sandy trail leads you to the rock face. You’ll need to scramble up and across the slickrock to reach the caves — but the views and textures inside are totally worth it.

The carved patterns in the sandstone make for awesome photos, and the whole experience feels like a hidden little adventure.

Kate and her husband stand at the entrance of the Belly of the Dragon tunnel in Utah, with textured red sandstone walls and a dark, curving tunnel behind them. — Standing in the Belly of the Dragon

View from inside the Belly of the Dragon tunnel near Kanab, Utah, looking out through a carved sandstone passage toward distant hills and desert brush. The smooth, wavy cave walls glow with warm red tones under natural light. — Belly of the Dragon is a quick stop

2. Belly of The Dragon

Located just 20 minutes north of Kanab, Belly of the Dragon is a quick and quirky stop that feels like something out of a sci-fi movie.

It’s marked as a trailhead on the map, but don’t let that fool you — it’s really just a short walk from the parking area into a manmade drainage tunnel carved through the rock.

The swirling walls and moody lighting make it feel like you’re actually walking through the belly of a dragon. It’s a fast, fun detour that’s worth the stop.

3. Coral Pink Sand Dunes

Okay, I haven’t made it to Coral Pink Sand Dunes just yet — but it’s definitely on my list for the next Southern Utah road trip.

I’ve got my eye on sandboarding the dunes, which you can try by renting a board from Kanab Tour Company for just $25 a day. It looks like such a fun, unique experience, and I seriously can’t wait to go back and try it out.

Kate stands on a rocky ridge in Grand Staircase-Escalante National Monument, surrounded by striking red and white striped badlands under a bright blue sky. — Overlooking the colorful landscapes in Escalante National Monument

4. Escalante National Monument

Covering a massive 1.9 million acres, Grand Staircase-Escalante National Monument is an outdoor playground full of adventure.

From hiking the famous Peek-a-Boo and Spooky slot canyons to rock climbing, ATV tours, and even rappelling, there’s no shortage of epic things to do here.

It’s rugged, wild, and feels wonderfully untamed. On my next trip down, I plan to spend most of my time diving deeper into this incredible landscape.

The Wave in Arizona’s Coyote Buttes North showcases its surreal, swirling sandstone formations in vivid shades of orange, red, and gold under a cloudless blue sky. The natural curves and lines create a mesmerizing, wave-like effect across the rock. — The Wave: photo courtesy of Canva

5. The Wave

The Wave is one of the most iconic — and elusive — hikes in the Southwest.

Getting a permit is notoriously difficult. Some have told me that they have been putting in for the last 7 years and still have not won.

If you’re one of the lucky ones who scored a permit, let me know if you’ve got an extra spot because this one is way up on my bucket list! I haven’t made it out there yet, but I’m manifesting that golden ticket one day.

Kate stands at the edge of Canyon Overlook Trail in Zion National Park, taking in the sweeping view of towering red cliffs and the lush valley far below as the sun begins to set.

6. Zion National Park

Zion National Park is just an hour’s drive from Kanab and makes for an epic day trip or even a multi-day adventure. It’s one of my all-time favorite national parks, and Kanab is the perfect base if you want to explore the less-crowded east side.

The drive into the park from this direction is incredibly scenic, and the Canyon Overlook Trail — also accessed from this side — is my absolute favorite.

If Zion isn’t already on your Kanab itinerary, go ahead and add it now. You won’t regret it.

A winding trail descends into the vibrant red rock walls and towering hoodoos of Bryce Canyon National Park, with pine trees nestled in the canyon floor and a sliver of blue sky above.

7. Bryce Canyon

Just 1 hour and 20 minutes north of Kanab, Bryce Canyon is a must add-on to your itinerary.

It’s a smaller park, but the scenery will absolutely blow your mind — it actually ended up being my favorite of Utah’s Mighty Five, which totally surprised me!

I thought Zion would take the top spot, but there’s something magical about the hoodoo-filled amphitheaters and surreal landscapes here.

Pro Tip: If you only have time for one trail, make it the Queens Garden/Navajo Loop — it’s a stunner.

Kates husband makes his way through the narrow, water-filled slot canyon of the Kanarra Falls Trail, surrounded by towering, smooth sandstone walls in shades of red and gray. Crystal-clear water flows over the rocky stream bed beneath his feet.

Kate poses triumphantly at the top of a wooden ladder beside a flowing waterfall inside the narrow red rock slot canyon on the Kanarra Falls Trail. Water cascades into a shallow pool below, surrounded by smooth sandstone walls.

8. Kanarra Falls

Tucked on the west side of Zion National Park, Kanarra Falls is a hidden gem that’s absolutely worth the 1.5-hour drive from Kanab.

This trail is especially fun in the summer — you’ll be hiking through a cool slot canyon, often wading through water, until you reach a waterfall with a ladder leading up to the top.

My husband and I did this on one of our road trips and had such a great time. Just be sure to grab a permit online ahead of time! This hike is growing in popularity quickly.

Kate walks along the swirling, multicolored rock formations of White Pocket in Arizona, surrounded by smooth sandstone textures in red, orange, and white under a vivid blue sky. The unique patterns create a dreamlike, otherworldly landscape. — You’ll feel like you’re on Mars at White Pocket

Kate walks across the otherworldly, brain-like rock formations of White Pocket in Arizona, surrounded by pale, rippled sandstone under a bright blue sky. Her casual hiking outfit and relaxed pace reflect the peaceful, surreal landscape. — It also has this brain like formations.

9. White Pocket

White Pocket is about a 2-hour drive from Kanab and feels like you’ve landed on another planet.

The swirling rock formations are so wild and otherworldly that it’s often compared to The Wave (and some say it’s even better). I haven’t been lucky enough to hike The Wave yet, but White Pocket seriously blew me away with its bizarre textures and colors.

Just a heads-up: you’ll definitely need a 4×4 high-clearance vehicle to get to white pocket! But the deep sand you’ll drive through on the way in is half the adventure!

Kate climbs a wooden ladder between the smooth, towering sandstone walls of a narrow slot canyon on the Wire Pass Trail in Utah. She smiles over her shoulder, surrounded by deep red rock and soft desert light filtering from above. — The ladder in Wire Pass Slot Canyon

Kate walks with her dog through the narrow, sunlit sandstone walls of a slot canyon on the Wire Pass Trail near Kanab, Utah. The smooth, layered red rock glows in the light as they explore the winding path together.

10. Wire Pass Slot Canyon

Wire Pass is a super fun hike that takes you through a narrow slot canyon and eventually connects to the larger Buckskin Gulch.

You’ll need a day-use permit to explore the area, but even your pups can join you on this trail — Roo came with me and we had a blast! There’s a ladder you’ll need to navigate in the canyon, but if your dog isn’t into climbing (Roo definitely wasn’t), there’s a way around it.

We hiked it in the middle of the day, but I’d recommend going early to avoid the crowds and enjoy the cool, peaceful vibe of the canyon.

Kate walks hand-in-paw with her dog through the towering red rock walls of Buckskin Gulch, the sunlight highlighting the striped sandstone under a clear blue sky. The narrow canyon path is lined with soft sand, creating a serene desert scene.

Kate stands beside a massive, zigzagging wall of vividly striped sandstone in Buckskin Gulch, her hand gently resting on the textured surface as she looks up in awe. The rich red and orange layers showcase the canyon’s natural artistry.

11. Buckskin Gulch

Buckskin Gulch holds the title for the longest slot canyon in the world — stretching an epic 12.5 miles.

If you want to do the full hike, you’ll need a permit, but you can also access a shorter (yet still stunning) section by starting at Wire Pass Trailhead. But you’ll also need to have a day-use permit this way.

I attempted this one after some recent rain and ran into knee-deep water and thick mud, so I had to turn back. But what I did see was absolutely spectacular, and I’ll definitely be giving it another shot.

Pro Tip: Always check the weather before entering any slot canyon — flash floods can happen fast, even from storms 20 miles away. A guide once told me water can rush through these canyons at up to 75 mph. Not something you want to mess with.

Kate sits at the base of a tall, mushroom-shaped hoodoo on the Toadstool Hoodoos Trail near Kanab, Utah, smiling under a clear sky. The soft beige rock and scattered boulders create a surreal desert backdrop. — Enjoying the shade under a toadstool hoodoo.

Kate stands among the colorful, layered badlands of the Toadstool Hoodoos Trail near Kanab, Utah, surrounded by soft red and white rock formations under a clear blue sky. The dramatic landscape creates a striking contrast with her casual hiking outfit. — The Toadstool Hoodoos Trail has such a cool landscape.

12. Toadstool Hoodoos Trail

About 40 minutes east of Kanab — halfway between Kanab, UT and Page, AZ — this trail totally surprised me.

I expected a quick out-and-back, but ended up spending way more time exploring all the nooks and crannies than I thought I would.

The toadstool-shaped hoodoos are super unique, but my favorite part was wandering through the white canyon at the back. Most people stop at the first cluster of hoodoos, but I highly recommend going farther.

Head left around the white canyon, drop down in, and keep exploring. There’s even a hidden cave with hoodoos on top and a Mars-like landscape beyond the canyon.

Trust me — it’s worth the extra exploring.

Best Day Trips From Kanab Utah

Kanab’s location makes it the perfect jumping-off point for some of the Southwest’s most iconic destinations. If you’ve got the time, these day trips are well worth adding to your itinerary.

Kate stands in awe beneath the flowing, sculpted sandstone walls of Upper Antelope Canyon, as soft beams of light illuminate the warm orange curves above her. The canyon’s narrow passage creates a magical, almost otherworldly atmosphere. — Upper Antelope Canyon Tour

Soft streams of sand fall like a waterfall from a ledge inside Upper Antelope Canyon, glowing under a shaft of light that highlights the rich red and orange curves of the sculpted sandstone walls. — Sand waterfall in the Upper Canyon

13. Antelope Canyon

Located just across the border in Page, Arizona, Antelope Canyon is one of the most famous slot canyons in the world.

There are four different ways to experience the canyon, each with its own vibe and views. For my 41st birthday, I finally treated myself to checking this off my bucket list!

🌵 Upper Antelope Canyon Tour

This is the most popular and iconic section of the canyon — and probably the number one reason most people visit Page. It’s known as the “dark canyon” because of its towering, narrow walls with just a sliver of light filtering in from above. It also has the prettiest swirls and textures in the rock.

🌵 Lower Antelope Canyon Tour

Just as stunning, but with a totally different feel. The walls here are shorter, and the opening at the top is wider, so the canyon is much brighter and better for taking photos.

Kate smiles as she stands between the narrow, wave-like sandstone walls of Canyon X in Arizona, bathed in warm shades of red and pink. The smooth curves and layered textures of the slot canyon create a dramatic and colorful backdrop. — Canyon X Tour

🌵 Canyon X Tour

A shorter tour that’s gaining popularity. It’s named after the X-shaped opening in the ceiling, and the tour includes two separate canyon sections. It’s usually less crowded than the Upper and Lower tours, and while the walls are a bit shorter, the swirling textures are still incredibly photogenic.

Kate rappels down a narrow sandstone wall in Antelope Ridge Adventure Park, wearing a helmet and harness against the rich, striated rock of a desert slot canyon. The ropes and vertical descent add a thrilling edge to the dramatic landscape. — 70-foot rappel at the Antelope Ridge Adventure Park

Kate navigates a narrow slot canyon at Antelope Ridge Adventure Park using metal footholds and a safety harness, smiling confidently as she climbs between the richly layered red sandstone walls. — Navigating the metal foothold on the Via Ferrata.

🌵 Antelope Ridge Adventure Park (Via Ferrata)

This was hands-down my favorite tour in the canyon — and the most unique!

Opened in July 2024, this is the only Via Ferrata experience in a slot canyon (as far as anyone knows). If you’ve done one before — I tried one in Switzerland — you’ll know how fun they are.

You’ll spend about 90 minutes climbing, rappelling, and traversing along cables through the canyon walls and crevices. If you’re looking for an up-close, adrenaline-pumping way to experience Antelope Canyon, this is it.

A breathtaking view of Horseshoe Bend near Page, Arizona, where the Colorado River curves around a massive rock formation in a perfect U-shape. The steep canyon walls glow with golden light under a clear blue sky. — Horseshoe Bend at sunrise

Kate sits on the edge of the Horseshoe Bend overlook with her dog, watching the Colorado River curve around the massive rock formation below in the golden light of sunset. The deep canyon and glowing red rock create a stunning, tranquil scene. — Be careful because there are no guard rails on the cliff

14. Horseshoe Bend

Just a short drive from Antelope Canyon, the famous Horseshoe Bend is an easy add-on to your Page, AZ day trip.

This iconic overlook of the Colorado River is one of the most photographed spots in the Southwest — and for good reason.

The viewpoint is just a quick walk from the parking lot, and the panoramic view of the river looping below is absolutely unreal.

If you’re after amazing photos, sunset offers the dreamiest light, but it’s also the busiest time of day. I went at sunrise instead, and while there was a shadow across the canyon, the peace and quiet made it totally worth it.

15. Lake Powell

Lake Powell is another epic day trip from Kanab and a great way to cool off after all the desert hiking.

There are so many ways to enjoy the lake — from boat tours and kayaking trips to Antelope Canyon, to swimming and even cliff jumping if you’re feeling bold.

I highly recommend getting out on the water if you can. A guided boat tour is a relaxing way to explore the hidden corners of the lake, while kayaking gives you a more up-close, adventurous feel. Either way, it’s the perfect change of pace from all the red rock dust.

A white SUV with camping gear strapped to the back is parked in front of a rocky, layered mesa in the Utah desert. A dog looks out the window as the vehicle rests on a flat, sandy area beneath an overcast sky. — Southern Utah Road Trip Setup

How To Get To Kanab Utah

Kanab is located in Southern Utah, just north of the Arizona border — but you can’t fly directly into town.

The closest major airports are a few hours away, so you’ll need to fly into a nearby city and then make the drive.

Where you fly into really depends on where you’re coming from and where you can snag the best flight deal.

I drove down from Salt Lake City, Utah, as part of a road trip from my home in Montana — but most travelers fly into Las Vegas, NV, since it’s usually the cheapest option and only about 3 hours from Kanab. It’s a super easy drive with plenty of scenic stops along the way.

Here are your options for getting to Kanab Utah:

From Salt Lake City, UT: About a 4.5-hour drive straight down. You can easily turn it into a road trip by stopping to see Bryce Canyon or Zion National Park en route.
From Las Vegas, NV: Around a 3-hour drive, and a popular route for most visitors.
From Flagstaff, AZ: About 3 hours of drive time. Consider making a pit stop in Page, AZ to explore spots like Antelope Canyon and Horseshoe Bend before continuing on to Kanab.

Best Time To Visit Kanab

Spring and fall are hands-down the best times to visit Kanab.

The temps are more comfortable, the trails are less crowded, and the desert colors are gorgeous.

Crowds really start picking up by late June, but that’s also when the monsoon season kicks in.

One of my tour guides mentioned that late June through July is the most common time for rain and flash flooding in the area.

Tours can get canceled with little notice, and even rain 20 miles away can send water rushing through the slot canyons.

Flash floods are no joke in the desert, so always check the weather and stay safe.

Kate walks among the towering white hoodoos of the Toadstool Hoodoos Trail near Kanab, Utah, surrounded by pale sandstone formations topped with dark caprocks. The stark desert landscape contrasts sharply with the clear blue sky above. — Kanab has so many awesome hiking trails!

How Many Days Do You Need In Kanab Utah

This is such a tough question — there are just so many incredible things to do in and around Kanab!

I’ve visited three times now and still keep uncovering new trails, hidden gems, and wild landscapes to explore.

If I had to give a number, I’d say plan for at least a week to hit the highlights like The Wave (if you’re lucky enough to snag a permit), White Pocket, Wire Pass and Buckskin Gulch, and Zion National Park.

But honestly, that’s just the tip of the iceberg — once you get here, you’ll wish you had even more time.

Where To Eat In Kanab

After all that adventuring, you’re going to want EAT! Here are a few of my favorite spots to fuel up:

Breakfast: Kanab Creek Bakery

This cozy bakery is the perfect way to start your morning. Their fresh croissants, artisan bread, and breakfast sandwiches are chef’s kiss — and the coffee is strong and delicious.

Lunch: Peekaboo Canyon Wood-Fired Kitchen

A local favorite for a reason. This spot serves up insanely good wood-fired pizzas, fresh salads, and other creative plates that are super tasty.

Dinner: Sego Restaurant

For a more elevated dinner experience, Sego is the place to go. The menu is full of locally inspired dishes like bison, duck, and other desert-foraged ingredients.

A stylish canvas glamping tent at Basecamp 37 near Kanab, Utah, is warmly lit from within, featuring a wooden bed, cozy chairs, and a fire pit glowing on the front deck at dusk. The surrounding desert landscape fades into twilight. — Basecamp 37

Where To Stay In Kanab

Kanab has solid options no matter your vibe — boutique hotel, glamping, or budget basecamp.
Here are three awesome places worth checking out:

📍 Best Choice: Canyons Boutique Hotel

This is such a charming boutique hotel that offers a cozy, upscale stay, and a hot breakfast is included. It’s centrally located and makes the perfect home base for exploring everything Kanab has to offer.

👉 Check Canyons Boutique Hotel Availability Here!

📍 Unique Choice: BaseCamp 37

I love this one-of-a-kind stay, BaseCamp 37, that offers glamping under the stars. You’ll stay in safari-style tents with wide-open desert views. It’s peaceful and totally unforgettable if you’re craving something more unique, like the area.

👉 Check BaseCamp 37 Availability Here!

📍 Budget Choice: Red Canyon Cabins

These clean, comfortable cabins are a solid pick if you’re traveling on a budget but still want a bit of character. With private bathrooms, parking right outside your door, and a quiet location, it’s everything you need without the big price tag.

👉 Check Red Canyon Cabin’s Availability Here!

That’s a Wrap

Kanab truly is a paradise for outdoor lovers — and the more I explore it, the more I fall in love with this little town.

I hope this post leaves you inspired and ready to explore this area.

Before you go, don’t forget to grab my free Desert Packing List — it’s packed with essentials you don’t want to forget when exploring this rugged corner of the Southwest. 😉

Catch ya on the next adventure!