The Best Things to Do in Kanab, Utah

The first time we went to Kanab, Utah was in 2016. There were two reasons why we wanted to go to this small area in Southern Utah. First, Buckskin Gulch was supposed to be one of the coolest hikes in the United States and second, Best Friends Animal Society, which is the largest animal sanctuary in the United States. Little did we know that there was so much more to this area than these two things. We really had not even heard of the area until those two attractions were mention. Once we arrived, we realized that it was a mecca for outdoor enthusiasts.

The Best Things to Do in Kanab, Utah

We couldn’t believe how much this little community and area had. When we first drove in, it kind of seemed like a small town you might stop for gas and then keep going. But once you start exploring you will find amazing slot canyons, sand dunes, man made caves, and trails of all kinds. While most of the activities on our list are outdoors, there is one that is a little bit of a mix of both, but is full of the cutest animals you will ever see!

Red Canyon

This is a great slot canyon for first timers. Short, beautiful and dramatic. If you want to read more about this beautiful spot, CLICK HERE. Located just west of Kanab, it was stunning for such a short slot canyon.

Best Friends Animal Society

As you can tell, this is the spot that has a lot of cute animals and is a little bit inside and a little bit outside. This place is for any animal lover. Even if you are not in a place to adopt an animal, go and take a tour or volunteer to help them out. The tour is well worth the time. When we were there in 2016, we were able to see a few of the Vicktory dogs and they had just taken in multiple Missouri 500 dogs. But it is more than just dogs and cats. They have bunnies, horses, goats, and donkeys. There is a rehabilitation area, pet cemetery and so much more.

Sand Caves (Not Moqui Caves)

Don’t mistake these for Moqui caves, which is just up the road by a couple hundred feet. Sand Caves are free to explore, while Moqui caves are not. They are both man made, but we still had fun exploring Sand caves for a bit and a couple spots were quite cool. This hike is along big rock slabs and if you are afraid of heights, then take it slow. You can see where you need to hike from the ground, so make sure to be comfortable in your decision. The parking lot is at the Best Friends Animal Society sign above. Plus there is a sign for Sand Caves, do not go to the Moqui caves unless you are want to explore those and pay the fee.

Jackson Flat Reservoir

The Jackson Flat Reservoir is a nice area just outside of town. There is a paved path around the entire reservoir, which is about 3 miles. Very dog friendly and a good area to hang out for the day with views of the area.

Buckskin Gulch

This hike was simply incredible. Since 2016, we have hiked numerous trails and hundreds of miles and this is still in our top 3 hikes we have ever done. There is no other slot canyon like this in the United States and to explore this is like nothing you will have ever done. If you want to see more pictures then CLICK HERE. The first picture is also at Buckskin Gulch. The dog is a full grown Vizsla and could almost be an ant. Just like below. This hike is on the most dangerous hikes in the US and potentially the world, but on a clear day you can hike 10 miles and not even notice.

Coral Pink Sand Dunes State Park

If you are into sand dunes, then this is a fun state park to explore. Either by foot, or OHV. This state park sits at 6,000′ so during the summer make sure to have enough water and snacks when you are there. With 3,370 acres you have plenty to explore and if you make it at the right time the sand will have the pretty pink color.

Kanab, Utah

Make sure to stop in town for lunch, dinner or drinks to help support the local community! There are actually quite a few options of places to eat. We recently found Havana Cubana The Taste of Cuba and we were surprised with how tasty it was. They also have this pay it forward board. You can buy a meal for someone in need. All they have to do it walk in grab a note and give it to the server and they are provided with a meal, or snack if that is what they need. I absolutely loved this concept.