Nestled in the heart of Southern Utah, Kanab is an outdoor enthusiast’s paradise. This small town is the perfect base camp for adventure seekers of all levels, surrounded by towering red rock formations, slot canyons, and vast desert landscapes. Kanab has it all if you’re looking for a high-adrenaline off-roading experience, a scenic hike, or a more relaxed way to explore the region’s beauty.
High Adventure: Thrill-Seekers Welcome!
1. Off-Roading in Kanab’s Backcountry
Kanab offers some of the most exciting 4×4 and ATV trails in the Southwest for those craving an off-road adventure.
- Hog Canyon OHV Trails – Located just north of town, this network of trails offers everything from beginner-friendly dirt roads to extreme rock-crawling routes. Expect stunning views and challenging terrain!
- Peekaboo Slot Canyon – If you want a mix of off-roading and slot canyon exploring, take an ATV or 4×4 to this breathtaking location. The ride is bumpy, but the reward is a stunning, less-crowded slot canyon.
- The Barracks Trail – A lesser-known but epic UTV trail near Zion National Park, featuring deep sand, river crossings, and incredible scenery.
Pro Tip: Rent a side-by-side or an ATV from a local outfitter like Kanab Tour Company if you don’t have your own rig!
2. Canyoneering & Rappelling
Kanab is home to world-class canyoneering routes that will push your limits and reward you with unforgettable experiences.
- The Huntress Slot Canyon – A great intro to canyoneering with thrilling rappels, narrow slots, and spectacular rock formations. Guided trips are available for beginners!
- The Great Chamber – This requires a steep sandy climb or a UTV ride to reach, but the massive open dome carved into the sandstone is worth the effort.
- Water Canyon – A technical slot canyon adventure involving rappelling and scrambling near the Utah-Arizona border.
3. Hiking Epic Trails
For those who love exploring on foot, Kanab is surrounded by some of the best hiking trails in Utah.
- Buckskin Gulch – The longest slot canyon in the world, offering a mix of easy in-and-out hikes or a full 20-mile backpacking experience.
- Toadstool Hoodoos – A short, easy hike leading to unique mushroom-shaped rock formations.
- Belly of the Dragon – A quick, family-friendly tunnel-like hike carved under Highway 89, perfect for kids and photographers.
- White Pocket – A surreal, wave-like rock formation that rivals The Wave but doesn’t require a permit. High-clearance 4×4 is required!
Low Adventure: Scenic Exploration & Relaxation
Not every adventure has to be extreme! Kanab offers plenty of ways to take in the scenery at a more leisurely pace.
1. Visit Coral Pink Sand Dunes
For a low-key but fun adventure, head to Coral Pink Sand Dunes State Park, where you can rent sandboards, go on a scenic drive, or just relax and enjoy the sunset over the rolling dunes.
2. Scenic Drives & Photography Spots
- Johnson Canyon Road – A peaceful drive through stunning desert landscapes, perfect for sunrise or sunset.
- The Wave (if you win the permit lottery!) – If luck is on your side, this iconic rock formation is a must-see.
- Best Friends Animal Sanctuary – If you love animals, tour this incredible sanctuary that houses hundreds of rescued animals.
3. Stargazing & Campfires
Kanab is located in a Dark Sky region, making it an ideal place to stargaze. Head to Kodachrome Basin State Park or just step outside your campsite to see the Milky Way stretch across the sky.
Best Campsites for a Cozy, Scenic Night:
- Ponderosa Grove Campground
- White House Campground (great for Buckskin Gulch hikers!)
- RV-friendly parks like Kanab RV Corral
Plan Your Kanab Adventure!
Kanab is an adventure lover’s dream, offering everything from extreme off-roading and canyoneering to peaceful hikes and scenic drives. Whether you’re looking for high-adrenaline experiences or a more relaxed way to explore Utah’s stunning landscapes, Kanab has something for everyone.
