10 Things to Do in Kanab, Utah

Quick Answer

Kanab, Utah's top things to do include: an off-road tour, the town's local museums and eateries, Belly of the Dragon, Wire Pass/Buckskin Gulch, Best Friends Animal Sanctuary, the Coral Pink Sand Dunes, stargazing under Kanab's dark skies, Toadstool Hoodoos, canyoneering, and The Wave Trail.

Nestled between Zion, Bryce Canyon, and the Grand Canyon, Kanab is a red-rock town full of hidden slot canyons and wide open spaces. Here's the full local-inspired list, including the number one must-do adventure.

1. Book an Off-Road Tour with Expedition Kanab

Let’s start with the obvious. You didn’t come all the way to Kanab just to look at cool rocks from the highway. You came to explore. And there’s no better way to do that than by hopping in a UTV and hitting the dirt with Expedition Kanab.

Blasting across the Coral Pink Sand Dunes, slipping through the narrow walls of Peekaboo slot canyons, and standing on the edge of The Great Chamber Utah hike are all part of these tours, which take you deep into Kanab's wild side with expert guides who know every twist in the trail.

Family-friendly? Yep.

Totally safe? Absolutely.

Unforgettable? You better believe it.

If you only do one thing while you’re here, make it this. You’ll get the views, the thrill, and the kind of stories you’ll still be telling at your next family dinner.

2. Check Out Kanab’s Hidden Gems (And We Don’t Mean Just Rocks)

Once you've tackled the backcountry with Expedition Kanab, it’s time to explore the town itself. Kanab Utah things to do aren’t limited to the outdoors; this place is packed with charm, history, and community spirit.

Here are a few local favorites:

• Kanab Heritage House Museum – Step into pioneer life and learn how this desert town came to be.
• Kanab’s Little Hollywood Museum – Discover why Kanab attractions played such a big role in Hollywood’s Westerns.
• Sego Restaurant or Wild Thyme – Grab a bite at one of the town’s best local eateries. The food’s as good as the views.
  

Want more ideas like this? Don’t miss our post on How to Explore Kanab Like a Local. It’s packed with spots the guidebooks miss.

One of the most unique Kanab, Utah, attractions, the Belly of the Dragon is a man-made drainage tunnel that looks like it belongs in a fantasy novel. It’s short, easy to explore, and a fun detour that’ll surprise you.

This is definitely one of those quirky things to see in Kanab, Utah, you won’t forget.

4. Take a Day Hike to Wire Pass or Buckskin Gulch

Ready for a real adventure? Wire Pass Trailhead leads into Buckskin Gulch, the longest kanab utah slot canyons experience you’ll find. You’ll hike through towering walls and narrow passageways unlike anywhere else on Earth.

It’s one of the top Kanab activities for outdoor lovers and a must for anyone asking what to see in Kanab Utah.

5. Visit Best Friends Animal Sanctuary

Looking for a heartwarming stop on your Kanab things to do list? Visit Best Friends, the country’s largest no-kill animal sanctuary. It’s a peaceful spot where you can volunteer, tour, or just enjoy the company of some lovable creatures.

Another great answer to what to do in Kanab if you want something meaningful and unique.

6. Explore the Coral Pink Sand Dunes

You’ve never seen sand like this before. These dunes get their coral hue from the surrounding cliffs, and they’re a blast to explore. You can hike, photograph, or sandboard down the slopes. Or let Expedition Kanab take you there for a sunset UTV tour that’ll blow your mind.

Not sure what to pair with the dunes? Check out The Great Chamber Utah hike while you're at it. You can learn more in The Best Destinations in Kanab, UT, where we break down all the can’t-miss stops.

7. Stargaze Under the Darkest Skies Around

After the sun dips behind the cliffs, the stars come out to play. Kanab has some of the darkest, clearest skies in the country. From a campsite, a lodge patio, or a Desert NightLife tour with Expedition Kanab, this is the kind of night sky that makes you feel small in the best way possible.

Bring a blanket. Bring your curiosity. And maybe bring an app to help you spot constellations. You'll never look at the stars the same way again.

8. Catch Sunrise at Toadstool Hoodoos

These funky rock formations look like something Dr. Seuss would dream up. The trail is short and fairly easy, making it a great early-morning stop if you're heading toward Lake Powell or Page. The lighting just after sunrise turns the landscape into something magical, so bring your camera and your coffee and soak it in.

9. Try Canyoneering in Kanab

If you’re craving next-level adventure, don’t miss canyoneering Kanab style. It’s the art of rappelling, scrambling, and hiking through epic sandstone canyons. First-timer or experienced climber, Kanab canyoneering delivers an adrenaline rush like no other.

Many of the best spots for kanab canyoneering are just outside town, which is yet another reason why people are always asking what to do near kanab utah.

10. Don’t Miss The Wave Trail

Getting a permit is tough, but if you’re lucky enough to snag one, The Wave Trail, Kanab UT, is unlike anything else. A geological masterpiece, it’s one of those Kanab attractions that looks unreal even in person.

Kanab Things-to-Do FAQs

What is the number one thing to do in Kanab?

An off-road UTV tour is the top recommendation, since it covers the Coral Pink Sand Dunes, Peekaboo slot canyons, and The Great Chamber in a single guided adventure.

Is Kanab worth visiting if I only have one day?

Yes. A single off-road tour plus a stop at a local landmark like Belly of the Dragon or the Little Hollywood Museum covers a strong one-day itinerary.

What is Kanab, Utah known for?

Kanab sits between Zion, Bryce Canyon, and the Grand Canyon and is known for its red rock scenery, hidden slot canyons, dark night skies, and access to The Wave.

Is Kanab good for families?

Yes. Expedition Kanab's off-road tours, Best Friends Animal Sanctuary, and easy trails like Belly of the Dragon and Toadstool Hoodoos all work well for families and mixed-age groups.

Do I need a permit for anything on this list?

Only The Wave requires a permit, and it's competitive to get. Everything else on this list, including Expedition Kanab's guided tours, doesn't require advance permitting.