Kanab in 2025 offers travelers an exciting mix of natural wonders, outdoor adventures, and cultural experiences.
With easier access to remote gems and increased tourism infrastructure, the town continues to rise as a base camp for southern Utah and northern Arizona adventures.
Visitors can expect unforgettable hikes, scenic drives, and lesser-known gems that are now more accessible than ever before. Whether traveling solo or with family, there’s something here for every type of explorer.
The following list features the best things to do in Kanab that will make your 2025 trip memorable and well worth the visit.
1. Hike the Legendary Buckskin Gulch via Wire Pass
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Buckskin Gulch, carved by centuries of flash flooding and wind erosion, is known as the longest and deepest slot canyon in the United States.
The narrow corridors, swirling sandstone walls, and ethereal light play create a sensory experience that rivals many of the region’s more restricted attractions.
Wire Pass provides the most practical entry for casual hikers, offering a condensed but still dramatic preview of the full canyon’s features.
Travelers can now enjoy a short hike through sculpted narrows without committing to a full-day canyon trek. It’s ideal for visitors wanting a taste of slot canyon terrain with time left for other adventures.
Weather awareness remains essential. Flash floods can turn the narrow passages into dangerous traps. Always check the latest conditions and secure the required Bureau of Land Management permit in advance.
Most hikers can complete the Wire Pass to Buckskin Gulch segment in a few hours, but the views will stay etched in memory much longer.
- Permits are mandatory and can be reserved online.
- Start early to avoid afternoon heat and crowd buildup.
- Bring 2–3 liters of water per person.
- Avoid entering if there’s any risk of rain upstream.
2. Visit Best Friends Animal Sanctuary
@bestfriendsanimalsociety We can’t do it alone! Our network is made up of thousands of shelters and rescue groups working to save the lives of animals across the country 🐶🐱🐾 Comment below if you are one of our partners or would like to become one!! 🧡 #animalrescue #animalshelter #rescueanimals ♬ original sound – Best Friends
Best Friends Animal Sanctuary isn’t just a place where animals find healing and hope; it’s a sprawling refuge set across a gorgeous high-desert canyon. As the largest no-kill sanctuary in the United States, it’s home to thousands of rescued animals, including dogs, cats, birds, rabbits, horses, pigs, and even wildlife undergoing rehabilitation.
In 2025, the sanctuary has expanded its tour offerings, adding themed walking tours and more personalized volunteer programs.
Visitors can choose between guided tours that explain the sanctuary’s mission and self-guided scenic drives that wind past animal enclosures, garden memorials, and red-rock viewpoints. Staff and volunteers are happy to share the stories behind the animals you meet, giving context to each rescued life.
Petting and playtime are often part of the experience, especially in Dogtown and Cat World.
Hidden Lake and Angel’s Overlook offer peaceful hiking options within the sanctuary itself. These spots combine light exercise with beautiful views and moments of reflection. Families and solo travelers alike will find the sanctuary uplifting, informative, and rewarding.
Volunteering for a half-day or full-day shift gives you a chance to connect more deeply with the sanctuary’s mission.
- Visitor Center for orientation and merchandise.
- Vegan lunch at Angel Village café with panoramic canyon views.
- Hidden Lake trail for photos and tranquility.
- Volunteer programs—sign up in advance.
3. Explore Coral Pink Sand Dunes State Park
@krystin.lilly Sand boarding in Utah #sanddunes #sandboarding #utah #coralpinksanddunes ♬ NO SOUND – Sok Baraby
Coral Pink Sand Dunes State Park delivers a vivid contrast to the rocky terrain typical of southern Utah. Its windswept dunes shift daily, glowing in warm hues that range from orange to blush depending on the sunlight. Surrounded by juniper trees and pinyon pines, the park feels like a surreal mix of desert and forest.
In 2025, increased availability of sled rentals and guided night tours have brought in new waves of visitors eager to experience both the thrill and serenity of the area.
Sandboarding and sand sledding provide adrenaline-packed fun for visitors of all ages. With equipment rentals now available on-site, even those new to dune sports can try their hand at it. For more controlled excitement, off-road enthusiasts can bring or rent ATVs to explore the designated trails.
The park allows limited off-highway vehicle (OHV) use, creating a balance between recreation and preservation.
As night falls, Coral Pink Sand Dunes transforms into a stargazer’s haven. Clear skies, high elevation, and low light pollution combine for breathtaking celestial views. In response to this, 2025 has introduced more guided astronomy nights, complete with telescopes and expert interpretation.
Hiking remains a key draw for those wanting a quieter experience. Footpaths wind around the dunes and through pockets of vegetation, offering natural solitude that contrasts with busier parks in the region.
- Arrive early for cooler temperatures and fewer crowds.
- Rent sandboards or sleds at the visitor center.
- Bring water, sunscreen, and protective footwear.
- Stay after dark if you’re a fan of astronomy or astrophotography.
4. Discover the Mysterious Belly of the Dragon
Belly of the Dragon feels like something out of a fantasy novel, yet it’s a short drive south of Kanab. Originally constructed as a drainage tunnel under Highway 89, erosion and artistic weathering have transformed it into an eye-catching passageway that resembles the ribbed interior of a massive creature.
Its nickname makes sense the moment you step inside and look at the carved sandstone walls that twist and arch like a dragon’s belly.
Families often choose Belly of the Dragon as a quick, fun stop due to its low-effort access and great photo opportunities. The main tunnel stretches about 200 feet and can be explored in under 15 minutes.
Kids will especially enjoy the “adventure” aspect of walking through a shadowy tunnel, though adults will find the rock textures and patterns equally impressive. Photographers often return during different times of day to capture changes in light and shadow within the structure.
As always, flashlights or headlamps are strongly encouraged, while the tunnel isn’t long, its interior grows pitch dark in the center, and loose rocks on the ground can trip up unprepared hikers. Be sure to wear stable shoes with good grip.
Visitors who want more than just a photo stop can explore the dry wash trail that extends past the tunnel. Though unmarked, it offers a quiet desert walk for those looking to stretch their legs in peaceful surroundings.
- Located off Highway 89 between Kanab and Mt. Carmel Junction.
- Free to access, with parking available right near the entrance.
- Flashlight is a must for safe footing and photography.
- Great spot for families or a quick roadside adventure.
5. Wander Through Peekaboo (Red) Slot Canyon
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Peekaboo Slot Canyon, also referred to locally as Red Canyon, offers one of the most photogenic and peaceful slot canyon experiences in the region. Tucked away just north of Kanab, it features smooth, flowing walls sculpted in deep red tones that come alive as sunlight filters through the narrow passages.
Unlike Antelope Canyon or Buckskin Gulch, Peekaboo maintains a more secluded vibe. The tight passageways wind gently, allowing for an intimate experience with sandstone textures and natural light shows. Photographers come for the shapes, shadows, and saturated colors.
Families and less experienced hikers enjoy the relatively short walking distance and the canyon’s magical feel.
Getting there, however, isn’t simple. The road to the trailhead is made up of deep, soft sand that regularly traps standard vehicles. A 4×4 with high clearance is mandatory unless you’re joining one of the many guided tours based in Kanab.
Tour companies offer Jeep or UTV options and often include informative narration about geology, local history, and wildlife.
There’s no permit required to visit Peekaboo, making it an excellent choice for travelers who want the drama of a slot canyon without the paperwork or the lottery.
- Book a guided 4×4 tour to avoid road mishaps.
- Wear sturdy shoes—narrow slots can include uneven footing.
- Go in the morning for the best light and fewer crowds.
- Bring a wide-angle lens if photography is your goal.
6. Visit the Moqui Sand Caves
Moqui Sand Caves offer a blend of adventure and history in a surprisingly accessible location just off Highway 89. Originally carved in the 1970s to harvest sand for glassmaking, these manmade caves now serve as a favorite destination for those wanting panoramic views and a short, engaging hike.
Their smooth walls, narrow chambers, and large open cavities have made them an Instagram favorite, and their location makes them an easy add-on when visiting Kanab’s other attractions.
In 2025, the site continues to draw attention thanks to improved signage and trail maintenance. Reaching the caves requires a brief but steep scramble up slickrock directly from the highway. While the trail is only about a quarter-mile roundtrip, good footwear and a reasonable level of fitness are recommended.
Families with active kids often enjoy the ascent, but those with mobility issues may find the slope difficult.
Once inside, the caves provide natural air conditioning and a shaded break from the desert heat. Windows carved into the sandstone walls reveal sweeping views of the red rock country. As the sun begins to set, light pours through the openings, casting an amber glow that transforms the space into a surreal photography setting.
Visitors often confuse Moqui Sand Caves with the ancient Moqui Caverns, which lie further away and are not open to the public. The current site is safe and open year-round for exploration.
- Look for the parking pull-off near the Moqui Cave Museum.
- Arrive an hour before sunset for ideal lighting.
- Bring water and wear hiking shoes with good traction.
- Be cautious with small children due to the drop-offs near the cave openings.
7. Take a Scenic Day Trip to The Wave or White Pocket
@endlessfamilyadventure Go HERE if you can’t get the permit for The Wave 😉 📍White Pocket, Vermilion Cliffs National Monument, Arizona 4×4 with high clearance is a must to get there Don’t trust Google Maps – it will take you through some questionable roads. 🙈 The drive is about 3 hours from Kanab or Page and most of it is on a dirt road and deep sand. From Road 89 between Page and Kanab, go south towards the Wire Pass trailhead until Pine Tree Rd. (Alternatively, you can come from the south from 89A going north on House Rock Rd.) Turn left (east) on BLM road 1017 and continue for 6 miles until you get to a ranch house; go around the ranch and then turn left on BLM 1087 and continue until you get to White Pocket. There are also some newer signs that will help. If in doubt, take the road that looks like it is well-traveled! 😉 Trail: there are no designated trails, you can just wander around and discover all the different rock formations, small pools, and sand pits. The place is actually a lot bigger than I thought and we didn’t even have the time to explore it all. There is something new and cool to look at around every corner! Leave no Trace: There are no facilities in the area, so please make sure to pack out all your waste. Tag a friend who needs to see this! #whitepocket #explorearizona #offthebeatenpath #familytravel ♬ Lola – Samica
Few destinations stir the imagination quite like The Wave, a sandstone formation famous for its swirling red and orange ridges. Located in the Paria Canyon-Vermilion Cliffs Wilderness, it’s one of the most iconic natural sites in the American Southwest.
However, its popularity has made it difficult to access due to strict permit limitations. In contrast, White Pocket, located in the same general region, offers equally stunning rock formations with no permit required, making it a rising star in 2025.
The Wave continues to be on many hikers’ bucket lists. Securing a permit involves entering a highly competitive online lottery months in advance or attempting the daily lottery while staying in the area. Those lucky enough to win must be prepared for a challenging 6-mile round-trip hike over rugged desert terrain.
Guides are available and often recommended for those unfamiliar with GPS navigation in remote areas.
White Pocket, on the other hand, allows spontaneous trips. Its remote location, reached via deep sand roads, requires a high-clearance 4WD vehicle or a guided tour. Visitors are rewarded with strange, swirling rock mounds that resemble frozen waves, brain coral, and otherworldly terrain.
Both destinations deliver unforgettable visuals and silence so profound it feels cinematic.
- Book tours in advance, especially during peak seasons.
- Carry at least 3 liters of water per person and a GPS device.
- Wear sun protection and pack high-energy snacks.
- Don’t rely on cell signal, download offline maps before heading out.
8. Day Trip to the North Rim of the Grand Canyon
The North Rim of the Grand Canyon offers a refreshing and less-trafficked alternative to its southern counterpart. Located roughly 80 miles from Kanab, the drive itself is a scenic treat, winding through alpine forests, vast meadows, and cliffs that hint at what’s to come.
Higher elevation keeps temperatures cooler, making it an excellent summer escape.
Unlike the busier South Rim, the North Rim presents a more peaceful, contemplative experience. Visitors can take in sweeping views at Bright Angel Point, walk the Transept Trail along the canyon’s edge, or hike deeper into the wilderness on the North Kaibab Trail.
The views are equally dramatic but with fewer tour buses and crowds interrupting the silence. It’s the kind of place where you hear wind before voices and canyon wrens before engines.
The North Rim is open seasonally from mid-May through mid-October, and snow can delay access early or late in the season. Lodging fills quickly, so plan well ahead if you intend to stay overnight at the Grand Canyon Lodge or nearby campgrounds.
- Arrive early to enjoy the most popular viewpoints without crowds.
- Bring a picnic or grab a meal at the Grand Canyon Lodge restaurant.
- Always check road conditions, especially in May and October.
- Carry layers—mornings and evenings can be chilly even in summer.
9. Experience Zion National Park from the East Side
@zionponderosa This guided tour was fantastic 🙌 #zionnationalpark #traveltiktok ♬ original sound – Zion Ponderosa Ranch Resort
Zion National Park attracts millions each year, often resulting in crowded trails and full shuttles, especially during spring and summer. However, the east side of the park offers a more relaxed experience and is just under an hour’s drive from Kanab.
Travelers staying in Kanab are increasingly choosing this route in 2025 to skip the chaos of Springdale and the main entrance.
Eastern Zion presents an entirely different feel compared to Zion Canyon. The drive along Highway 9 takes you through slickrock mesas, natural arches, and wildlife-rich terrain.
One of the best trail options accessible from this side is the Canyon Overlook Trail, a short but scenic hike that delivers big views with minimal effort. This trail doesn’t require a shuttle, making it perfect for early-morning visits.
Several private outfitters based in Kanab also offer guided hikes and photography tours focused on this part of the park, capitalizing on its lighter crowds and hidden gems.
Wildlife sightings are common here. Desert bighorn sheep, mule deer, and wild turkeys often appear along the cliffs and roadside. Photographers favor the early morning and late afternoon light, which casts long shadows and brings out rich color gradients in the rock.
- Enter early to grab limited roadside parking.
- Skip the main canyon shuttle lines by staying east.
- Hike Canyon Overlook Trail for a short, rewarding trek.
- Don’t forget a park pass or Interagency Annual Pass.
10. Little Hollywood + Moqui Cave Museum
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Kanab’s nickname “Little Hollywood” isn’t just marketing; it has served as the filming location for over 100 Western movies and TV shows.
Visitors can stroll through remnants of old movie sets, tour themed exhibits, and even catch reenactments that revive the spirit of mid-20th-century film.
The Little Hollywood Museum, located just off Highway 89, showcases movie memorabilia, restored film sets, and behind-the-scenes stories. Entry is free, and it’s a great stop for families or anyone curious about how this quiet town became a magnet for directors and stars.
Cowboy hats, prop saloons, and even a mock jail cell create fun photo ops.
Just a few minutes up the road, Moqui Cave Museum offers a completely different experience. Built into a sandstone cliff, this museum contains ancient Native American artifacts, glowing mineral displays, and a quirky assortment of Americana collectibles.
The space itself was once a speakeasy during Prohibition, adding an unexpected twist to its history.
Kanab Heritage House Museum adds further context, focusing on the town’s settlers, architecture, and community evolution. It rounds out the historical experience with guided tours and rotating exhibits on Kanab’s cultural legacy.
- Little Hollywood Museum is open daily and free to visit.
- Moqui Cave charges a small entrance fee and includes guided tours.
- Combine these sites for a half-day historical outing.
- Perfect for history lovers and classic film buffs.
Summary
Kanab in 2025 delivers a well-rounded experience for outdoor adventurers, wildlife lovers, photographers, and history enthusiasts.
With easier access to iconic sites and growing options for guided tours, the town has become more than just a stopover, it’s a destination worth planning around.
Slot canyons, sand dunes, hidden caves, and cultural sites come together to create an unforgettable trip. Whether you’re seeking dramatic hikes, peaceful sanctuaries, or glimpses into film history, Kanab offers something that leaves a strong impression.
A visit here provides both adventure and reflection in one of the Southwest’s most scenic corners.