11 Finest Issues To Do in Kanab, Utah – Bearfoot Idea

Driving into Kanab, Utah you cross an indication that claims “Biggest Earth on Present”. The primary time I noticed that signal, I keep in mind considering how daring of a press release it was even for Southern Utah, which has among the most unbelievable landscapes on the earth. 

Seems, that signal was proper, or a minimum of I assumed so!

Kanab sits on the Arizona border in Southwestern Utah and is the gateway to quite a few out of doors adventures. From slot canyon hikes to Nationwide Park visits to scenic drives and extra, Kanab is a must-visit for anybody seeking to expertise among the most stunning landscapes within the southwest.

With a lot to see and do, although, it’s straightforward to get overwhelmed by the choices. On this information, I’m going over one of the best issues to do in Kanab, Utah so you’ll be able to take advantage of your go to.

Essential Reminder: Because it goes in all the locations we share, please observe good path etiquette and keep in mind to Depart No Hint. This implies packing out all your rubbish (together with rest room paper) and following the established guidelines. Within the desert, this additionally means studying tips on how to defend cryptobiotic soil and the way it has a big impact on our ecosystems.

1. Go to a Nationwide Park

Utah is residence to 5 Nationwide Parks, three of that are lower than two hours from Kanab, making it an awesome base camp for a Utah Nationwide Park street journey.

Every park gives a singular expertise. You possibly can hike by means of Bryce’s hoodoos, ponder your mortality on the way in which as much as Angel’s Touchdown, or howl into the Grand Canyon, all on the identical journey. 

2. Discover the Nationwide Monuments

Don’t get me fallacious, I really like our Nationwide Parks however the Monuments are actually my favourite. 

America’s Nationwide Monuments span tens of millions of acres and have unbelievable mesas, buttes, and canyons with seemingly limitless dust roads and only a few individuals.

For me, that’s what Southern Utah is all about. 

Kanab has 5 Nationwide Monuments close by:

In my view, these Monuments are one of the best locations to discover the wild landscapes round Kanab.

In case you actually need to get off the grid, I extremely suggest a one-way backpacking journey by means of Paria Canyon. Kristen (BFT’s Founder) spent 4 days on this canyon and says it is among the finest backpacking journeys she’s ever finished. In case you’re intrigued by this, try these desert backpacking ideas to see what mountain climbing in an space like this takes.

3. Drop Right into a Slot Canyon

In case you solely have a day or two to discover Kanab, I extremely suggest trying out among the slot canyons.

The slot canyons round Kanab are probably the most particular a part of this space and provide a really distinctive expertise. 

In case you don’t have a lot time, Peek-a-Boo Canyon (to not be mistaken with Peek-a-Boo Canyon close to the city of Escalante) is a good choice and might simply be reached from city. Regardless of being very shut, although, it is among the least accessible canyons round and I don’t recommend making an attempt to drive on the market except you’ve got a really succesful car and have expertise driving in deep sand. If that doesn’t describe you, there are many information outfits on the town that may deliver you on the market.

In case you have some extra time (and don’t thoughts spending a little bit of time within the automobile to get there), you’ll be able to try the Cottonwood Narrows, Lick Wash, or Hackberry Canyon – all of that are straightforward hikes with nice surroundings and could be accessed by most vehicles so long as it hasn’t rained not too long ago. 

There are a whole bunch, if not 1000’s of canyons outdoors of Kanab which makes selecting a favourite practically unimaginable however, if I had to decide on, it will in all probability be Buckskin Gulch.

Buckskin is among the longest and deepest canyons on the earth and is most frequently accessed from the Wirepass Trailhead. What I really like about Buckskin is how various it’s geologically. Each quarter mile or so, you are feeling such as you’re in a brand new canyon because the partitions round change colour and form.  As a result of recognition of this canyon, don’t anticipate to have this path to your self.

A observe on security: at all times test the climate when heading right into a canyon.  Flash floods are fast, terrifying, and lethal.  As a normal rule of thumb, if there’s an opportunity of rain simply keep out of the canyons.

4. Hike The Wave

The Wave is among the most well-known (and hardest to go to) locations close to Kanab, Utah. It’s a geological formation with wavy sandstone striations that truly make it seem like a wave.

A allow is required to hike right here, and it could possibly take years to lastly win a coveted ticket.

In case you handle to land a allow, nevertheless, The Wave is a really magical sight to see. You possibly can study extra about what to anticipate and allow ideas in our Mountain climbing The Wave Path Information.

5. Go to White Pocket

Much less well-known and and an excellent different to the Wave, White Pocket is a group of sandstone options in The Vermillion Cliffs Nationwide Monument about two hours outdoors of Kanab. 

Strolling round White Pocket, it’s straightforward to neglect that you just’re nonetheless on Earth.

Although it doesn’t require a allow, it does require 4-wheel drive to entry so you could want some assist getting there. 

6. Spend a day at Coral Pink Sand Dunes State Park

Coral Pink Sand Dunes State Park is situated about thirty minutes west of Kanab and it’s an intriguing place to spend a day or two.

The sand dunes are always shifting and might transfer over 50ft a yr.

This park may be very fashionable with OHV fans, but when that’s not your factor, you can even discover mountain climbing, nice out of doors images alternatives, sand boarding, and extra.

7. Go to Coyote Buttes South

Those that aren’t fortunate sufficient to win a Wave allow usually head to Coyote Buttes South. This space additionally requires a allow, however it’s a lot simpler to accumulate than The Wave. 

Coyote Buttes South gives an extremely distinctive assortment of formations together with cute little rock bubbles to oddly mangled towers. 

There are many nice hikes across the Coyote Buttes South space, however my favourite is out to Cottonwood Teepees Viewpoint. It’s a shocking 6.6-mile hike with unbelievable views, a distant really feel, and tremendous cool rock formations.

8. Swim or Paddle on Lake Powell

Lake Powell is a desert dream with a number of hundred sq. miles of water that snakes by means of what was Glenn Canyon, one of the distinctive canyons on the earth. 

On the lake, you’ll be able to hire kayaks and paddleboards in addition to jet skis and pontoon boats, relying on how briskly you prefer to go on the water. 

The lake is especially pleasurable in the course of the sizzling summer season months when mountain climbing within the desert will not be suggested.

The shore of the lake additionally has an unbelievable quantity of dispersed tenting choices. In case you’re in search of an in a single day journey and don’t thoughts a little bit of logistical planning, try this in a single day kayak journey to Labyrith Canyon on Lake Powell.

9. Make Some 4-legged Buddies at Finest Buddies Animal Sanctuary

Finest Buddies Animal Sanctuary is residence to 1600 rescued animals of all sizes and styles and is the biggest sanctuary for homeless animals within the nation. 

Although they’ve amenities and companions throughout the U.S., the sanctuary is on the middle of their operations and Kanab is their residence. 

In case you love puppies, kittens, and different cute furry associates, take a tour of the sanctuary or donate a few of your time by volunteering. It’s a singular expertise that solely Kanab can provide.

10. Take a Scenic Drive

In case you don’t really feel like mountain climbing however nonetheless need to see the realm, then taking a scenic drive is among the finest issues to do in Kanab.

Cottonwood Canyon Street Loop

The Cottonwood Street Loop is an exceptional drive by means of Grand Staircase-Escalante Nationwide Monument and has loads of locations to cease and have a look round.  

You are able to do it as a 187-mile loop from Kanab or do it as a approach to get to Bryce Canyon Nationwide Park or Kodachrome Basin (considered one of Utah’s finest state parks) if that’s the place your street journey is taking you.

Highlights alongside the Cottonwood Canyon Street Loop embody:

• Grosvenor Arch
• Kodachrome Basin State Park, which has an awesome campground
• Plenty of nice mountain climbing choices

Lees Ferry & Web page, Arizona Loop

One other loop that I prefer to take is out to Lees Ferry and Web page, Arizona. Begin by taking 89 south out of Kanab, up and over the Kaibab plateau, and down in direction of Lees Ferry which is among the few locations round the place you’ll be able to simply entry the Colorado River.

There’s additionally a colony of California condors that may be considered from the previous Navajo bridge simply outdoors the doorway to Lee’s Ferry. 

Alongside your route, you’ll cross the Vermilion Cliffs and Marble Canyon, that are positive to blow your thoughts a bit. 

After Lee’s Ferry, you’ll be able to proceed on towards Web page, Arizona (the place you’ll be able to simply spend a few days too!), after which take 89 West again to Kanab.

11. Seize a Chunk to Eat

After a protracted day of mountain climbing across the desert, few issues are as satisfying as an awesome meal that you just didn’t must prepare dinner for your self. 

Whereas many small desert cities have an awesome eatery or two, Kanab has fairly a couple of nice choices for any palette.

Listed here are a couple of of my favourite locations to eat round Kanab:

Willow Canyon 

Willow Canyon is my favourite place on the town to get espresso. Equal elements cafe, bookstore, and equipment store, Willow has an awesome number of books in regards to the space, all the gear you would possibly want for adventuring, and a always evolving menu of scrumptious lattes.

Rocking V

Rocking V is the place I’m going if I need a burger and a beer.  Easy and informal, the menu has loads of choices for any choice.

Peekaboo Canyon Wooden Fired Kitchen

Peekaboo is owned and operated by Finest Buddies Animal Society, which is why they’ve an completely vegetarian menu. 

Generally the one factor your physique needs is pizza and in these moments I head to Peekaboo. 

That being mentioned, additionally they have an awesome number of entrees for individuals who aren’t pizza individuals.

Kanab Creek Bakery

Kanab Creek Bakery is the place to go in order for you contemporary bread or have a candy tooth. They provide an early breakfast menu when many locations on the town don’t.  Positively don’t miss this one.

Escobar’s Mexican Restaurant

Escobars is a Kanab basic, one thing that’s apparent in case you cross by on Sunday and spot the road out the door. 

A basic native Mexican joint, the menu is ideal for the weary hiker who wants a hefty meal. What do I get? Tacos, Clearly.

Vermillion 45

Vermillion 45 is a French bistro with loads of choices for any palette. I personally love any and all of their pasta dishes. The gnocchi will get me each time. Be sure you seize a reservation in case you’re planning on consuming right here as tables can go shortly.

Sego

Once I’m doing information work, I constantly have purchasers who rave about Sego. Rated as the most effective eating places in Utah, Sego gives a singular culinary expertise that rivals that of many larger metropolis eating places. 

A singular mixture of flavors and contemporary elements, the menu has influences from all world wide.  Seize a reservation for this one as effectively.

Wild Thyme

Wild Thyme is the place I ship people who recognize vegetarian choices that aren’t pizza-related. 

The restaurant has an off-the-cuff vibe and grows its personal produce in a number of natural gardens that it runs. I’m a giant fan of their bowls.

Massive Al’s

Each city wants a burger joint and in Kanab, it’s Massive Al’s. A basic drive-thru spot, Al’s gives easy and scrumptious burgers at quick meals costs however with significantly better meals. 

I’m a sucker for an excellent French fry and have been recognized to eat a couple of too many due to Al’s fry sauce. Sorry, not sorry.

Kanab Journey Suggestions

Have Too A lot Water, At all times.

I don’t know if this however the desert is a harsh place. It’s very easy to underestimate the desert which is why my largest tip is to at all times carry additional water.

You by no means know what’s gonna occur, you will get circled within the canyon or get your automobile caught on some anonymous dust street. You possibly can survive for fairly some time with out meals but when you end up stranded in the summertime warmth with out water your well being will diminish in a short time.

As a part of your street journey necessities, have an emergency stash of a minimum of 2 gallons per individual in a water container like this, and don’t crack into it except it’s an emergency. 

Be Further Vigilant When Going Off-Pavement

As I discussed earlier than, the desert round Kanab may be very sandy and sometimes muddy after rain. Once I say muddy, I imply it’s a little bit sloppy, I imply the clay roads flip to soup and also you’ll bury your automobile virtually a foot deep. 

Take your time when not driving on pavement and at all times get out to test on the street you’re unsure about, particularly in case you don’t have off-road expertise.

Ask a Native

Kanab residents are a really type and pleasant bunch and are normally very happy to talk in regards to the residence that they love a lot.

In case you’re in search of suggestions, whether or not it’s for a meal or a day hike, don’t be afraid to ask an area what they’d do. Chances are high they may give you some details about one thing that you just wouldn’t discover in any other case, and people are at all times one of the best experiences to have.

Do Your Analysis

The realm round Kanab is a tapestry of public lands managed by a number of totally different land administration organizations. 

The principles and laws for the locations that you just go to can change in a short time in a brief distance so it’s good to know what they’re.

The Nationwide Park Service, Forest Service, and Bureau of Land Administration are all very pleasant people whose job is to verify the general public can get pleasure from themselves whereas respecting the desert. 

They’re all very happy to provide the rundown in regards to the space and offer you suggestions in your itinerary.

Additionally, as I discussed earlier, most of the sights round Kanab require permits. Having an thought of what these are, how onerous it’s to get a allow, and if you would want to get one, will prevent a whole lot of complications if you arrive.

Put on the Acceptable Garments

The desert could be a harsh place, so along with bringing additional water, make sure to put on desert-appropriate garments like a solar hat and lengthy sleeves.

Have Enjoyable

In any other case, what’s the purpose?

Attending to Kanab, Utah

The closest worldwide airport to Kanab is Las Vegas, which is a 3-hour drive to the west, making Kanab an awesome road journey vacation spot. 

Kanab can be about:

• 1 hour from Web page, Arizona
• 5 hours south of Salt Lake Metropolis
• 3.5 hours north of Flagstaff
• 3.25 hours northwest of Las Vegas

As a seasoned street journey addict, I can inform you in good religion that every of those drives is exceptionally stunning.

Public transportation in Kanab is virtually non-existent so, in case you don’t dwell inside driving distance, you’ll must hire a automobile.

If you’re going to hire a automobile, I’d suggest one thing with both 4-wheel drive or all-wheel drive. 

Belief me on this one, Southwest Utah is a really sandy place and sometimes muddy place. It’s straightforward to get caught earlier than you notice what’s occurring, even simply pulling over off the freeway.

Finest Time to Go to Kanab, Utah

As with most desert places, the climate in southern Utah could be a lesson in extremes, with summer season days commonly within the low a whole bunch and winter nights dipping into the low teenagers. 

Spring and fall

Visiting Kanab is hottest in the course of the spring and fall when it’s not fairly as sizzling as summer season but additionally not utterly frozen at evening. 

In case you’re a fair-weather traveler, spring and fall are one of the best instances to go to Kanab and the encompassing space, particularly if you wish to get pleasure from all the dispersed tenting within the space.

Winter

In case you’re a weirdo like me, nevertheless, possibly you’ll agree with my unpopular opinion that winter in Southern Utah is superb.  

It’s no secret that Nationwide Parks like Zion and Bryce Canyon are getting busier yr after yr which might make visiting them a problem in case you’re making an attempt to keep away from crowds.

In case you’re making an attempt to get outdoors with out coping with the crowds, winter is your finest guess. Certain, it’s a bit chilly generally however, for probably the most half, it’s bearable in case you learn to layer.

Moreover, permits for sights like The Wave or The Narrows in Zion are a lot simpler to get when there aren’t 1,000,000 individuals on the town making use of for them. The draw back of visiting within the winter is that most of the native companies are seasonal and closed for the winter, which could be a bummer.

Lastly, I’ve met loads of individuals who have traveled fairly the space to Kanab solely to seek out out they couldn’t get permits or shuttle tickets, successfully ruining their journey. So make sure to do your analysis in regards to the permits and laws on the locations you plan to go to.

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