Ultimate Guide to Kanab, Utah
Kanab is situated in the state of Utah, surrounded by stunning red rock formations and breathtaking natural scenery.
The city has a rich history, having been a significant location for Native American tribes, settlers, and Hollywood filmmakers over the years.
One unique aspect of Kanab is its location as the gateway to three of the most popular national parks in the country: Zion, Bryce Canyon, and the Grand Canyon. Families can enjoy exploring these natural wonders, hiking trails, and taking in the stunning views that these parks offer.
In addition to the national parks, Kanab is also home to several state parks, including Coral Pink Sand Dunes State Park and Kodachrome Basin State Park. Both of these parks offer a variety of outdoor activities, including hiking, camping, and ATV riding.
For families looking for a more unique experience, Kanab is also known for its rich film history. The city has been used as a location for several classic western movies, and visitors can take a tour of the Little Hollywood Movie Museum to learn more about this aspect of the city's past.
One of the highlights of visiting Kanab is the chance to see some of the incredible wildlife that inhabits the area. Families can take a guided tour to see the bison herd at the nearby Buffalo Preserve or visit the Best Friends Animal Sanctuary to see the work they do to save the lives of homeless pets.
Top 10 Must-See Attractions
Coral Pink Sand Dunes State Park - This park is a must-visit for families who love outdoor adventures. The kids will enjoy running and rolling down the dunes, while parents can take in the stunning views of the surrounding red rocks.
Best Friends Animal Sanctuary - This animal sanctuary is the largest no-kill sanctuary in the United States and is home to over 1,500 animals, including dogs, cats, horses, and pigs. The whole family will enjoy the opportunity to interact with the animals and learn about animal welfare.
Peekaboo Slot Canyon - This is a fun and easy hike suitable for families with children of all ages. The kids will love exploring the narrow and colorful canyon, while parents will appreciate the unique geological formations.
Kanab Heritage House Museum - This museum is a great place to learn about the history and culture of Kanab and the surrounding area. The exhibits are interactive and engaging for both kids and adults.
Kanab Creek Bakery - This charming bakery is a great place to stop for breakfast or lunch. They offer delicious pastries, sandwiches, and coffee, and the outdoor seating area is a lovely spot to relax and enjoy the scenery.
Jacob Hamblin Park - This park is a great place for a picnic or a game of frisbee. The kids will enjoy the playground and the splash pad, while parents can take in the views of the red cliffs.
Moqui Cave - This quirky attraction is a natural history museum and a cave that was once home to the Anasazi people. Kids will love seeing the dinosaur tracks and fossils, and parents will appreciate the unique collection of artifacts.
Kanab Farmers Market - This farmers market is a great place to stock up on fresh produce, baked goods, and local crafts. It's open on Saturdays from May to October.
Buckskin Gulch - This is the longest and deepest slot canyon in the world and is a great place for a family hike. The kids will love the adventure of walking through the narrow canyon, while parents will appreciate the spectacular views.
The Wave - This is one of the most popular hiking destinations in Kanab, but it's also one of the hardest to get to. The hike requires a permit, and only few permits are issued per day, so plan ahead if you want to experience the otherworldly beauty of the Wave. You can apply to the lottery online or in-person.
Lodging Options for Families
Kanab offers a variety of family-friendly lodging options, from hotels to vacation rentals. If you prefer the convenience of a hotel, I recommend the Comfort Suites Kanab. This hotel offers spacious suites with separate living areas and is located near many popular attractions, including Zion National Park and Bryce Canyon National Park.
Another great option for families is the Red Rock Ranch and Farms, a family-owned bed and breakfast that offers cozy rooms, stunning views of the red rock formations, and plenty of outdoor activities for the whole family to enjoy.
If you are looking for more privacy and space, vacation rentals are a great option. I highly recommend using websites like Booking.com, Airbnb.com, and VRBO.com to find the best deals on accommodations and make your trip to Kanab as comfortable and enjoyable as possible.
Best Ways to Get Around
The best way to explore Kanab and the surrounding areas with your family is by car. Renting a car is easy and affordable, and it gives you the flexibility to explore at your own pace. There are several car rental companies located at the St. George Regional Airport, which is the closest major airport to Kanab.
If you prefer not to drive, there are also shuttle services available that can take you to popular attractions such as Zion National Park and the Grand Canyon. However, I recommend avoiding public transportation as it is not always reliable and may not be the safest option for families.
Safety Tips for Families
Kanab is a relatively safe town, but it's always important to take precautions when traveling with your family. Here are some safety tips to keep in mind:
Always carry a map and stay on designated trails when hiking or exploring the surrounding areas.
Be aware of weather conditions and dress appropriately for the climate.
Stay hydrated by drinking plenty of water, especially during hot summer months.
Keep an eye on your belongings and avoid leaving valuables in plain sight in your car.
Always follow traffic laws and be aware of other drivers on the road.
Must-Try Foods
When visiting Kanab, you must try some of the local dishes that are unique to this area. The most famous dish is the Navajo Taco. The Navajo Taco is a hearty dish made with frybread and topped with ground beef, beans, lettuce, cheese, tomatoes, and other toppings. It's a filling and delicious meal that both parents and kids will love.
Another local favorite is the scone, which is a sweet pastry that can be served with honey, jam, or powdered sugar. It's a perfect breakfast or snack option that kids will surely enjoy.
Day Trips
Kanab is located near several UNESCO World Heritage Sites and natural wonders that are worth visiting. One of the most popular day trips is to the Grand Canyon, which is only a 90-minute drive from Kanab. The Grand Canyon is a natural wonder that attracts millions of visitors each year. It's a great place to take a family hike, enjoy scenic views, or take a guided tour.
Another must-visit attraction is Bryce Canyon National Park, which is a two-hour drive from Kanab. Bryce Canyon is famous for its unique geological formations called "hoodoos," which are tall, thin spires of rock. It's a great place to take a family hike or a scenic drive.
Scenic drives around Kanab
Kanab, Utah is surrounded by stunning landscapes and natural wonders, making it an ideal destination for scenic drives. Here are some of the best scenic drives around Kanab:
Highway 89: This scenic highway runs through Kanab and offers breathtaking views of red rock formations and the surrounding canyons. The highway stretches from Canada to Mexico and passes through some of the most beautiful landscapes in the country.
Scenic Byway 12: This is a stunning drive that takes you through Bryce Canyon National Park, Red Canyon, and Dixie National Forest. You'll see red rock formations, canyons, forests, and breathtaking vistas along the way.
Cottonwood Canyon Road: This scenic drive takes you through the Grand Staircase-Escalante National Monument and offers views of sandstone cliffs, natural arches, and waterfalls. The road is unpaved, so it's best to check road conditions before attempting the drive.
Johnson Canyon Road: This is a beautiful drive that takes you through the rugged landscape of the Vermilion Cliffs National Monument. The road offers stunning views of the Vermilion Cliffs, colorful rock formations, and desert landscapes.
The Zion-Mt. Carmel Highway: This scenic drive takes you through Zion National Park and offers stunning views of the park's iconic red rock formations. The highway also includes the Zion-Mt. Carmel Tunnel, which is an engineering marvel.
The North Rim Parkway: This scenic drive takes you along the rim of the Grand Canyon's North Rim and offers spectacular views of the canyon. The road is only open from mid-May to mid-October, so it's best to plan your trip accordingly.
Amusement Parks and Family Attractions
If you're looking for family-friendly amusement parks and attractions, Kanab has plenty to offer. One of the most popular attractions is the Best Friends Animal Sanctuary, which is the largest no-kill sanctuary in the country. Families can take a tour of the sanctuary and meet some of the animals that live there.
Another great attraction for families is the Kanab Heritage House Museum, which is a historic home that has been converted into a museum. It's a great place to learn about the history of Kanab and the surrounding area.
Weather and Packing Tips
The best time to visit Kanab with your family is during the summer months, from June to August, when the weather is warm and sunny. It's important to pack plenty of sunscreen, hats, and sunglasses to protect your family from the sun. It's also a good idea to pack layers, as temperatures can drop at night.
Souvenir Shopping
When in Kanab, you will find several unique shops selling handmade pottery, jewelry, and other artwork from local artists. The most popular souvenir in Kanab is the handmade Native American jewelry, which can be purchased at shops like Denny's Wigwam and Best Friends Visitor Center. You can also find rocks and fossils unique to the area at stores like Rocking V Café & Trading Post.
Family-Friendly Festivals and Events
Kanab and the surrounding areas have several exciting summer festivals and events that families can enjoy. One of the most popular is the Western Legends Round-Up, held annually in August in Kanab. This event celebrates the Western heritage of the area with rodeos, live music, gunfight reenactments, and cowboy poetry. Visitors can also take part in chuckwagon dinners, a parade, and a Western film festival.
Another popular festival in the area is the Bryce Canyon Astronomy Festival, held annually in June at Bryce Canyon National Park, which is about an hour and a half's drive from Kanab. This event offers stargazing parties, lectures, and workshops about astronomy and space science.
In nearby St. George, the Washington County Fair is held in August and features carnival rides, live music, a rodeo, and various contests, including a pie-eating contest and a chili cook-off. The St. George Art Festival, held in April, showcases the work of over 100 artists and artisans from around the region.
For outdoor enthusiasts, the Escalante Canyons Art Festival, held in September in Escalante, offers guided hikes, plein air painting competitions, and other outdoor activities. The Kanab Balloons & Tunes Roundup, held annually in February, features hot air balloons, live music, and a parade.
There are many other festivals and events throughout the summer in Kanab and the surrounding areas, ranging from cultural celebrations to food festivals to outdoor adventure events. Families planning a trip to the area should check the event calendars for Kanab and the surrounding towns to find events that suit their interests and schedule.
Packing Recommendations for Families
The best time to visit Kanab with your family is during the summer months, from June to August, when the weather is warm and sunny. It's important to pack plenty of sunscreen, hats, and sunglasses to protect your family from the sun. It's also a good idea to pack layers, as temperatures can drop at night.
It's also important to bring comfortable walking shoes, as there are many hiking trails and outdoor activities to enjoy. If traveling with young children, be sure to pack snacks, water, and extra clothes.
If you are traveling with young children, it is recommended to bring a stroller or carrier, as well as a car seat if you plan on renting a car. The weather in Kanab can be hot and dry, so make sure to pack sunscreen, hats, and comfortable, breathable clothing.
Estimated Costs of Family Travel
Accommodations in Kanab range from budget-friendly motels to more luxurious hotels and vacation rentals. Prices can vary depending on the season and availability, but you can typically find a clean and comfortable room for a family of four for around $100 to $150 per night. Camping is also a popular and affordable option, with campsites available in the nearby national parks and on public lands for around $20 to $30 per night.
Food and dining options in Kanab are also relatively affordable. There are several fast food restaurants and chain restaurants in town, as well as local diners and cafes offering homestyle cooking. A family of four can expect to spend around $40 to $60 for a meal at a mid-range restaurant in Kanab.
Activities in the area vary in cost, but many of the natural attractions, such as the nearby national parks and monuments, offer affordable admission fees. For example, admission to Zion National Park for a private vehicle is $35, and admission to Bryce Canyon National Park is also $35 per vehicle. Many of the hiking trails and scenic drives in these parks are free. Other activities, such as horseback riding, ATV tours, and guided hikes, can cost anywhere from $50 to $150 per person.
Health and Vaccine Recommendations
Kanab does not have any specific health-related issues for families to be concerned about, but it is always a good idea to stay hydrated and protect yourself from the sun. If you plan on hiking or exploring the national parks, it is recommended to pack a first aid kit and any necessary medication.
Popular Family-Friendly Adventure Movies
Kanab has a rich history of being a popular filming location for western movies and TV shows. Some popular family-friendly adventure movies filmed in Kanab include "The Lone Ranger," "The Outlaw Josey Wales," and "Butch Cassidy and the Sundance Kid."
Insider Tips for Family Fun: Secrets Only Locals Know
If you are looking for an off-the-beaten-path adventure, check out Toadstool Hoodoos, which is a geological formation that looks like giant mushrooms. It's an easy hike for families with young children and offers stunning views of the surrounding landscape. Another hidden gem is Coral Pink Sand Dunes State Park, which features unique pink sand dunes that kids will love to explore.
Certainly! Here's a travel guide chapter focusing on Kanab, Utah, in the United States. A wonderful destination for family travel, especially those who are interested in markets and bookshops.
Markets to Visit
Kanab may be a small town, but it offers delightful shopping experiences for travelers. Here are some places worth exploring:
1. Kanab Farmer's Market - Location: 78 S 100 E, Kanab, UT 84741 - Schedule: Saturdays (Seasonal, May - October): 9:00 am - 12:00 pm - Description: A local farmer's market with fresh produce, artisanal goods, and homemade treats.
2. Willow Canyon Outdoor - Location: 263 S 100 E, Kanab, UT 84741 - Schedule: Daily: 8:00 am - 9:00 pm - Description: Not a traditional market, but an outdoor gear and book store with a small café. They offer a variety of books, including nature-related titles.
3. Little Hollywood Trading Post - Location: 297 W Center St, Kanab, UT 84741 - Schedule: Daily: 9:00 am - 9:00 pm - Description: A quirky market offering unique gifts, souvenirs, and local crafts.
Second Hand Book Shops
While Kanab is relatively small and may not have many specialized second-hand bookstores, the following places might have what you're looking for:
1. Raven's Heart Gallery - Location: 57 W Center St, Kanab, UT 84741 - Description: Alongside beautiful local art, this gallery hosts a selection of books, some of which are rare or second-hand.
Useful Links to Consult About Kanab
Utah's Best Friends Animal Sanctuary
Embark on a Cosmic Adventure with Our Bold Explorers Kids Collection!
Our experience In Kanab Here
Unveil A FREE Itinerary to Kanab Here