Kanab, Utah, is a desert town full of fun and adventure. You can hike the world’s longest slot canyon, Buckskin Gulch, or drive through Cottonwood Canyon. There’s also the Coral Pink Sand Dunes to explore.
Visit the Best Friends Animal Sanctuary and learn about Moqui Cave’s history. Kanab is close to Zion and Bryce Canyon National Parks. It’s perfect for exploring the American Southwest.
Key Takeaways
- Kanab, Utah is a hub for outdoor adventures and sightseeing in the American Southwest.
- Explore the longest and deepest slot canyon in the world, Buckskin Gulch, near Kanab.
- Enjoy scenic drives along Cottonwood Canyon Road and visit the unique Coral Pink Sand Dunes.
- Discover the Best Friends Animal Sanctuary and learn about the region’s history at Moqui Cave.
- Kanab serves as an ideal base for visiting nearby national parks like Zion and Bryce Canyon.
Exploring the Wonders of Buckskin Gulch
Visitors flock to Kanab to see the stunning Buckskin Gulch. It’s one of the longest and deepest slot canyons in the world. Hikers can explore the full 25 miles or choose a shorter day hike, like the Wire Pass to Buckskin Gulch route.
Hiking the Longest and Deepest Slot Canyon
The hike from Wire Pass to Buckskin Gulch is a 3.7-mile round trip. It’s a bit tough but very rewarding. Hikers see tall sandstone walls, cross calm water pools, and might see bighorn sheep.
The canyon’s cool temperatures make it a great place to visit in summer. It’s a break from the desert heat.
Wading Through Narrow Narrows and Water Pools
- Explore the 45.6-mile Buckskin Gulch, the longest slot canyon in the world
- Embark on the 3.7-mile Wire Pass to Buckskin Gulch hike, a moderate-difficulty trail
- Marvel at the towering sandstone walls and wade through serene water pools
- Enjoy the cooler temperatures within the canyon, a welcome respite from the desert heat
- Keep an eye out for wildlife like bighorn sheep during your Kanab adventures
Buckskin Gulch has amazing landscapes and unique rocks. It’s a top spot for outdoor lovers wanting a real Kanab adventure. Whether you hike the whole canyon or just a part, you’ll be amazed by its beauty.
Scenic Drives in Cottonwood Canyon Road
The 47-mile Cottonwood Canyon Road is a great choice for those who love a slow-paced adventure. It takes you through the desert around Kanab, Utah. You’ll see desert oases, big rock formations, and breathtaking vistas.
There’s a slot canyon trail called Cottonwood Wash Narrows for beginners. It shows off the area’s unique rocks. The drive ends at Kodachrome Basin State Park. This place has colorful rocks, spires, and arches that will amaze you.
Discovering Desert Oases and Breathtaking Landscapes
The Cottonwood Canyon Road is about 47 miles long. It’s okay for a strong 2WD car, but a 4×4 is better. There’s a easy hike at the Cottonwood Wash Narrows for about 1.5 miles.
You’ll see the Grosvenor Arch 30 miles after leaving US-89. Then, there’s the beautiful Kodachrome Basin State Park, 17 miles further. Kodachrome Basin has many campgrounds. It’s a great place to relax and enjoy the breathtaking landscapes.
If you want a scenic drive or to see the desert landscapes of Kanab, don’t miss the Cottonwood Canyon Road. It’s a trip that will impress everyone who goes.
Hiking the Narrows of Cottonwood Canyon
Near Kanab, Utah, Cottonwood Canyon Narrows is a beautiful spot for a hike. It’s a 1.5-mile trail that takes you through towering walls and rock formations. The hike is easy, perfect for families and those new to slot canyons.
This trail is smooth and has few obstacles. You can finish the hike in 1-1.5 hours, depending on how much you want to see. Dogs are welcome to join you on this adventure.
The hike lets you see walls of Navajo sandstone that are very tall. The water in the canyon is usually just ankle-deep. But, don’t go into the narrows when it’s raining because of the risk of flash floods.
To get to Cottonwood Canyon Narrows, follow Cottonwood Canyon Road. It connects US-12 and US-89. You can get there with a 2WD car, but an SUV is better. Big vehicles should not go there. Camping is allowed in the area, but you need a permit.
The Cottonwood Canyon Narrows is perfect for a peaceful hike or to see the beautiful Navajo sandstone. It’s a great place for all kinds of adventurers.
Paria Canyon: A Twisting Adventure
Paria Canyon is next to the famous Buckskin Gulch. It has its own twisting narrows to explore. You can start at the White House Campground and hike to where Paria Canyon meets Buckskin Gulch. Then, you can turn around and head back.
This hike goes through shallow water, so you’ll need the right shoes. The canyon has beautiful sandstone walls and calm pools. It’s a great place for a peaceful hike.
The Paria Canyon adventure is full of vibrant colors and unique rocks. It’s a beautiful place to explore.
Hiking to the Confluence of Buckskin Gulch
For a tough but rewarding hike, try going from the White House Campground to where Paria Canyon meets Buckskin Gulch. You’ll have to wade through water and go through narrow passages. These paths were made by nature over time.
On this hike, you’ll see amazing Kanab exploration sights. You’ll walk by beautiful sandstone walls and find calm pools. The spot where the two canyons meet is a special place for adventurers.
Best Friends Animal Sanctuary: A Heart-Warming Experience
Just a few miles north of Kanab, Utah, the Best Friends Animal Sanctuary shines as a place of hope. It’s a big rescue and rehab center for dogs, cats, horses, and more. These animals are waiting for their forever homes.
At the Kanab attractions, you can dive into the sanctuary’s mission. You can go on guided tours, learn about their work, and even help out or foster pets. With over 1,600 animals, it shows the strength of animal rescue and Kanab activities.
The sanctuary sits in a beautiful desert and cares for animals with kindness. It’s a top spot for anyone visiting Kanab. You can see different animal areas, see staff and animals together, and help out in special ways.
Places like the Bunny House and Dogtown make the sanctuary special. It gives a unique experience that changes people’s hearts. It’s perfect for animal lovers or those looking for a touching adventure. This Kanab attraction will definitely make a mark on you.
Coral Pink Sand Dunes: Nature’s Sandcastle
In southern Utah, the Coral Pink Sand Dunes State Park is a unique wonder. It has vibrant, orange-red sand dunes. These dunes are surrounded by ancient trees, making a beautiful view against the blue sky.
At the Coral Pink Sand Dunes, there are many things to do. You can hike, go sand boarding, or ride ATVs. These activities let you enjoy the park’s calm beauty or get your heart racing.
The park is at 6,000 feet high and covers 3,730 acres. The sand dunes are very old, between 10,000 and 15,000 years old. This shows how beautiful and lasting this place is.
Only 265 acres are not open to the public. So, there’s a lot to see and discover. The Coral Pink Sand Dunes State Park has fees for day-use and camping. These fees are $10.00 per vehicle and $20.00 to $30.00 per site.
Looking for peace or adventure? The Coral Pink Sand Dunes State Park is unforgettable. It’s in the middle of Utah’s beautiful landscapes.
Lake Powell: A Paddler’s Paradise
Just a short drive from Kanab, Lake Powell is a paradise for paddlers. You can rent kayaks, stand-up paddleboards, or boats to explore. The lake’s vast, winding canyons and serene blue waters are perfect for a refreshing escape.
Even a visit to the lake’s Wahweap Marina can be rewarding. It offers a chance to enjoy the region’s water-based fun.
Kayaking, SUPing, and Boating Adventures
The Lake Powell area has about 2,000 miles of shoreline for boating, kayaking, and fishing. It’s ideal for water sports lovers. You can rent kayaks, stand-up paddleboards (SUPs), or boats to explore the lake.
Whether you want a relaxing day or an exciting boating experience, Lake Powell has it all. It offers many options for everyone.
There’s more than just water fun. The Glen Canyon National Recreation Area around Lake Powell has hikes and mountain biking. The Rainbow Bridge National Monument, a huge natural bridge, is a must-see. It’s a Dark Sky Sanctuary with amazing night views.
For thrill-seekers, Canyonlands National Park offers boating and paddling in Cataract Canyon. It has 30 big rapids, including The Big Drop. The Colorado River is great for all skill levels, with beautiful views and wildlife.
Whether you’re experienced or new to water sports, Lake Powell has lots to offer. From calm paddling to exciting whitewater rafting, Kanab recreation in this Lake Powell oasis will impress you.
Things to do in Kanab: Exploring Moqui Cave
Visitors to Kanab, Utah, should definitely check out Moqui Cave. It’s a natural history museum inside a beautiful redrock cave. Here, you can dive into the area’s fascinating history.
Moqui Cave has a great collection of Native American artifacts. You’ll see pottery, tools, and other items that show what life was like for the local people. There are also dinosaur tracks to see, giving a peek into the ancient world.
The cave also has a big gift shop with southwestern-themed items. It’s a fun place for those interested in the area’s culture and geology. Guides tell interesting stories about the cave’s past during tours.
If you like history, geology, or just want a special experience, Moqui Cave is a must-see. It’s a top choice for exploring Kanab attractions and Kanab sightseeing in Utah.
The Moqui Cave is close to Kanab, making it easy to visit. It’s full of history and cool geological features. This place will definitely make a mark on you.
Wire Pass: A Glimpse into Buckskin Gulch
Looking for an adventure in Kanab, Utah? The Wire Pass to Buckskin Gulch hike is perfect. It’s a fun way to see the famous slot canyons without a long backpacking trip.
The Wire Pass Trail is about 3.5 miles round-trip. It takes you through a beautiful slot canyon and joins the famous Buckskin Gulch. From the trailhead to where it meets Buckskin Gulch, it’s about 1.7 miles. You can finish the hike in 2-3 hours, depending on how often you stop and how fast you walk.
This hike is easy to moderate. You’ll walk on flat ground, through sandy washes, and over a tough spot in the slot canyon. It shows you the beauty of Buckskin Gulch, one of the biggest and deepest slot canyons in the U.S.
On your hike, you might see old rock carvings at the Buckskin Gulch meeting point. These add to the area’s rich history and culture. But, the Wire Pass trail is popular, and Search and Rescue often helps with injuries at a tricky spot in the canyon.
Make sure to bring the right gear, like hiking poles, water, sunscreen, and a flashlight. You can camp at the Wire Pass Trailhead, but there are no facilities.
The Wire Pass to Buckskin Gulch hike is a great way to experience Kanab’s beauty. It’s an easy way to see the area’s natural wonders.
Conclusion: Endless Adventures in Kanab, Utah
Kanab, Utah, is a gateway to endless outdoor adventures and natural wonders. It has towering slot canyons and serene desert landscapes. There are also nearby national parks and unique places like the Best Friends Animal Sanctuary.
This town offers something for every traveler. You can go on a heart-pumping hike, take a leisurely scenic drive, or dive into cultural experiences. Kanab is the perfect spot for exploring the American Southwest.
Kanab has a rich history since the 1870s, when Mormon pioneers came back to the town. It became famous for filming old western movies and TV shows. Now, it still draws western fans and film buffs.
It’s near famous national parks like Bryce Canyon, Zion, and the Grand Canyon. Kanab has activities for families, thrill-seekers, hikers, and photographers. With so much to do, visitors often find they need more than a weekend to see everything.
