Kanab Utah

Base Camp: Kanab

Kanab is gaining national recognition as a unique travel destination. It can be easily said that there is no other place on earth surrounded by so many natural wonders. Savvy visitors use Kanab as a “base camp” to enjoy the myriad recreational opportunities in the area. Incredible destinations such as the Grand Canyon, Lake Powell, and Bryce Canyon and Zion national parks, as well as the Grand Staircase Escalante and Vermilion Cliffs National Monuments, are all within an hour and a half’s drive. And don’t forget about lesser-known destinations, such as Pipe Spring National Monument, Coral Pink Sand Dunes and Kodachrome Basin state parks, Cedar Breaks, Cedar Mountain, and the Kaibab and Dixie national forests.

The backcountry is unsurpassed; people come from all over the world to hike The Wave, White Pocket, Paria Box Canyon, Peek-a-Boo, Buckskin Gulch and  Coyote Buttes, just to name a few of the magical areas. If you’re not a hiker, but still want to see some incredible sights, there are several experienced guides in the area who can show you around on horseback or in off-road or four-wheel drive vehicles.

Historic Backdrops

In the 1930s, Hollywood discovered the beautiful backdrops and rugged country of southern Utah. Since then, over 200 Western, TV series and full-length movies have been made in this unique area, branding Kanab as “Little Hollywood.”

History dates to prehistoric eras. In fact, over 20 new species of dinosaurs have been discovered in the area. The majestic red cliffs and canyons were also home to several ancient Indian civilizations, and their pottery shards and pictographs are found everywhere. The small communities of southern Utah were most recently settled by the early Mormon Pioneers, whose descendants still raise cattle and crops in the area.

Kanab has so much to offer that it serves as the “Heart of the Parks.” You can come here, unpack just once and take in as much of the incredible surroundings of southern Utah as you wish. Kanab will offer you a laid-back, relaxing atmosphere, awe-inspiring scenery and friendly people. Your vacation will give you some great memories from off the beaten path.