4 Things to Do in Kanab Utah

Don’t let Kanab Utah’s small size fool you—what the town lacks in size it makes up for in being centrally located to many of Southern Utah’s most popular outdoor attractions! From multiple state parks to some of Utah’s Mighty 5 national parks, there’s no shortage of things to see and do during your stay at Canyons Lodge.

If you’re thinking about planning a visit to our Canyons Boutique hotels, keep reading. We’re bringing you some of the best things to do in and around Kanab Utah.

1. Go Boating

One unexpected activity you can enjoy on a short day trip from Kanab Utah is a day on Lake Powell. Go from the desert to the cool water, and rent a kayak or paddleboard, or something with a bit more power.

The lake was formed as a reservoir of the Colorado River and is located on the border between Utah and Arizona. A popular tourist destination, you’ll find plenty of marinas and rental agencies, as well as dining, hotels, and more in the area.

Lake Powell is located just over an hour from hotels near Kanab Utah, making it an easy day trip during your stay—especially on a hot day!

2. Explore Some Sand Dunes

While Utah’s Mighty 5 national parks tend to steal the spotlight, the state is also home to dozens of equally beautiful state parks. Some even offer landscapes and activities that you won’t find in Zion, Bryce, Capitol Reef, Arches, or Moab.

One such park is Coral Pink Sand Dunes State Park. This state park is home to a natural feature that many visitors don’t realize that Utah has; sand dunes. Formed by wind and rain eroding the sandstone cliffs of the area, these dunes are hued--you guess it--coral pink in color.

Scale the dunes on foot, or try out sand dune surfing for a thrill that you won’t find in any of the Mighty 5. Over 90 percent of the dunes are also open for off-road vehicles, making it a great spot to rent an ATV as well. If you’re looking for an adrenaline-inducing activity during your stay in our lodges in Utah, this state park is a must-see.

3. Enjoy a Scenic Drive

If you need a break from hiking during your stay in Kanab Utah, but still want to enjoy the amazing scenery, why not take a scenic drive instead?

Cottonwood Canyon Road is an unpaved, remote road that winds through beautiful, but stark landscapes. Stretching for 47 miles, the road begins in Kanab Utah, and ends in the Kodachrome Basin to the north of the city. You’ll enjoy unparalleled views of the Paria River Valley, a stunning desert oasis.

If you’re looking for something a little less rugged, there are plenty of paved scenic drives to enjoy, too. Check out a list of some of the best to enjoy during your stay in hotels near Kanab Utah here.

4. Take a Trip to One of the Mighty 5 or the Grand Canyon

Two of the Mighty 5 national parks, as well as one additional national park, are all located less than a 2-hour drive from Kanab Utah.

Zion National Park is under an hour away. Take a day trip and climb one of the park’s many stunning trails, or simply take a drive through the famous Zion-Mt. Carmel Tunnel.

An hour and a half away is Bryce Canyon National Park. Alongside hiking trails and overlooks, the park is also home to the largest concentration of Hoodoos, irregular columns of rock rising from the ground, found anywhere on the continent.

Finally, just under 2-hours away from Kanab Utah, is the Grand Canyon. Or at least the North Rim is. The more crowded South Rim will take you hours longer to drive to. Don’t worry though, because you’ll get to enjoy the same incredible views but with far fewer people getting in the way of your photos. The North Rim of the Grand Canyon is one of the best day trips to enjoy during your stay in our lodges in Utah.

Planning Your Own Kanab Utah Adventure

From national parks to scenic drives, there’s no shortage of ways to spend a day during your stay at Canyons Lodge in Kanab Utah. Consider adding one of these activities to your next stay—or plan a longer stay in lodges in Utah and add all four to your list!