This small Utah town near the Arizona border has served as a filming location for over 100 Western movies since the 1920s and sits close to Zion National Park.
Kanab sits among Utah's red rock formations and deep canyons. From this small city of 4,300 people, you can hike through Peek-a-boo's narrow slot canyon walls, walk alongside rescued animals at Best Friends Sanctuary, or drive to three national parks within 90 minutes. The surrounding landscape ranges from towering sandstone cliffs to rolling sand dunes at Coral Pink Sand Dunes State Park.
Getting to Kanab
Kanab lies 7 miles north of the Arizona border along U.S. Route 89. The city sits roughly equidistant from Las Vegas, Phoenix, and Salt Lake City, making it accessible from multiple major airports. The Kanab Municipal Airport handles smaller aircraft and private flights.
Surrounding National Parks
You can reach three national parks within 90 minutes from Kanab. Zion National Park's 2,000-foot sandstone cliffs rise 30 minutes away. Bryce Canyon National Park's red rock spires and amphitheaters stretch 90 minutes to the north. The North Rim of the Grand Canyon lies 90 minutes south, with typically smaller crowds than the South Rim.
Exploring Slot Canyons
The Peek-a-boo slot canyon winds through red rock formations 9 miles north of town. The narrow passages twist through sandstone walls that reach up to 100 feet high. Local guides can lead you through the canyon and explain its geological formation. Remember to check weather conditions before entering any slot canyon, as flash floods can be dangerous.
Best Friends Animal Sanctuary
Five miles north of Kanab, Angel Canyon houses the Best Friends Animal Sanctuary. The 3,700-acre sanctuary cares for around 1,600 animals, including dogs, cats, horses, and birds. You can take guided tours, volunteer with the animals, or take a dog for a hike. The sanctuary also runs adoption programs and educational workshops about animal care.
Jackson Flat Reservoir
At Jackson Flat Reservoir, you can swim, fish for trout, catfish, and bluegill, or paddle non-motorized boats. The dark skies above the reservoir make it an excellent spot for stargazing. During summer months, local musicians perform outdoor concerts along the shore.
Movie History in "Little Hollywood"
Since the 1930s, film crews have shot hundreds of Western films and TV shows among Kanab's red cliffs and desert landscapes. The Little Hollywood Museum displays original film sets from classics like "The Lone Ranger" and "Stagecoach." Inside, you'll find movie props, photographs, and detailed information about the films shot in the area.
Winter Events
Each February, the Balloons and Tunes Roundup brings more than 40 hot air balloons to Kanab's skies. The three-day festival includes street fairs, music competitions, and evening balloon glows. You can watch the morning launches or join a pre-launch dinner to meet the pilots.
