This Kanab Utah Itinerary is one of the few that you can see so much in so little time, and also spend days not running out of things to do. Tucked away in Southern Utah, Kanab is a charming town surrounded by some of the region’s most breathtaking scenery, making it a perfect day trip destination or a convenient base camp for exploring nearby national parks. Whether you’re road-tripping between Zion National Park and Bryce Canyon National Park, or heading toward Horseshoe Bend or the North Rim of the Grand Canyon, Kanab offers easy access to some of the West’s most iconic landscapes.
Kanab is one of my favorite towns to visit—I’ve been there over five times, and it never disappoints. Almost everything in the area is dog-friendly, making it an ideal stop for fellow adventurers with pups in tow.
Even with just 24 hours, you can experience Kanab’s best highlights: watch the sunrise over the red rocks of Coral Pink Sand Dunes, hike through otherworldly slot canyons like Peekaboo or the Belly of the Dragon, and enjoy a great meal at one of the town’s cozy eateries. Whether you’re craving adventure, scenery, or relaxation, this Kanab Utah itinerary will help you make the most of your time—whether it’s your first time visiting or a quick stopover on your road trip through the Southwest.
Tips For Visiting:
Sunrise/Sunset Times
Kanab, Utah, experiences varying sunrise and sunset times across the seasons due to its geographical location and the tilt of the Earth’s axis. Here’s an overview of the average sunrise and sunset times for each season:
Spring (March 20 to June 20):
- March 20: Sunrise at 7:26 AM, Sunset at 7:38 PM
- April 20: Sunrise at 6:42 AM, Sunset at 8:09 PM
- May 20: Sunrise at 6:15 AM, Sunset at 8:33 PM
- June 20: Sunrise at 6:10 AM, Sunset at 8:53 PM
Note: Daylight Saving Time starts on March 9, 2025.
Summer (June 21 to September 22):
- June 21: Sunrise at 6:10 AM, Sunset at 8:53 PM
- July 21: Sunrise at 6:27 AM, Sunset at 8:45 PM
- August 21: Sunrise at 6:50 AM, Sunset at 8:12 PM
- September 22: Sunrise at 7:12 AM, Sunset at 7:19 PM
Fall (September 23 to December 20):
- September 23: Sunrise at 7:13 AM, Sunset at 7:17 PM
- October 23: Sunrise at 7:42 AM, Sunset at 6:35 PM
- November 23: Sunrise at 7:13 AM, Sunset at 5:12 PM
- December 20: Sunrise at 7:34 AM, Sunset at 5:18 PM
Note: Daylight Saving Time ends on November 2, 2025.
Winter (December 21 to March 19):
- December 21: Sunrise at 7:34 AM, Sunset at 5:18 PM
- January 21: Sunrise at 7:40 AM, Sunset at 5:36 PM
- February 21: Sunrise at 7:11 AM, Sunset at 6:06 PM
- March 19: Sunrise at 7:26 AM, Sunset at 7:37 PM
This 24-hour guide will be based on Spring Times as I recommend spring as the best time to visit but keep in mind during the shorter days all of this might not be possible.
Nearby Attractions
Zion National Park → 33 miles | ~40-minute drive
Bryce Canyon National Park → 76 miles | ~1 hour 30-minute drive
Page, Arizona → 74 miles | ~1 hour 20-minute drive
- Antelope Canyon
- White Pocket
- Lake Powell
St. George, Utah → 81 miles | ~1 hour 30-minute drive
- Snow Canyon State Park
- Sand Hollow
24-Hour Kanab Utah Itinerary
Morning: Sunrise & Adventure
6:30 AM – Sunrise at Coral Pink Sand Dunes State Park
Sunrise and sunset are the best times to experience this State Park. The color of sand is a beautiful color when the sun hits it in the morning, and if you are visiting in the warmer months, coming at sunrise means you avoid the heat and wind that tends to pick up later in the day. Dogs are allowed in the campgrounds and on the dunes here! Please Leave No Trace and be respectful of others especially if you have your dog with you.
- Activities:
- Hike the dunes for epic views. Make sure you leave enough time for this! It will take longer than you think depending on how far you hike in.
- Sandboard down the slopes for an adventurous start, I haven’t done this but I want to go back and try it looks so fun! You rent them from the park office where you pay.
- Off Road if you have a capable vehicle but make sure you get an off-road flag from the office and pay the fee/get a map of where you can go. We took my Jeep Wrangler on the dunes and it was easy just make sure to air down your tires and watch your angle on some of the taller dunes.
- Capture stunning sunrise photography- such a stunning place for portraits or photos in general especially with morning light.
8:00 AM – Breakfast at Kanab Creek Bakery
Kanab Creek Bakery is a cherished local bakery known for its freshly baked bread, pastries, and savory breakfast options.
Recommended Dishes:
- Avocado Toast: Sliced avocado seasoned to perfection, served on toasted artisan bread.
- Hearty Breakfast Sandwich: A filling sandwich with your choice of fillings, perfect for starting your day.
- Fresh Pastries and Coffee: A selection of freshly baked pastries paired with a variety of coffee options.
Operating Hours:
- Wednesday & Thursday: 8:00 AM – 1:00 PM
- Friday & Saturday: 8:00 AM – 5:30 PM
- Sunday: 8:00 AM – 1:00 PM
- Monday & Tuesday: Closed
9:00 AM – Hike to the Great Chamber
The Great Chamber, also known as Cutler Point, is a stunning natural alcove located northeast of Kanab, Utah. This expansive sandstone formation features a massive open dome with a tall sand dune leading up to its entrance, offering photographers and nature enthusiasts a unique and picturesque destination.
Accessing the Great Chamber:
Reaching the Great Chamber requires careful planning due to the challenging terrain:
- Vehicle Requirements: A high-clearance, four-wheel-drive (4WD) vehicle is essential. The roads leading to the trailhead are unpaved and consist of deep, loose sand, making them unsuitable for standard vehicles. Granted the road conditions can vary greatly depending on the time of year and recent weather. When I drove it in March 2024 I had no issues and felt as if a lower clearance 4×4 vehicle could have made it but I highly recommend checking with the local park service if you are at all unsure as the tow bill is very hefty.
- Driving Directions: Traditional GPS services may not provide accurate directions to the Great Chamber. It’s advisable to consult detailed guides or use offline maps tailored for off-road navigation.
- Hiking Details:Once you’ve navigated the sandy roads to the trailhead:
- Trail Length: The hike is relatively short, approximately 0.25 miles each way.
- Terrain: The path is uphill, with the final section consisting of soft sand.
- Keep in mind it can often be very windy which blows quite a bit of loose sand into the air. We had a lot of trouble seeing well when we got close to the chamber and when we were trying to take pictures within it because of how much sand there was.
- Guided Tours: If you don’t have a capable vehicle or don’t feel comfortable making the drive you can book a local guide to take you out. Here are some local guided tours to the Great Chamber near Kanab, Utah:
- Expedition Kanab
- Offers off-road tours to the Great Chamber, navigating sandy trails and rocky paths.
- Includes the Great Chamber Adventure and combined Peekaboo Slot Canyon tours.
- Website: Expedition Kanab
- Dreamland Safari Tours
- Provides half-day tours to the Great Chamber with a focus on photography opportunities and geology.
- Website: Dreamland Safari Tours
- American West Scenic Adventures
- Guided tours to the Great Chamber and surrounding hoodoos.
- Pickup is available from local accommodations.
- Website: American West Scenic Adventures
- Expedition Kanab
Midday: Slot Canyons & Scenic Drives
11:00 AM – Peekaboo Slot Canyon Tour
Peek-A-Boo Slot Canyon, located near Kanab, Utah, offers visitors a stunning red sandstone slot canyon experience. The canyon stretches approximately half a mile in length, providing an intimate and breathtaking exploration opportunity. Dogs are welcome but must be on a leash.
Guided Tour Options:
- Kanab Tour Company: Offers an ATV adventure to Peek-A-Boo Slot Canyon, combining thrilling off-road experiences with a leisurely hike through the canyon. kanabtourcompany.com
- Dreamland Safari Tours: Provides guided 4×4 tours through vibrant pink sand and dramatic red sandstone leading to the slot canyon. Dreamland Tours
- Coral Cliffs Tours and Townhomes: Offers intimate tours through various canyons and trails, including Peek-A-Boo Slot Canyon. Coral Cliffs Tours & Townhomes
Self-Drive Considerations:
Accessing Peek-A-Boo Slot Canyon independently requires navigating an extremely sandy road. It’s imperative to have a high-clearance 4×4 vehicle and experience driving on sandy terrains. Without these, attempting the drive can be hazardous. We watched many people get stuck and have to get towed out which is a hefty bill and can make the road blocked and unsafe for other drivers. Alternatively, the route can be hiked, which is roughly an 8-mile out-and-back trail. I highly don’t recommend hiking it unless it is winter as it’s a deep sandy trail with high brush on the sides and no shade with temperatures regularly reaching over 100 in the warmer months.
1:00 PM – Lunch at Rocking V Café
Rocking V Café is a beloved dining spot in Kanab, Utah, celebrated for its creative Southwestern-inspired menu and vibrant atmosphere. Their outdoor patio is pet friendly and they hold a full liquor license with a full bar. They do not take reservations and operate on a waitlist system. During peak season it can get busy but lunch isn’t usually a huge wait!
Menu Highlights:
- Elote Corn Ribs: A unique twist on traditional Mexican street corn, these grilled corn ribs are seasoned with a flavorful blend of spices and served with a zesty dipping sauce.
- Green Chili Cheeseburger: A juicy beef patty topped with spicy green chili and melted cheese, offering a perfect balance of heat and flavor.
- Vibrant Salads and Flavorful Burgers: The menu features a variety of fresh salads and gourmet burgers, catering to diverse tastes and dietary preferences.
Operating Hours:
- Monday to Wednesday: 11:30 AM – 9:30 PM
- Thursday to Sunday: 11:30 AM – 9:30 PM
Afternoon: Exploring & Sunset Views
2:30 PM – Visit Best Friends Animal Sanctuary
Best Friends Animal Sanctuary is one of the largest and most inspiring rescue organizations in the U.S. Animal lovers can take guided tours of the expansive sanctuary, meet and interact with rescued animals including dogs, cats, horses, birds, and more, and learn about the organization’s life-saving efforts. Whether you’re exploring the peaceful grounds, volunteering, or simply enjoying the serene surroundings, this heartwarming experience is a must for anyone visiting the area. You can also stay here for future visits overnight and “foster an animal” during your stay!
Hours: Open daily from 8:00 AM to 5:00 PM. Tours and activities vary by schedule, so it’s best to book in advance.
4:00 PM – Hike to the Kanab Sand Caves
The Kanab Sand Caves, also known as Moqui Caverns, are a striking and easily accessible attraction just a few miles north of Kanab. These man-made caves were originally carved in the 1970s for sand harvesting but have since become a popular stop for visitors. Super kid-friendly and stunning in person!
- Best Time to Visit: Go during golden hour (sunrise or sunset) for the most dramatic lighting and cooler temperatures.
- Photography: Bring a wide-angle lens or phone with panoramic mode to capture the sweeping views from inside the caves.
Trail Length & Difficulty:
- Distance: ~0.5 miles round trip
- Difficulty: Moderate (short but steep)
- Elevation Gain: ~120 feet
- Time: ~20-30 minutes round trip
5:30 PM – Quick Stop at Belly of the Dragon or Sunset at the Wave Overlook
- Belly of the Dragon
- The Belly of the Dragon is a man-made drainage tunnel beneath the highway, carved by water flow.
- The tunnel’s curved, textured walls create a cave-like appearance, making it a unique and photogenic spot.
- At the end of the tunnel, the trail opens into a scenic wash with red rock surroundings.
- Trail Length & Difficulty:
- Distance: ~0.5 miles round trip
- Difficulty: Easy (family and dog-friendly)
- Time: ~15-20 minutes round trip
- Wave Overlook:
- The Wave Overlook is located along the Wire Pass Trail, which leads into Buckskin Gulch in the Paria Canyon-Vermilion Cliffs Wilderness, near the Utah-Arizona border. The overlook offers a stunning view of The Wave-like rock formations without the need for a permit.
- Depending on sunset times, you might need to skip the animal sanctuary and just do a quick earlier stop at the Sand Caves to make it here for sunset.
- Directions to the Trailhead:
- From Kanab, Utah:
- Head east on US-89 for approximately 43 miles.
- Turn right onto House Rock Valley Road (BLM Road 1065).
- Drive 8.4 miles down this unpaved road to reach the Wire Pass Trailhead.
- Note: The road is dirt and gravel and can be impassable when wet. A high-clearance vehicle is recommended, especially after rain.
- Parking: There is a small parking lot at the Wire Pass Trailhead, which requires a $6 fee per person (cash or pay online in advance).
- From Kanab, Utah:
- Trail Information:
- Distance: ~5.5 miles round trip to the overlook and back.
- Difficulty: Moderate. The trail includes sandy washes, rocky terrain, and some slight elevation gain.
- Elevation Gain: ~300 feet.
- Time: Plan for 3-4 hours round trip, including time to enjoy the views.
Evening: Wind Down & Stargazing
7:00 PM – Dinner at Sego Restaurant
Sego Restaurant offers an upscale New American dining experience that celebrates locally inspired flavors. Under the guidance of Chef Shon Foster, the menu features a variety of small plates designed for sharing, allowing guests to savor multiple dishes in one meal.
Menu Highlights:
- Bison Short Ribs: Tender and flavorful, showcasing the rich taste of locally sourced bison.
- Utah Trout: Freshly prepared to highlight the delicate flavors of regional catch.
- Rotating Small Plates: An ever-changing selection that reflects seasonal ingredients and innovative culinary techniques.
Operating Hours:
- Monday to Wednesday: 5:00 PM – 8:30 PM
- Friday and Saturday: 5:00 PM – 9:00 PM
- Sunday and Thursday: Closed
Reservations are recommended, especially for parties of seven or more. You can book a table by calling (435) 644-5680 or through their online reservation system
9:00 PM – Stargazing at Alstrom Point or Dark Sky Locations
Alstrom Point: A Stargazer’s Dream
- Alstrom Point offers stunning panoramic views over Lake Powell, making it a must-see for photographers—especially at sunset. The rugged, unpaved road requires a high-clearance, 4×4 vehicle, but the sweeping desert scenery is worth the trek. At night, Alstrom Point becomes a stargazer’s haven with minimal light pollution. On clear nights, you can see the Milky Way and countless constellations.
Kanab’s Dark Sky Locations
- Kanab is a certified Dark Sky Community, offering great stargazing just outside of town. Top spots include Coral Pink Sand Dunes State Park and remote desert areas, perfect for admiring the stars. For the best experience, visit during a new moon.
In conclusion, spending just 24 hours in Kanab with this Kanab Utah itinerary gives you a glimpse of the area’s stunning scenery, unique adventures, and small-town charm. From witnessing a breathtaking sunrise at Coral Pink Sand Dunes to exploring the otherworldly Great Chamber and venturing into the mysterious Sand Caves, every moment is packed with unforgettable experiences. Plus, a visit to the Best Friends Animal Sanctuary offers a heartwarming way to connect with rescued animals.
To make the most of your short trip, be sure to:
- Book guided tours in advance to guarantee access to popular spots.
- Pack plenty of water and snacks—the desert heat can be intense.
- Bring a camera to capture the incredible red rock landscapes and scenic views.
Kanab is just the beginning—there’s so much more to explore. Whether you return to hike the nearby Toadstool Hoodoos, wander through Buckskin Gulch (the deepest slot canyon in the United States), or enjoy a scenic drive through Grand Staircase-Escalante National Monument, you’ll quickly discover why Kanab is the perfect home base for future outdoor adventures.
FAQ:
Q: How many days do you need in Kanab?
A: I think at least 2 days, but staying in the Kanab area can be a great jumping-off point to visit other nearby locations such as Zion, Escalante, Page AZ, and more!
Q: Is Kanab worth visiting?
A: Absolutely! I think it’s one of the most underrated towns in Utah, there is so much to do for every ability level, and one of the most dog-friendly places here in Utah.
Q: What is the best time of year to visit Kanab?
A: Spring or Fall is best weather-wise. In spring you get the longer days without it being sweltering hot yet, fall is shorter days but less crowds and nice temps still. Winter can be great if you brave the cold as you’ll have it to yourself, but a lot of places close for winter so make sure to do your research. Summers exceed 100 degrees most days so you are more limited on what you can do and see safely.
Q: Is Kanab a good base for Zion?
A: Yes! Zion is less than an hour away and accommodations can be cheaper in the Kanab area.
Q: Does Kanab have a downtown?
A: Yes, downtown Kanab is small but so cute! You can learn about the history of the area and how many movies were filmed nearby. Tons of great restaurants and mom-and-pop stores as well.
Q: How far is Zion from Kanab?
A: Zion is less than an hour from Kanab, about 45 minutes.
