The Best Small Town to Stay in While Visiting Utah’s Stunning Landscapes

Looking for a basecamp that blends small-town charm with big adventure? This desert gem might just steal your heart. Tucked between towering red rocks and vast open skies, it offers easy access to Utah’s most iconic landscapes—without the overwhelming crowds.

Whether you’re planning to hike through Arches, wander the hoodoos of Bryce, or simply soak in the sunset over Canyonlands, this town puts it all within reach.

Plus, its laid-back vibe, friendly locals, and cozy cafés make it more than just a stopover—it’s a destination in its own right. Curious where adventure meets comfort in the heart of the desert? Let’s uncover what makes this Utah town a true hidden gateway.

1. Gateway To Zion, Bryce Canyon, And The Grand Canyon North Rim

Some places are special, and then there’s Kanab. It’s a town that casually sits between three of the most jaw-dropping national parks in the country. Zion, Bryce Canyon, and the Grand Canyon’s lesser-visited North Rim are all within a short drive, making Kanab an unbeatable basecamp for adventure.

One day, you could be trekking through Zion’s red canyons, squeezing between the walls of the legendary Narrows or standing in awe beneath Angels Landing. Next, you’re gazing across the Grand Canyon, taking in its sheer vastness without the overwhelming crowds of the South Rim.

And Bryce? Those otherworldly rock spires (hello, hoodoos!) will have you feeling like you’ve stepped onto another planet. Kanab is the perfect launching pad to experience them without the hassle of packed hotels and long tourist lines.

2. Home To The Famous Wave And White Pocket Formations

If you’ve ever seen photos of The Wave, you probably assumed it was either heavily edited or from an alien world. Nope!

This swirled sandstone masterpiece is real, and it’s hiding just outside Kanab. The hike is challenging, the permits are notoriously tough to get, but if you manage to secure one, you’ll be rewarded with a landscape so mesmerizing it barely seems real.

Didn’t get in? No worries, because White Pocket is like The Wave’s underrated cousin. It offers similar mind-bending rock formations but with far fewer restrictions. Standing among these surreal sandstone waves, you’ll quickly understand why Kanab is considered one of the most visually stunning destinations in the Southwest.

3. Slot Canyons Like Peek-A-Boo And Buckskin Gulch

Ever wanted to squeeze through narrow, twisting canyons that glow with shades of orange and red? Kanab has you covered. The slot canyons here, like Peek-A-Boo and Buckskin Gulch, are some of the longest and most breathtaking in the world.

Buckskin Gulch, in fact, holds the title for the longest slot canyon on Earth, stretching for miles with walls so high they block out most of the sunlight. Walking through these natural corridors feels like stepping into another world—one where every turn reveals a new, unexpected formation.

Some spots are so tight you’ll have to turn sideways to pass through, making the experience feel like a mix between an Indiana Jones adventure and a geological masterpiece. It will be hard to return to reality!

4. Best Friends Animal Sanctuary, The Largest No-Kill Shelter In The U.S.

Kanab is also home to one of the most inspiring animal sanctuaries in the world. Best Friends Animal Sanctuary is the largest no-kill shelter in the U.S.! It’s so much more than just a rescue center. It’s a sprawling oasis where thousands of dogs, cats, horses, bunnies, and even pigs get a second chance at life.

I love animals so much that I couldn’t stop my tears of joy every second spent here.

Visitors can take a tour, volunteer, or even hang out with the animals for the day. You can literally take a dog on a field trip! Whether you’re an animal lover or just need a break from hiking, this heartwarming stop is well worth a visit.

5. A Famous Filming Location For Classic Western Movies

If Kanab feels strangely familiar, that’s because Hollywood has been using its landscapes as a backdrop for decades. There’s a good reason why it’s nicknamed “Little Hollywood”!

This small desert town has starred in over 100 Westerns, from John Wayne classics to more modern productions. Drive around, and you might recognize spots from movies like The Lone Ranger or Stagecoach.

You can even visit the old Western film sets at the Little Hollywood Museum, where weathered saloons and rustic stables make you feel like you’ve stepped onto an old movie set. The best part? Kanab’s cinematic scenery is the real deal. A wild, rugged landscape that perfectly captures the untamed spirit of the American West.

6. Incredible Stargazing With Minimal Light Pollution

Let me tell you, Kanab is stunning during the day, but at night? It’s pure magic. I remember stepping outside after dinner one evening, and the sky looked like someone had spilled a bucket of stars across it.

With barely any light pollution, the Milky Way stretched above me like a glowing river, and I swear I could see every constellation I’d ever learned as a kid.

One night, I drove out to Coral Pink Sand Dunes State Park, laid back on the soft, rippled sand, and just watched the universe do its thing. Shooting stars, complete silence, and a sky so clear it felt unreal. If you ever find yourself in Kanab, do yourself a favor, look up. You won’t regret it!

7. Coral Pink Sand Dunes

Amidst the striking desert landscape of Southern Utah lies the Coral Pink Sand Dunes, a playground for adventure enthusiasts. These unique dunes, formed by Navajo sandstone erosion, stretch over 3,700 acres. Off-road vehicles and sandboarding enthusiasts find this terrain irresistible.

The dunes’ vibrant coral hue, set against a bright azure sky, creates a surreal and photogenic scene. It’s not just about the thrill; the park is also a habitat for rare species like the Coral Pink tiger beetle.

This natural wonder invites exploration, offering both excitement and tranquility within its sandy embrace.

8. Kanab Heritage House Museum

Step back in time at the Kanab Heritage House Museum, a window into the past of this charming desert town. Built in 1894, this beautifully preserved Victorian home offers a glimpse into pioneer life. It stands as a testament to the town’s rich history and cultural legacy.

Visitors can explore authentic period furnishings and artifacts that tell stories of courage and community spirit.

The museum’s lush gardens and informative tours provide an engaging experience, making it a must-visit for history buffs and curious travelers alike.

Kanab Heritage House is more than a museum; it’s a journey through time.