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2-day itinerary

Kanab Weekend Getaway

Kanab, Utah, and surrounding natural wonders

Length
2 days · 4 sights
Pace
Easy
Estimated cost
$65 per person
Based in
Kanab

Day by day

  1. Day 1: Dunes and Western Heritage

    Start the weekend with an outdoor adventure at the sand dunes, followed by a cultural exploration of historic film sets and local geology in Kanab.

    • 08:00

      Coral Pink Sand Dunes State Park

      Drive north to Coral Pink Sand Dunes State Park to hike the pink sandstone dunes. Enjoy the unique landscape and take photos of the red rock formations against the sand.

      About 3 hours

    • 12:00

      Lunch in Kanab

      Return to downtown Kanab for a casual lunch at a local diner or cafe to recharge after the morning hike.

      About 60 min

    • 14:00

      Little Hollywood Movie Museum

      Visit the historic Little Hollywood, where many classic westerns were filmed. Explore the set and learn about the history of cinema in this unique location.

      About 1.5 hours

    • 15:30

      Moqui Cave Natural History Museum

      Visit the Moqui Cave to see the unique Moqui Marbles and learn about the local geology and history of the area.

      About 60 min

    Meals:
    Lunch at Downtown Kanab
    Where to stay:
    Stay in a hotel or B&B in Kanab for easy access to attractions.
    Getting around:
    A car is required to travel between Kanab and Coral Pink Sand Dunes.

  2. Day 2: Hoodoos and Local Exploration

    Spend the morning exploring the unique Toadstool Hoodoos formation, followed by leisure time for shopping, dining, or additional local exploration.

    • 08:30

      Toadstool Hoodoos

      Drive to the Toadstool Hoodoos, a unique geological formation of tall, thin rock spires. Take a short hike to view and photograph these distinctive structures.

      About 2 hours

    • 10:30

      Breakfast/Brunch

      Return to Kanab for a relaxed breakfast or brunch at a local restaurant.

      About 60 min

    • 12:30

      Local Exploration and Shopping

      Spend the afternoon exploring the local shops, galleries, and historical sites in downtown Kanab. Visit the visitor center for more information on the area.

      About 2 hours

    Meals:
    Breakfast at Local Cafe; Lunch at Downtown Kanab
    Where to stay:
    Check out of accommodation after morning activities.
    Getting around:
    A car is required to reach Toadstool Hoodoos from Kanab.

Practical information

Kanab serves as an ideal base camp for exploring Southern Utah, situated within a 90-minute drive of three national parks, five national monuments, and two state parks. The best time to visit is during the spring (April–May) and fall (September–October) when temperatures are mild, ranging from 60°F to 80°F, making hiking and outdoor photography comfortable. Summer months can be excessively hot, often exceeding 90°F, while winter brings occasional snow and ice, particularly in higher elevations like the Dixie National Forest, requiring caution for road travel. Getting to Kanab is straightforward via Interstate 15, with the nearest major airports in St. George (SGU) and Las Vegas (LAS), both roughly a 1.5 to 2-hour drive away. Once in Kanab, a personal vehicle is essential. Public transportation is virtually non-existent, and the dispersed nature of attractions like Coral Pink Sand Dunes or the Grand Staircase–Escalante National Monument requires self-reliance. Fuel up in Kanab before heading into remote areas, as gas stations are sparse in the surrounding backcountry. For accommodation, Kanab offers a variety of options including motels, bed and breakfasts, and vacation rentals. Staying in the town center provides easy access to dining and services, while cabins on the outskirts offer quieter settings closer to trailheads. Booking in advance is crucial, especially during peak seasons and holidays, as Kanab is a popular hub for regional tourism. Budget-wise, costs can vary significantly. While lodging and dining are moderately priced, entry fees for nearby national parks (such as Zion or Bryce Canyon) are separate and not included in local accommodation costs. Budget for vehicle rental, fuel, and entrance fees. It is advisable to carry cash for small vendors or tip staff, as some smaller establishments may not accept credit cards. Essential items to pack include sturdy hiking boots, sun protection (hat, sunglasses, sunscreen), and plenty of water, especially for hiking in the desert climate. Layers are recommended due to temperature fluctuations between day and night. Additionally, ensure your vehicle is in good condition, carries a spare tire, and has a full tank of gas, as cellular service can be unreliable in remote areas. Always check local weather and road conditions before heading out, as flash floods and sudden storms are possible risks in slot canyons and desert environments.

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