Looking for one basecamp for a host of outdoor adventures on your next trip out West? Then point your car toward Kane County, Utah. Basing a family outdoor adventure road trip in this small, Western-heritage town of Kanab puts you within easy reach of three national parks, two national forests, five national monuments, and two state parks.
Yes, you’ll want to start with the headliners—Bryce Canyon and Zion National Parks, plus the North Rim of the Grand Canyon—but afterward, stick around for so much more. Here’s a quick guide that highlights all that Kane County, Utah, has to offer families looking for an unforgettable vacation.
Many outdoor adventure enthusiasts are unfamiliar with Grand Staircase, despite its massive size and unspoiled offerings. While rugged and remote, Grand Staircase is surprisingly accessible from county highways, making it a great playground in which to hike, mountain bike, and fish. The region was among the last territory to be mapped in the contiguous United States, and it is now managed by the Bureau of Land Management. Find out more about activities in this region at the Kanab Visitor Center.
For those who want to see some the region’s famous slot canyons, the Bull Valley Gorge in the Grand Staircase region is perhaps the most well-known narrow canyon in the monument—but it’s still quite far off the beaten path. There are multiple dry falls to climb if you have the know-how. If not, they’re still awe-inspiring to see. Find it on Skutumpah Road, located within the Grand Staircase.
Kodachrome Basin State Park
Enjoy the fantastic vistas while hiking at Kodachrome Basin State Park. Murray Foubister
No fewer than 67 monolithic stone spires (or sand pipes) dot the landscape of this state park located a few miles south of UT 12 near Bryce Canyon (accessed from the town of Cannonville). To glimpse the most sand pipes, try the Grand Parade section of the park, where short trails (shorter than outright hikes) wind through the rocks. For official hikes, try the Grand Parade Trail or Angel’s Palace Trail.
If you want a long hike, hit the Panorama Trail for a six-mile loop past a scenic overlook, ravines, and more pipes. To see Chimney Rock, the largest of the sand pipes, find the unpaved road east at the ranger residence near the campground, or inquire with a ranger or camp host.
Glen Canyon National Recreation Area
Spanning Utah and Arizona, Glen Canyon offers up 1.25 million acres of backcountry and water-based wilderness, making it a boater and kayaker’s dream. There are five marinas on Lake Powell, offering every type of watercraft rental or opportunity. Just be sure to follow safety regulations.
At the Antelope Point Marina, you can rent houseboats, cruisers, jet skis, and kayaks. Lake Powell Resorts and Marinas also rents a variety of watercraft out of its locations in Wahweap and Bullfrog. If you’d rather spend a day on the water without a motorized boat, flat water rafting opportunities abound on the majestic Colorado River, with organized tours taking you to see iconic Horseshoe Bend, Lee’s Ferry, and the Vermilion Cliffs.
Want to see what everyone’s been Instagramming around here? Head to Rainbow Bridge, the most perfect natural arch formed over millennia. It’s an unbelievable sight. But spend some time putting away the camera and just enjoying this natural wonder.
Cedar Breaks National Monument
Have time to explore a bit further afield? Cedar Breaks National Monument doesn’t get the traffic it deserves, which is good news for those who do make the trip. Located just outside Kane County near Brian Head, Cedar Breaks provides fantastic canyons and forest to explore. In winter, this is a snowmobiling mecca, and in summer, this paradise at 10,000 feet is ideal for stargazing, hiking, and climbing. You’ll enjoy the respite from the Utah heat. For those traveling to this area, Duck Creek Village is a great place to stay while you’re exploring this part of the county.
Moqui Cave
An easy day trip visit from Kanab, Moqui Cave is an archaeological wonder. This unique history museum has everything from Native American artifacts to dinosaur footprints, making it an ideal stop for families with diverse interests. It’s right off Highway 89, only five miles from town, and you can fit a visit in with just a few hours. Just before reaching the Moqui Cave, you’ll find the Sand Caves, which is another fun off-the-beaten path area to explore.
Coral Pink Sand Dunes State Park
Coral Pink Sand Dunes State Park is a popular spot for riding ATVs. Jaci Starkey
As the name suggests, this state park is all about a sea of sand. Not far from Kanab, you can ATV ride, hike, or bike in the park, or try something that’s probably new to you: sandboarding. It’s essentially snowboarding on the sand, and you can count on getting a workout on the way up each slope before you slide down!
Coyote Buttes
This region on the Utah/Arizona border is best known for the Wave, a truly spectacular geographic formation, located at Coyote Buttes North. However, getting a permit to hike to the Wave is difficult, with only 20 hikers allowed each day. Those interested in attempting this hike should read up on the permitting process before a visit. While half of the permits are awarded in an advanced lottery, 10 are available in a live lottery held in Kanab each day. Is it worth the all the effort? Definitely. You can hike the Wire Pass Wash, then a ridgeline with slick rock domes before reaching the Wave. This is an extreme hike, however, not for those with younger children.
Culture in Kanab
Kanab is an artists’ haven, with multiple galleries worth exploring, as well as gift shops and museums. When you’re not exploring the outdoors, Raven’s Heart Gallery, the Rockin V Cafe and Art Gallery and the Rafter’s Gallery are all good options to see impressive works of art. The Kanab Heritage Museum features thousands of artifacts that tell the story of the town, dating back to the native peoples. You’ll also learn about early western explorers, the pioneers, and the early settlers of the region.
Where to Eat
For a small town, you’ll find diverse cuisine options, thanks to the number of visitors to the region. For example, you probably wouldn’t expect to find the Fusion House, with its interesting and inventive mix of Japanese and Chinese cuisine. You’ll be glad you found it. The Iron Horse Restaurant and Saloon is fun for a date night or adults-only dining. Hot Mama’s Pizza, located in Duck Creek Village, is always a favorite of the kids.
Where to Get a Good Night’s Rest
Wherever you stay, plan to make Kane County your home for a while. Michael Beaton
With families, we recommend the Best Western Red Hills for convenience and comfort that won’t break the travel budget. You’ll be central in Kanab but still close to the national parks. For high adventure, head to Basecamp 37°, a “glamping” option with an array of canvas-sided tents set amid the outdoors. You’ll enjoy nighttime stargazing at its finest. If you want a little more luxury while exploring Southern Utah with your partner or friends, check out Amangiri Resorts, ensuring five-star desert luxury that blends in perfectly with its surroundings.
Wherever you stay, plan to make Kane County your home for a while; as you can see, this outdoor vacation to-do list will take some time.