
Grand Staircase-Escalante National Monument Kanab Visitor Center
Gateway to Southern Utah's stunning red rock landscapes, offering access to slot canyons, unique hikes, and thrilling adventures.

Highlights
Must-see attractions
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Best Time
Pleasant temps for hiking

Grand Staircase-Escalante National Monument Kanab Visitor Center
Best Time
Pleasant temps for hiking

Highlights
Must-see attractions
Gateway to Southern Utah's stunning red rock landscapes, offering access to slot canyons, unique hikes, and thrilling adventures.
"The staff here is a wealth of information for all tourist activities."

🗺️ Get Local Insights
Visitor center staff are goldmines for trail advice and hidden gems.
🚗 4x4 Recommended
Some areas, like Coyote Buttes South, may require a 4x4 vehicle.

Highlights
Discover the most iconic attractions and experiences

Toadstool Hoodoos
Grand Staircase-Escalante National Monument
Unique sandstone formations resembling giant toadstools. Feels like walking on another planet!

Belly of the Dragon
Near Kanab, Utah
A cool, water-carved tunnel offering a unique hiking and photography experience.

Coral Pink Sand Dunes
Kanab, Utah
Experience thrilling ATV tours and sandboarding on vibrant pink sand dunes.

Peekaboo Slot Canyon
Near Kanab, Utah
Explore stunning slot canyons via UTV tours, a less crowded alternative to popular spots.
Plans like a pro.
Thinks like you
Planning Your Visit
Visitor Center First Stop
Plan for Adventure
Best Times
Insider Tips
from TikTok, Instagram & Reddit
🗺️ Get Local Insights
Visitor center staff are goldmines for trail advice and hidden gems.
🚗 4x4 Recommended
Some areas, like Coyote Buttes South, may require a 4x4 vehicle.
💧 Pack Plenty of Water
Desert heat is no joke! Stay hydrated on all your adventures.
🥾 Sturdy Hiking Shoes
Essential for navigating varied terrain, from sandy dunes to rocky trails.
Tips
from all over the internet
🗺️ Get Local Insights
Visitor center staff are goldmines for trail advice and hidden gems.
🚗 4x4 Recommended
Some areas, like Coyote Buttes South, may require a 4x4 vehicle.
💧 Pack Plenty of Water
Desert heat is no joke! Stay hydrated on all your adventures.
🥾 Sturdy Hiking Shoes
Essential for navigating varied terrain, from sandy dunes to rocky trails.
📸 Capture the Views
Don't forget your camera for the unique landscapes and rock formations.
What Travellers Say
Reviews Summary
Visitors consistently praise the Kanab Visitor Center for its incredibly helpful and knowledgeable staff, who provide excellent advice for exploring the Grand Staircase-Escalante National Monument and surrounding areas. Many appreciate the insights into hidden gems and personalized recommendations that enhance their trips. While the visitor center itself is functional, the true value lies in the expert guidance offered.
"Erin, Sedina and Kaitlyn, thank you. This place was really fun and they really liked the volunteers, informative and gave us a plethora information. Lots of things to look at especially if you are a geologist. One of the workers there, is in school to be a geologist and it was fabulous having a conversation with her. We really enjoyed the maps and the cross-section plus the histories of the area.
I WOULD RECOMMEND"
Cindy L
"Thank you for the excellent help and advice Isaac-P. You helped us get our camping plans and hiking plans in the Kanab area set up. You are also kind and patient! We appreciate your efforts on behalf of visitors. See you again."
Jean Dewart
"Alan was great. He shared the best routes for us to take on our journey through Utah. We skipped a couple of our original places we planned to visit because he had hidden gems for us to visit and we hit every one of them. We had a fantastic time."
Sheryle Leal
What People Like
What People Dislike
Frequently Asked Questions
🚇 🗺️ Getting There
The Kanab Visitor Center is conveniently located in the town of Kanab, Utah. If you're driving from Las Vegas, it's about a 3-hour drive. From Salt Lake City, it's a longer drive, around 5-6 hours. Many visitors use Kanab as a base for exploring surrounding areas like Zion National Park, which is about a 30-minute drive away.
Kanab serves as an excellent gateway to the Grand Staircase-Escalante National Monument. You can drive directly into parts of the monument from Kanab. For more remote areas or specific trailheads, a 4x4 vehicle might be necessary, or consider guided tours.
Yes, there are public restrooms available at the Kanab Visitor Center, located on the outside of the building for easy access.
Absolutely! Kanab is often called the 'Gateway to Southern Utah' and is perfectly situated for day trips to Zion National Park, Bryce Canyon National Park, and the Grand Staircase-Escalante National Monument. It's also a great starting point for adventures like slot canyon tours.
For general travel within Kanab and to popular spots like Zion, a standard car is usually sufficient. However, for accessing more rugged areas or specific trailheads within Grand Staircase-Escalante, a high-clearance vehicle or 4x4 is often recommended. Some tours provide transportation.
🎫 🎫 Tickets & Entry
Generally, no permit is required for most areas of Grand Staircase-Escalante National Monument for day use. However, specific popular areas like Coyote Buttes South (part of the monument) require a permit obtained through a lottery system. Always check the BLM website for the most current permit information.
The Kanab Visitor Center typically operates during standard business hours, though specific times can vary seasonally. It's best to check their official website or call ahead to confirm current hours before your visit.
Grand Staircase-Escalante National Monument is a public land managed by the Bureau of Land Management (BLM) and does not have an entrance fee for most areas. However, some specific attractions or tours within or near the monument may have associated costs.
Yes, the Kanab Visitor Center often has a gift shop where you can purchase souvenirs and collect passport stamps, which are popular among travelers.
The visitor center staff can provide recommendations for various guided tours in the area, including ATV tours, slot canyon expeditions, and hiking guides. They can help you find reputable operators.
🎫 🏞️ Onsite Experience
Key attractions include the Toadstool Hoodoos for their unique formations, Belly of the Dragon for a cool hike, and various slot canyons accessible via guided tours. The visitor center can point you to many more hidden gems.
The monument is renowned for its diverse geology, featuring vast canyons, colorful sandstone formations, hoodoos, and ancient fossil beds. The visitor center has exhibits that explain these features.
Yes, the Toadstool Hoodoos trail is a relatively short and easy hike suitable for families. The visitor center can recommend other family-friendly options.
The Toadstool Hoodoos, Belly of the Dragon, and various slot canyons offer incredible photographic opportunities. The vibrant red rock landscapes and unique formations are stunning.
Kanab is a popular destination for off-roading and ATV adventures, especially at places like Coral Pink Sand Dunes. Several tour operators offer guided ATV tours.
🍽️ 🍽️ Food & Dining
Kanab offers a variety of dining options. For Cuban food, Havana Cabana is a popular choice. The Cave Cafe is known for its coffee and acai bowls with great views. Many restaurants cater to hikers and travelers.
Yes, The Cave Cafe is a highly-rated coffee shop with unique views and delicious offerings. It's a great spot to grab a coffee before or after exploring.
While specific menus vary, most restaurants in Kanab are accommodating. It's always a good idea to check menus online or ask your server about vegetarian and vegan options.
Designated picnic areas are limited within the monument itself. It's often best to pack a picnic to enjoy at trailheads or scenic overlooks. Kanab has grocery stores for supplies.
Kanab has a mix of cuisines, with American comfort food, Mexican, and Cuban influences being common. You'll also find cafes and diners catering to tourists.
📸 📸 Photography
The Toadstool Hoodoos offer surreal landscapes, Belly of the Dragon provides dramatic light and shadow play, and slot canyons like Peekaboo are incredibly photogenic. The red rock vistas are stunning at sunrise and sunset.
The 'golden hours' – shortly after sunrise and before sunset – offer the most dramatic lighting for the red rock formations. Midday can be harsh, but slot canyons offer shade and unique light year-round.
For personal, non-commercial photography, no special permit is typically required in most areas of the monument. Commercial photography or videography may require permits.
A wide-angle lens is great for capturing the vast landscapes and slot canyons. A tripod can be useful for low-light conditions or long exposures. Don't forget extra batteries and memory cards!
While not explicitly mentioned, many ATV and slot canyon tour operators can accommodate photography enthusiasts. Inquire when booking your tour.
For Different Travelers
Tailored advice for your travel style
👨👩👧 Families with Kids
For a different kind of excitement, consider an ATV tour at Coral Pink Sand Dunes or exploring the Belly of the Dragon tunnel. These activities provide memorable experiences that are engaging for children. The Kanab Visitor Center can also provide recommendations for other family-friendly trails and activities in the area.
🚗 Road Trippers & Day-Trippers
From Kanab, you can easily embark on day trips to explore the Grand Staircase-Escalante National Monument, including hikes to the Toadstool Hoodoos or guided tours into slot canyons. The Coral Pink Sand Dunes are also a popular nearby attraction for a unique desert experience. The Kanab Visitor Center is your best bet for quick, expert advice on maximizing your day trips.
📸 Photography Enthusiasts
Don't miss the Toadstool Hoodoos for surreal, otherworldly shots, and the Belly of the Dragon for its distinctive carved textures. The golden hours around sunrise and sunset offer the best light for the vast red rock scenery. The Kanab Visitor Center can offer insights into the best locations and times for photography.
Deep Dives
In-depth insights and expert knowledge
Exploring Slot Canyons Near Kanab
These tours typically involve driving ATVs or UTVs through scenic desert terrain before hiking into the narrow, sculpted sandstone walls. The play of light and shadow within the canyons creates a magical atmosphere, making them a photographer's dream. It's advisable to book these tours in advance, especially during peak travel seasons, to secure your spot and ensure you have the best experience.
When planning your slot canyon adventure, remember to wear sturdy shoes, bring plenty of water, and be prepared for the desert environment. The unique geological formations and the feeling of being immersed in nature are what make these canyons an unforgettable part of any trip to Kanab.
Adventure Activities Around Kanab
For those who prefer a different kind of exploration, Kanab is also known for its unique geological formations. The Toadstool Hoodoos offer a surreal hiking experience, with their whimsical, mushroom-like rock structures that feel otherworldly. Belly of the Dragon, a water-carved tunnel, presents a cool and shaded adventure, ideal for a unique photo opportunity.
Many visitors also opt for guided expeditions that combine different activities, allowing them to experience the best of what the Kanab area has to offer. Whether you're interested in off-roading, exploring natural wonders, or simply enjoying the stunning desert scenery, Kanab provides ample opportunities for adventure.
The Role of the Kanab Visitor Center
Inside the visitor center, you'll find informative exhibits detailing the area's rich geological history and paleontology. It's also a great place to pick up maps, collect passport stamps, and purchase souvenirs. The center acts as a crucial hub for planning your adventures, whether you're interested in hiking, off-roading, or simply taking in the scenic beauty.
Many travelers recommend making the visitor center their first stop upon arriving in Kanab. It's the perfect place to get personalized advice, discover hidden gems recommended by locals, and ensure you have a safe and enjoyable experience in the Grand Staircase-Escalante National Monument and surrounding areas.






Social
from TikTok, Instagram & Reddit