When it comes to traveling with pets, finding destinations that are both naturally beautiful and dog-friendly can be a challenge. But nestled in the red rock heart of southern Utah, Kanab is a town that doesn’t just welcome pets it embraces them. With its small-town charm, close proximity to some of the most iconic natural landmarks in the United States, and a wealth of outdoor activities, Kanab is the perfect launchpad for pet owners looking to explore the wild.
Whether you’re traveling in an RV, staying at a lodge, or camping under the stars, Kanab offers easy access to six national parks, monuments, and forests, each one offering unique opportunities for outdoor recreation with your four-legged companion. From towering canyon walls to serene pine forests, Kanab puts you within reach of experiences you’ll never forget and your dog will love every minute of it.
1. Zion National Park – Iconic Landscapes with Pet-Friendly Access
Distance from Kanab: Approximately 35 miles
Pet Policy: Dogs allowed on the Pa’rus Trail, paved areas, and campgrounds
Zion National Park is a stunning mix of towering cliffs, deep canyons, and lush riverbanks. Although the majority of Zion’s trails are closed to pets, the Pa’rus Trail offers a scenic, 1.7-mile walk that is completely pet-friendly. This paved path follows the Virgin River and provides excellent views of the canyon’s natural grandeur.
The trail is flat, shaded in parts, and includes pet waste stations, making it ideal for a relaxing walk or a short morning hike with your dog.
Tips for Pet Owners:
- Visit early in the morning or late in the evening to avoid the midday heat.
- Pets must remain leashed (6 feet or shorter).
- Zion’s shuttle buses do not allow pets, so access by foot or private vehicle is required.
2. Bryce Canyon National Park – Scenic Vistas for You and Your Pet
Distance from Kanab: Around 80 miles
Pet Policy: Pets allowed on paved areas, campgrounds, and Rim Trail between Sunrise and Sunset Points
Bryce Canyon is famous for its unique hoodoo rock formations and breathtaking amphitheaters. Although dogs are not permitted on most of the interior hiking trails, they are welcome on paved pathways and along the Rim Trail between Sunrise Point and Sunset Point, which offers dramatic views without much elevation change.
This area is perfect for photography and peaceful moments with your pet while avoiding the crowds that gather deeper inside the park.
Tip: The park sits at over 8,000 feet elevation, which keeps temperatures cooler but may cause fatigue in some dogs. Monitor their breathing and water intake.
3. Grand Staircase-Escalante National Monument – Endless Terrain for Adventurers
Distance from Kanab: Immediate access
Pet Policy: Dogs allowed on nearly all trails and backcountry routes
Grand Staircase-Escalante spans almost 1.9 million acres of rugged canyons, plateaus, and rock formations. The vastness and remoteness of the monument make it an ideal destination for seasoned hikers and off-the-beaten-path explorers. Fortunately for dog owners, the majority of the area is open to pets making this one of the most dog-friendly wilderness areas in Utah.
Recommended hikes with your dog:
- Toadstool Hoodoos Trail
- Buckskin Gulch via Wire Pass
- Willis Creek Slot Canyon
These trails offer solitude, shade, and fascinating rock formations that are sure to thrill you and your dog.
4. Coral Pink Sand Dunes State Park – A Playground of Red Sand
Distance from Kanab: 22 miles
Pet Policy: Pets welcome throughout the park on leash
Located just half an hour outside Kanab, Coral Pink Sand Dunes State Park is a lesser-known treasure that features wind-sculpted red sand dunes and open desert terrain. The vibrant color of the dunes, especially during golden hour, provides a striking backdrop for photos and exploration.
Dogs are allowed throughout the park, and many enjoy running across the dunes (on leash) or hiking the surrounding trails. The soft sand is easier on paws than rocky terrain, making it a good low-impact option.
Note: The dunes can become hot in the afternoon sun check sand temperatures before walking with your pet.
5. Dixie National Forest – Cool Air and Alpine Beauty
Distance from Kanab: 30–60 miles depending on entry point
Pet Policy: Dogs allowed on all trails, including wilderness and campgrounds
If you’re looking for a cooler, forested environment, Dixie National Forest offers a lush contrast to Utah’s desert landscape. With over 2 million acres, this forest features pine groves, mountain lakes, and meadows bursting with wildflowers in spring and summer.
Notable dog-friendly areas include:
- Red Canyon near Bryce (with wide open trails and hoodoo formations)
- Navajo Lake Loop Trail
- Duck Creek Village area (ideal for longer camping stays)
Dogs can roam off-leash in many parts of the forest (where permitted), and you can find secluded spots to set up camp far from crowds.
6. Lake Powell & Glen Canyon National Recreation Area – Water Adventures with Your Dog
Distance from Kanab: Approximately 75 miles
Pet Policy: Pets allowed on most trails, shorelines, and in the water
A paradise for aquatic enthusiasts, Lake Powell stretches over 180 miles and offers a variety of activities such as boating, kayaking, paddleboarding, and shoreline hiking. The Glen Canyon National Recreation Area, which surrounds the lake, is remarkably pet-friendly allowing dogs in most places.
Popular dog-friendly spots:
- Wahweap Marina shoreline
- Lone Rock Beach
- Antelope Point
Why Kanab Is the Best Base for Pet Explorers
Kanab itself is a welcoming hub for animal lovers:
- Best Friends Animal Sanctuary – Just outside of town, this is the largest no-kill shelter in the U.S. You can volunteer, tour the facility, or even borrow a dog for a hike.
- Pet-Friendly Lodging – Many of Kanab’s hotels, cabins, and vacation rentals accept pets with minimal restrictions.
- Dog-Friendly Dining – Several cafes and restaurants offer outdoor patios with water bowls and shade for pets.
Make Every Step Count Together
There’s a special kind of magic in discovering natural wonders with your pet by your side. Whether it’s trekking a red rock trail at sunrise or lounging by a quiet alpine lake, the shared experience of travel deepens the bond between you and your animal companion. Kanab, Utah, is not just a place on the map it’s a starting point for unforgettable memories that you’ll both carry for a lifetime.
FAQs
1. What parks can I visit near Kanab with my dog?
There are several scenic places close to Kanab where pets are welcome, including some trails in Zion, Bryce Canyon, and other public lands. Just make sure to check pet policies before heading out.
2. Can I bring my dog to Zion?
Yes, there’s a specific trail in Zion where dogs are allowed. It’s a good idea to visit during cooler times of the day and always keep your pet on a leash.
3. Is Bryce Canyon okay for pets?
While most hiking paths in Bryce are off-limits, there’s a beautiful stretch along the canyon rim where leashed dogs can join you for a short walk with great views.
4. Is Grand Staircase-Escalante suitable for pets?
Yes, it offers wide-open spaces and many trails where pets are permitted. It’s a great place if you prefer quieter, more remote spots to explore with your dog.