Scenic Drives Near Kanab: From Red Rock Cliffs to Lake Powell

Kanab, Utah is surrounded by some of the most breathtaking landscapes in the American Southwest. Staying at Hitch-n’-Post RV Park puts you right in the center of it all. From dramatic red rock canyons to wide open desert vistas and sparkling water at Lake Powell, there are plenty of unforgettable drives within a short distance of the park. Whether you’re in a car, truck, or toad vehicle, these scenic routes show off the very best of southern Utah.

1. Zion National Park Scenic Drive (About 30 miles from Kanab)

A short drive north takes you to the east entrance of Zion National Park, one of Utah’s crown jewels. The journey alone is spectacular, with winding roads framed by red sandstone cliffs and tunnels cut right through the rock. Inside the park, the Scenic Drive offers views of towering walls, lush valleys, and trailheads like the Riverside Walk and the Emerald Pools.

2. Coral Pink Sand Dunes State Park (About 20 miles from Kanab)

Just 30 minutes from Hitch-n’-Post, the drive to Coral Pink Sand Dunes is as striking as the destination itself. The route passes through rolling red cliffs before opening up to a sea of shifting pink sand dunes. The road is paved, easy to navigate, and perfect for a quick outing that feels worlds away from town.

3. The Wave and House Rock Valley Road (About 47 miles from Kanab)

South of Kanab, adventurous travelers head toward The Wave in Coyote Buttes North. While permits are required for the hike, the drive down House Rock Valley Road offers scenic desert landscapes, colorful cliffs, and wide skies. Even without the hike, the journey itself is worth the time. Note that sections of this road are unpaved and best for high-clearance vehicles.

4. North Rim of the Grand Canyon (About 68 miles from Kanab)

For a longer day trip, take Highway 89A south to the Grand Canyon’s North Rim. This less crowded rim offers sweeping views, alpine meadows, and cooler temperatures. The drive takes you through Kaibab National Forest, where tall pines and open meadows make a refreshing contrast to the desert terrain near Kanab.

5. Lake Powell and Glen Canyon National Recreation Area (About 72 miles from Kanab)

Heading east on Highway 89 brings you to Lake Powell, a man-made reservoir framed by colorful cliffs and hidden coves. The drive features long stretches of open desert punctuated by dramatic rock formations. Once at the lake, you can enjoy boating, swimming, or simply taking in the views of the deep blue water against the orange sandstone.

Hitch-n’-Post RV Park’s location in Kanab makes it easy to explore southern Utah by car. Within just a few miles, you can go from red rock cliffs to sandy dunes, from alpine forests to the sparkling waters of Lake Powell. If you love road trips with incredible scenery at every turn, Kanab is the perfect place to start your engine.