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Soulscaping Utah: Retreating in Kanab’s Red Rock Wilderness
- Savvy Single Mama
- 22 hours ago
- 17 min read
Updated: 17 hours ago
Go Wild in Kanab
Our SoulScaping Utah Retreat led us into Kanab where we glamped and visited the surrounding parks, trails, and hidden gems, where we were free to explore and get away from it all!
The colors of the Great American Southwest can’t be described adequately. We first drove through in 2018 while circling the Grand Canyon, and my eyes were amazed. Driving through I pulled the car over to the side of the road, and the kids jumped out and ran into the red rocks to climb and be in the monumental landscape. From that moment on, I knew I had to return. “Why aren’t we staying here?” I had asked, “how did I miss this in the planning?” I’d planned a trip with one night at 6 different locations to really be able to enjoy each place (briefly); I wondered how much time here would be enough? Maybe I just need to stay here. Forever. Yes, it’s that kind of place.
If you've ever dreamed of stepping into a landscape that looks like it belongs on another planet, Kanab, Utah, may be the destination you've been searching for. Nestled in the heart of red rock country, surrounded by some of the most spectacular scenery in the American Southwest, this small town serves as the gateway to towering sandstone cliffs, winding slot canyons, hidden waterfalls, and vast desert vistas that seem to stretch forever.
Known as "Little Hollywood" because of the hundreds of Western films and television shows filmed in the area, Kanab offers far more than movie history. Within a short drive, visitors can explore world-famous destinations such as Zion National Park, Bryce Canyon National Park, and the North Rim of the Grand Canyon, while also discovering lesser-known treasures like Coral Pink Sand Dunes, Kanarra Falls, Buckskin Gulch, and The Wave. Whether you're seeking adventure, photography, hiking, or simply a place to reconnect with nature, Kanab combines breathtaking beauty, rich history, and endless opportunities for exploration into one unforgettable destination. Did I mention food? There is a wide variety of eateries and restaurants, which we were able to take advantage of and I’m happy to share the good and the bad.
Soulscaping Utah Retreat in Kanab Experience
See prior retreats here.
I planned the SoulScaping Utah Retreat around Kanab Utah, choosing the end of May - beginning of June for us to experience this location. Why? Perfect proximity to some of my bucket list wish spots, once I found the glamping site, it was just a question of how much time will be needed to make this the most amazing experience possible? Timing is important as Utah has some cold winters and hot summers, and the dessert temperature greatly impacts the time. While my Retreat went wonderfully, it is now behind us and I will share the itinerary which I’d recommend to other travelers, whether you are a family, solo visitor, or a group. This is a must for everyone.
Underlined text will link you to the site associated for your convenience. I am not an affiliate for any of there businesses. Just sharing our experience to make your planning easier. If you need additional details, please reach out!
Where to Stay While You Retreat in Kanab
There are some options in the areas for hotels, motels, even some short-term rentals, but I highly recommend glamping – depending on the time of year. I would not glamp if it were the middle of summer or winter, but outside of the extreme heat and cold this is really the best option.
Cave Lakes Canyon Glamping Resort ~ SoulScaping Retreat in Kanab:
As a group we rented out the entire resort which consisted of 8 total units.
1 Stone House (1 full bed, sleeps 2) private bath, outdoor shower
1 Family Canvas Cabin (1 Queen bed, 2 bunks slept 6) private bath, tub and shower
2 Canvas Cabins (1 Queen or King bed, sleeps 2) private bath, tub and shower - we moved a twin bed into one of these cabins to make our party arrangements flow properly.
3 Waterfront canvas tents (1 King, two twins, sleeps 4) Shares two community family style bathrooms. These are family friendly.
1 Kiva tent (1 Queen, 2 twins) – Shares the family style bathrooms with the waterfront tents. Advertised as being "in" a cave. Kiva is near a flat red rock which feels more remote, yet not actually in a cave. This did impact our sleeping assignments as the person originally slotted for this tent is claustrophobic and did not want to be inside of a tent. She would have been fine. (The person is me.)
Community bathrooms – There are two bathrooms at the common area and two bathrooms shared by the 4 tents which do not have private bathrooms. These are very modern, clean, with hot water, strong water pressure, and stocked with toilet paper, paper towels, and soap. There's even a hair dryer!
However, If there really were 12 people combined between three waterfront tents, as well as 4 in the kiva tent, 16 people sharing the two bathrooms would be tough! The waterfront tents are family style tents which can sleep up to four people, IF children were glamping it would be harder to manage the bathroom traffic, as the other public bathrooms by the common area are a pretty far walk if someone is showering. Bathrooms near the tents have showers with shampoo, conditioner and body wash. Cave Lakes provided shower towels in the tents and all kinds of welcome items such as nontoxic bug spray, essential oils, and a little flashlight. They even provide beach towels!
The bathrooms inside of the canvas cabins are private luxury restrooms equipped with a tub, shower, sink area, and separate toilet. The toilet room, and tub area have a curtain to separate the areas, not a door. This impacted one group, who required additional bathroom privacy. These also have robes, and are fully stocked with hair dryers and shampoo, and conditioner.
The Resort: Tucked away in a private red rock canyon on 1400 acres of solitude, this secluded intimate resort offers a mesmerizing escape where the tranquility of the nature is the vibe. Hidden caves, lakes, spring fed ponds, and trails, are throughout. Cold plunge and sauna options are available as well as firepits, paddle boards, and cornhole. Some of the darkest star filled skies of Utah are directly overhead. This is a rare combination of luxury sheets, comfy beds, and the ruggedness of the southwest desert. Suites are equipped with full power - coffee stations, charging units, and solar lanterns. Waterfront views right off your patio. Every suite has both heat and air, along with running water. Those electric fireplaces come in great at night. Electric blankets also add a nice touch of comfort.
The common area has two grills for BBQ, a grassy area, and fit pit inside of the Hoodoo Cave. The main pond is a great place to take a dip or cast a rod to catch some fish. There’s a lovely, covered patio area with electricity where we had a large cooler, and access to some café tables, and electricity. A buffet table would have been great, but we worked with the round tables lining them up to create a place to eat catered breakfast’s each morning.
Horseback riding tours operate through the canyon, and a couple of times a day the horses will trail through. Walking paths take you to some incredible sights around the property like Dellenbaugh Cave and Weeping Cave - natural Cave Lakes full of history and wonder. There are some cool stories here about Dellenbaugh, who was a prominent cartographer/ map maker in the 19th century. He worked closely with John Wesley Powell, contributing to geological surveys.
His maps combined artistic detail with scientific accuracy, enhancing navigation and exploration.
He published several works on the geography and history of the regions he mapped. Dellenbaugh's legacy includes influencing modern cartography and outdoor exploration.
This is where wild meets sophistication. We spent our days adventuring and soul searching, and enjoyed cozy evenings by the fire beneath a starlit sky.
ROAM: Roam Outdoor Adventure Co. operates at the front of the property. Highland cows graze at the meadow. Horse stables and the UTV lot are along the driveway up to the canyon where the property manager lives, and the common area begins. There’s a lot of unique activities offered by Roam. As we took advantage of many (due to proximity and then great interactions with the guides) we can speak to how rich the experience is to completely go for it! I myself climbed the Via Ferrata. What’s a via ferrata you ask? It’s a series of metal ladders anchored into the canyon which you climb up 250 feet, and then rappel back down. Below, I will give an account of the tours and activities we participated in to help you plan your adventure.
Cave Lakes Canyon length is 2.5 miles curving into a low plateau between Zion National Park and the Grand Canyon. Located near Coral Pink Sand Dunes, Grand Staircase Escalante National Monument, Zion and Bryce Canyon National Park.
When they say location is everything, this is what they meant.
Getting there:
Las Vegas's Harry Ried is not the closest airport, but it makes the most sense if you’re prioritizing reasonably priced direct flights. Harry Reid International Airport is 3.5 – 4 hours from Kanab, but the best overall choice for most travelers. The drive from here is scenic and enjoyable.
St. George Regional Airport (SGU) is a 1.5 hour drive from Kanab, and the closest practical commercial airport. Their flights and prices may or may not work, definitely worth checking.
Retreating in Kanab ~~ SoulScaping Plan & Itinerary
Day 1: Arrive and Gather
Meeting in Vegas, I organized the pickup at Harry Reid. All flights landed by 10 am. We gathered our party and we drove to Kanab, stopping at Walmart in Hurricane, stocking up on lunches, drinks, snacks, and personal Items for the week. We lost an hour in the travels from Mountain time to Central time and pulled in by 3 PM. We got everyone settled into their units, (this took longer than anticipated, moving 8 groups of people can be tricky, and some of the units were a little different than expected) We had a welcome circle, and I drove into Kanab to grab pizzas, and salads from Lotsa Motsa Pizza. The food was excellent.
We had 15 people on this Art & Adventure retreat who all came with open hearts and minds, ready for this mental reset. An amazing group in a stunning place definitely set the tone.
Out week had times set aside for open-air paintings and group discussions, as well as time on their own for rest, relaxation, or private hikes and exploring of the property. Lots of work is done prior to arrival to ensure the actual trip is a success. We can't control things like weather, but we can be ready for many possibilities, and do our best to avoid last minute issues.
Day 2: Kanarra Falls – A Waterfall Adventure Through a Slot Canyon
Why We Chose This Experience
Hiking through cool water brooks, navigating the narrow canyon walls, and reaching the beautiful waterfalls that make this trail one of Southern Utah's hidden gems. Rain was forecast at 2 pm, so we left by 9 am, to arrive by 10:30 am and hike until 1:30. Slot canyons are not safe in rainfall as flash floods can be dangerous fast. We may have lingered longer if we weren’t playing beat the rainfall. Stopped for BBQ in Kanarraville at a place called Forge and Fire, who had great reviews. We are a little spoiled with food choices but I will say this was a great choice with reasonable prices, and we ate well! All of the meats and BBQ foods were awesome, but the mac n cheese and beans were not it.
Our Retreat Day Itinerary
Breakfast at Cave Lakes Canyon by Adria's
Morning painting and journaling session (rescheduled as to leave earlier due to weather)
Depart for Kanarra Falls
Begin hike after showing the ranger our paid reservations
Reach the first waterfall
Continue to the second waterfall
Opt for the third waterfall (waste deep water)
Return hike
Kanarraville for a big lunch
Group dinner and reflection
What to Expect
3.8-mile roundtrip hike
Water crossings throughout the canyon
One 20-foot ladder climb
Rocky riverbed conditions
Stunning red rock walls and waterfalls
Traveler Tips
Make reservations in advance: https://kanarrafalls.com/
$12.00 per person
✓ Wear water shoes or hiking shoes that can get wet
✓ Bring trekking poles for balance
✓ Pack dry socks for the ride home
✓ Reserve permits in advance
✓ Start early to avoid crowds
It is rated "moderate to strenuous" as you hike through ankle to knee deep water and climbing up and down steep rocky slopes. At the first large waterfall you will need to scale a 20′ ladder. Kanarra Falls hiking area is part of the Spring Creek Canyon Wilderness Study Area, but is a separate canyon located just north of the Spring Creek Canyon.
Fun Fact
Many visitors are surprised to learn that the hike's waterfalls are reached by climbing ladders attached directly to the canyon walls, creating a unique adventure unlike most waterfall hikes. Some took off their shoes or boots, and had frozen toes! There were many places where the water could be avoided, and as many areas where the only option was going through the water. Knee deep or less, but oooh cold!
Photo Gallery: Kanarra Falls
Retreat Reflection
5 of 5 Stars! This hike is a wonderful time in nature. For our group there was a mantra of "I can do hard things" beginning as this was a little trickier than we had anticipated with the rocks being slippery and water being cold. Our younger athletic guys were happy to climb trees, rocks, caves and explore the terrain. We took tons of photos and enjoyed this activity very much. As a group we encouraged each other and helped on another as needed. We felt like we had the place to ourselves much of the time.
Day 3: UTV Tour by ROAM to Peek-a-boo and Great Chamber
Why We Chose This Experience
Adventure is calling, and the only way to get to this remote slot canyon is with an off-road vehicle.
Our Retreat Day Itinerary
Breakfast at Cave Lakes catered by Adria's
Morning painting and journaling session
Drove down the driveway to the UTV yard, signed waivers, got gaiters for dust management
Brief UTV directions
Drive 45 minutes to the Great Chamber, short but steep hike up to the viewpoint
Continue driving 45 minutes to Peek-a-boo Slot Canyon, hike to the end
Drive UTV’s 25 minutes back to Cave Lakes
Photography and reflection time
Return to camp
What to Expect
Guided UTV ride
Deep sand roads, you will get dirty, do not bring personal items which can not be kept in glove compartment
Easy and moderate walking sections
Incredible photo opportunities
Massive sandstone formations
Traveler Tips - Book here: https://www.roam-outdoor.com/
✓ Wear clothing you don't mind getting dusty
✓ Bring sunglasses
✓ Secure cameras and phones
✓ Carry extra water
✓ Book guided tours well in advance
Fun Fact
The Great Chamber is a massive sandstone alcove hidden within the cliffs above Kanab. Many visitors say it feels like standing inside a natural cathedral carved by wind and time.
Photo Gallery
Retreat Reflection
5 out of 5 stars. During our Welcome Circle, I asked what people most looked forward to, and this activity repetitively came up. With big expectations, every person raved about this being a hit! Our guide Jacey was great too - book with him.
Day 4: Buckskin Gulch & Wire Pass – Walking Through Ancient Stone Corridors
Why We Chose This Experience
Exploring one of the longest and most famous slot canyons in the world. The towering sandstone walls gives the feeling of stepping into another world.
Our Retreat Day Itinerary
Breakfast by Adria's
Morning discussion session
Depart for Wire Pass Trailhead
Enter Wire Pass slot canyon
Explore Buckskin Gulch
Lunch break in the canyon
Return hike
Evening group gathering
What to Expect
Approximately 4–6 miles depending on route
Narrow slot canyon passages
Ladder descents
Spectacular sandstone formations
Minimal shade outside the canyon – it is HOT in the sun.
There’s a great spot for lunch in the confluence, 2 miles in. This is where Wire Pass and Buckskin meet. There are Petroglyphs found here!
Traveler Tips
Reserve Passes online prior to arrival: https://www.blm.gov/visit/buckskin-gulch
$6.00 per person.
✓ Check weather forecasts carefully
✓ Never enter during rain or storm threats
✓ Carry more water than you think you'll need
✓ Download maps before arriving
✓ Prepare to drive 8 miles down an unpaved road, Wire Pass Trail is the best trail head to park and enter.
✓ Wear sturdy hiking shoes
✓Bring protection from the sun, there is not a lot of shade
Fun Fact
Some sections of Buckskin Gulch are so narrow that visitors can touch both canyon walls with outstretched arms.
Photo Gallery
Retreat Reflection
4.8/ 5 Stars. Driving here on 8 miles of unpaved road took longer than expected. Initially, we pulled off to a trailhead that was not the desired starting point. When you arrive, you'll see all the cars in the parking lot. There is no one to scan your reservation. We did pre-pay online; however, this is an honor system. (I am glad we paid - Bureau of Land Management keeps land free and open for usage). We walked left at the confluence and continued about a mile. It was awesome. This is a dry hike. Coming out seemed to drag as the sun was blazing and we were conserving our water, moving pretty slowly! After we ate in Kanab at Rockin V Cafe, which has an art gallery upstairs and great food.
Day 5: Zion National Park – Exploring Utah's Crown Jewel
Why We Chose This Experience
One of America's most visited National Parks because of the unique features of Red Rocks and Virgin River trails. Known for Angel’s Landing and the Narrow’s, two hikes which attract a lot of attention for being out of this world experiences.
Our Retreat Day Itinerary
Breakfast on the go! We stopped and grabbed our food from Adria's enroute.
Scenic drive to Zion, 1 hour, through the Mount Carmel Tunnel
Shuttle into the canyon, all got off at the last stop Temple of Sinewa
Hiking and sightseeing
Many of us hiked the Narrows, for about 2.5 miles into the river
Some hiked the Grotto and Emerald Pools
We all met up under a big tree outside of the Zion Lodge
Took a shuttle from Zion into Springdale
Late lunch/ early dinner at Porters, where we had dessert as well, Bumbleberry pie!
Shuttled back into Zion, and walked to our van
Return to Kanab
Highlights of Our Visit
What an AMAZING day!
Zion Canyon Scenic Drive, Mount Carmel Tunnel was great
Riverside Walk, we all loved this trail, easy and scenically delightful
The Narrow’s – WOW!!!! Walking sticks do help. Some had a waterproof backpack. We all had light lunch foods. We found places to snack and eat along the route.
Springdale – a truly great little town, prices reflect the tourist attractions but the food was great.
We finally crossed the Narrow’s off our Bucket List (YAY!!!)
Traveler Tips
✓ Arrive before 8 a.m., parking fills up I think we grabbed the last two spots in the park. All other visitors park in Springdale, and shuttle from there.
✓ Use the shuttle system
✓ Bring sun protection
✓ Expect crowds during peak seasons
Fun Fact
The word "Zion" means a place of refuge or sanctuary, which many visitors feel perfectly describes the park's towering canyon walls and peaceful beauty.
Photo Gallery
Retreat Reflection
5/5 Stars. Zion on Day 5 had some feeling like a day at the camp was good for resting. Back at the camp it was a hot day where the AC could not keep up with the rising temps. This was a full day for us, and we really enjoyed the day. We split into two groups with some not wanting to wade through the water and others charging ahead. The dry crew enjoyed the grotto hike and hanging out by the Zion Lodge where food snacks and drinks were available. The others pulled up neoprene socks and prepared for the chilly water. As the day warmed up the water felt less chilly. This was the most people we saw the entire time on any activities. The river was packed! Lots of people venture into the Narrows, we saw children on the shoulders of their parents and people of all ages trekking through the rocks. Is it hard? Tricky. The water does rush in places and rocks are slippery.
Day 6: Do Whatever You Want Day
Why We Chose This Experience
An unscheduled break, time to breathe. BUT my adventurous friends who came on this retreat were ready for adventure, and all planned exciting options. After our final breakfast together, we all split into different groups for activities.
Activities:
Zion Hot Springs – 4 friends rented a jeep from ROAM and drive out to do this fun activity. Highly recommended.
Horseback Riding – Several people chose this fun activity which took a while to get loaded up but was an enjoyable 90 minute slow walk with calm and friendly horses.
Moqui Caves, and Museum – some really cool geology and history, good choice for gifts as well. There is a $6.00 admission fee. The cave hike itself is free and the trail can be found by following the signs.
Coral Pink Sand Dunes – UTV rides and sandboarding – this is the neighboring property (takes 20 minutes to drive around the canyon) and was a highlight to those who participated. Shorter people cannot drive the vehicles. But the boards and adventures are a unique was to really get the best vibe for the area. They enjoyed this so much, all who went purchased ROAM shirts.
Via Ferrata – WOW! I didn't think I'd opt in but I am glad I did. 3 of us booked at Sunset Via Ferrata experience and our guide was awesome. He met us right at Cave Lakes and we got geared up with all of the safety mechanisms, with an explanation. He drove us to the starting point and we climbed the iron ladders rung by rung up around the canyon. Many times looking down is just the canyon beneath you. Exhilarating.
Evening Dinner – provided by host, cooked out at the grills and made great food, had a good time with the brave and kind people who dared to jump on this retreat.
Places to eat in Kanab:
Kanab has a fun vibe as a downtown village and multiple restaurants.
Adria's catered our Breakfast's each morning. The food was excellent and ALL were impressed with the fresh options served daily. They provided all of the plates, utensils, serving tools, and heating elements needed, even providing coffee some mornings. Adria was a joy to organize with. Her cook Bill is great guy, and we appreciated the made with love commitment they upheld.
More Food that worked well:
Rockin V Cafe- Loved the vibe, loved the food, the atmosphere is the winner here
The Iron Horse- Good food, super fun atmosphere with lots of memorabilia and photo ops
Havana Cabana- Cuban food, big portions and great prices, the tres leche was awesome too!
Lotsa Motsa Pizza- Loved the pizzas and salads, large portions well made.
There are a few grocery stores in Kanab, and the prices are decent. They have everything you need. The local drug store was also handy; we even grabbed souvenirs here.
Alcohol must be purchased at State Run Stores and is not sold on Sunday or holidays.
People here are very friendly, a hard-working place where people care about the work they are doing! Crime is very low or nonexistent. There are no bears, only possibly snakes to watch out for.
Traveler Tips
✓ Be flexible when traveling with a group, pack to be prepared
✓ Try the local cuisine, culture and vibe for yourself, it's part of the fun
✓ Communicate your intentions to help others plan and keep all of the priorities clear
✓ You will drive for miles with out a gas station, plan to not get too low
✓ Don't try to go off roading with a regular vehicle, the sand is no joke!
✓ FOMO – Fear of Missing Out – is a real thing! Sometimes we all choose what’s best for us, unapologetically.
Fun Fact
We coordinated with Kelsey who was wonderful in making sure our time slots were available. She was a great resource to the area and a warm welcoming host. Patient and committed to getting the experience right. EVERYONE we worked with to make this a success was great.
What to pack?
Photo Gallery
Come Join Us!
If Kanab's red rock landscapes and our retreat experiences inspire you, I'd love for you to follow Savvy Single Mama Travels for more destination guides, travel tips, and future retreat announcements. My retreats are designed to combine adventure, creativity, and meaningful connection in some of the most beautiful places. While Autumn in Asheville is already fully booked, I have two retreats In 2027, check in for more details. Subscribers get the early bird pricing for all new opportunities. To work together, click HERE.
As a blogger, I enjoy helping families spend more time enjoying their quality time together and less time having to figure it all out. My four children have been my test subjects of how to plan a great family adventure for many years and now that my youngest is 21, many of my travels are work related, or grandma related! As time has changed, I've evolved but I still LOVE TO TRAVEL, explore, wander, visit, discover, learn and love. If nature is there, I can find my happy place. I use the term "single" not to emphasize my status but to signify that if I can manage some family fun on a limited teacher's salary with four children, anyone can do it. I am very intentional in how I spend my time and earnings. I typically seek out budget friendly ways to enjoy my time, but will occasionally splurge for the right reasons :-)
Happy Travels!!
God Bless every road you travel on. xo
Mz. Savvy
A note from the editor:
The information in this article was accurate when published but may change without notice. Confirm details when planning your trip. I hope this makes it easier for your planning process.
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It was such a fun trip! Thank you for hosting I had such an amazing time ❤️.