Best Friends Animal Sanctuary Kanab Utah
Largest no-kill animal sanctuary in the US, offering a haven for over 1,600 rescued animals and a place of peace.
Highlights
Must-see attractions
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From TikTok & Reddit
Best Time
Pleasant weather for exploring
Best Friends Animal Sanctuary Kanab Utah
Best Time
Pleasant weather for exploring
Highlights
Must-see attractions
Largest no-kill animal sanctuary in the US, offering a haven for over 1,600 rescued animals and a place of peace.
"Truly the most magical place on earth, offering peace and inspiration for all who visit."
🐾 Book Tours in Advance
Free guided tours are popular! Book ahead online to secure your spot and learn about the sanctuary's mission.
👟 Wear Comfortable Shoes
You'll be doing a lot of walking across the vast sanctuary grounds. Comfortable footwear is a must!
Highlights
Discover the most iconic attractions and experiences
Dogtown
Best Friends Animal Sanctuary
Wander through Dogtown and meet hundreds of canine residents eager for attention and a chance at a forever home.
Cat World
Best Friends Animal Sanctuary
Experience the charm of Cat World, where felines of all ages and personalities find comfort and companionship.
Angel Rest Cemetery
Best Friends Animal Sanctuary
A serene and touching memorial garden honoring beloved pets who have passed. A place for reflection and remembrance.
Piggy Paradise
Best Friends Animal Sanctuary
Meet the delightful pigs at Piggy Paradise, where they enjoy spacious living and plenty of opportunities for snuggles.
Plans like a pro.
Thinks like you
Planning Your Visit
Plan Your Visit to Best Friends Animal Sanctuary
+1Embrace the Animal Lover's Paradise
Best Times
Insider Tips
from TikTok, Instagram & Reddit
🐾 Book Tours in Advance
Free guided tours are popular! Book ahead online to secure your spot and learn about the sanctuary's mission.
👟 Wear Comfortable Shoes
You'll be doing a lot of walking across the vast sanctuary grounds. Comfortable footwear is a must!
💧 Stay Hydrated
Kanab can get hot, especially in summer. Bring plenty of water or utilize the refill stations.
💖 Consider Volunteering
Even a few hours of volunteering can make a huge difference for the animals.
Tips
from all over the internet
🐾 Book Tours in Advance
Free guided tours are popular! Book ahead online to secure your spot and learn about the sanctuary's mission.
👟 Wear Comfortable Shoes
You'll be doing a lot of walking across the vast sanctuary grounds. Comfortable footwear is a must!
💧 Stay Hydrated
Kanab can get hot, especially in summer. Bring plenty of water or utilize the refill stations.
💖 Consider Volunteering
Even a few hours of volunteering can make a huge difference for the animals.
🚗 Self-Guided Tours Available
If tours are full, a self-guided drive-through offers a great overview of the sanctuary.
What Travellers Say
Reviews Summary
Visitors consistently describe Best Friends Animal Sanctuary as a magical and peaceful place, highlighting the incredible work done to care for over 1,600 animals. Many find deep emotional fulfillment and inspiration during their visits, whether through tours, volunteering, or quiet reflection at Angel Rest. The sanctuary's mission to 'Save Them All' resonates strongly with guests.
"Best Friends Animal Society is a "no kill" animals rescue organization. Thei effort to "save them all" located at 5001 Angel Canyon Rd. kanab, UT 84741"
Jerry Napombhejara
"One of the best places to visit. This is the 5th time we’ve been here. Here I find peace. Angel landing is just amazing. I’ve shed show many tears at Angel Rest. Reading all the messages of owners, thinking how many angels are resting there."
Anelia Lattanzi
"Truly beautiful home for animals and the people who care for them."
Luanne Leslie
What People Like
What People Dislike
Frequently Asked Questions
🚇 🗺️ Getting There
Best Friends Animal Sanctuary is located at 5001 Angel Canyon Road, Kanab, UT 84741. It's about a 3-hour drive from Las Vegas, Nevada, and a 4-hour drive from Salt Lake City, Utah. Many visitors combine a trip here with nearby national parks like Zion and Bryce Canyon.
Public transportation options directly to the sanctuary are limited. Most visitors arrive by car. Renting a car is recommended for flexibility in exploring Kanab and the surrounding areas.
Yes, you can drive through parts of the sanctuary. This offers a glimpse of the animals and the vast grounds, especially if you don't have time for a guided tour.
The closest major airports are Las Vegas McCarran International Airport (LAS) and St. George Regional Airport (SGU). From these airports, you'll need to rent a car to reach Kanab.
The sanctuary is well-marked with signs once you are in the Kanab area. Follow Angel Canyon Road, and you'll see the entrance.
🎫 🎫 Tickets & Entry
Entry to the sanctuary grounds is free. However, guided tours are highly recommended and can be booked in advance online. Donations are greatly appreciated to support the animals.
The sanctuary grounds are generally accessible during daylight hours for self-guided visits. Specific tour times and visitor center hours can be found on their official website. It's best to check their schedule before your visit.
Visiting the sanctuary itself is free. There is no admission fee. However, donations are crucial for their operations and animal care. You can also purchase merchandise or dine at their cafe.
Yes, adoption is a core part of their mission! If you're looking to adopt, you can learn about available animals and the adoption process on their website or by visiting the sanctuary.
While general visitors of all ages are welcome, specific volunteer roles may have age restrictions. It's best to check the requirements for any volunteer activities you're interested in.
🎫 🧭 Onsite Experience
You can see a wide variety of animals, including dogs, cats, rabbits, pigs, horses, parrots, and more. The sanctuary is home to over 1,600 rescued animals.
The free guided tours offer an excellent behind-the-scenes look at the sanctuary's operations and animal care. Popular tours include the main sanctuary tour and specific animal area tours.
Direct interaction with animals is typically supervised and part of specific programs or tours. You can often pet and interact with animals in designated areas, especially during tours or volunteer sessions.
The sanctuary strives to be accessible. Many areas are navigable, but due to the natural terrain, some paths may be challenging. It's advisable to contact them in advance if you have specific accessibility needs.
Dogtown is a large area dedicated to the sanctuary's canine residents. You can see dogs of all breeds and sizes, learn about their stories, and sometimes even interact with them.
🍽️ 🍽️ Food & Dining
Yes, the Best Friends Roadhouse and Mercantile offers vegan and vegetarian options. It's a great place to grab a bite and support the sanctuary. +1
You are welcome to bring your own snacks and drinks. There are also designated areas where you can enjoy your packed meals.
The Roadhouse and Mercantile offers a cafe with vegan and vegetarian dishes, coffee, and other refreshments. It's a popular spot for visitors.
Kanab town has several restaurants offering various cuisines. The Roadhouse is conveniently located on the sanctuary grounds.
The Roadhouse and Mercantile is a pet-friendly establishment, and many visitors enjoy dining there with their furry companions.
📸 📸 Photography
Yes, photography is generally allowed and encouraged! Capture the beauty of the animals and the sanctuary. However, always be respectful and avoid disturbing the animals.
The scenic landscapes of Angel Canyon, the various animal habitats, and the interactions between animals and caregivers offer fantastic photo opportunities.
You can take photos of the animals, but please do so from a respectful distance and without using flash, which can startle them.
Drone usage is typically restricted at animal sanctuaries to avoid disturbing the animals. It's best to check the sanctuary's specific policies regarding drones before flying.
Many visitors share their experiences on social media using hashtags like #BestFriendsAnimalSanctuary and #KanabUtah. Tagging the sanctuary is also a great way to show your support.
For Different Travelers
Tailored advice for your travel style
👨👩👧 Families with Kids
Consider planning your visit around specific animal areas that might particularly appeal to children, such as Dogtown or Piggy Paradise. The Best Friends Roadhouse and Mercantile is also a family-friendly spot with dining options. Remember to emphasize to children the importance of respecting the animals' space and not disturbing them.
🐾 Pet-Friendly Travelers
While pets are not allowed in all areas of the sanctuary itself to protect the resident animals, the Roadhouse provides a comfortable base. Kanab also offers other pet-friendly accommodations and dining options, making it a great destination for those who don't want to leave their pets behind.
💖 Compassionate Travelers
+1Visiting the Angel Rest Cemetery can be a moving experience, offering a space for reflection on the lives of beloved pets. The entire sanctuary embodies a spirit of kindness and dedication, making it a pilgrimage site for those who are passionate about animal rescue and advocacy.
Deep Dives
In-depth insights and expert knowledge
The Mission of Best Friends Animal Sanctuary
+1The sanctuary provides a safe haven for over 1,600 animals, including dogs, cats, rabbits, pigs, horses, and birds. These animals come from various backgrounds, including overcrowded shelters, hoarding situations, and abusive environments. At Best Friends, they receive medical care, rehabilitation, socialization, and the chance to live out their lives in peace or find loving adoptive homes.
+1Visitors can experience the sanctuary through tours, volunteering, or even by staying at the Best Friends Roadhouse and Mercantile. The organization also works with shelters across the country, offering resources and support to help them become no-kill. Their work is a testament to the power of compassion and dedication to animal welfare.
Visiting Kanab, Utah: A Gateway to Adventure
Best Friends Animal Sanctuary is a major draw for Kanab, attracting animal lovers from around the globe. However, the area is also a gateway to iconic national parks. Zion National Park is just an hour's drive away, offering breathtaking hikes and scenic drives. Bryce Canyon National Park and Grand Staircase-Escalante National Monument are also within reach, providing opportunities for further exploration and adventure.
+1Beyond the natural beauty, Kanab offers a unique cultural experience. Visitors can explore local art galleries, enjoy delicious food at various eateries, and experience the welcoming spirit of the community. The Best Friends Roadhouse and Mercantile also provides a unique lodging and dining option for those who want to stay close to the sanctuary.
Volunteering and Making a Difference
+1Many visitors find that dedicating time to volunteer work enhances their connection to the sanctuary's mission. It's a chance to get hands-on experience, learn more about animal behavior and care, and meet like-minded individuals. The sanctuary provides training and support to all volunteers, ensuring a safe and fulfilling experience.
+1For those looking for a more immersive experience, longer-term volunteer programs or internships may be available. These can offer a deeper understanding of animal rescue operations and the challenges faced by shelters nationwide. Whether you have a few hours or a few weeks, volunteering at Best Friends is a meaningful way to give back.
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