Kanab

Kanab is a county seat in Kane County, southwestern Utah, located at roughly 1515 meters (4970 feet) above sea level near several national parks. The town spreads along Kanab Creek and serves as a regional hub for travelers exploring the surrounding canyonlands and rock formations.

Jacob Hamblin founded the settlement in 1864 and built Fort Kanab on the east bank of Kanab Creek to support exploration and settlement efforts. Over the following decades, it grew into an important outpost for pioneers and travelers moving through this remote desert region.

The town earned the nickname Little Hollywood because crews filmed many Western movies here during the golden age of cinema, including scenes from famous productions. Several buildings still reflect that filmmaking legacy, with period storefronts and themed details along the main street.

U.S. Routes 89 and 89A cross through town and connect it to surrounding national parks and larger cities. A small municipal airport for general aviation sits on the western edge and offers access for private aircraft.

In 1914, the area drew attention when Freddy Crystal claimed to have found clues about the treasure of Montezuma in the nearby mountains. That story became part of local folklore and attracted treasure hunters for years afterward.

Location: Kane County

Inception: 1864

Founders: Jacob Hamblin

Elevation above the sea: 1,515 m

Shares border with: Kaibab Band of Paiute Indians, Fredonia

Website: http://kanab.utah.gov

GPS coordinates: 37.03556,-112.53111

Latest update: December 13, 2025 18:14