Discover the Magic of Winter at Best Friends Sanctuary
Southern Utah is breathtaking year-round but fall and winter offer a unique charm with fewer crowds and unobstructed views of its iconic red rocks. A must-visit destination in this stunning landscape is the Best Friends Animal Sanctuary, the nation’s largest no-kill animal sanctuary, located just outside Kanab, Utah. Awarded Best Attraction by Best of State Utah in 2024, the Sanctuary cares for about 1,600 animals daily and offers free tours and volunteer opportunities.
Visitors can brush horses, pet pigs, walk dogs, socialize with cats and bunnies, and more. Since its founding in 1984, Best Friends has transformed from a rustic expanse into a national leader in ending the killing of dogs and cats in shelters across America.
The Sanctuary’s peaceful energy, sense of community, and gorgeous setting draw visitors back year after year. Highlights include stunning hiking trails on its 3,000-acre property and a $5 all-you-can-eat vegan lunch with spectacular canyon views. Animal lovers of all ages can enjoy exploring the grounds or even adopting a new furry friend. Adoptions are available at three locations: Roxy’s Room, Sinjin’s in Cat World, and the Adoption Hub in Dogtown.
Visitors can pick up maps, plan tours, and enjoy complimentary coffee or tea at the Welcome Center. For longer stays, accommodations include cozy cabins and cottages on-site with views of horse pastures and starry skies. Alternatively, book a room at the award-winning Best Friends Roadhouse & Mercantile in downtown Kanab. Known as the most pet-friendly hotel in the country, the Roadhouse offers sleepovers with Sanctuary animals and allows guests to bring up to four pets at no extra charge. Every stay supports Best Friends’ lifesaving mission.
Located just five miles from the Sanctuary, the Roadhouse is also close to dining gems like Peekaboo Woodfire Kitchen, renowned for its vegan and vegetarian fare, including mouthwatering pizzas and desserts.
The Sanctuary is an ideal base for exploring Utah’s national parks, with Zion, Bryce Canyon, and the Grand Canyon North Rim less than 90 minutes away. Whether visiting for a few hours or several weeks, Best Friends promises a magical experience.
Learn more at bestfriends.org or call (435) 688-2327. For Roadhouse bookings, visit BestFriendsRoadhouse.org or call (435) 644-3400.
