Home Care In Kanab, UT

Symphony of the Canyons: 39 Years of Musical Magic in Kanab, Utah

Thirty-nine years ago, a group of 17 musicians, led by the local pharmacist, united to stage their first-ever performance of The Music Man in Kanab, Utah. Little did they know that this event would lay the foundation for what would become Symphony of the Canyons—a musical legacy that endures to this day. Under the baton of pharmacist-conductor Kortney Stirland, who retired in 2022, the orchestra has flourished, presenting over 300 concerts and captivating audiences with their mesmerizing melodies.

From enchanting renditions of “The Nutcracker” during the holiday season to impressive musicals at Kanab Area Community Theater, Symphony of the Canyons has become an integral part of Kanab’s cultural fabric. In 1990, the orchestra transformed into an official non-profit entity, allowing them to apply for grants and solicit donations for music and equipment. This change also led to the inception of “Operation Band-Aid,” an annual Christmas concert featuring dinner and performances, which now serves as the orchestra’s primary fundraiser and supports the Kanab High School scholarship fund.

The orchestra’s influence expanded beyond Kanab’s borders when they performed for a live radio audience during a special USO show commemorating the Smithsonian Exhibit on World War I in 1995. They further showcased their talent with annual performances at the north rim of Grand Canyon National Park, at the Utah Arts Festival in Salt Lake City, and by hosting piano master Pierce Emata from Indianapolis in a series of memorable concerts.

In 1999, the orchestra changed its name to Symphony of the Canyons to better reflect the diverse group of performers hailing from various communities, ranging in age from young teenagers to seasoned musicians. One poignant performance followed the tragic events of 9/11, where they paid tribute to the lives lost in the catastrophe. Another stirring moment arrived when they collaborated with local schools and a children’s choir, Voiceworx, to present “Light the Fire With,” a heartfelt homage to the 2002 Winter Olympics in Utah.

Over the years, Symphony of the Canyons has received numerous accolades, with retired Conductor Kortney Stirland, being nominated for the Governor’s Award for Excellence in the Arts in 1992. In 2003, the orchestra was presented with the Governor’s Silver Bowl Award, honoring their significant contributions to enriching the lives of others.

Remarkably, for a community with approximately 5,000 residents, Symphony of the Canyons thrives as a labor of love, driven by passionate leaders, dedicated volunteers, and talented performers. Their commitment results in about a dozen concerts each year, captivating audiences and nurturing the enduring love for great music in Kanab, Utah.

The 2023 Symphony of the Canyons summer concerts will include the North Rim Lodge once again. This year’s performances are under the direction of Ellie Barlow, conductor, and include selections from popular movies and plays such as Les Misérables, Forest Gump, and My Fair Lady, along with the usual summer flair for rock and patriotic themes. Please join us as we celebrate our 39th year.

This year’s performance schedule has the symphony playing at the Kanab Center, Kanab, UT, on August 31st, 6:30 PM. Then at Cottonwood Park, in Colorado City, AZ, on September 8th, 6 PM, with a third performance at the North Rim Lodge, North Rim, AZ, on September 9th, 5 PM.

Visit www.symphonyofthecanyons.org for more information.

Do you remember the TV show Gunsmoke? For twenty years, Americans tuned in to see Matt Dillon, Festus, Miss Kitty, and Doc dealing with the trials and tribulations of life in the Wild West in Dodge City, Kansas. The show ran from 1955 to 1975, and was so popular that when CBS tried to cancel it in 1967, public outcry convinced the network to change its mind. Though the show was set in Kansas, much of it was actually filmed right here in Kanab, Utah and we are so happy that the abandoned film set is still standing! So if you’ve ever thought, or been asked the question, “Where was Gunsmoke filmed?” read on to get all of the details!

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While you definitely should not get close to this film set, it’s fun to see photos of it, and if you have a camera with a decent zoom lens (or a pair of binoculars), you can see it from the fence. Have you seen (from a distance, of course) this abandoned Gunsmoke filming location?” If so, we’d love to see your photos and read your comments about it below!

If you enjoy seeing and photographing Utah’s beautiful outdoor spaces, join our Utah Nature Lovers Facebook Group!

Film history buffs will want to check out these places that were the backdrop for numerous movies in Utah! And if you’re interested in making a weekend trip to Kanab, there is no better place to spend the night than at the nearby SpringHill Suites Springdale Zion National Park.

Are you looking for other fun things to do in Utah? Then check out this video:

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ST. GEORGE — The volunteer leads a large, black and brown dog from the hydrotherapy tank, laughing while she dries him with a towel. He wags his tail. At Best Friends Animal Society, Mary Oetjens is considered a “one-woman miracle worker” for her work with stressed or elderly canines and those with mobility issues.

Oetjens began working with dogs in Michigan. As a U.S. Postal Service employee, she would let neighborhood canines jump in her truck for a ride while delivering mail to culs-de-sac, she told St. George News. She volunteered in her spare time.

After 37 years, the Michigander retired and relocated to Kanab. Oetjens said she began traveling to Best Friends in 2013, volunteering for three weeks. Over time, she increased the length of her visits to the sanctuary before deciding to move.

Currently, Oetjens said she visits the Best Friends Animal Sanctuary at least four times a week, helping dogs in various situations, including senior canines at Old Friends and those with mobility issues, taking them to their hydrotherapy appointments.

“You had a good life,” she said. “You want to give back all the goodness that you’ve got, and I enjoy just helping people — helping animals, and it just makes you feel good inside.”

The volunteer “has a special place in her heart” for stressed dogs, according to a news release issued by Best Friends.

“She will take them for outings and sleepovers at her home to decompress, which allows for their true personalities to emerge,” the release reads. “Once she knows the dogs’ true persona, she is able to talk to potential adopters and share how the dogs behave in her home. By doing this, she’s been the gateway for many dogs to find loving homes.”

While her biggest challenge is preparing dogs for adoption and having them remain at the shelter, Oetjens said watching the animals leave the sanctuary for new homes is the most rewarding aspect of her work.

“It’s like a bittersweet moment, though, because you cry because you’re not going to be seeing them anymore, but you’re also crying because they finally have found a home that they deserve,” she said.

One such dog was Doppler, who would spin in circles, dig holes and “just go bonkers” after he arrived at the sanctuary, Oetjens said, adding that some were worried he wouldn’t do well in a home. So he began visiting hers.

He got along with Oetjen’s dogs and fell asleep on her couch. During their first sleepover, one of the canines, Susan, had a seizure due to a condition that’s being treated. Doppler stayed with her until she recovered.

“So I knew he belonged in a home,” Oetjens said. “He was the best dog, and he just got adopted. And I smile every time I think of him. I do miss him tremendously, but that memory — that just keeps me going.”

In a similar case, Elvis, a hound dog, was overwhelmed by the noise and activity typical in shelters, getting “wound up in everything around him” and “barking, running along the edge of his yard and working himself into a tizzy,” according to this Best Friends article.

Additionally, the hound had a “knack” for jumping fences and pulling the leash to “follow his nose” — behavior staff worried would discourage potential adopters, the article states. However, shortly after pulling into Oetjen’s driveway, “he was all tail-wags and loose body language.”

“It was a world of difference from the bundle of nervous energy displayed in his yard,” the article reads.

Coincidentally, Elvis also stayed with Susan during a seizure and followed her closely once she recovered, Oetjens said.

“Pups are such amazing creatures,” she added. “We humans can learn so much from their compassionate ways.”

To those considering volunteer work, Oetjens said that there is various work to do, and individuals should explore the Best Friends Animal Sanctuary to learn more about the “many possibilities” available.

“Look at your lives and see how many gifts you’ve been given,” she said. “And then give those gifts back to others — animals,” she said. “However you want to give back, volunteering is just — it fills your heart full of smiles and love, and yes, tears. There are tears, but they’re good tears.”

Volunteering provides “valuable labor and love at no charge to Best Friends,” the release reads. In 2022, volunteers contributed over 445,000 human hours to the nonprofit, work valued at over $13 million at an estimated cost of $29.95 per hour.

“Simply put, Best Friends couldn’t realize its mission to end the killing of shelter pets by 2025 without volunteers like Mary,” the release states.

Copyright St. George News, SaintGeorgeUtah.com LLC, 2023, all rights reserved.

U.S. Route 89A, also known as the Fredonia–Vermillion Cliffs Scenic Road, is one of the most scenic drives in America. The 92-mile route running through Arizona and Utah winds past cliffs, canyons, forests, and rivers. Where does U.S. Route 89A start and end? Let’s read on to find out.

Where Does U.S. Route 89A Start and End?

U.S. Route 89A starts in Bitter Springs, AZ, where it branches from U.S. Route 89. It ends its journey in Kanab, UT, where it reconnects with U.S. Route 89.

Some of the highlights U.S. Route 89A passes by include:

History of U.S. Route 89A

The current U.S. Route 89A was the original course when the federal highway system was established in 1926. However, the highway was rerouted through Page, AZ, when Glen Canyon Dam (one of the largest dams in the country) was built on the Colorado River in 1963. The highway became the alternative route to 89.

Driving U.S. Route 89A From Bitter Springs, AZ to Kanab, UT

The route goes for 92.7 miles, beginning at an elevation of 5,108 in Bitter Springs, AZ, and ending in Kanab, UT, with an elevation of 4,970.

The first leg of 89A takes you to the Navajo Bridge that crosses Marble Canyon. There are two bridges, one for cars and one for pedestrian traffic. The pedestrian bridge is a historic bridge that was once the highest steel arch bridge in the world, making traveling between Utah and Arizona much easier. A new wider bridge was built in 1995, and the historic Navajo Bridge became a pedestrian walkway.

The best view of the canyon is along the pedestrian bridge. Park in the visitor’s lot and walk across the bridge to view the spectacular sight of the green Colorado River cutting through the orange canyon walls.

Other sights near Marble Canyon include Lee’s Ferry and the Lonely Dell Ranch. Lee’s Ferry is the only place within hundreds of miles where boaters and rafters can access the Colorado River from both sides. The Lonely Dell Ranch is the historic site where Jacob Hamblin, a Mormon missionary, established a small settlement.

As the next leg of 89A takes travelers to Jacob Lake, it passes alongside the Vermillion Cliff, offering some amazing views. There are several trailheads for hiking, including the Vermillion Trails, Soap Creek, and Sun Valley Mine Trailheads.

A famous stop along the way is one of Arizona’s smallest ghost towns, the Cliff Dwellers Stone House. The story of the stone houses is a fascinating one. During the Great Depression, Blanche Russell and her husband were moving to the southwest to help ease his tuberculosis. Their car broke down near the stunning rock structures along the side of the road. They liked the area so much, they built a house and restaurant into the rock formations. They spent ten years there before deciding to move on to a less isolated region. Today, visitors can stop and view the empty stone structures.

Another worthwhile stop is the House Rock Valley Overlook. The overlook stands 1,000 feet above the valley and provides incredible views of the Vermillion Cliffs, and even as far away as Marble Canyon.

Jacob Lake is a small town on the Kaibab Plateau in Coconino County, AZ, known as the “Gateway to the North Rim of the Grand Canyon.” The North Rim is more laid back and less crowded than the popular South Rim. While the nearby Jacob Lake campgrounds offer campsites in the Kaibab National Forest.

As for the lake, it’s very small for a lake, and more of a small accumulation of water from rain and snow melt. Critical to the area, it’s one of the only permanent water sources on top of the Kaibab Plateau.

Before reaching Fredonia, travelers can rest at the Le Fevre Overlook and Rest Area, a popular stopping point where all the steps of the Grand Staircase are in view. The Grand Staircase is six thousand vertical feet of sedimentary rock layers that stretch for 100 miles.

Fredonia is a small town with a population of about 1,300. Just four miles south of the Utah border, the closest large city to Fredonia is Las Vegas, about three hours away. Fredonia is known for popular attractions including the Red Pueblo Museum and the Pipe Spring National Monument. However, it’s most notably recognized as a base camp for visiting the North Rim of the Grand Canyon.

Finally, 89A terminates in Kanab, UT, intersecting with U.S. Route 89. Kanab is just north of the Arizona state line and it’s a small town known for Navajo sandstone cliffs and vistas of sagebrush.

The photo featured at the top of this post is © Goodygreen/iStock via Getty Images

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KANAB, Utah — A southern Utah hotel welcomes humans and animals with open arms while giving shelter pets a night out in paradise.

The Best Friends Roadhouse and Mercantile opened in late 2019 – just weeks before the onset of the COVID-19 pandemic.

“It took us a long time to do the renovation and just as we opened it COVID hit,” said Julie Castle the CEO of Best Friends Animal Society. “We had to kind of wait out the storm.”

READ: Utahns work toward ending euthanization of healthy shelter pets by 2025

The pandemic storm has passed and now, on any given night, the hotel is full of guests and their pets.

Many who stay at the hotel travel to Kanab to volunteer at the Best Friends Animal Sanctuary located just a few miles down the road.

The hotel building has stood for over 50 years in downtown Kanab but was only recently acquired by Best Friends.

“This used to be an old motor hotel. It was a roadside motel called the Four Seasons,” Castle said. “I knew that if somebody bought this property, they would probably tear it down and probably build a box chain motel.”

To preserve this piece of Kanab’s character, Best Friends acquired the property and completed the massive renovation.

READ: Possible parasite outbreak surfaces in Utah dogs

“It was this crazy idea that we came up with as I was driving through town one day,” Castle recalled. “How cool would it be if pets were served first.”

Rooms are equipped with comforts for humans and animals with a vegan complimentary breakfast, pet grooming station, complimentary laundry and a dog park with seasonal splash pad.

Those who don’t travel with their own pets have the option of hosting an adoptable shelter animal for an overnight sleepover.

Dogs, cats and rabbits in need of homes can get some one-on-one time with humans and be pampered with treats, long walks in town and a good night’s rest on a comfortable bed at the hotel.

“They get that opportunity to socialize in a real environment with a human being,” Castle said when asked what the experience means to the rescue animals.

To host an adoptable animal for a sleepover, a hotel guest must have a current volunteer account with Best Friends.

More information about the program can be found here.

Copyright 2023 Scripps Media, Inc. All rights reserved. This material may not be published, broadcast, rewritten, or redistributed.

ST. GEORGE —Sitting in a cozy booth with the smell of fresh spices in the air, you see a captivating image of the Taj Mahal. Workers steep homemade sauces in the distance, and you instantly feel something familiar — hunger.

And how could you not?

“Careful, it’s hot,” Mandeep Jit, part owner of Turmeric Indian Grill said, handing over a steaming cup of homemade masala chai tea.

Jit and his two brothers Sunny and Gurdeep are the owners of Turmeric Indian Grill, a restaurant that originally opened on St. George Boulevard three years ago. Their goal is to provide the community with fast, fresh, authentic Indian food while removing the fear that often comes with trying ethnic food for the first time.

“We’ve introduced Indian food in a much easier, less intimidating way to our community,” Mandeep Jit said, “while never losing any of the authentic flavors. Once you try it, you’ll love it.”

After establishing its first location in May of this year, Turmeric Indian Grill expanded, opening a restaurant in Midvale and a food truck in Kanab. But they haven’t stopped there.

Turmeric Indian Grill’s newest location in Washington City will open to the public on Thursday, Aug.17, beginning with a grand-opening celebration. Festivities begin at 11 a.m. and include a presentation by the Chamber of Commerce and Washington City Major Kress Staheli. A variety of free food samples will be provided and giveaways will include restaurant gift cards.

The authentic Indian menu consists of bowls with a base of turmeric rice, a choice of protein, vegetables, sauces and toppings, with a finishing sauce such as yogurt cilantro or mint chutney. Each of their 15 different sauces is churned up to five hours and cooked fresh daily.

Achieving the same fresh taste you’d experience in India, their garlic naan and garlic cheese naan have become fan favorites and come from an original family recipe.

From eight-layer smothered burritos to masala fries, Mandeep Jit said there’s something on the menu for every age. Their yogurt smoothies, also known as Lassis, come in mango and strawberry with a dessert menu that includes Gulab Jamun – homemade cake balls in organic sugar cane syrup.

Family history

Mandeep Jit said his father left India in the early ’80s to look for better opportunities. Landing in California, it wasn’t until 1988 that he was able to bring his wife and two of his children back with him. In 1990, when Mandeep Jit was 11 and his brother Bobby Jit was 8, they joined the family in America.

With an ice cream truck as the family business, the four boys learned at a young age how to work hard, run a business and drive. As they grew up, the idea for another family business started when Mandeep Jit noticed something strange — his friends and co-workers were unwilling to try Indian food due to a fear of spices and the unknown. Hoping to change their minds, he convinced them to go to their first Indian restaurant with him in Las Vegas.

“And they loved it,” Mandeep Jit said. “They were just completely amazed by the food.”

His friends said they’d eat it every day if the food was explained in more simple terms. And they did. While traveling for work over the next six months, they ate Indian food all over the U.S. and Canada, texting Mandeep Jit and asking what to order.

Fascinated with the concept of fresh, quick food like Chipotle and inspired by his friends, an idea immerged. Why couldn’t Indian food also be made simple while remaining authentic and delicious? After discussing his thoughts with the family, they were all in. The brothers began cooking around the clock, creating recipes and perfecting them, using their mother as the taster who made sure everything was just right.

“We argued, had fights, wanted to give up,” Mandeep Jit said. “It took us six months before we even thought about opening a restaurant. But it was worth it.”

Turmeric Indian Grill’s opening coincided with the pandemic in 2020, but that didn’t stop the community from trying or loving the food. With 64 different combinations available between choices of protein, vegetables and sauces, he said they have fans from 3 years old all the way up to customers in their 90s.

Jit said using whole spices such as turmeric, coriander, cumin, ginger, garlic, fennel seeds and cardamom — which are known to be good for the stomach, joints, eyes, blood circulation and inflammation — Indian food can not only be delicious, but healthy.

“We want people to have all the benefits of those spices without feeling scared to eat it,” he said. “Our mission is to bring the taste of India in an affordable, convenient and less intimidating way, and that’s what we’ve done.”

The family hopes to see the entire community at the upcoming Turmeric Indian Grill Washington City grand opening on Thursday.

For more information on Turmeric Indian Grill and to order online, visit their website.

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Copyright St. George News, SaintGeorgeUtah.com LLC, 2023, all rights reserved.

There are so many fantastic things to do in, Kanab, Utah, from grand national parks to isolated hidden gems, that visiting should be at the top of every traveler’s agenda. Kanab is a small town known for being one of the best spots to explore Bryce Canyon, Zion National Park, and the Grand Canyon National Park. If you are planning a journey through the state and national parks, you should consider stopping here for convenience and the area’s wonderful natural features.

To properly begin to appreciate the splendor of southern Utah, you will need to schedule a week or more in the region due to the vast area ripe for exploration. Its stunning terrain has served as the setting for hundreds of Western films over the years, earning the community the nickname “Little Hollywood of Utah.”

What To Do In Kanab, Utah

The breathtaking national, state, and local parks and canyons in the vicinity are one of Kanab, Utah’s main attractions. With the opportunity to hike through slot canyons and sand caves and view some memorable rock formations, it is a haven for nature enthusiasts. If you enjoy being outside, you will always have things to do in Kanab. Here are a couple of the top parks and canyons you will not want to miss:

Bryce Canyon National Park is about an hour and a half drive from Kanab. It is one of Utah’s Mighty Five National Parks. The hikes in the national park range from the easy Navajo Loop to the difficult Fairyland Loop. Sunset Point is a great place to enjoy views of Thor’s Hammer as well as Silent City.

Horseback riding, mountain biking, ATV excursions, and ranger-led activities like full moon hikes and astronomy programs are all available in and near the park.

Kanab, Utah, is the ideal area to base oneself for a visit to Zion National Park, one of the most well-known national parks in the United States and another of the Mighty Five. It is only 30 miles from Kanab to Zion National Park. Angel’s Landing and Echo Canyon are two of the park’s most popular attractions. The Zion Canyon Scenic Drive is also available for people who want to see the sights without hiking.

Imagine discovering an oasis amid a vast desert. That is precisely what happened between Arizona’s Grand Canyon and the Vermillion Cliffs. For ages, hunter-gatherers, Spanish explorers, and Mormon immigrants running from persecution congregated at Pipe Spring National Park. From Kanab, the park is just 20 minutes away.

You will come across traditional kahns built from juniper branches and brush that formerly offered shelter for the Kaibab Paiute as you explore the area. There is also the remarkable “Winsor Castle” ranch home, which housed the Mormon pioneers. If you are feeling adventurous, take a walk down the Ridge Trail.

The Wave is arguably one of the most famous online photographs in the last 20 years. This otherworldly rock structure on the Arizona and Utah border is famous worldwide. People worldwide recognize the renowned image used to promote the 2002 Olympics in Utah and Microsoft’s Windows 7 release.

However, seeing The Wave in person takes a lot of work. The federal government restricts visitors to only 64 per day. You will face a challenging hike if you are fortunate enough to obtain a permit.

White Pocket is sometimes called the “lesser Wave,” although it is incredibly unique in its own way. Various Wave-like formations can be found throughout the site. While the Wave is a small sight, White Pocket is a large rock formation that can be explored for days. White Pocket does not require as much trekking as the Wave, but driving there is much more difficult. The 44-mile road trip, on the other hand, is all part of the adventure. Tours are available if you are uncomfortable driving yourself or want to avoid that excitement.

Kanab, Utah, is a lovely spot for those who want to explore the Grand Canyon’s North Rim, as it is only a 2-hour drive away. The short Bright Angel Point Hike from the Grand Canyon Lodge and a picturesque drive are two of the most popular things to do on the Grand Canyon North Rim.

The Coral Pink Sand Dunes, located just north of Kanab, is a state park with almost 300 acres of pink and red sand. These dunes are suitable for deep sand off-roading with ATVs or dune buggies. Because of the park’s dark sky, Coral Pink Sand Dunes is ideal for photography and astrophotography.

Page, Arizona, is about a 75-minute drive from Kanab and serves as the entry point to Lake Powell and the Navajo Nation Tribal Lands. Most people, however, come to see the Horseshoe curve, a renowned curve in the Colorado River. The parking lot and trailhead are around 3 miles outside of town, and you should expect the area to be completely crowded. However, views are unrivaled.

Stay A While And Take It All In

Some of Utah’s most unusual desert scenery may be found on the top walks around Kanab, including undulating dunes, red-rock caverns, slot canyons, hoodoos, rivers, and magnificent slick rock formations. Kanab boasts a variety of lodging alternatives that serve as a good base camp for exploring the surrounding area. The only problem is that a weekend will not suffice! Many hotels, cottages, and boutique alternatives in Kanab offer extended stays.

KANAB, Utah — A set of fossils found in southern Utah over a decade ago is now believed to be the oldest mosasaur fossil ever uncovered in North America, and it’s helping paleontologists better understand the evolution of the marine reptile that once existed in the age of the dinosaurs.

The fossils were discovered in Glen Canyon National Recreation Area near its border with the Grand Staircase-Escalante National Monument all the way back in March 2012, according to the Bureau of Land Management.

Scott Richardson, a trained volunteer at the time, was helping University of North Florida paleontologist Barry Albright look for fossils of underwater creatures from the late Cretaceous Period at the time. That’s when Richardson came across multiple small skull fragments and vertebrae on a shale slope.

Teams from the Bureau of Land Management and National Park Service joined in the effort, helping unearth almost half of the fossil specimen over the next two field seasons. What they did recover they brought back to the bureau’s Kanab lab for review.

They were able to quickly determine that they had uncovered a large mosasaur fossil from about 94 million years ago. Mosasaurs were underwater reptiles that existed up until about 66 million years ago, according to Encyclopedia Britannica.

But with the help of Michael Polcyn, a paleontologist at Southern Methodist University, the team was able to confirm the fossils discovered near Lake Powell are the oldest of their kind ever found on the continent. Their findings were published in Cretaceous Research this month.

“Mosasaurs from younger rocks are relatively abundant, but mosasaurs are extremely rare in rocks older than about 90 million years. Finding one that preserves so much informative data, especially one of this age, is truly a significant discovery,” said Alan Titus, a paleontologist for the Bureau of Land Management, and the co-author of a study, in a statement Friday.

The finding could help researchers better understand how the species evolved with time.

The researchers point out that mosasaurs were descendants of Komodo dragon-like land creatures before growing fins and shark-like tails that helped them dominate in the water. These early mosasaurs started out at about 3 to 5 feet in length, but some eventually evolved into behemoths exceeding 50 feet.

As part of the study, researchers used micro-CT scans and computer reconstruction models to help show how the creature improved blood supply to the brain as it evolved over time. Polcyn explained that the adjustments they saw is something similar to what was known about the evolution of whales.

“(The finding) sheds light on long-standing questions regarding the relationship of some early-branching mosasaurid species,” he said in a statement. “But (it) also provides new insights into the evolution and antiquity of a novel cranial blood supply seen in a particular group of mosasaurs.”

Several researchers from across the globe also participated in the study.

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Utah, located in the western United States, became the 45th state in 1896. The state is home to diverse landscapes, including vivid red deserts, the majestic Rocky Mountains, and picturesque lakes.

Utah offers a wealth of outdoor recreational opportunities, such as skiing, hiking, and visiting national parks, including popular destinations like Arches and Canyonlands National Parks. It is also well known for being the headquarters of The Church of Jesus Christ of Latter-day Saints, commonly known as the Mormon Church, and for hosting the 2002 Winter Olympics in Salt Lake City.

The state has some great towns to visit, each offering a unique blend of charm and modern amenities, making Utah a compelling destination. Here are some of the top-rated towns you can find in Utah:

More in UtahDiscover 10 of the most welcoming towns in Utah.

Kanab

When you come to Kanab, you are coming to the gateway of the vast, unspoiled land of Utah. All around town are stunning red rock landscapes, and Kanab is in close proximity to some of the best parks in the country.

Zion National Park, Bryce Canyon National Park, and the Grand Canyon are all within a two hour’s drive. Zion is the closest, only about 50 minutes away, and is a breathtaking natural wonder with red rock formations and surreal slot canyons to explore. The town is named after Kanab Creek, which flows through both Utah and Arizona and is significant tributary of the Colorado River.

The surrounding landscape of the town is incredibly captivating, frequently chosen by movie productions as a setting for their films. Numerous Western films have been filmed in close proximity.

The town celebrates the connection to the film industry and is home to the Little Hollywood Museum, which teaches about the history of movie-making in the area.

Midway

Midway played an important role in the 2002 Winter Olympics, holding events during the games. When you see the nearby snow-capped peaks of the Wasatch Mountains, you will understand why.

The Soldier Hollow Nordic Center, located in nearby Wasatch Mountain State Park was the venue for the cross-country skiing and biathlon events during the Olympics. The town itself has a distinct Swiss influence in its architecture and spirit, sporting Chalet-style buildings with steep roofs and wooden accents adding to the aesthetic.

This aesthetic really comes alive with the architecture of the Homestead Resort, a historic site in Midway, known for its iconic Homestead Crater. This natural spring is housed in a beehive-shaped limestone rock and is a popular spot for swimming.

Make sure to visit Midway winter, just to see the Ice Castles attraction, where you can witness beautifully designed ice structures and tunnels. Just remember to wear some long underwear.

Mount Pleasant

When you walk into Mount Pleasant, the crisp air of the Wasatch Plateau and the Manti-La Sal National Forest will hit your face. The city was settled by Mormon pioneers in the 1850s and was originally called Hambleton, but was renamed due to its ‘pleasant’ setting among the mountains.

The town has a fun collection of events year-round, like the Hub City Days Rodeo in the summer and the Christmas Light Parade in wintertime. Anyone looking for some adventure outside the town can find iat at the nearby Manti-La Sal National Forest. The forest is a massive collection of land, with over 1.4 million acres of forest covering parts of Utah and Colorado.

To the east of town, Sanpete North Recreation Area in Utah offers stunning landscapes. The site is found in a scenic region of the mountain range and is great for camping or other outdoor activies.

If you want a peaceful drive through the mountains, the Manti-La Sal National Forest includes scenic byways and drives providing breathtaking views of the landscapes.

Garden City

Right along the southern shores of Bear Lake near the Idaho border is a beautiful town with stunning views of the lake's turquoise waters. Garden City is not just any ordinary lake either. Bear Lake is named the 'Caribbean of the Rockies,' because of the intense blue color of its waters.

In the northern part of town, Bear Lake State Park has a good collection of beaches and a marina for hitting the water. It also lot of spots to have a picnic on a pleasant, warm day.

The area has iconic raspberry orchards, and the local raspberry industry is a significant part of the town's identity. Every year in either July or August, Garden City holds The Raspberry Days Festival to celebrate the fruit. You can see everything from a colorful parade, contests, all the way to fireworks closing off the celebration.

Moab

Moab is a vibrant town, surrounded by stunning red rock scenery, and is the perfect location for outdoor adventure. First off, Moab is close to some world-class parks. The Delicate Arch, one of the most iconic sites in the state and country, is located on the red rock terrain inside Arches National Park, standing distinctively amidst more than 2,000 natural stone arches.

Canyonlands National Park, characterized by deep canyons carved by the Colorado River, lies right to the southwest. The park has been designated as a Dark Sky Park by the International Dark-Sky Association, so it is an excellent location for stargazing.

Moab is famous for the Slickrock Bike Trail, a challenging mountain biking trail that winds through a unique, grippy sandstone surface. The trail is a must-visit for mountain bikers. If you want to do some off-roading, the nearby desert terrain includes areas like 'Shafer Trail' and 'Hell's Revenge,' both of which have become a hit with off-road enthusiasts.

Panguitch

This town gets its name from an old Indigenous word meaning ‘big fish,’ and if you like fishing, this place is for you. Not far from town is Panguitch Lake, which is stocked full of different kinds of trout to catch.

The town was home to a historical event, the ‘Panguitch Quilt Walk,’ in the winter of 1864-65. Settlers facing starvation used quilts to protect their feet from snow as they walked to get much-needed supplies.

Now the town holds an annual celebration in June in remembrance, and a memorial of the event stands in the middle of town. A significant portion of the town's downtown is listed on the National Register of Historic Places, and has a very distinct Western theme.

If you are feeling the urge to get out of town and explore, it serves as a pivotal base camp for some of Southern Utah's foremost natural marvels, including Bryce Canyon and Capitol Reef National Parks.

Park City

Park City is found down in Summit County, only half an hour from Salt Lake City. Back in the old days, Park City was a mining town after silver and lead was discovered nearby.

The town has undergone considerable changes since then. Nowadays, Park City hosts the annual Sundance Film Festival, one of the largest independent film festivals in the world, drawing attention from Hollywood and film enthusiasts.

It typically takes place in January and you are bound to see filmmakers and actors wandering the town. The town is also home to the Utah Olympic Park, constructed as part of the 2002 Winter Olympics.

It serves as a training facility for athletes, and visitors can come experience Olympic activities such as bobsledding and ski jumping. Park City also has some great skiing options. Both Park City Mountain Resort and Deer Valley Resort are only a stone’s throw away from the town.

Brigham City

This town was founded back in 1851 by Mormon pioneers and named after Brigham Young. Young was the second president of the Mormon Church and a key figure in their migration to the Salt Lake Valley.

Brigham City has the best of both worlds. The signage heading into the historic downtown district readings ‘Gateway to the World's Greatest Wild Bird Refuge,’ shows the duality of the town.

It has both captivating outdoor options, exemplified by the nearby bird refuge, and a charming, rustic historic town that preserves the essence of its rich heritage.

The twin spires of the stark white Brigham City Utah Temple contrast beautifully against peaceful blue skies. Right across the street is the smaller, but equally as interesting, Box Elder Tabernacle, a brick-built, neo-Gothic Mormon Church.

The aforementioned Bear River Migratory Bird Refuge is a vital wildlife sanctuary, less than 10 minutes away. With around 80,000 acres of wetlands, it is crucial for migratory birds, particularly birds flying along the Pacific Flyway.

In Conclusion

These Utah towns have an impressive assortment of attractions, from natural wonders to historical sites. Whether it is the outdoor adventures around Moab or watching movies at the Sundance Kanab in Park City, each town has its distinct offerings.

Visitors can explore landscapes, enjoy festivals, and experience a slice of Utah's rich culture. So, if you feel like hitting hiking trails in the cool air of the Rockies or exploring arid canyons in the desert, Utah has what you need.

ST. GEORGE — Pigs enjoyed a summer pool party while awaiting new homes at Kanab’s Best Friends Animal Sanctuary. The nonprofit encourages people to consider adoption.

The caregivers of Marshall’s Piggy Paradise at Best Friends Animal Society’s Sanctuary in Kanab recently decided to throw their favorite residents a summer pool party complete with plenty of watermelon slices, almond bobbing and pig trivia, according to a news release issued by the nonprofit.

“We love our pigs and wanted to celebrate them in a really fun way,” said Rosalie Wind, lifesaving specialist and caregiver at the Sanctuary. “It was super cute to see them splashing around in the water and enjoying some special snacks.”

There are currently more than 40 pigs awaiting homes at the Sanctuary. Most are potbelly-type pigs in the 80-200 pound range. Unfortunately, adoptions in 2023 have been particularly slow compared to previous years.

While pigs need a more specific environment than other animals, such as dogs or cats, they can still make great companions for the right home, the release states.

“Potbellied pigs can make wonderful pets — they’re intelligent, friendly, and downright adorable. Some like belly rubs and will come running for treats,” Wind added. “Their grunting, snorting and wallowing — signs that they are happy and content — and charming personalities make them truly lovable.”

Wind suggests potential pig parents consider the following before they bring home a potbelly:

There are sanctuaries all over the country, like Best Friends, with potbellies looking for homes, the nonprofit writes. To find adoptable pigs, visit Best Friends’ website or do an online search for a pig sanctuary in your area.

Copyright St. George News, SaintGeorgeUtah.com LLC, 2023, all rights reserved.