Best Friends Animal Sanctuary | Kanab

Best Friends Animal Sanctuary is a large animal welfare organization located in Kanab, Utah, USA. It provides care and rehabilitation for a wide range of domestic animals.

Visual Characteristics

The sanctuary spans approximately 3,700 acres of varied terrain. This includes desert landscapes with red rock formations, canyons, and scrub vegetation. Structures on the property are functional and designed for animal housing and care, featuring barns, paddocks, and administrative buildings constructed from wood and metal. The overall aesthetic is utilitarian, integrated into the natural desert environment.

Location & Access Logistics

The sanctuary is situated approximately 7 miles east of Kanab, Utah, off Highway 89. Access is via Best Friends Road, a paved private road leading to the main visitor center and animal housing areas. Ample parking is available at the visitor center. Public transport is not available directly to the sanctuary; visitors typically arrive by private vehicle. The nearest major airport is Las Vegas McCarran International Airport (LAS), approximately a 3.5-hour drive away.

Historical & Ecological Origin

Best Friends Animal Sanctuary was founded in 1984 by Mark and Lou Peralta. It was established on land that was previously a dude ranch. The ecological setting is characteristic of the Colorado Plateau, with arid desert flora and fauna adapted to the dry climate.

Key Highlights & Activities

Visitors can participate in guided tours of specific animal areas, including dog and cat housing, horse stables, and parrot habitats. Volunteer opportunities are available for hands-on animal interaction and facility maintenance. Self-guided walks are permitted on designated trails. Educational presentations on animal care and welfare are offered regularly.

Infrastructure & Amenities

Restrooms are available at the visitor center. Limited shaded areas are present in designated visitor zones. Cell phone signal (4G/5G) is generally available within the main visitor center area but can be intermittent across the wider sanctuary. Food vendors are not present on-site; visitors are advised to bring their own food and water or dine in Kanab.

Best Time to Visit

The best time of day for visiting is generally mid-morning or late afternoon to avoid the peak heat of midday, especially during summer months. The most favorable months for weather are April through May and September through October, offering milder temperatures. No specific tide requirements apply.

Facts & Legends

The sanctuary is one of the largest animal sanctuaries in the United States, housing thousands of animals at any given time. A unique aspect is its "No-Kill" philosophy, meaning animals are not euthanized for space or treatable conditions. The surrounding landscape has been used as a filming location for numerous Western films.

Nearby Landmarks

• Coral Pink Sand Dunes State Park (15km Southwest)
• Zion National Park (70km Northwest)
• Bryce Canyon National Park (130km Northeast)
• Grand Staircase-Escalante National Monument (Access points vary, closest ~30km North)