Tucked amidst the striking red rock landscapes of southern Utah, Kanab has earned the affectionate nickname “Little Hollywood” due to its rich history as a favored filming location. From the silent film era to modern blockbusters, the town’s landscape has provided the perfect setting for scores of movies and several notable TV shows.
Kanab’s Ancient People
For at least 1,000 years, Kanab has been home to the Southern Paiute people. Their legacy is etched—quite literally—into the landscape through ancient petroglyphs and sacred sites.
The Southern Paiutes lived in harmony with the land—farming, gathering, and hunting sustainably in the fertile valleys and along Kanab Creek. In fact, the name “Kanab” itself is believed to come from a Paiute word meaning “place of willows.”
Today, their cultural presence remains an essential part of the area’s identity, visible through ancient petroglyphs, oral histories, and community traditions that continue to shape the region.
Explorers and Pioneers
In the late 1700s, Spanish explorers from the Domínguez–Escalante expedition passed through the area, followed by famed explorer John Wesley Powell in the 1870s. But it wasn’t until a few decades later that Kanab would truly begin to take shape.
In 1864, Mormon settlers attempted to establish a foothold in the Kanab area, but early efforts were short-lived due to harsh conditions and conflicts with local tribes. It wasn’t until 1870 that 10 Mormon families answered the call to settle the area for good. Armed with determination and grit, these pioneers built log homes, dug irrigation canals, and laid the foundation for what would become a thriving desert community.
Lights, Camera . . . Kanab?
Kanab’s cinematic journey began iwhen Whit Parry persuaded filmmakers to come to town to shoot the 1924 film Deadwood Coach, starring the legendary Tom Mix and his remarkable horse, Tony. The area’s diverse and breathtaking scenery—ranging from expansive deserts to rugged canyons—provided an ideal backdrop for productions seeking authentic Western settings.
Parry and his brothers, Gronway and Chauncey, were instrumental in transforming Kanab into a filmmaking hub. Entrepreneurs with a vision, they initially offered transportation services to film crews. Recognizing the potential for growth, they established Parry Lodge in 1931, providing comfortable accommodations tailored to the needs of Hollywood visitors. Their relentless promotion of Kanab’s scenic locales attracted numerous productions, solidifying the town’s reputation in the industry.
While Westerns put Kanab on the map, the town’s appeal isn’t limited to just one genre. Over the years, Kanab has proven itself a versatile location, attracting diverse projects. For example, Kanab welcomed the crews of John Carter, Gravity, and Transformers: Age of Extinction.
Celebrity Contributions to the Community
Kanab’s allure extended beyond its landscapes—the warmth and hospitality of its residents fostered strong bonds with visiting celebrities.
During the filming of Sergeants 3 in the 1960s, Frank Sinatra generously funded the construction of a swimming pool at Parry Lodge and donated football uniforms to Kanab High School, demonstrating his commitment to the community.
The Parry Lodge itself became a temporary home for numerous stars, including John Wayne, James Garner, Gregory Peck, Maureen O’Hara, and Ronald Reagan. Sammy Davis Jr. also visited, along with Dale Evans, Jack Nicholson, and Gregory Peck. Their presence not only boosted the local economy but also enriched Kanab’s cultural tapestry, leaving behind stories and memories cherished by the townspeople.
Notable Films and Television Series Shot in Kanab
Kanab’s cinematic portfolio is extensive, featuring more than 100 productions that have utilized its picturesque settings. Some notable films and television series filmed in the area include:
Films:
- Stagecoach (1939)
- Planet of the Apes (1968)
- The Outlaw Josey Wales (1976)
- Broken Arrow (1996)
See the complete list here.
Television Series:
- The Lone Ranger (1949–1957)
- Lassie (1954–1974)
- Gunsmoke (1955–1975)
- Six Million Dollar Man (1974–1978)
See the complete list here.
Preserving the Legacy
Kanab honors its cinematic heritage through the Little Hollywood Museum, a free, nonprofit institution dedicated to preserving movie sets and memorabilia from its storied past. Visitors can explore sets from films like The Outlaw Josey Wales and Sergeants 3, gaining insight into the town’s pivotal role in film history.
Today, Kanab offers a vibrant blend of old and new. It’s still a favorite among filmmakers and outdoor lovers alike, thanks to its proximity to Zion, Bryce Canyon, and the Grand Staircase-Escalante National Monument.
From ancient tribal traditions and pioneer resilience to red carpet moments in the desert, Kanab’s story is a uniquely Utah tale—full of heart, history, and cinematic flair.
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