Looking for an adventure this winter? Plan a trip to the breathtaking city of Kanab! This small town is the closest spot to one of Utah’s most unique state parks, Coral Pink Sand Dunes, and just a short distance from Zion National Park.

This part of the state offers truly breathtaking natural landscapes that will fulfill the longings of any outdoor lover’s heart. Whether you’re looking to hike one of the many trails nearby, take a day trip to discover the beauty of the north rim of the Grand Canyon, or indulge in many of the great eateries nearby, Kanab has lots of options for a fun and relaxing getaway.

After you’re done exploring, you’ll need a comfortable and restorative place to rest your head. Best Friends Roadhouse and Mercantile is the ideal cozy retreat. The best part: your pets are welcome and expected there!

Located in the heart of Kanab, The Best Friends Roadhouse and Mercantile is an extension of the longstanding hospitality experienced at Best Friends Animal Sanctuary, which is also the headquarters of Best Friends Animal Society. This leading national animal welfare organization has locations in various cities around the United States, with a mission to end the killing of dogs and cats in America's shelters.

The Roadhouse and Mercantile features 40 comfortable rooms as well as many dog- and cat-friendly amenities and services, including built-in cubbies for snuggling, dog washing stations, and a fenced dog park area. Guests can bring up to four pets at no charge, and a vegan breakfast with Utah-roasted coffee is included, too!

Each room is named for a beloved Best Friends alumni animal, and inside, you’ll find a comfortable bed with an additional slide-out pet bed so your furry friend can sleep nearby, animal- and cruelty-free bathroom amenities, complimentary Wi-Fi, tiled bathrooms with an open vanity area and sliding barn door for privacy, and much more.

Head down to the Mercantile after a refreshing night of rest, where you can purchase prepared food items, pet necessities, branded merchandise, and more. All food and beverage options are vegan, including a complimentary continental breakfast served every morning.

While you’re at the Roadhouse, you can journey just five miles down the road to the Sanctuary to volunteer or several tours that offer heartwarming interactions with dogs, cats, pigs, goats, horses, bunnies, and more.

So, as you plan your next vacation, bring your pets along to experience the wonder of Kanab. The area boasts mild winter temperatures and plenty of sunny days, making any outdoor activity you plan more enjoyable and exciting.

Traveling without a pet? You can invite a dog or cat from the Sanctuary to stay overnight with you at the Roadhouse, and if you fall in love with one, there are adoption opportunities available.

As Julie Barger, director of visitor experience for Best Friends Animal Society, said, “Winter is so beautiful and peaceful at Best Friends Animal Sanctuary and The Best Friends Roadhouse is such a unique and cozy place to stay. We look forward to hosting guests and introducing them to the lifesaving work that Best Friends Animal Society does all over the country. Our goal is to inspire people to take this passion for animals home and make a difference in their own communities."