utah solo trip

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Utah Tours for Solo / Single Travelers

23 utah tours for singles / solo travelers with 118 reviews.

Best of the West Road Trip: California, Utah & Vegas Bright Lights

• Hiking & Trekking

Hiking Utah's National Parks

Great people , Great time. First meal together in los Vegas was awful. It was slimy Thai with NO VEGETABLES. We had to walk across a four lane highway in Los Vegas! I think a great and inexpensive restaurant is Ping Pang Pong.or what ever. Horrible stay in Bluff behind a gas station. No lobby, no restaurant, and no room to move around. Put suitcases on table. Change stay to town of Bland.

• Christmas & New Year

Mighty 5 From Las Vegas

This trip was amazing. This was a bucket list trip for my daughter and I. From the beginning when we met our tour guide, Dave showater to the end. Dave was extremely knowledgeable, friendly, and did fantastic driving and picked fantastic restaurants along the way. I would highly recommend this trip. The parks were excellent.

USA – 5 Days Chasing Slot Canyons in Utah

Hiking Utah's Mighty 5

Tour itinerary was well planned in order to see and hike Utah’s Big 5 National parks in 9 days. Our guide Rachel was excellent and did her best to manage 12 clients, drive, buy food, supervise food preparations and clean up, and break camp. However, given the amount of organization needed for camping, meals and driving required; and overseeing the often difficult and strenuous hikes, it would have been a better trip if there were 2 guides instead of only one. This trip went very well because we were an older group with many professionals with administration experience who pitched in to help the trip go smoothly. If a group on this tour does not blend as well as we did, don’t pitch in to do their share of work, and/or do not have experience working as a-team with administration experience, it may not go so well or more likely be a disaster. To avoid this, better to have 2 guides.

Zion and Bryce Lodge Based Tour

We really Loved Bob! He clearly knows his stuff, and was a real pleasure to have leading us for four days. Meals were also excellent. Really some great dining options. Who knew!

Mighty 5 Canyons Adventure (from Las Vegas) 5D/4N

• 10% deposit on some dates Some departure dates offer you the chance to book this tour with a lower deposit.

Utah's Mighty Five National Parks (10 Days)

This was my first time going on a group tour. I was a little concerned that traveling with a group might be difficult dealing with 32 different personalities. The group was wonderful, we had great camaraderie, everyone was very inclusive. Our tour guide randy was awesome. Extremely knowledgeable and helpful with directing us to the variety of hikes that we could choose. Michael was wonderful and our bus driver Russell was awesome. Overall it was a wonderful experience and would consider doing another group tour.

• €100 deposit on some dates Some departure dates offer you the chance to book this tour with a lower deposit.

Utah Parks Circuit

It was a great fun trip. I was moved to see many wonderful views. I was not good at English, but everyone was very kind and I was able to spend a good time everyday. Especially the tour leader explained carefully.

Mighty 5 From Salt Lake City

Excellent trip small group tour, great hotels and guide.

Canyonlands & Arches National Parks Hiking Tour

Hiking and Camping in Utah

Moab Hub Tour – Spring

Hiking the Best of Moab: Arches and Canyonlands

Painted Canyons of the West featuring Utah’s Five National Parks (Denver, CO to Las Vegas, NV) (2024)

What people love about utah solo tours.

Just couldn’t have been better. Extremely professional guides Robin and Sarah were highly knowledgable, friendly and organised. Accomodation was excellent in every location (most hotels even had hot tubs and pools!) and the food options were always good. Lovely comfortable Mercedes minibus. Highly recommended to everyone - would do another tour with South West Adventure Tours in a heartbeat.

the best way to explore the vastness and glory of the Utah desert is by camping and hiking in small groups. I enjoyed this trip immensely, it was challenging enough but not too much. Our guide was a brave and resourceful powerful woman. I am planning my next trip with you already!

• Seniors tours (33)

Travel Styles

• Singles and Solo (19)
• For Couples (17)
• Seniors (33)

A Solo Traveler’s Guide to Utah

Sandwiched between the snow-capped Rocky Mountains of Colorado, the dusty high desert of Nevada and the red-rock canyons of Arizona, Utah is the ultimate outdoorsy destination – whether you’re traveling solo or with company. Skiers and snowboarders can carve to their hearts’ content in five-star ski resorts such as Park City, while hikers, climbers and landscape photographers can gorge on beautiful trails, canyons and rock formations across five national parks.

What’s the vibe.

Utah attracts intrepid young travelers embracing a nomadic, back-to-nature lifestyle, thanks to charming frontier towns lined with indie shops, restaurants and hip microbreweries. Places such as Moab, Kanab and Panguitch are friendly, buzzy hubs with bags of good-value accommodation, from motels to glampsites – magnets for like-minded solo travelers.

Be cautious when travelling alone in parks and other remote areas. Let someone you trust know where you’re going, inform any accommodation you’ve booked of your planned arrival time, and make sure you have all the crucial kit.

For a powder fix, start in Salt Lake City – the heart of Utah’s snow zone – in the northeast corner of the state. Within an hour’s drive are nine world-class ski resorts including Park City, Deer Valley and Alta. But snow isn’t the only draw in northern Utah – there’s the Great Salt Lake itself, like a shimmering mirror in the middle of the desert, and the blinding-white Bonneville Salt Flats, home of land-speed record makers. Allow at least three days for these once-in-a-lifetime wonders after you’re sated with skiing.

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The other classic itinerary is an epic road trip looping in all five national parks, including Zion, Bryce Canyon and Arches. Allow at least 10 days.

Where to stay in Utah

Accommodation is plentiful and diverse. Retro motels include Parry Lodge in Kanab and there are glitzy hotels such as Cliffrose Springdale in Zion National Park. For the quintessential desert experience, it has to be Under Canvas Moab . This luxury glamping retreat puts you directly in touch with the stunning landscape – all red-rock mesas, aromatic sagebrush and distant peaks – while keeping you cozy with comfortable king beds and wood-burning stoves. There are even ensuite bathrooms in your safari-style canvas tent.

What to do in Utah

In this playground for lovers of the great outdoors, the options for adrenaline-fuelled fun are practically limitless. But the rocky landscape isn’t just for climbers, hikers and bikers; it’s also home to significant Native American archaeological sites, and paleontological dig sites (where numerous dinosaur species have been discovered). Read on for our pick of the perfect activities.

Take a hike

You can’t come to Utah without hiking the five incredible national parks – the hard part, if you only have time for one, is taking your pick. For our money, the best all-rounder is Arches. With its relatively small scale, and proximity to the town of Moab, it’s a perfect day trip. Also, the gentle, well-marked trails weaving between wind-sculpted rock formations are an ideal intro for first-timers. It’s busy in spring and fall – best to visit in winter, when the ember-colored rocks glow brilliantly against a backdrop of snow-blanketed peaks.

An afternoon hiking in Arches National Park is included as part of our Off-Road Adventures in Utah and Colorado trip .

Travel back in time

From Native American petroglyphs to dinosaur dig sites and ghost towns of the Old West, Utah is basically a state-sized natural history museum. You certainly won’t find a closer real-life equivalent to Jurassic Park than Dinosaur National Monument, where more than 800 paleontological sites from the Jurassic period are spread over 210,000 acres (85,000ha) of mesas, mountains and canyons. Expect to see the toothy skulls of prehistoric predators grinning back at you from the cliff face as you hike. There are ancient Fremont petroglyphs and pictographs here, although you’ll find far more at Nine Mile Canyon, with more than 1,000 individual sites. If it’s cowboy culture you’re keen on, visit the hauntingly beautiful ghost town of Old Paria, which is surrounded by candy-striped cliffs.

Wish upon a star

Utah is the US state with the highest concentration of International Dark-Sky Association-certified locations, so when night falls here, you only need to look up for an evening’s entertainment. All the national parks are also Dark Sky parks, so hang back once the other visitors leave for magical Milky Way views all to yourself.

Eat and drink in Utah

Like much of rural USA, Utah has a food scene largely dominated by big-name roadside chains, greasy spoon-style diners and steakhouses. You’ll find more creative, diverse options in the larger towns and cities, particularly Kanab, Park City and Moab. But if you’re looking to make food a bigger part of your trip, head to Salt Lake City and start with our guide to the best restaurants in Salt Lake City .

The main thing to note about eating and drinking in Utah is that it’s a semi-dry state, which means the only alcohol you can get is beer, at a strength of no more than 5% ABV. Suds-lovers should be happy enough, as there are dozens of excellent microbreweries – find the best in our top craft breweries in Utah guide.

Getting around

Utah is wide-open and sparsely populated, with large distances between places of interest. Beyond the Salt Lake City area, there’s no real public transport so you’ll need your own wheels. Roads are generally well-maintained, but when entering national parks, prepare for uneven surfaces and less attentive gritting in the winter.

Cultural need-to-knows

Prone to goofs and gaffes? You’ll be pleased to know there aren’t many opportunities to get it wrong. Do be aware – especially if journeying into the state from the south, by Monument Valley – that you’ll likely pass through Native American tribal reservation lands. There are no tolls or entry restrictions, but respect the cultural significance of the land – and any boundaries (such as areas off-limits to outside visitors).

Prefer to explore Utah with like-minded travellers? Join our eight-day Off-Road Adventures in Utah and Colorado trip , which includes rafting down the Colorado River, off-roading in Arches National Park and two nights in Moab.

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Culture Trip launched in 2011 with a simple yet passionate mission: to inspire people to go beyond their boundaries and experience what makes a place, its people and its culture special and meaningful — and this is still in our DNA today. We are proud that, for more than a decade, millions like you have trusted our award-winning recommendations by people who deeply understand what makes certain places and communities so special.

Increasingly we believe the world needs more meaningful, real-life connections between curious travellers keen to explore the world in a more responsible way. That is why we have intensively curated a collection of premium small-group trips as an invitation to meet and connect with new, like-minded people for once-in-a-lifetime experiences in three categories: Culture Trips, Rail Trips and Private Trips. Our Trips are suitable for both solo travelers, couples and friends who want to explore the world together.

Culture Trips are deeply immersive 5 to 16 days itineraries, that combine authentic local experiences, exciting activities and 4-5* accommodation to look forward to at the end of each day. Our Rail Trips are our most planet-friendly itineraries that invite you to take the scenic route, relax whilst getting under the skin of a destination. Our Private Trips are fully tailored itineraries, curated by our Travel Experts specifically for you, your friends or your family.

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Places to Stay

The best bed and breakfasts to book in utah.

The Best Places to Book a Staycation in Utah

The Best Spa Hotels to Book in Utah for a Relaxing Stay

The Best Themed Hotels to Book in Utah

The Best Resorts to Book in Utah

The Best Hotels with Jacuzzis and Hot Tubs to Book in Utah

The Best Motels to Book in Utah, USA

The Best Hotels to Book in Utah, USA

The Best Cabins and Lodges to Book in Utah, USA

See & Do

The perfect places to visit in utah for every traveler.

The Best Hikes in Arches National Park

The Best Hotels in Snowbird, Utah

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Tips, Tricks, Shared Experience

3 Day Solo Trip Itinerary in Utah

The thought of traveling solo, by yourself with no one else, is a thrilling yet scary thought. Being on your own in a strange location may make some people hesitant to solo travel. For me, I thought solo travel was a bit scary but definitely worth the experience.

The first step to solo traveling is making the decision to solo travel (check out my other blog post, What’s Stopping You? ). Once you’ve done that, that’s one hurdle you’ve gotten through! Now, the next step is to decide on location. Where am I going to go? Am I going to stay in my country or travel abroad? These are valid questions every first time solo traveler has, I know I sure did.

Due to the pandemic, I made the decision to stay within the USA and go to Utah for my first solo trip. I came to this decision for two reasons. The first being I wanted to start small and work my way up to traveling internationally. I didn’t want to do my first solo trip so far from home without any knowledge or skills on how to travel completely by myself. The second reason is that I’ve never explored the western part of the USA before. I’ve traveled up and down most of the east coast but never out west. So, to explore the west and get out of my comfort zone (being a city girl), I decided to travel to Utah.

It wasn’t easy to make this decision. The USA has a variety of beautiful terrain and landscapes, it’s hard to choose which state to travel to. In the end, I was very happy with my decision to go to Utah. From here, I decided I’d visit a couple of national parks and explore Salt Lake City over the course of 3 days. Needless to say, my itinerary had me driving all over the state of Utah.

If you’re up for solo traveling and driving across a state, seeing amazing scenery, national parks, and landscapes, then this is the itinerary for you! This is my 3 day solo trip itinerary in Utah.

Day 1 – Arrival and Exploring Salt Lake City

Arriving in Salt Lake City (SLC)

On Thursday, April 22nd, 2021, I took an early morning flight from Newark International Airport in New Jersey to Salt Lake City Utah. The flight took about 4 to 4 hrs and 30 mins. The flight was very smooth. When you arrive in Utah, assuming you’re coming from the east coast like I was, there’s a 2 hour time difference. Utah is 2 hours behind the eastern coast of the country.

Once I found the car rental place, I rented a car for $477 for 3 days. I could have gotten a cheaper price somewhere else. However I decided to just get a car straight away instead of taking an Uber, paying extra money, to another rental place. National, the rental place I got my car from, gave me a full sized SUV. I felt a little intimidated because I’ve never driven a full sized SUV before. After driving it for a bit I got used to it.

From the airport, I drove about 12 minutes to my Airbnb. I was lucky to find a cheap Airbnb which was sort of close to the airport. I had a private bedroom that has a Boho modern theme to it. The host, whose name is Anya, was so sweet and lovely to talk to. Not to mention her cute little black cat who loves attention, it was a lovely Airbnb!

Exploring SLC

After I checked into my Airbnb around 1:30pm, and rested for a few minutes, I took an Uber to the downtown area of Salt Lake City. It was about a 10 minute Uber ride, so it wasn’t too far from my room. In reality, if I wasn’t going to walk around 2 national parks, I would’ve walked from the Airbnb to downtown SLC.

I put in the Uber app to go to the Creek City Mall. In my mind, it seemed like a good starting and guiding point to help get my bearings. I walked around the mall for a bit, which was partially outdoors and partially indoors, but didn’t buy anything.

From the mall, I walked to the State Capitol building, to a little park, and around the downtown area some more. After so much walking, I looked for a place to eat on Apple Maps. I found this restaurant called Brio Italian Grille which looked like a good place to get dinner. In typical JoJo fashion, I ordered a pasta dish because I love pasta. The food was pretty good, I was quite pleased with my meal.

I made two final stops after dinner, a trip to Walgreens to get some snacks for my drive to the parks and to a souvenir shop. Afterwards, I ordered another Uber to take me back to the Airbnb.

Day 2 – Zion National Park & Unexpected Spots

Zion National Park

Friday, April 23rd, I woke up bright and early and left around 7:30am for Zion National Park. Zion, which is in Springdale, is a 4.5 hour drive from SLC. Although the drive was long, the views from the north of Utah to the South Western corner was amazing. The change in terrain, from seeing snow capped mountains to deserts and red cliffs, was stunning. I would take that drive again in a heart beat.

After 4.5 hours of driving, I arrived in the little town of Springdale around noon. Before I entered the park, I stopped at a gas station to top off my tank. I recommend you have a full tank of gas as well prior to entering the park. Once you’re in the park, there’s no gas stations until you exit the park.

When you approach the entrance, expect longs lines. My wait wasn’t so bad since there weren’t any long lines. Once I got up to the window, I paid about $35 to get into the park. They didn’t accept cash, so if you visit here make sure you have a debit or credit card on hand. Once inside the park, I saw that there was no parking anywhere. There was no parking spots available in the town outside the park and there wasn’t any inside the park.

I looked, and looked, but I didn’t have any luck finding parking. The plan was to park in the visitor parking lot, take the free shuttle (since the paid shuttle ticket has to be bought ahead of time), and go to one of the trails. But this plan fell through. Instead, I spent the next few hours driving through the park.

The beauty about driving through the park is that you got to see more of the park. Although I would have preferred going on a trail and seeing the park that way, driving gave you the ability to go through the whole park. In addition, there were multiple pull off points on the side of the road for people to take pictures and explore the area. This is what I did since I couldn’t go on a trail.

I made many pit stops along the way through the park, exploring areas and taking pictures and videos when I could. After a few hours of driving, I finally made it through the park.

Souvenir Stop

After a long day of driving, I wanted to eat some food and take a break. Once you left the park, there’s this little souvenir and cafe spot off to your left side of the road. I saw this place and decided to see what they had in the cafe portion. Well, I was disappointed because the cafe section only sold sweets, ice cream, and water. I didn’t want any ice cream, so I just got a water.

What I did do was walk to the other side of the building to explore the souvenir section. They had a lot of beautifully hand crafted items. In the end, I ended up getting carved rocks for my siblings and a dream catcher for myself to put in my car.

At the counter, I talked with the cashier about the beautiful dream catcher I purchased. I’m not sure how we got off topic, but before I knew it, I was asking her for recommendations on places to explore in the area. The lovely casher told me about the Coral Pink Sand Dunes State Park in Kanab and this hidden stream and cave off the side of the road at a junction. I thanked her for the recommendations, took the map she marked with the recommended spots, and started driving.

Hidden River

I drove about 11 miles, went right at Mt. Caramel junction, to find this hidden stream. I almost missed it when I was driving. The cashier did say it was off to the right of the road and that it was a dirt road I was looking for. Once I saw this dirt road, I decided to take a change and head down it. And there it was, the little stream! I was so proud of myself for being old fashioned and reading a map to figure out how to get to a destination.

The stream was lovely. I took a lot of pictures and marveled at the water. However, I didn’t find the cave the cashier was talking about. With no success at finding the cave, I hopped into the car and headed towards the second recommendation.

Coral Pink Sand Dunes State Park

The drive to this state park was about 30 minutes from the hidden stream. It was tough trying to map it at first because half the time I didn’t have signal. But once I got a signal, I immediately mapped my route to the park. It’s amazing how the landscape changes from mountains and cliffs to deserts.

The roads leading up to the park were surrounded by sand dunes. These aren’t normal sand dunes, they’re sand dunes with a coral pink hue to them. It’s such a pretty hue and I loved looking at the dunes. Once I came upon the entrance to the park, I paid $10 to enter. After I parked the car, I started my walk towards these sand dunes.

Prior to this, I’ve never walked on sand dunes before. It’s a bit tougher walking in sand dunes than walking on a sandy beach. But I loved every minute of it. Sadly, I didn’t stay here for too long. Because I was running out of daylight, and had a 4.5 hour drive back to Salt Lake City, I cut my time at the park short. I basically, walked to the top of a sand dune, took some pictures and videos, then made my way back down and out of the park.

Even though I didn’t stay here long, I really enjoyed my time at this park. It was an unexpected stop I didn’t think I would make that day. After speaking with the cashier who was a local, I was convinced that I had to give this park a go and I’m glad I did. It just goes to show that you have to be flexible and open minded when solo traveling. You just never know what’s going to happen or change throughout the day.

Kanab, Utah

Finally, to end the day I drove about 20 minutes from the state park to a restaurant in Kanab called The Rocking V Cafe. This place was nestled in the little area of Kanab, Utah which is surrounded by red mountains, cliffs, and sand dunes. I was lucky with this place because it seemed to have a lot of reservations and they weren’t taking many walk ins. Thankfully, they let me in because at that point I had a headache from not eating whole foods for so long.

The interior decor of the restaurant was really cool and funky looking. The vibe was pretty cool overall. I ordered this mac n cheese with diced ham in it. It’s probably one of the best mac n cheese dishes I’ve ever had in my life. It was so creamy, cheesy, and delicious!

With a full belly, I filled up my tank again and hit the road for another long trip back to my accommodation. I left Kanab around 6:30pm and arrived at my Airbnb around 11pm.

Day 3 – Arches National Park

The Drive to Arches National Park

Saturday, April 24th, was the day I set out to Arches National Park. Yet again, this was a day where I’d be driving for quite some time to a national park. This time, it took me 3.5 hours to get from Salt Lake City to Arches National Park which is located in the Moab region of Utah.

As usual, I woke up around 7am and left by 8am. I got a very late start this day. I was very tired from driving 9 hours total to and from Zion, but also driving through the park which took a few hours as well. Nevertheless, I managed to get on the road by 8am.

Once again, the drive to the national park was stunning. It was hard to keep my eyes on the road because I wanted to look at the landscape around me. It never ceased to amaze me how beautiful and different the landscape in Utah is. I particularly enjoyed going through the canyons and the desert with beautiful mountains.

I arrived at the entrance to the park around 11:30am. When I approached the entrance, I saw signs stating that the park was closed because the parking lots were full and to come back in about 3 to 5 hours. Yet again, I arrived to another national park where there was no parking whatsoever. Feeling tired and defeated, I left the main entrance to the park, made a left turn, and drove down the road.

An Unexpected Trail

About 3 minutes down the road, I saw this small little parking lot that had a few cars in it. I saw a sign that said “Moab”, people bicycling down this trail that passed the small parking lot, and I thought this might be a decent place to park. I had at least 3, at most 5, hours to kill before trying to get into the park again. So, I made a last minute decision to pull into the parking lot.

I put sunscreen on, took out my day backpack, and walked along the trail. This cool Moab trail took you near the Colorado River (if you followed the trail the one way) and to petroglyphs, past Arches and even into Arches National Park (if you followed the trail the other way). I took the trail going towards the Colorado river. I got some awesome pictures and footage of that area. Afterwards, I turned around and walked in the other direction.

In the other direction, I walked along the national park and almost to the entrance of the park. I decided to stop at that point and turn back around. The reason being is because I didn’t want to tire myself out too much and not be able to walk inside Arches (I had walked over 5 miles in the heat), I was hungry, and I had a very bad headache from not eating food. This is a reoccurring thing for me. Snacks are ok but if I don’t eat whole foods for long periods of time, I get very bad headaches, nausea, and can vomit at times as well.  Even though I had plenty of snacks and water, that’s just not enough for me. I knew I needed food ASAP.

About 5 minutes down the road from the Moab trail, I stopped at a Deny’t to get some food. The food wasn’t anything special. It was mediocre and the restaurant didn’t have most of the items I wanted. In the end, it did the job and I felt better.

Returning to Arches National Park:

By this point in time, a little over 3 hours had passed since I arrived in the Moab region. The time was about 3pm. While I was out walking the trail, I kept checking the national parks page to see if Arches was allowing visitors into the park. When I saw it was clear to go, I headed straight to the entrance once again.

People waste no time trying to get into Arches National Park. I waited for about an hour in line to get to the entrance. Once I did, I paid $30 to enter the park which was good for that day and for a whole week. Just like Zion, most of the time you’re driving through the park. There are no shuttle to take, so you need to drive to the trail you want to go to.

I must say, Arches is probably my favorite park. The views out there are gorgeous! No shade to Zion, but the variation in landscape in Arches is breath taking.

Balanced Rock

I drove to multiple pull off points to stop and take pictures, videos, and just marvel at the beauty of the national park. The first major stop I made was to see the balanced rock. I decided not to walk along the trail as I didn’t have much time and I wanted to go on another trail. But I got some amazing pictures and video of the balanced rock!

Double Arches Trail

The next major pit stop was to the Double Arches trail. I followed the signs on the road which led to the windows trail. Right across the parking lot from that trail I saw the Double Arches trail. I decided to go on this trail because it just seemed much cooler.

This is trail is about a mile and it takes you up to the double arches and beyond that, I believe. I walked along the trail, got almost to the top of the Double Arches, took pictures/videos (obviously), and then headed back to my car. Make sure you get to this trail early as the parking lot fills up very quickly.

Since I was running out of daylight, I felt it was best to not complete this trail despite how cool it was. I didn’t want to tire myself out anymore than I already was.

Delicate Arches Trail

Finally, the last trail I drove to was Delicate Arches. This was one of the two trails I wanted to go on the most. The second trail being the Wolf Ranch one with the petroglyphs but I didn’t make it there on this trip.

I was lucky because I got a spot close to the start of the Delicate Arches trail. I was super excited to go on this trail! With my day backpack and fanny pack in hand, I started the trail. In the beginning of the trail, there are some petroglyphs so I was happy to see them since I couldn’t make it to Wolf Ranch.

Delicate Arches is a moderate trail that is a little over 3 miles long. It should take someone around 2-3 hours to complete it both ways. Half the trail is uphill, going over rocks and up the arch. I had to take a few breaks because my calfs after a while would be on fire. I work out but with my mild asthma and the incline, I was feeling it.

As I went higher and higher, I gazed across the vast space of this park. The beauty always astonished me and I took a lot of pictures on my way up the trail.

The higher I went, the windier it got. That wind was no joke. People were literally holding onto the side of the rocks, trying to steady themselves against the wind, so they wouldn’t fall off the edge of the cliff. I had to steady and brace myself against the wind as well. Children, even adults, were struggling to stand straight.

But the fight against the wind was worth it. The view of Delicate Arch was beautiful. I stayed up at the top for a few minutes after taking about 1.5 hours o get up there. I stared at the brave folks who walked up to the arch, even beyond the arch, exploring the scenery. I wish I was that brave to go past the arch with those hight winds.

Once I got my videos and pictures, and after I got tired of the wind, I made the descent down. The path down was much easier than going up but I guess that’s how that usually goes. By the time I got back to the entrance to the trail it was about 7pm. I started the trail around 4:30 to 5pm. I was pleased with myself for completing this moderate trail in about 2 hours.

I left Arches National park around 7:30pm and made the 3.5 hour journey home. It wasn’t until about 11pm when I finally arrived at my Airbnb. Boy, was I tired from 2 days of driving and walking.

Leaving Utah

Sunday, April 25th, I checked out of my Airbnb. The checkout process was very easy. I will miss my host and her little cat, they were lovely and made my first Airbnb experience great. I returned my rental car at the airport but it was a pain in the butt trying to find the place. I went into the wrong parking lot and a lovely staff person helped me to find my way out. Afterwards, I made my way into the airport where I caught my flight back to Newark. The flight was very smooth overall. I loved seeing the mountains of Utah from above, knowing that sometime in the future I would return. That day wasn’t anything special as it was all about flying back home.

Final Thoughts

Overall, this was an amazing experience. A whole blog post, with more in depth information, will be dedicated to my thoughts and experience solo traveling to Utah. Not only was this experience amazing, it was very liberating and satisfying mentally.

The itinerary I mapped out was quite a feet. It wasn’t concentrated in one area or city or Utah. Rather, my itinerary had me driving all over the state. Despite how physically exhausting it was, I got to see a variety of wonderful things that I probably wouldn’t have if I had stayed in Salt Lake City. I’m not sure what it is about being alone in a car, there’s something about it that’s very therapeutic and calming.

This trip challenged my physically and mentally since it was my first time solo traveling. I enjoyed the challenge, loved my itinerary, and I have memories that’ll last a lifetime.

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24 thoughts on “ 3 day solo trip itinerary in utah ”.

Sounds like a fantastic trip! I love going solo, there is a freedom to traveling alone. Beautiful pictures and thanks for sharing this! xoxo Lovely http://www.mynameislovely.com

Thank you for reading it! I think I’m going to find myself traveling solo more often in the future

Great information about Utah. I enjoyed this post. 😀

Thank you for reading!

You really saw a lot (and ate a lot) on this trip. Haha. I loved the photos of the Delicate Arches Trail – it reminds me of the Red Desert in Israel.

I sure did lol and thank you for reading. I’d love to see that desert in Israel, it sounds beautiful

I’ve read so much about Zion Park and how picturesque it is and your pics show that extremely well. Pity there was so much driving involved as I would have loved to walk more. Th sand dunes look more like something out of the Sahara than Utah – amazing! I just wonder when that Balanced Rock will fall ? Welcome to my world of solo travelling.

Zion is such an iconic place to visit in Utah. If you’re staying near the park then you have a better chance at gettin leg a free shuttle and going on the trails. It’s incredible to think that one state has such a variety of scenery in it! I can see myself solo traveling more in the future, thanks for reading!

This is such a popular destination and I can see why. The landscape and those rock formations are incredible. It’s a fairly inexpensive holiday, with minimal entry fees, but I see the necessity of having a car so you can drive to the parks you most want to visit. One day I might get here!

Utah, especially the national parks, is iconic for traveling! If you plan on staying in hotels close to the parks, and only going to one park, it’s not so bad. But I’m used to long drives so I pushed through lol. Thanks for reading!

It’s been awhile since I’ve spent any time in Utah. It looks gorgeous. I’ll need to try to get back and do more hiking, thanks.

What an awesome trip! You sure covered a lot of ground in just a few days. I’m glad you enjoyed your solo adventure – those sand dunes and arches look awesome – even with the wind! I would definitely love to visit Utah one day!

It was amazing! You’ll definitely love Utah, especially Arches National Park. Thank you for reading my post!

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Utah looks amazing and I’m so glad to see that you went solo. I never let that stop me from doing what I want to do, and it seems like you packed a lot into your trip. Great pics in the national parks, and I can’t believe how awesome those dunes look.

Utah is amazing, I believe everyone should visit at least once in their life. I loved traveling solo as well and I can foresee myself doing it more often in the future. Thank you for reading my post!

• Pingback: Reflection: My First Solo Trip Experience
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The only thing I ever regretted was not going on a solo trip to Moab where I was planning to go on an outfitter three day bike expedition. It’s on my bucket list!

That sounds like a epic solo trip, but it’s never too late to take that solo trip!

Sounds like a great trip! We just recently did a trip through Utah and visited all 5 parks and it truly is a mental test lol. But Utah is just so beautiful! Coral Sand Dunes is still on our list of visits!

Utah is absolutely beautiful! So much scenery and stunning views. I’d love to go back and visit the other parks! And definitely check out the dunes, it’s a small state park but you’ll have fun playing in the sand

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How to Stay Safe and Stoked as a Solo Woman Traveler

From the right gear to going with your gut, these tips will keep you on the right track..

Written By Elisabeth Brentano

When I tell people I’m traveling solo and I live on the road, I’m met with mixed reactions. Some folks look at me with admiration and a tinge of envy, while others, often women, ask if I’m scared or lonely. Solo travel has taught me more about myself than any book or major life event, and a handful of hiking and camping trips in Utah’s vast, gorgeous desert regions have deepened my connection to nature. These experiences have been an integral part of my adult development, not only by introducing me to the outdoors, but by showing me that I am capable of reaching milestones I never imagined possible (Read her story:  Finding Strength and Inspiration Deep in Utah’s Desert ).

Sunrise at Dead Horse State Park.

1. Plan ahead

I like creating road trip routes with stops every few hours to stretch, grab a snack and check in with someone, and I’ve also learned to pace myself. Just because I can drive for ten hours doesn’t mean I should, especially if I’m arriving at an unfamiliar campsite at night. Plus, an easy schedule means more time to enjoy myself and discover hidden gems, and isn’t that the whole point of a road trip?

I also advise first-time solo campers to select locations in close proximity to dependable basecamps with hotels, guides and supplies. Plenty of spots in Utah meet this criteria, and the town of  Moab  is one of my personal favorites.  Big Bend Campground  boasts incredible views of the Colorado River, and dispersed camping (i.e., camping outside of designated campgrounds) is permitted on certain patches of public land 20 miles beyond Moab. While dispersed camping is often synonymous with solitude, these areas do not have services like toilets or running water, and cell reception is generally nonexistent. Before rattling down a washboarded dirt road, it’s best to check the  BLM website to ensure you’re setting up in an area where dispersed camping is allowed, and following the rules regarding fires and disposal of human waste. (Read: " How to Poop in the Outdoors ")

I try to make reservations in advance, but sometimes I’ll wing it with campsites on more remote public lands, like  Grand Staircase-Escalante National Monument . Still, checking reviews on booking websites and travel blogs gives you a better idea of what’s safe and clean, and the  iOverlander  app is a great resource for camping. I always download offline maps on my phone (both from Google and the  Maps.Me app ), but prior to leaving I still make a note of the nearest hospitals and gas stations, and I always send two close friends my itinerary. Once I’m on the road, I note areas with guaranteed cell service, I fill up on gas as often as possible and, if I’m going off the grid, I text a friend a GPS pin and a screenshot of my location on a map, which can easily be done from most smartphones. Know the information for search and rescue, and bring a spot device. Learn more about how you can support Utah’s local search and rescue teams with a Utah Search and Rescue Assistance card .

2. Get the right gear

It’s not necessary to spend a fortune on gear, but investing in a few key items will give you peace of mind should any situation become worrisome or dangerous. Some essentials you will always find in the back of my Jeep include:

• Food, water and personal items (prescriptions, toiletries)
• First aid kit
• Blankets and warm clothes
• Headlamp and flashlight
• Satellite communication device
• Battery packs
• Portable camp stove (for boiling water)
• Air compressor and aerosol tire sealant

I was initially hesitant to spend several hundred dollars on a Garmin two-way satellite communication device, but after a desert backpacking trip where I narrowly missed getting bitten by a rattlesnake, I was glad to have it. I also have evacuation insurance, which is more for international trips, but it makes me feel more secure when I venture into the backcountry. Something else to consider is self-defense: do you have the means to protect yourself? I sometimes carry bear spray when hiking, so that’s my go-to, but every person and situation is different.

You're reading a story from #SheTravelsUtah

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"If you’re embarking on a solo adventure, odds are, you’re searching for something. Whether you’re running from a bad breakup or trying to be more independent, you will see just how strong and resourceful you are, and a deep sense of joy and freedom will soon follow."

Phones are great for photos but are unreliable for navigation and communication.

A vibrant, unique color palette on display in Grand Staircase-Escalante National Monument.

3. Be alert and go with your gut 

Even if I’ve taken every possible precaution, sometimes things just don’t feel right. I’ve never felt unsafe at a hotel or on a trail, but over the last five years I’ve had three uncomfortable encounters while dispersed camping. I was never directly threatened, but I noticed neighboring campers behaving strangely, and as soon they started scoping out my site, I took that as my cue to leave. All of these incidents occurred when I was looking for a campsite in an unfamiliar area at night, so now I avoid traveling after dark and I always leave room in my travel budget for an extra night or two in a hotel.

Additionally, I don’t share my whereabouts in realtime on social media, and if a stranger, even a seemingly well-intentioned one, asks where I’m headed, I give vague answers. I smile and wave to the vehicles that pass my campsite, and when I’m on the trail, I make eye contact and offer a quick and cordial greeting to fellow hikers. If you’re confident and friendly, studies indicate you are less likely to be targeted. Beyond uncomfortable run-ins with other people, bumping into a bear or cougar on the trail is a common concern. However, if you stay calm (don’t run!), store your food properly and pack out your trash, you are already way ahead of the game.

4. Ask a local

Beyond asking folks in town for recommendations and stopping by visitor centers, I always swing by the nearest ranger station. The internet has made it easier than ever to plan a road trip, but rangers still have the latest information on everything from top wildflower viewing spots to fire restrictions. Ranger stations also have resources on handling compromising situations with wild animals, and it’s the perfect place for a quick refresher course on  Leave No Trace Principles , which are important for minimizing impact in the backcountry and tourist hotspots alike

Hiring a guide is another way to safely explore new territory, with the added benefit of supporting a local business. I am fairly new to rock climbing and I don’t always plan trips with my more experienced friends, so rather than risking injury, going with a guide gives me confidence as I improve my skills. I recently went canyoneering for the first time with  Get in the Wild Adventures , and not only was it thrilling, but hearing about my guide’s connection to the Utah wilderness made the experience all the more enjoyable for me.

5. Be patient with yourself

Everyone makes mistakes, and even when you have a plan, sometimes life has other ideas. I’ve learned to accept all kinds of deviations since I started living on the road four years ago, but I still get frazzled from time to time. I’ve had flat tires, bumped into bears and nearly run out of water, but staying calm and thinking logically got me through it, even if I was initially having a meltdown. A solo trip isn’t going to be perfect, so as you let go of insecurities and expectations, be kind to yourself and trust the process. 

If you’re embarking on a solo adventure, odds are, you’re searching for something. Whether you’re running from a bad breakup or trying to be more independent, you will see just how strong and resourceful you are, and a deep sense of joy and freedom will soon follow.

Finding Strength and Inspiration Deep in the Utah Desert

How a series of hiking and camping trips in Utah’s parks and wilderness put Elisabeth Brentano on a transformative journey from urbanite to nature lover.

Solitude, Camping and Backpacking, Wellness, Photography, Climbing and Canyoneering

About the Author – Elisabeth Brentano

Elisabeth Brentano is a writer and photographer based in California, but her passion for nature takes her all over the world to produce travel and environmental content. You can follow her adventures on Instagram at @elisabethontheroad .

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Bears Ears National Monument

Blanding, UT

A pair of towering buttes stand against beautiful scenery. The twin buttes are so distinctive that in each of the native languages of the region their name is the same: Hoon'Naqvut, Shash Jáa, Kwiyagatu Nukavachi, Ansh An Lashokdiwe, or in English: Bears Ears. 

Grand Staircase-Escalante

Escalante, UT

The allure of the Grand Staircase region — the bulk of which is contained in the Grand Staircase–Escalante National Monument — is phenomenal. Sun-drenched Utah backcountry spreads out well beyond the visible horizon from the road, whether you’re traveling along the The All-American Road: Scenic Byway 12, or on Highway 89.

Moab is surrounded by a sea of buckled, twisted and worn sandstone sculpted by millennia of sun, wind and rain

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The Perfect One Week in Utah Road Trip Itinerary (7 Day Guide)

By: Author Contributor

Posted on Last updated: 23rd January 2024

Categories Itineraries , USA

Last Updated on 23rd January 2024 by Sophie Nadeau

Planning a Utah road trip itinerar y? We have the perfect week long guide for you. Utah is an incredible place to visit for people who love the outdoors.

No matter what time of year, there’s plenty of fun to be had in this state. And with 5 national parks (called the Mighty 5) , you really can’t go wrong here. These national parks include Zion, Bryce Canyon, Capitol Reef, Arches, and Canyonlands.

Introducing Utah

What is utah known for, when to visit utah, how to get there, is one week enough time in utah, where to stay in utah, how to get around, day 1 – salt lake city, day 2 – canyonlands , day 3 – arches , day 5 – bryce canyon, day 6 – zion , day 7 – back to slc or on to las vegas.

Hitting all the highlights in Utah can be tricky with only 7 days, but you can definitely make it work. This 7-day Utah itinerary will give you a taste of each national park, and when you decide to come back, you’ll know which places you want to linger in.

Having lived most of my life in Utah, I’m ashamed to say I haven’t done a road trip like this, but this is what I would do if I were going to (and now I have an excuse to test it).

Utah’s breathtaking natural landscapes, including five national parks – Zion, Bryce Canyon, Capitol Reef, Arches, and Canyonlands – are a major draw for tourists who come to hike, camp, and explore the rugged terrain.

The state is also famous for its winter sports, with world-renowned ski resorts such as Park City and Deer Valley that attract skiing enthusiasts from around the globe.

Utah boasts numerous cultural attractions as well, such as the Sundance Film Festival, Utah Symphony Orchestra, and Utah Shakespeare Festival.

Additionally, the state is known for its close association with the Church of Jesus Christ of Latter-day Saints, with Salt Lake City serving as its headquarters. Utah’s unique geography also provides a wealth of outdoor recreation opportunities, including river rafting, mountain biking, and rock climbing, making it an ideal destination for adventure seekers.

Like I said, there’s no wrong time to visit Utah. However, this trip would be best suited for April-October since there’s going to be a fair amount of driving, and you probably don’t want to deal with driving in the cold, snow, and ice.

Fall is my favorite time of year in Utah (and in general), so I’d recommend going in October. You’ll be able to see the fall colors and the national parks will be less crowded than they are during the summer.

Note: Most if not all of these places are prone to flash floods, so check the weather and updates from the national parks regularly.

You’ve got a couple of options flying into the area, and it kind of depends on where you want to start and where you want to finish. 

You can fly in through Salt Lake City International Airport, which is just under 4 hours driving to the next destination, Moab.

With this option, you can either book a roundtrip flight and drive back from Zion National Park when you’re done (about 4.5 hours), or you can head to Las Vegas (about 2.5 hours).

The trip can also be done in reverse, starting in Vegas and finishing in SLC. Or you can book a roundtrip flight from Vegas and drive back from Moab or Salt Lake City (both drives are 6-6.5 hours).

For the purpose of this itinerary, we’re going to start in SLC and finish in Vegas, which has the least amount of driving time, but you can adapt it however you want.

Yes, 7 days should be sufficient time to get an overview of the state and see a number of the different aspects which make it so unique; including several National Parks and a few settlements. If you have longer time to spare, then you can set aside 10-14 days to delve deeper into hidden gems and off the beaten tourist track locations.

You’ll be venturing all around the state, which means you’ll need different accommodations every night.

While you’re in Salt Lake City or Las Vegas, there are tons of hotels and Airbnbs to choose from. I was raised to always stay in Marriotts. You can find them pretty much anywhere, and they’ll always be decent quality.

In downtown Salt Lake, either the City Creek or the City Center ones are good options that will put you in the middle of the city. For something a little cheaper, there is a Fairfield Inn or a Residence Inn, both about 15 minutes outside of downtown.

While you’re driving through the state, you might consider camping in or near the national parks, or you could rent an RV to make your stay a little easier. All the national parks have hotels, inns, and lodges nearby, so there are plenty of options.

You’ll definitely need a car for this trip. If you’re flying in, you’ll need to rent one (check rental prices here) or, as mentioned, you can rent an RV which can double as your transportation and your accommodation.

Any car should do, you won’t need one for off-roading (though if you want to there are plenty of places in the areas you’re visiting to do that if you so wish to) . For more information, be sure to check out our top road trip tips . And for more inspiration, check out this guide to the best road trips in the USA .

Suggested itinerary for a 7 days in Utah road trip

Start your trip in the state capital, Salt Lake City. This city surrounded by mountains has a rich history, but if that’s not your cup of tea, there are also plenty of hiking and outdoor opportunities nearby.

While you’re here you can explore the city, visiting places like Temple Square, the heart of the city and the headquarters of the Church of Jesus Christ of Latter-day Saints, or the Utah State Capitol, a gorgeous building with beautiful grounds and architecture. You can also go to the Hogle Zoo or the Natural History Museum of Utah.

If you want to get outside, head to Big Cottonwood Canyon (just 20 minutes outside the city) where you’ll find plenty of hiking. Or you can go to Park City, a good tourist stop in the mountains that always has tons of events and activities going on (40 minutes away).

You may also want to stop by a grocery store and pick up snacks and food, as there are limited options in some of the parks you’ll be visiting. If you’ve got an extra day to spend here, check out our 2-day Salt Lake City itinerary .

Drive south to Moab, a small town known for its proximity to two of Utah’s most famous national parks, Arches and Canyonlands, and one of Utah’s state parks, Dead Horse Point. It’ll take you just under 4 hours, so get an early start, but also enjoy the scenic drive.

You can either spend the rest of the day exploring Canyonlands or Arches National Park . Choose whichever one you don’t mind spending less time in since you won’t have to drive as much on day 3.

Canyonlands National Park covers over 337,000 acres of rugged terrain. There are three main areas in the park: Island in the Sky, the Maze, and the Needles. Island in the Sky is closest to Moab and one of the park’s most popular areas. If you have more time in Moab, check out our suggested Moab itinerary .

Be sure to visit Grand View Point, one of the coolest viewpoints in the park. Take a hike to Mesa Arch, perhaps the park’s most famous landmark. If you’ve got time head to Green River Overlook or Shafer Canyon Overlook and enjoy the incredible views of the canyons and rock formations as the sun sets.

Spend the next day exploring Arches National Park. Hike to Delicate Arch, one of the park’s most famous landmarks, and watch the sunrise over the park’s stunning red rock formations. The hike takes two to three hours, depending on your pace.

After, you can hike the Devils Garden, a 7-mile trail which can be shortened and you’ll still see some cool sights, including huge boulders, tunnels, and arches. If this seems too long, then don’t worry as you can alternatively hike just the landscape arch, which is a 1.9 mi/3.1 km roundtrip portion of the Devils Garden.

On your way out of the park, there are some great landmarks along the road where you can stop and take pictures. These include Balanced Rock, the Windows, Double Arch, and the Petrified Dunes Lookout.

You can make the 2-hour drive to Capitol Reef during the evening to save you some time on day 4.

Day 4 – Capitol Reef

Capitol Reef National Park is often overlooked among Utah’s parks, but it has some incredible sights, and it’s a bit of a hidden gem in Utah’s national park system. 

Start with a hike to the Hickman Bridge Arch, which spans 133 feet. The 1.8-mile trail will give you stunning views of this park. 

Take a hike along the Capitol Gorge Trail or the Chimney Rock Trail and explore the park’s historic orchards and pioneer-era buildings. There are lots of viewpoints along Highway 24, including Panorama and Sunset Viewpoints, and you can also see some petroglyphs.

When you’re done here, make the 2.5-hour drive to Bryce Canyon

Bryce Canyon National Park is known for its unique geological formations called hoodoos, and it’s one of my favorite parks. 

You can take a hike along the park’s rim, giving you different perspectives on the hoodoos, or descend into the canyon and explore the trails that wind through the formations. 

One great hike is the Navajo Loop, which allows you to hike down into the hoodoos and see them from an entirely different perspective. At the start of this trail, you’ll be able to see the famous hoodoo Thor’s Hammer — which as far as I know no one has been able to lift— and along the way you’ll see things like huge trees growing in between the rock formations and towering hoodoos. 

Watch the sunset over the park’s stunning landscapes and enjoy the incredible views. For more inspiration, be sure to check out our suggested one day in Bryce Canyon National Park itinerary .

Head to Zion National Park, one of Utah’s most popular and beloved parks (1.5 hours from Bryce). Take a scenic drive through the park’s stunning landscapes, including towering rock formations, deep canyons, and rushing rivers. 

If you’re a serious hiker, you might consider a hike to the top of Angels Landing, one of the park’s most famous and most challenging trails, which you’ll need a permit to hike. 

If you’re not up for that, explore the Narrows, a stunning canyon with towering walls and a winding river. There’s a one-mile paved section, but if you want to go further in, you’ll have to hike through the river.

On your last day, either head back north to Salt Lake or head down to Las Vegas, where you can explore the city or simply board your flight back home. For more inspiration, be sure to check out our suggested itinerary for Las Vegas .

We hope you enjoy your time in Utah visiting these gorgeous national parks!

Enjoyed reading about the perfect one week in Utah road trip itinerary? Pin this article now, read it again later:

About the author: Lexi Cooper is a freelance editor and writer. Her parents taught her a love for traveling, seeing new sights, and learning about the world. Along with her passion for travel, she loves stories and dreams of spending her days reading and writing books and wandering the globe.

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Utah Road Trip: A Solo Female Road Trip Guide

Utah is an amazing state. There are a lot of people who don’t give Utah the credit that it deserves. That I love about the North West of the United states is that they states are so easy to travel through. A lot of this has to do with the fact that they only have a few highways and it is easy to get from place to place. That isn’t always the case with the eastern part of the country. Here are some tips regarding a safe Utah road trip.

What you should know

Utah is great state to take a road trip. When I went through the state I came in from Idaho and then drove back up to Montana, which happens to be my favorite state. The people are incredibly friendly and I though that the food was pretty good. They like cheese in Utah which is always a benefit.

If you are traveling to Utah, you shouldn’t expect too much glitz and glam. That really isn’t what the state is about. A Utah road trip, especially if it is being done solo, is mostly good for safety and outdoor activities. There are few states that I have felt more safe in than Utah. The demographics of the state are also not very diverse, but the people were kind and I didn’t have any issues.

Budget Tips and Traps

When it comes to pricing. Utah itself is not that expensive but the gas can be high. If you are trying to find ways to save on gas you can find my post right here . I was able to find affordable accommodations while staying in an Airbnb. Airbnb is a great alternative to the traditional hotel hence, why I am always raving about it. You can often find a little apartment to stay in where you can wash your clothes and cook your meals at a cheaper cost than a hotel. It goes a long way in cutting costs.

I was able to find pretty good food but I wouldn’t say that the options are very diverse. If you are planning to eat out a lot then you are going to have to make sure your budget can accommodate $15 a meal or more. I wouldn’t say that I found a bunch of fancy restaurants, but they exist. A majority of what I was able to find were burger shops, taco places, and pizza parlors. Overall the food isn’t that expensive but you would save by making meals if possible.

You will have to pay for parking, by the hour, in Salt Lake City. Most of the restaurants and shopping (outside of the mall) that you are going to do is in Downtown Salt Lake. Almost all the parking is paid for by the hour. This is not always the case in North West cities but it is in Salt Lake.

Where You Need To Go

• Bryce Canyon National Park, make sure you see Navajo Loop.
• Zion National Park
• Capitol Reef National Park, the one thing you should see is Cassidy Arch if you are strapped for time.
• Arches National Park, only 30 minutes from Canyonland National Park
• Canyonlands National Park
• Goblin Valley
• Beaver, Utah: The National Rural Water Association said in their Great American Water Taste Test, that Beaver has the best tasting water. I am going to take their word for it. You can stop by if you are traveling between Salt Lake and Zion National Park.
• Colob Canyon, a secluded park of Zion National Park.
• Calf Creek Falls
• Mesa arch in Canyonlands National Park.
• Dead Horse Point
• Escalante Petrified Forest State Park
• Moqui Caverns in Kanab, UT
• Mystic Hot Springs
• Salt Lake City, Utah
• Hiking in the National Parks
• River Rafting, Moab is a great place to get this done.
• Sailing on the Great Salt Lake
• Bobsled Rides in Utah Olympic Park. This works well for a winter activity
• Skiing/ snow boarding
• Mount Timpanogos
• Temple Square

Things to Keep in Mind

The Mormons are alive and real in Utah. So, what I mean by that is if you have ever watched those shows where the women where long dresses and braids down their back and men do most of the speaking, that is a real thing that happens in Utah. I was eating my pizza where a family of about 10 came into the restaurant. I don’t think I heard the wife speak once.

With that being said, there may be some things in Utah that don’t happen in other states or aren’t as prevalent. I say this for people to be mindful to continue to be respectful. That includes not starting or approaching them to complain about their lifestyle. They have a right to live their life just like anyone else.

If you are someone who wants to do a lot of drinking, it may be a BYOB kind of situation. The residents in Utah are not heavy drinkers. A lot of them also don’t smoke. There is a lot of emphasis on physical activity and keeping the city clean. If you are looking for a wild party and a bunch of drinks, then Utah might not be the kind of place where you want to spend a lot of time in.

Salt Lake, Utah has the abbreviation of SL,UT. You know, slut… There are lots of products that say “ride the SL,UT” or something along those lines. I know, because I have a bunch of it. I thought it was hilarious.

There you have it. Those are all of my tips and trips for a Utah road trip. Let me know what you think in the comments. If you have any questions, drop your girl a line. You can find some tips on how to plan a road trip, you can find that right here .

If you would like to see my post about road trip essentials for a little info that you need about packing, you can find that here. You can also find my tips for a solo female road trip fight here. You should also check out my other road trip guides for Oregon , Colorado , Texas, and Florida .

3 thoughts on “Utah Road Trip: A Solo Female Road Trip Guide”

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Salt Lake City Solo Travel Guide

QUICK FACTS

• Utah’s capital and its largest city, with 200,000 inhabitants.
• Named after the Great Salt Lake , which stretches out 17 miles west of the city.
• Founded by mormon followers (including Brigham Young and Isaac Morley) in 1847.
• Nicknames: SLC, Crossroads of The West, City of the Saints

PRACTICAL INFORMATION

• Currency:  U.S. Dollar  (USD)
• Spoken languages:  English .
• Best time to visit: from September to November for the best weather.   Summers are too hot, spring sees a lot of rain.
• Arriving via airport: the Salt Lake City International Airport is just 20 minutes west of the city center by bus , taxi or light rail . The bus ($2.50) ends early evenings, while light rail service ($2.50) ends around 11:30pm. Taxis going downtown start at $15.

WHERE TO STAY

• Best hostel for solo travelers in Salt Lake City: Park City Hostel . Comfortable and clean beds, lots of space, and plenty of social activities to meet others. Right on the bus route with easy access to Park City or Canyons.
• Five-star hotels and bed and breakfasts can be found along Main Street and Temple Street , while a handful of hostels dot Central City .

GETTING AROUND

• Buses are free in the downtown free fare zone , while rides out to the suburbs or ski resorts in Cottonwood Canyons will cost you $2.25.
• The light rail TRAX system has four lines that weave in and out of the suburbs for $2.25, but is free in the downtown area.
• Salt Lake City is an easy city to drive in, as the grid system is small, spacious and efficient. You may want to rent a car to get the best out of the city.

SALT LAKE CITY NIGHTLIFE

• Drinking age is  21 , and last call is at  2 AM .
• As the home of the Mormon Church’s headquarters, Utah’s drinking laws are famously restrictive, but loosened up after 2009. As a result, there are lots of new bars and restaurants opening in the city.
• Liquor licenses are difficult to obtain so there aren’t too many bars in town; many have to operate as restaurants that serve drinks too, however, the bars and bartenders must remain hidden; you must order food, show ID and order one drink at a time.
• Note: all liquor stores are state-run and close on Sundays.
• The bars in nearby Park City are a lot more relaxed, perhaps thanks to the Sundance Film Festival that takes place there annually.
• Great bars in Salt Lake City to meet people: Under Current, Lake Effect, Templin Family Brewing, Craft by Proper, Paxton Pub, and Post Office Place.

UNIQUE LANDMARKS TO VISIT

• Temple Square is a 10-acre complex of religious buildings, forming the symbolic heart of the Church of Latter-Day Saints (LDS).
• Salt Lake City Public Library is one of the most architecturally-interesting libraries in the world, made up of five stories of curved glass facing a concrete wall.

INTERESTING WALKS

• Gallivan Center is a public plaza in the heart of downtown SLC that’s been landscaped to perfection, signifying the progressive trend in design in the city. Music festivals are plentiful in the summer, while an ice rink is constructed for winter.
• Liberty Park is a scenic 80-acre urban park with a few trails and a little lake to traverse. Vegetation in this part of Utah tends to stay green all year, lending the park a fairy tale-like feeling.
• Need a place to rest your legs and sip something delicious? Head to Three Pines Coffee , The Tea Grotto , or IndieGo Coffee .

LOCAL WISDOM

• The East side of Salt Lake City is more conservative, affluent and Mormon than the west, where there’s more ethnic diversity and a thriving arts scene.
• Great restaurants in SLC that locals love: Osteria Amore (Italian), Jang Soo Jang (Korean), Trolley Cottage Café, Yumz Vegan Bakery, The Other Place Restaurant ($ – Greek), and Arlo Restaurant.
• Where to find good cheap eats : Cheap international restaurants can be found all over but the trucks at the Farmer’s Market in Pioneer Park (Saturdays) are the best. Craving a delicious burger? Head to Crown Burgers and/or Lucky 13 . Craving fried chicken? Try Chick Queen . For Chinese food on a budget, go to One More Noodle House .
• Dangerous areas : Salt Lake City has relatively low violent crime rates, but robberies do occur. The Central and North West areas of the valley should be avoided, as well as some high-crime neighborhoods in South Salt Lake. Exercise caution when walking alone at night.

Recommended trip duration:  1-2 days

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Utah is famous for its incredible landscape - that I knew - but it wasn’t until I went and explored some of the more off the beaten path parts of the state that I realized how special it really is. Zion and Bryce National Parks are incredible, no doubt, but head into the state parks and the national monuments because not only will you be blown away by the orange rocks, the slot canyons, the hoodoos, and the incredible canyons, but you also might be the only one there!

Utah is an outdoorsy person’s dream with an almost endless menu of hiking, bouldering, canyoning, and kayaking. It’s also easy on the budget. I free-camped for almost the entire time I was there thanks to all of the public lands. If you love stars, endless open spaces, and that dry desert warmth, be careful going to Utah, because you won’t want to leave!

Where in Utah?

Get to Know Utah

10 stunning secret places

An awesome American Southwest road trip

Hike Coyote Gulch in Grand Staircase Escalante in one day

Zion observation point

Watch My Videos from Utah

Accommodation.

Budget Solo Travelers (free - $20): Campgrounds are widely available – more than 7000 of them, actually. There is a lot of Bureau of Land Management (BLM) land that is owned by the public out in Utah. That means that you can find free camping in these areas as long as you Leave No Trace and are not visible from the highway.  This website  is really helpful if you need some help finding options in your area. Expect to pay an $8 reservation fee for the  state parks , with extra charges applicable for vehicles. The conditions and amenities available vary from one campground to another. Hostels are mainly located in major cities like  Salt Lake City , with a dorm room starting at about $15.

Mid Budget Solo Travelers ($35 and up): Motels in Utah are full of character and widely available throughout the state. Price starts at about $35 for a basic double room. Check out the locally-run bed & breakfasts for a more localized experience. Prices start at $50. As for a more luxurious night’s stay, there are plenty of hotels, resorts, and lodges available. Airbnb  averages at about $35 for a private room, and at about $80 for an entire unit.

Transportation

Getting There: The main international airport is Salt Lake City International Airport. Direct flights are available from most major cities within the US, as well as France, the Netherlands, Mexico, and Canada. Buses and rail are available from neighboring states. Greyhound is the primary bus company traveling in and out of Utah. As for trains, FrontRunner Commuter Rail and Amtrak run daily between Chicago and San Francisco, making stops at a few stations in Utah. However, because of its size (Utah is the 13-largest state in the US), the most practical way to get around is by car. All major car rental companies can be found at the airport and most major hotels.

Getting Around: The public bus network within Salt Lake City is efficient and affordable – you can even travel for free downtown within the Free Fare Zone boundaries, which cover many attractions and stops. For train traveling, there is TRAX light rail – which covers routes to major attractions, costing about $2.50 for a single trip. Uber and Lyft are also available.

Local Eats ($5 - $15): Popular local foods include burgers, scones, and funeral potatoes. This means most meals are hearty. Utah is also famous for its bear lake raspberries, melons, and “fry sauce” – a ketchup and mayonnaise combo. If you are doing a road trip, buy your groceries at the local supermarket and cook your own food. A week’s worth of groceries costs about $80 - $100 at the smaller grocers.

Restaurants & Bars ($20 and up): There are plenty of restaurants, cafes, and bars in the hiking towns in Utah. Classic American style breakfasts are served at funky cafes, great coffee be found easily, and international cuisines are plentiful, especially Mexican, Italian, and Asian food. For those who prefer fresh produce, farmers markets are also on the rise. As far as nightlife goes, though Utah has stricter regulations than its neighboring states, there are still plenty of bars, lounges, and clubs in the cities and ski towns.

Things to Do

Take an American Southwest Road Trip: I used to think that the best things to see were international until I did the American Southwest road trip and realized what incredible canyons and wide open spaces I’d been missing all this time that were never all that far. Specifically in Utah, you’ll see an overwhelming amount of options for camping, hiking, biking, canyoning, kayaking, etc. One can easily spend months here!

Hike Coyote Gulch in Grand Staircase Escalante : Grand Staircase Escalante National Monument is a massive sequence of sedimentary rock formations stretching from Zion to the Grand Canyon. It’s an outdoor enthusiast’s dream with hiking, rock climbing, bouldering adventures, 4×4 roads, and wide open spaces that you can climb all over and free camp in. There are thousands of hikes you could do in the Grand Staircase, so pick one that best fits your schedule and fitness.

Check Out Zion Observation Point : Zion’s warm orange rock will have you in awe, and the views will take your breath away.  Regardless of which hike(s) you choose, you’re going to see something amazing. It’ll just be that much more amazing if you make it to Observation Point! The hike itself is perfect for anyone looking for an out-and-back day hike that is still solid and challenging. At the viewpoint, you will see the top of the canyon walls as well as the canyon itself. For a less crowded experience, start out early.

Catch The Sunset At Dead Horse Point State Park:  Dead Horse Point was one of the most impressive views I saw on the American Southwest road trip I took. While the park is small and hence gets crowded easily, the majority of the view is totally open and has plenty of spots where one can enjoy in privacy.

Go Skiing: Utah is known for its amazing powder in the winter months. The most famous areas to ski are Park City and the outskirts of Salt Lake City.

Apps to download 

AllTrails ( connect new trails and other hikers), TrailTracker (for navigation)

Posts About Utah

13 Awesome Things to Do in Zion National Park, Utah

29 of the Best Places to Travel in December (USA Edition)

The Top 13 Best Things to Do in Utah in December

The BEST Things to Do in and Around Arches National Park

12 of the Best Things to Do in Utah in March

Is a Scenic Flight Over Moab Worth It? See Arches and Canyonlands from Above!

20 Awesome Things to Do in Moab, Utah

65 awesome things to do in utah.

17 Secret Places in Utah (Off the Beaten Path)

The Best Road Trips in the American West

Your Complete Guide to Mystic Hot Springs, Utah

How to Hike Coyote Gulch in Grand Staircase Escalante in One Day

11 of the Best Road Trips in the USA (in 2021)

22 Mind-Blowing Things to See on an American Southwest Road Trip

The Ultimate Utah National Parks Road Trip

The World’s Best Road Trips

The Best Girlfriend Weekend Getaways in the USA

What Does an American Southwest Road Trip Cost?

Observation Point vs. Angel’s Landing in Zion, Which is Better?

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Home > United States > 17 Things To Do Alone in Salt Lake City: Solo Travel in Salt Lake City

17 Things To Do Alone in Salt Lake City: Solo Travel in Salt Lake City

By Dymphe / June 11, 2023

There are lots of fun things to do alone in Salt Lake City . Whether you want to relax, be active or enjoy nature, solo travel in Salt Lake City is great!

You can find Salt Lake City in the state of Utah in the United States . The city is home to several sights, such as Temple Square and the Utah State Capitol.

If you like solo travel, then this city is a very nice destination. That's because there are incredible things to do alone in Salt Lake City.

Whether you want to meet others or not, there are definitely activities you'll love!

For example, you can join a Meetup group and go mountain biking with others. Or you can join an event at the Utah Museum of Fine Arts.

Also, if you want to find relaxing activities for solo travel in Salt Lake City, there are great options as well. For example, you can walk at the beautiful Tracy Aviary & Botanical Gardens. Or you can relax at Temple Square.

Table of Contents

1. Discover Food and Drinks: Great Thing To Do Alone in Salt Lake City If You Like Food

One of the best things to do alone in Salt Lake City is doing the " Sip, Snack, Stroll Salt Lake City " experience.

During this, you walk through the center.

There you stop at some great places where you can get food and drinks.

Also, you visit some of the most famous sights in the city.

This is a great way to explore the city during solo travel in Salt Lake City!

This tour takes about 3 to 4 hours in total.

What's great is that you do this tour with other people in a group. This makes it possible to make some new friends at the same time!

2. Explore the Utah Outdoors With a Group

There is a lot of beautiful nature in the state of Utah.

This nature is great to explore, but it is much more fun if you do this with other people.

If you want to do so, you can join the Meetup group " Utah Outdoors ". Joining this group is one of the best things to do alone in Salt Lake City.

They organize events during which you can explore the nature of the state and of the states near it.

Each event takes place at another place, which allows you to discover a new place every time you go to an event.

During the events, you'll discover canyons, deserts, mountains, and more! Most of the time, you go hiking at these events, but there are also other activities.

What's great is that the group also focuses on making new friends! This makes the events much more fun, as you can socialize with others! So if you want to meet others during solo travel in Salt Lake City, this is great!

3. Relax at Temple Square

One of the best places in the city is Temple Square. Going here belongs to the best things to do alone in Salt Lake City.

This is a place that you can find in the city center.

You find here many structures, including the Salt Lake Temple and the Salt Lake Assembly Hall.

The Salt Lake Temple is one of the most impressive structures that you can find in the city.

This is a church that is very large. Furthermore, the architecture of the building looks incredible! You should definitely visit this place when you are in the city!

These structures are great to see when you are doing solo travel in Salt Lake City.

Also, you find some beautiful nature at Temple Square.

This is great to see and it makes the place a very relaxing place.

You can go here for a relaxing stroll all by yourself while enjoying the sights and the nature of the park.

4. Do Tai Chi: Nice Thing To Do Alone in Salt Lake City That’s Very Unique

Another one of the best things to do alone in Salt Lake City is to join a Tai Chi Meetup.

The " Salt Lake City Tai Chi - Qigong Meetup " group organizes Tai Chi events that are a lot of fun!

These events are great for those that already do Tai Chi or Qigong. But the events are also great for beginners with no experience yet.

Doing Tai Chi is a great activity for your mind and body. It is a great way to relax when you are doing solo travel in Salt Lake City.

Besides that, you can meet others during these events.

This makes it possible to make friends at the same time!

5. Join an Event at the Utah Museum of Fine Arts

Do you like art? Then you should definitely go to the Utah Museum of Fine Arts.

This is a great museum where you can see a lot of paintings in a lot of different styles.

For example, there are paintings from Europe from the end of the middle ages till the 19th century. Moreover, there are works by American artists. And you can find here a collection of modern and contemporary works.

Seeing the collection of the museum on your own is a very fun activity. When you are here alone, you can completely focus on the art. So it's one of the best things to do alone in Salt Lake City.

Also, there are many events that take place at the museum.

For example, there are lectures and there are workshops.

These events are great to attend when you are doing solo travel in Salt Lake City. That's because they art a lot of fun, but also because you can meet others at these events!

6. Do a Tour of the Utah State Capitol Building

The Utah State Capitol Building is where the government of the state of Utah is.

It is an impressive building with an impressive architectural style. This architectural style is the Neoclassical revival style. And the building dates back to the year 1916.

What's great is that you can do a tour of the building. Doing a tour is very interesting if you like learning new things.

During these free guided tours, you can learn more about the history of Utah. And you can learn more about the state's legislature.

Also, you can learn more about the building and you can see the interior of the building.

These tours take place from Monday till Friday, and the tours take place several times per day!

7. Take Part in a Pottery Class

Another one of the best things to do alone in Salt Lake City is taking a pottery class.

During the " Spinning art with [a] professional potter " experience, you'll have a fun time for sure!

You'll learn how to work with clay and make your own items from it.

These classes take about 2 to 3 hours. And during it, you'll learn the basics, and you get to work with your own pottery wheel!

This is a lot of fun! And you can meet other people that also do the class at the same time! This is a great way to socialize during solo travel in Salt Lake City!

8. Join a Book Club: Fun Thing To Do Alone in Salt Lake City To Make New Friends

Joining a book club is another one of the best things to do alone in Salt Lake City.

The Meetup group " Overbooked Literary Ladies " is a book club for women between the ages of 20 till 40.

At the meetups of this group, you can discuss books together with others!

Moreover, the books are of every genre. And they want to pick books that have less than 500 pages.

Also, you can listen to the audiobook version of the book and discuss it after that.

The meetups are a great way to discuss books and socialize with others! This is a lovely activity when you are alone in the city!

9. Play Poker With a Group in Salt Lake City

Do you like playing poker? Then joining " The Salt Lake City Poker Meetup Group " is a lot of fun!

You can become a member of this group and play poker with other people.

These poker events are great to attend during solo travel in Salt Lake City if you like poker!

Keep in mind that you need to be at least 21 years old to join an event.

10. Go for a Relaxing Walk at the Red Butte Garden: Nice Thing To Do Alone in Salt Lake City That’s Very Relaxing

Red Butte Garden is a very beautiful place. If you like nature, this is a great place to visit when you're in the city.

You can find here a botanical garden and an arboretum. This place belongs to the University of Utah.

The nature of this place is very beautiful. There are many plants, trees, and flowers here. The combination of this nature is beautiful!

Also, there is a lagoon at Red Butte Garden that is great to see!

You find many hiking trails at this place. This makes the place great for hiking all by yourself! Moreover, if you visit this place on your own, you can completely focus on all the beautiful nature that is here.

What's great is that you can visit this place every day of the year. So if you are doing solo travel in Salt Lake City, you can always go here, which is great!

11. Do a Cooking Class

Another one of the best things to do alone in Salt Lake City is a cooking class.

During a cooking class, you can learn new cooking skills, and you can discover new food.

One of the best places for doing a cooking class is at the Culinary School in Salt Lake City .

This place has both cooking classes that take several weeks, as well as ones that take place only once.

Each cooking class is unique and focuses on something else.

Depending on whether you are in Salt Lake City for a long time or only one day, you can choose a cooking class.

If you are in the city for a longer time or if you live there, a cooking class that takes several weeks is great! This allows you to become very good at making a certain type of food!

During the cooking classes, you can socialize with others and you can improve your skills! Also, you may make some friends when you are doing these cooking classes.

12. Tour the Natural History Museum of Utah

Going to the Natural History Museum of Utah is another one of the best things to do alone in Salt Lake City.

This is a museum that is all about natural history. You find here exhibits that focus on a lot of different aspects of natural history.

For example, there is an exhibition about the first humans. And there is are exhibitions about gems, birds, land animals, and other subjects.

Also, there is a gallery where you can often see other exhibitions. This is a lot of fun as you can discover new things every time you visit!

What's great is that you can do a tour of the highlights of the museum. This allows you to learn more about the museum's collection. It's one of the most interesting things to do during solo travel in Salt Lake City.

And you can meet others when you do this tour, which is great as well!

13. Take Part in a Metalsmithing Experience

One of the most unique things to do alone in Salt Lake City is doing a Salt Lake City metalsmithing experience .

During this, you'll learn how to make jewelry. For this, you'll learn how you can use different tools, materials, and stones.

In the end, you'll leave the class with your own ring or pendant.

What's great is that they have a large variety of stones that you can use. And there are some stones that you can also use, but there is an extra charge for that.

In total, this experience takes about 2 to 3 hours, but this depends on the class size.

Because you do these classes with other people, you can socialize at the same time, which is great!

14. Walk at the Tracy Aviary Botanical Gardens

The botanical gardens at Tracy Aviary are a great place to visit. This is a must-see if you like nature.

These gardens are great to see when you are doing solo travel in Salt Lake City.

You can go here for a relaxing stroll, and enjoy all the beauty of nature!

15. Play Golf With a Group

Do you like playing golf? Then this is one of the best things to do alone in Salt Lake City!

You can join the Meetup group " Utah Golf " if you want to golf with other people when you are in the city.

This group organizes golf events at many different golf courses in and near the city.

What's great is that the events are very casual, and you can make some new friends at these events.

Also, they have different events for different skill levels.

16. Go Mountain Biking With a Group: Nice Thing To Do Alone in Salt Lake City To Be Active

Another one of the best things to do alone in Salt Lake City is to go mountain biking.

The Meetup group " Salt Lake City Mountain Biking " organizes events that are a lot of fun!

They have rides that take place about 1 or 2 times per week. And during the summer, there are even more rides per week!

Each one of the rides takes place at another place in or near the city.

The rides are a great way to explore the outdoors near the city. And at the same time, you meet other people that like mountain biking. This makes it possible to make new friends! So that's very nice for solo travel in Salt Lake City.

What's great as well is that they have events for every skill level. This makes it possible for everyone to enjoin mountain biking with others in the area.

Keep in mind to check each event for the skill level that you need to have.

What's lovely as well is that the people of the group often hang out after the rides at a restaurant.

17. Join a Yoga and Meditation Experience

If you are looking for a solo activity that is great for relaxation, this is what you are looking for!

Doing the " Mountain Meditation & Yoga " experience is a lot of fun during solo travel in Salt Lake City.

You start this experience by hiking through the Utah mountains. There you see a lake and a very beautiful spot.

It's there where you do a yoga and meditation session. This takes about 50 minutes. And it is a great way to relax when you in the city.

After that, you'll walk through the area a bit more and you see a lot of beautiful nature and landscapes!

You do this hike, yoga, and meditation session with other people. This is a fun experience as you can meet others at the same time!

This whole experience takes about 2.5 to 3 hours and this includes every part of the experience. In total, you cover a distance of about 1.8 miles (or 2.9 kilometers) when you do this experience. Moreover, the elevation difference is about 500 feet (or 152 meters).

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Solo Traveler

Solo travel tips, destinations, stories... the source for those who travel alone.

Solo in Moab, Utah & Arches National Park

February 25, 2022 by Tracey Nesbitt

I am pleased to present a new Solo Travel Destination Post from  Solo Travel Society  member Pat, to complement an earlier one from Christine. Both are from the United States, and each submitted reports from their solo travels to Moab, Utah and Arches National Park. Do you have a solo travel destination that you would like to recommend?  Submit your description here , along with a few photos, and share it with fellow travelers!

Solo Travel Rating:  1  (1 is easiest, 3 is most difficult. Please see chart below)

Languages spoken: English

Costs at Destination :  Reasonable  ( local transportation, dining, tours, events and attractions )

Pat's Solo Utah Road Trip to Arches National Park

I drove from Oregon to Arches National Park in Utah, which was a two-day drive. On AirBnB, I found a teepee to stay in for two nights in Moab. It was definitely a glamping experience!

Exploring Arches National Park is an amazing experience. You can see some of the arches and other rock formations from the park’s road, but there are so many more to see if you park your car and take even short hikes. A map you are given at the entrance shows the various hikes and ranks them based on distance and difficulty. The park becomes very crowded by late morning, so I suggest visiting early in the morning and in the late afternoon/early evening.

There is a nearby state park called Dead Horse which was pretty expensive and I wouldn’t necessarily recommend. There’s a nice viewpoint at the top, but it seemed to be very geared towards mountain biking.

From April to October, 2022, Arches will be piloting a timed-entry system to manage visitor traffic and improve the experience for everyone. Be sure to check the park website for up-to-date information.

Solo Travel Rating

• Safety   – 1  (1 very safe, 2 safe in most areas, 3 be cautious at all times.)
• Language   – 1  (1 English is first language, 2 English speakers easy to find, 3 English speakers rare)
• Navigation – 2  (1 easy to navigate by transit or car, 2 poor transit, car necessary, 3 not easy to get around)
• Culture – 1  (1 Similar to North America or Western Europe, 2 Different from above but relaxed and easy, 3 Challenging)
• Average Rating – 1  (1 is easiest, 3 is most difficult)

Christine's Solo Trip to Moab, Utah

Although there are many fascinating travel destinations abroad, within my own country of the United States lie a plethora of exciting places for a solo traveler to explore. Moab, Utah combines the beauty and tranquility of the West with the feel of a small town that embraces adventure seekers from around the globe!

Moab's most spectacular attractions are its two National Parks, Arches and Canyonlands, and the equally amazing Dead Horse Point State Park. Each of these parks is easily accessible from the town, but you will require your own transportation to enter the parks. These parks are also popular for hikers and mountain bikers, but I recommend that you bring sufficient water and a GPS in order to find your way back to the trailhead!

Dead Horse Point State Park , the furthest from town, butts right up against Canyonlands National Park and affords amazing views of the Colorado River. Canyonlands is quite large and requires a considerable amount of driving to reach popular points within, but the views and hiking trails are worth the effort. I recommend conducting driving tours with a lot of picture stops through both of these parks to complete them together in one day.

Arches National Park, my favorite of the three, offers the most scenic views and best marked hiking trails. You will need at least one day to hike to some of the most spectacular rock formations in the country. The 1.5 mile hike up to the Delicate Arch is a must! You will meet lots of friendly hikers along the trails in all of the parks.

Moab has plenty of lodging in town, however, I would definitely book in advance and make sure there are no events during your stay because accommodations can fill up quickly. The town itself is quite small and one can easily walk to all the little shops and eateries. My favorite local eatery was Eddie McStiff's Brew Pub–the atmosphere was lively and had a good mix of locals and tourists. The place was packed in the evenings with adventurers recounting all of the great places they visited in the park! Unfortunately, this pub has now closed, but you are sure to find your own favorite. If you have a spot to recommend, please add it in the comments section below.

Moab, Utah is by far one of my favorite places I've visited in the US and I can't wait to get back and retrace some of my steps!

Solo Travel Destination Rating System

Safety – 1 (1 very safe, 2 safe in most areas, 3 be cautious at all times.)

Language – 1 (1 English is first language, 2 English speakers easy to find, 3 English speakers rare)

Navigation – 2 (1 easy to navigate by transit or car, 2 poor transit, car necessary, 3 not easy to get around)

Culture – 1 (1 Similar to North America or Western Europe, 2 Different from above but relaxed and easy, 3 Challenging)

Average Rating – 1 (1 is easiest, 4 is most difficult)

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Capitol Reef National Park in One Day (Solo Trip)

By: Author Susan Moore

Posted on Last updated: October 11, 2023

When I visited Capitol Reef National Park during my solo road trip to Moab, I only stayed for one night. In hindsight, I would recommend staying at least two or three nights at Capitol Reef park.

Even though I only had one day in Capitol Reef National Park I still got in a few hikes and enjoyed driving around the park –  the place is one big beautiful scenic drive.

If you stay for 2 or 3 days at Capitol Reef, you could explore many more hiking trails.

In this post I’ll show you some of the awesome things to do at Capitol Reef National Park when you only have 24 hours.

From the moment you get to the park you’ll notice the interesting rock formations at Capitol Reef – they will grab your attention with various colors of beautiful sandstone.

The park is named after two geologic features: the waterpocket fold and the Capitol Dome which resembles the Capitol Building in Washington DC.

If you enter the park from the west like I did you’ll see Chimney Rock on the left side of the road and the twin rocks.

Twin Rocks as seen from Hwy 24 in Capitol Reef National Park

After checking into my hotel in Torrey Utah, a few miles west of Capitol Reef National Park, I drove to the visitor center to get a map and some info about the hiking trails in the park.

Since I was driving all afternoon and didn’t eat lunch yet I decided to visit Capitol Reef Inn and Café in Torrey. I enjoyed the trout sandwich and a slice of homemade blackberry pie.

Solo travel quotes “Traveling alone doesn’t always mean you’re alone. Most often, you meet marvelous people along the way and make connections that last a lifetime.” – Jacqueline Boone

Enjoy homemade pie at the Capitol Reef Cafe in Torrey Utah

Chimney Rock

Back on the road at about 5:30 pm I stopped at Chimney Rock but only hiked up about a half mile on the trail. I didn’t have time to do the whole hike before sundown, so I opted for a mini-hike.

The Chimney Rock at Capitol Reef National Park

Chimney Rock Trail Info

• Distance: 7.2 miles (11.8 km)
• Type of Hike: Loop
• Elevation gain: 590 ft (180 m)
• Difficulty: Strenuous
• Duration: Allow about 2.5 to 3 hours

Map of Chimney Rock Trail at Capitol Reef National Park

Chimney Rock trailhead and a small parking lot are located before the visitor center on Hwy 24.

Chimney Rock trailhead at Capitol Reef National Park is on Hwy 24

Gooseneck Overlook and Sunset Point

Next, I drove to Gooseneck Point and Sunset Point Trail, down a gravel road for a mile or so to the parking lot. Luckily, I got the last available spot.

The short hike to the canyon overlook at Gooseneck Point is easy. The term gooseneck refers to the u-shaped turns formed by the river in the canyon bed.

Gooseneck Point Capitol Reef National Park in Utah

Continuing to the Sunset Point trail, the sun low on the horizon, I realized I should have brought a jacket with me. While hiking I felt warm enough but at a couple of places the wind made it quite chilly.

In the high desert everything cools off quickly after the sun sets.

The hike to sunset point is enjoyable and the views are outstanding

Besides watching the sunset, the best part of sunset trail is watching the light on the landscape after the sun drops below the horizon.

It’s one of those places where you keep taking photos of the same place over and over again, because the light is slightly different.

Rim Rock Inn Torrey Utah

Address: 2523 UT-24, Torrey

By the time I arrived back at the parking lot it was almost dark, I drove back to the Rim Rock Inn and enjoyed a couple of beers and dinner at the Rim Rock Restaurant. I took my second beer with me to my room and enjoyed a hot bath and good night’s sleep.

Even from this budget hotel there are amazing views of the Utah landscape. Get the latest deals at Rim Rock Inn.

Have a look at photos of rooms/ammenities at hotels in Torrey Utah and read reviews so you can pick the best hotel near Capitol Reef.

The Rim Rock Inn in Torrey Utah is a short drive to Capitol Reef National Park

First thing on my agenda in the morning was hiking rather than breakfast.

“ Hickman Bridge is our most popular hike” the park ranger informed me when I inquired about hiking it on the afternoon of my arrival to Capitol Reef. She advised going early in the morning or later in the evening in order to get an available parking spot.

Hickman Bridge Trail

Trailhead with parking lot is 2 miles east of the Capitol Reef visitor center.

• Distance: 2 miles (3.2 km)
• Type of Hike: Out and back
• Elevation gain: 400 ft (122 m)
• Difficulty: Easy
• Duration: Allow about 1 hour
• GPS coordinates: 38.288867, -111.227975

Grab a trail guide at the trailhead (only 50 cents) which I didn’t have so I borrowed one, but somehow I still missed several of the 17 items highlighted in the brochure.

I decided to get up early and hike the Hickman trail around sunrise, about 7 am in early October.

When I arrived at the trailhead there were only two other cars parked there but when I returned at about 8:30 the lot was almost full. This parking lot is not very big – maybe 25 – 30 parking stalls.

Hickman Bridge hike starts out alongside the Fremont River with beautiful views. The trail climbs up for a short distance then levels out.

You may see a small natural bridge to the right of the trail on the way to Hickman Bridge, but it’s tiny in comparison to Hickman Bridge.

Hickman Bridge is the most popular hike at Capitol Reef National Park

You know you are getting close to Hickman Bridge when you see the sign indicating the trail loops under Hickman Bridge.

Walk to the right and enjoy the wonderful view of the bridge as you approach. Then walk under the bridge and have a look at the other side.

Hickman Bridge is 133 ft (40 m) long and 125 ft (37 m) high

This Hickman natural bridge was named after Joseph Hickman, a local school administrator and a Utah legislator who offered public support for protecting the Capitol Reef area in the early 1900’s.

Fruit Orchards – Fruita Mormon Settlement

After hiking Hickman Bridge, I stopped at one of the orchards on the way to Torrey Utah. You can pick as many apples as you can eat while visiting the orchard.

September and October are apple season. Other fruits, such as cherries, apricots, peaches, and pears are ready to pick in the summer months.

After hiking Hickman Bridge pick an apple at one of the many orchards in Capitol Reef National Park

The apple I ate was juicy and sweet but not too sweet – a very refreshing snack after hiking.

Fruita Mormon settlement is a historic district in Capitol Reef National Park. After the surrounding area was designated a National Monument the government slowly began purchasing the land in Fruita from private owners.

Apparently the Fruita Mormons were Mormon-Lite, as in not particularly religious. They did not build a church in the settlement.

Petroglyphs

A short distance west of the Hickman Bridge trailhead on Hwy 24 there is parking lot at the petroglyphs. I stopped to read about the petroglyphs and walk the boardwalk alongside the canyon wall.

Across the highway from the petroglyphs is where I visited the orchard – there are many other orchards along Hwy 24.

Petroglyphs – carvings in stone – from hundreds of years ago – probably by the Fremont Indians

Since I knew I could get good food at the Capitol Reef Café I returned for lunch. I ordered a slice of apple pie for my appetizer, decided I must try the guacamole and chips, then fish and a salad for mains.

All delicious! The house salad includes a great selection of vegetables – it’s wonderful. The homemade guacamole was very good, and the panko crusted fish was fried to perfection.

After refueling, I decided to do another hike at Capitol Reef.

Grand Wash Trail

• Distance:   miles 4.4 miles (7.2 km)
• Elevation gain: 200 ft (122 m)
• Duration: Allow about 90 minutes to 2 hours

Grand Wash Road trailhead

You have two options as to your starting point for Grand Wash hike.

Option 1 – Hwy 24

The parking lot along Hwy 24 is 4.5 miles east of the visitor center on Hwy 24.

Option 2 – Scenic Drive

From the visitor center take Campground Rd and continue onto Scenic Drive. Turn left on Grand Wash Road (dirt road) and continue for 1.3 miles to the parking lot.

A view of Grand Wash Trail from the Cassidy Arch trail at Capitol Reef park

I enjoyed walking through the narrows of the Grand Wash trail but otherwise it is not my favorite type of hike, but it’s an easy family friendly hike.

The trail has a gradual elevation gain that is almost unnoticeable while hiking. I prefer trails with more variation in elevation.

The narrows at Grand Wash trail

Cassidy Arch Trail

I’m adding the information for Cassidy Arch hike even though I did not do the hike, a little to hot out for me and I knew I would see plenty of arches during my four days at Moab.

The trailhead for Cassidy Arch is located on the Grand Wash trail. Take the scenic drive and park at Grand Wash parking lot.

Some people opt to hike Grand Wash trail, then add on Cassidy Arch for a longer hike. If that’s what you choose to do, you’ll want to park on the Grand Wash trailhead at Hwy 24 rather than on the scenic drive side.

• Distance: 3.4 miles (5.6 km)
• Elevation gain: 670 ft (204 m)
• Duration: Allow about 90 minutes

Cassidy Arch trailhead is located on the Grand Wash Trail near Grand Wash Road parking lot

Summary of Capitol Reef Solo Trip

While I did have time to do some cool hikes at Capitol Reef, I know I could easily spend a couple of days exploring the park more thoroughly. Staying in Torrey Utah was a great choice, the Rim Rock Inn is very basic, but I was only there to sleep. Torrey is the perfect location for going to Capitol Reef and for dining options and supplies from the general store. I’m happy I chose to go to Capitol Reef on my way to Moab, next time I will plan a longer visit.

Related content to help you plan your Utah trip

5 Easy Hikes in Arches National Park Utah

Bryce Canyon One Day Itinerary

Why You Should Visit Double Arch – Moab Utah

One Day Trip to Cedar Breaks Utah

Kanarra Falls Utah Slot Canyon Hike to Waterfalls

Timber Creek Overlook Trail Zion National Park Kolob Canyon

5 Easy Hikes in Zion National Park to Help You Plan Your Trip!

Dead Horse Point State Park Day Trip from Moab Utah

Visit Cedar Breaks for Hiking (Scenic Views) in Beautiful Southern Utah

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Originally posted on travelandleisure.com/trip-ideas/solo-travel/best-places-to-travel-alone-in-the-us December 28, 2021 —

By Evie Carrick

Traveling alone is all about freedom and independence — freedom to go where you want, when you want, and independence in your ability to visit new places and meet new people without the crutch of a travel companion. It's not for everyone, but those willing to venture off on their own are rewarded with a compromise-free vacation and unforgettable experiences (exciting things just seem to happen when you're  traveling solo ).

But where to go? If you're just testing the waters of  solo travel , you might want to stay close to home, which is where these U.S. destinations come in handy. Whether you dream of a  spa vacation  with plenty of time to relax and reset, a trip packed with activities, or a soul-searching expedition, these U.S. destinations cater to the  solo traveler , thanks to their ease of transportation, low crime rates, and large selection of things to do.

Ready to book your next solo trip? Read on for the  best places to travel  alone in the U.S.

Naples, Florida

If you have your heart set on a  beach vacation , consider Naples, a relatively small community in southwest Florida that was ranked number two in a recent list of  safest places to live the U.S. , thanks to its low crime rates. Not only will you feel safe in Naples, but there's also plenty to do. Check out the beach at Naples Pier, go for a swim in the area's notoriously calm waters, or hit the links. If you're looking for an activity that will leave a big grin on your face, book a dolphin cruise — a tour that practically guarantees good vibes.

Boston, Massachusetts

Boston  may be a big city, but it can often feel like a  small town . Thanks to its walkability, you'll be able to explore the city on foot and get oriented over the course of a day. If your feet start to ache, hop on the subway, known by locals as the "T." Easy walkability and transportation aside, the city was also ranked  number 13 in the U.S.  for its low crime rates, an impressive feat when you consider it's a city of more than 670,000 people.

Boulder, Colorado

Those looking for quiet solo travel in the U.S. can spend their days exploring the mountains and hills surrounding Boulder.  Eldorado Canyon State Park  is just 20 minutes south of downtown, the approximately two-mile trail up  Flagstaff Mountain  is just 15 minutes to the west, and the  iconic Flatirons  (red sandstone formations) are less than 10 minutes away by car. And If you're feeling social, head to Pearl Street Mall, a bustling pedestrian-only street with some of the city's best restaurants, shops, and bars.

Portland, Oregon

One of the hardest parts about traveling solo is eating alone, but  Portland  makes mealtime a nonissue, thanks to its bustling food truck scene (known locally as food carts). All you have to do is pinpoint what you're craving, pick a food truck ( here's  where they tend to gather), and find a stretch of curb to eat on. Food aside, Portland's reliable transportation, great parks, and community vibe make this city an easy choice for people traveling alone.

Asheville, North Carolina

If your perfect vacation includes  hiking  and biking during the day and gulping down beers with new friends at night, there's arguably no better place than Asheville, a city situated in North Carolina's Blue Ridge Mountains. Bikers will want to tackle the  Blue Ridge Parkway , while hikers can head to the  Craggy Gardens Pinnacle  (an approximately one-mile hike with serious views) or climb  Mount Pisgah  (nearly three miles round-trip). After a day in the mountains, reward yourself with a beer on the pup-friendly patio at the  Funkatorium .

Sedona, Arizona

Traveling solo may be the only time you're able to truly check out from the grind and relax. That's why  spa destinations  like Sedona are so perfect for solo travelers. In addition to beautiful scenery, Sedona is packed with spas and wellness offerings. For a full resort experience, book a stay at the  Amara Resort and Spa , or test out a few of the city's plentiful day spas ( A Spa for You  and  Sedona's New Day Spa  are long-standing favorites).

Charleston, South Carolina

Just because you're an art lover doesn't mean you need to head to one of the coasts. The city of  Charleston  is home to 56 art galleries and dealers (plus 17 museums),  according to Artnet . If you're hoping to make some art yourself, the French Quarter is sure to inspire, while the city's warm southern hospitality will make you feel both safe and right at home.

Nashville, Tennessee

If your idea of a dream solo trip is getting out and meeting new people, book a ticket to  Nashville  and let the city of music connect you (almost seamlessly) to others.  The Basement​​ , a live music venue known for its cozy vibe and spacious patio, is a must, as is  3rd and Lindsley . Just don't leave the city without trying the spicy fried chicken at  Hattie B's .

Portland, Maine

This may be the second Portland on the list, but this city by the sea was just rated the number one safest place to live by  U.S. News . But don't worry, safe doesn't mean boring — from the coastal city you can hop on a ferry or boat charter, eat your way through the city's best lobster rolls, or meander in and out of the shops and boutiques at the historic Old Port.

San Francisco, California

When you're traveling solo, public transportation is key (no one wants to foot the bill for a weekend full of Uber rides). That's where cities like  San Francisco  shine. Between Muni buses, trains, streetcars, and cable cars, you can get to every corner of the city without paying for a single overpriced cab. And, of course, being a city on the bay doesn't hurt either.

Bayfield, Wisconsin

Located on the shores of Lake Superior, and home to quaint B&Bs and beautiful Victorian homes, Bayfield is a warm and welcoming  coastal destination . And once you're tired of roaming Bayfield's intimate downtown, you can head to the nearby  Apostle Islands National Lakeshore , best known for its series of caves that transform into ice caves during the winter months.

Carmel-by-the-Sea, California

Just off  California's iconic Highway 1  is Carmel-by-the-Sea, a small beach city on the Monterey Peninsula that will capture your heart the moment you see it. Traveling solo is no problem here, as the city offers plenty to do — galleries, surfing, sea animals, and a village-style center that feels like it belongs in a storybook.

Related:  10 of the Best Small Towns in California

Boise, Idaho

In addition to securing the number seven spot on  U.S. News ' report of the safest places to live, Boise is a paradise for lovers of the outdoors. Solo travelers will find riverside walking and  biking trails  that travel right through town, skiing (in the winter) and hiking (in the summer) at the city's  Bogus Basin Mountain Recreation Area , and easy access to  mountain towns  like McCall and ski areas like the rapidly growing  Tamarack Resort .

Savannah, Georgia

Savannah 's welcoming nature makes solo travel a breeze. If you're feeling social, join a  haunted pub crawl  through town or book an  architectural tour . And if you're looking for a quiet escape, rent a bike and explore the history-rich city on two wheels.

Hot Springs, Arkansas

As you might guess, Hot Springs, Arkansas, is known for its natural  hot springs , which have drawn visitors since the early 1900s. For solo travelers, there's nothing like a serene soak in the natural thermal waters found on the historic Bathhouse Row, followed by a refreshing drink of spring water and a lazy hike through the dense woods at  Hot Springs National Park .

Jackson Hole, Wyoming

Jackson Hole  may be home to a  world-renowned ski area , mouthwatering cuisine, and high-end galleries, but you'll still find Old West-style bars where cowboys throw back PBRs (check out the  Million Dollar Cowboy Bar ). It's the perfect place to throw on a Stetson and dress the part for a night or two.

Related:  America's Best Ski Towns

Seattle, Washington

If you want access to nature without sacrificing big-city amenities,  Seattle  offers an ideal balance. Spend a couple of days checking out  Pike Place Market  (don't miss a cup of mac n' cheese from  Beecher's ), going to the top of the  Space Needle , and visiting the  Museum of Pop Culture  before hopping aboard a ferry and getting away from it all. From the heart of Seattle, you can take a boat across Elliott Bay to Bainbridge Island and onto  Olympic National Park , home to both glacier-capped mountains and 70 miles of wild coastline.

Minneapolis, Minnesota

It's been said that one can hardly be called an  architect  if they haven't designed something in Minneapolis — the city showcases work from Jean Nouvel, Herzog & de Meuron, César Pelli, and Frank Gehry, among others. So, while it's perfectly acceptable to wander through the city looking up, you don't want to miss a cruise on one of the notorious bike paths, which wind past lakes that are perfect for a dip in the summertime.

Salt Lake City, Utah

It may be Utah's largest city, but  Salt Lake City  doesn't feel like a giant metropolis. Maybe it's the fact that it's surrounded by mountains or the open expanse of the Great Salt Lake and  Antelope Island State Park  to the west. Either way, this friendly city has everything a solo traveler could want — great food (check out  Feldman's Deli ), plenty of sun-drenched days, and easy access to both the mountains and water. 

Fort Collins, Colorado

If you're a  beer lover , head to Fort Collins, a  Colorado town  with plenty of heart and really good beer. Start your tour of the city in the taproom of  New Belgium Brewing  (the company behind Fat Tire) and follow it with a pint at a few lesser-known breweries — we recommend  Zwei Brewing Co. ,  Maxline Brewing , and  Black Bottle Brewery . By the end of the day, you'll have your own beer-loving posse to explore the city with. 

Little Blue Backpack

chase what's fun.

Destinations , Vacations , West Coast · June 18, 2021

The Ultimate 7-Day Southern Utah Road Trip Itinerary: Zion, Bryce, Escalante

Southern Utah is full of stunning scenery. It makes for memorable hikes, lookouts that make your jaw drop, and long, beautiful drives that seem much quicker than they really are. One of the top destinations in the United States, a southern Utah road trip will not disappoint.

Disclosure: This post contains affiliate links that earn a small commission at no extra cost to you.

Who Should Go on a Southern Utah Road Trip?

Everyone! Take a solo trip. Make it a girl’s trip. Head out for a getaway with your significant other. Take the whole family! There is something for everyone that will make it impossible to regret.

If you’re a hiker, you definitely don’t want to miss out. If exploration for you means scenic drives, you will love it just as much!

As long as you love beautiful places and getting outside, you’re all set.

Note: the itinerary provided below will resonate most with those who want to do a lot of hiking mixed with grabbing drinks and eating good food. While hikes range from moderate to difficult, there are no 16-mile days or backpacking excursions! But you will get out and move every day!

When is the Best Time to Take a Southern Utah Road Trip?

The sweet spot for visiting Utah is in the spring and the fall when crowds dwindle (somewhat) and the weather is a comfortable temperature. Summer months definitely get crazy with both people and hot weather. And the winter months, though unique and beautiful in their own right, obviously come with snow and cold temperatures!

Keep in mind, besides the dead of winter, these places are busy all of the time. Go when it works for you, and be prepared for crowds.

Where Does This Southern Utah Road Trip Itinerary Take Me?

Many Utah itineraries you find are going to be based around the “Mighty 5,” which includes Zion National Park, Bryce Canyon National Park, Arches National Park, Canyonlands National Park, and Capitol Reef National Park.

In my opinion, to do “The Mighty 5” right, your trip should be two weeks total—10 days at the very least. Anything under that and you will be doing a lot more driving than exploring.

Since this trip is only one week (including travel days), it’s two national parks and a national monument.

There are notes and tips about substituting different places on certain days so, obviously, you are not locked in. That said, it is a place to start and I highly recommend this itinerary for a week that includes a range of experiences!

How Can I Spend 7 Days in Utah?

• Travel Day : Arrive in Southern Utah with options to stop along the way
• Start with 1 Day in Zion National Park (East Side—aka the “secret side”)
• 1 Day in Bryce Canyon National Park
• 1 Day at Grand Staircase-Escalante National Monument
• 2 Days back at Zion National Park (South End)
• Travel Day : Back home on Day 7

The trip includes three different places to stay, so while you do hotel-hop (Airbnb), it’s not a daily switch. All of the details on that are below.

The Best Southern Utah Road Trip Itinerary: One Week

A southern Utah road trip takes a little more pre-planning than a lot of vacations, but the adventures are totally worth it. Let’s get started!

Before Your Southern Utah Road Trip

Do your research.

Google. Read blogs. Browse Instagram. Ask your friends. Whatever you need to do, soak up as much information as possible! Everyone’s experience is different but I guarantee a better time if you have a plan together and a good idea about what you’re getting into!

Additional, HIGHLY-DETAILED blog posts of mine are linked throughout the post so make sure to visit those for even more tips.

I highly recommend a quality SUV for this trip. You spend a lot of time in the car, one day involves dirt roads, there are switchbacks through Zion, and you will need enough space for all of your passengers and luggage. My group went with a Chevy Equinox and it was perfect.

Annual Park Pass

If you are planning to visit more than three national parks in the next 12 months, grab an America the Beautiful Pass for $79.99 . It’s $35 at each park (for 7 consecutive days) so you make up your money in just three NP visits.

This pass twice is used twice on this trip so if you have another national park planned (or find it likely—you’ll only be out $10 if you don’t) then definitely grab one of these! If you don’t want to go that route, you can grab week-long passes at the entrances.

What to Pack for a Southern Utah Road Trip

Water Bottle: You need a big one that keeps liquids cold. This 32 oz. water bottle is my absolute favorite (still had ice in it after a day at Zion in 80+ degrees!) It has an easy-to-carry handle and I love the mouthpiece.

Hiking Shoes: Don’t forget your hiking shoes! If you don’t have a pair, invest in some. A few of these hikes will be difficult without them. The REI Outlet is a great place if you want to keep things affordable.

Layers: A few mornings you will get started early and temperatures are much, much cooler than they will be in the day. Make sure to have a jacket, long sleeves, leggings, and shorts, as well as a warm hat if you are going between late September-May.

Snacks: Between long hikes and busy areas with restaurant wait times, you will want snacks! My favorite are these Chomps Beef Sticks (all clean ingredients and lots of protein), and Trader Joe’s Simply the Best Nuts (individually packaged which makes everything easy). They easily fit in a suitcase and can be in your carry-on.

Sunscreen: No matter what time of year! If you are on the hunt for a clean product, the best out there is Cocokind . It’s not a weird texture or sticky on your face. I love it, plus it’s a great size for travel.

And with that, let’s get into the official southern Utah road trip itinerary!

Day 1: Travel Day

Where do i fly into for a southern utah road trip.

McCarran International Airport in Las Vegas, Nevada , is the closest airport to southern Utah. It’s 170 miles away from Springdale, Utah (Zion National Park), and is a major hub where you can typically find cheap flights.  This itinerary will start in Sin City!

Note: Salt Lake City International Airport is the next closest and is 311 miles from the park. This is a good option if you prefer to road trip through Utah from north to south.

Pick Up Your Rental Car

Grab your rental and be on your way! Your first day of travel will have you on a scenic drive as you make your way from Vegas, through Arizona, and finally, into Utah. It’s a fairly easy drive that will find you on curvy stretches every now and then and takes a total of 160 miles (2 hours, 35 minutes.)

KEEP IN MIND: there is a time change between Las Vegas (PDT) and Utah (MT)! Your clocks will move ahead one hour.

Places to Stop between Las Vegas and Springdale

• Valley of the Fire State Park : this can be your first stop if you’d like to do a short hike and check it off your list! Located under an hour from Vegas and still in Nevada, is beautiful desert land and red sandstone formations.
• St. George : is a city a couple of miles north of the Arizona and Nevada border in the very southwestern corner of Utah. It’s one of the bigger towns on your drive and perfect for a gas and food stop.
• Other than that, it’s mountains, small towns, and jackalopes! Lol

Depending on what time you arrive, check in to your place, explore Springdale, Utah, or better yet, just relax! You have a big week ahead. (Note: there are a few Springdale restaurant recommendations later in the post.)

Where to Stay in Springdale, Utah

Best western plus (night 1/1).

Springdale, Utah accommodations are not cheap given the high demand! One of the more affordable places is the Best Western PLUS , located right downtown and near a shuttle stop—more on that below.

The rooms are very spacious, clean, and complete with a view. Plus, they offer an (actually delicious) continental breakfast that is the perfect pre-hike meal. And lessens the blow of the bill.

Options: There are plenty more places to choose from in Springdale, Utah including the Zion Lodge inside the park (need to book early), camping, and additional hotels and Airbnb’s. Check out How to Spend Two Days at Zion National Park: What You Need to Know for more options.

Day 2: Zion National Park (East)

Hike: observation point via east mesa trail.

Observation Point is one of the most beautiful spots in Zion and you will want this hike on your list. More specifically, the version of this hike that is done via the East Mesa Trail. The more popular version of the hike to Observation Point is from the south end of the park—bottom-up. This requires a shuttle bus and there are an endless amount of people.

Luckily, there is an alternative route if you drive to the east side of Zion—top-out. Bonus: the scenic drive there (via UT-9) is one to remember!

Note: the popular, south-end version of the hike to Observation Point is currently closed due to rockfall. (That said, I’d still choose East Mesa Trail, even when it’s reopened.)

The East Mesa Trail hike is not one you need an early start for which makes it a good option after a travel day. Wake up, grab breakfast, and be on your way at a leisurely pace. Plan to leave Springdale between 11:00-12:00 PM.

Plug “East Mesa Trailhead/Observation Point Trailhead” into your Google Maps and you will be all set for a 52-minute journey. It’s only 23 miles, but given the switchbacks and drive through the mountains and tunnels (awesome!), it takes longer. There is a bathroom as you approach the east-side entrance. And a few miles from the trailhead, you hit a dirt road which is where your SUV comes in handy.

Note: you will not return to Springdale tonight and this is bringing you in the right direction once your hike is over.

Park at the trailhead (we arrived at 1:00 PM and found parking, no problem) and you will find where the 6.8 miles, out-and-back trail begins. 

* This Hike Takes 3-4 Hours *

You are led through a woodsy setting with mountains in the distance and amazing views once you make it to your destination. The best in the park, in fact! Though the hike is a bit longer, it’s not strenuous in terms of incline. A less than a mile or so stretch on your way back will be the toughest part on your booty!

Your destination (Observation Point) gives you not only a great hike but one of Utah’s best views . It includes a birds-eye view of both Angels Landing and The Narrows. Tip: it’s very windy at the top!

After your hike, you will make your way to Hatch, Utah (54 miles—1 hour, 10 minutes) which is very well-positioned between both Zion National Park and Bryce Canyon National Park. Tomorrow, you’ll tackle Bryce. But don’t worry, you will return to Zion in a couple of days!

Survive on snacks until you arrive. There is an awesome (and a bit unassuming) place to eat called Outlaw Saloon – Western Bar and Steakhouse . PRO TIP: Get the ribs. The meat falls off at the touch of a knife.

Where to Stay in Hatch, Utah

Mountain ridge cabins and lodging (night 1/3).

Mountains Ridge Cabins and Lodging is the perfect place to stay in Hatch, Utah. They are adorable and affordable with a restaurant/bar, convenience store, and coffee shop right nearby. The cabins are very clean (with daily housekeeping available) and include a shower, TV, and free drip coffees at the coffee shop.

Day 3: Bryce Canyon National Park

Hike: the figure 8.

All right, people. Get ready. Because this is going to be a day to remember. Everybody raves about Zion National Park (which, of course, is beautiful) but the real winner in my book is Bryce Canyon National Park. The rock formations, known as hoodoos, will take your breath away!

Day 3 is going to require an earlier start. Leave Hatch, Utah absolutely no later than 8:30 AM ; I would recommend between 7:30-8:15 AM and potentially earlier in peak season.

Sip your coffee on the 30-minute drive over and park in the Sunset Point parking lot after showing (or purchasing) your pass at the park entrance. Note: we got one of the very last spots in the lot at 9:02 AM. And if it’s summer, it will fill up earlier than that.

Sunset Point parking lot will connect you to Rim Trail and one of the most beautiful overlooks at the top of the canyon. You will be hiking down into it—and back up! And trust me, the views will be worth it.

Hike the Figure 8 Hike

The best and most rewarding 6-7 mile hike (depending which route you choose) in Bryce Canyon National Park consists of three hikes looped together into a Figure 8. Always remember, STAY RIGHT.

*This Hike Takes 3-4 Hours*

• Wall Street : a series of switchbacks that lead you down onto the canyon floor. (Left side image once I reached the bottom.)
• Peekaboo Loop Trail : an up and down 3-mile loop inside the canyon that offers the most INCREDIBLE non-stop views of the rock formations.
• Navajo Loop Trail OR Queens Garden : The way back up to the parking lot which is a tough, but worth it, journey! Navajo is shorter yet steeper and brings you to Sunset Point. (Right side image. Phew!) And Queens Garden takes some extra time but is less of an incline and brings you to Sunrise Point parking lot.

You can find EVERY SINGLE DETAIL on this hike here: The Best Day in Bryce Canyon National Park . You will have the BEST time!

After the Figure 8 hike, which I cannot recommend enough, you still have an entire afternoon ahead of you. Choose one of these great options:

• Walk Rim Trail and check out all of the viewpoints. This brings you along the edge and does not get down into the canyon. You can park at Sunset Point OR Sunrise Point. There are no inclines so it can be a very casual walk while getting some great pictures.
• Drive the Scenic Byway known as Route 63 . If you’d rather drive, this will bring you to a TON of great views. (You can easily make this a full day as well.)

It has been a DAY! Find a restaurant in Bryce or make your way back to Hatch and hit Outlaw Saloon – Western Bar and Steakhouse again. This time, get the steak. It melts in your mouth!

Where to Stay: Hatch, Utah (Night 2/3)

Return to your little cabin for another night’s stay! Option: if you’d like to stay inside the park, Bryce Canyon Lodge is the only option and must be booked far in advance!

Day 4: Grand Staircase-Escalante National Monument

Hike: peekaboo gulch & spooky gulch slot canyons.

Ready for a mini road trip from Hatch to Escalante, Utah? If slot canyons are on your list, then your going to love this day! It’s such a fun experience.

67 miles (1 hour, 15 minutes) east of Hatch, and through Bryce, is Escalante, Utah. It is in the heart of Grand Staircase-Escalante National Monument on Scenic Byway 12 and home to a few different slot canyon hikes that will blow your mind!

Use this as a day to sleep in a bit (this is by far the least populated area of your trip so you won’t need to worry so much about crowds) and leave Hatch, Utah by about 10:30 AM. This will put you in the town of Escalante by around NOON assuming you stop once. Once you get there, check out the little town, grab some coffee if need be, and be on your way.

Hike Peekaboo Gulch + Spooky Gulch

The plan is to hike Peekaboo Gulch and Spooky Gulch which are located about 40 minutes down a dirt road from Escalante. I know, more driving. But it’s all an adventure and the beautiful drives make them seem quick! Make sure you have an SUV for this trip.

*This Hike Takes 2-3 Hours*

This 3.5-mile lollipop loop hike will have you start at the trailhead, walk around the rim and down into the lower desert, and arrive at Peekaboo Gulch, the first of two slot canyons. From here you have a couple of options:

• Climb into Peekaboo Gulch (that’s the toughest part), and hike through the narrow canyon walls about .25 miles. This one is really fun and a pretty easy hike to maneuver. And the afternoon sun hits the walls perfectly for pictures.
• When you come out the other side, you can hike over to Spooky Gulch, which is only about half a mile or so. Or go back through Peekaboo the way you came. Spooky Gulch is much more narrow (like 10 inches in some spots.) If you had a tough time with Peekaboo or are just nervous to give it a go, turn around. If you’re ready and excited (and just a little nervous), do Spooky! It’s really a unique experience.
• If you end up doing Spooky Gulch, you’ll loop right back around to Peekaboo once you come out of the slot canyon (this one is also about .25 miles) and stay right.
• Of course, you can always reverse it and start with Spooky Gulch and make your way over to Peekaboo second. This is said to be tougher.

This hike is outlined in FULL details (including the drive) over on The Best Grand Staircase-Escalante, Utah Slot Canyons to Hike . Definitely read the details if you are headed that way!

Once you finish your hike and make your way back to the small town of Escalante via the dirt roads, it will be about 5:00-6:00 PM which makes it the perfect time for a beer! Stop for just that and a bite to eat at one of the restaurants/bars. I recommend:

Circle D Eatery

Right off the main road is a great hiking reward!  Circle D Eatery  is a part of an independently-run motel and serves some delicious food and drinks in a casual environment. There is plenty of space inside, as well as an outdoor seating area. I recommend the  Jalapeno Cream Ale  beer that I am still thinking about. And the BBQ Brisket Nachos.

After you eat, it’s time get some rest! Or just keep drinking 🙂 You’ve earned it!

Where to Stay: Hatch, Utah (Night 3/3)

It’s your last night in the tiny cabin! I recommend making your way back just because it gets you much closer to Zion National Park, where you will make your way back to tomorrow. But…

Options: There are actually quite a few places to stay in Escalante, Utah. Click for  all of the lodging choices , including motels and camping if you’d rather not drive more. There are also plenty of places to stay in Bryce, Utah which you drive through and puts you closer to Zion for the morning.

Day 5: Zion National Park (South)

Hike: rest day or your choice.

Sidenote: Zion National Park requires a LOT of details. Please don’t miss How to Spend Two Days at Zion National Park: What You Need to Know where nearly every single detail is outlined. This post will give you a lot of great high-level information, but we really go in-depth over there.

Back to Zion, it is! I like the idea of starting with Zion and looping back around to end with it to give you a shorter distance to and from the airport.

At this point, you will want to check off one (or two!) more hikes in the next two days. Depending on how you feel, you might need a rest day, which Day 5 is perfect for. Zion National Park is crazy busy and in order to have the best experience, you need to wake up EARLY. Being that you’ll wake up in Hatch, Utah, that will be difficult. A few options:

• Rest Day: Go at a leisurely pace today, explore Springdale, Utah and get ready for a big day tomorrow. This is the choice this itinerary covers!
• Hike Watchman Trail or Canyon Overlook Trail: these hikes don’t require the shuttle which makes it way easier to work into the day. Watchman is 3 miles from inside the south entrance and Canyon Overlook is 1 mile and off of UT-9.
• Hike Angel’s Landing: this is the most popular hike at Zion National Park and a later-in-the-day start might not be the best experience. That said, it’s your vacation!

Grab a delicious breakfast at Hatch Station. They have omelets that will hit the spot! Plan to take off and make your way back to Springdale (60 miles—1 hour, 20 minutes, and a beautiful drive) by about 11:00 AM.

Make a road trip stop at Belly of the Dragon. It’s right off UT-89 and is a quick, fun, and unique stop through a cave. There aren’t a lot of people and it’s perfect for kids—or just a couple of cool pictures! Plus, a chance to get out and walk around.

This is your chance to explore the town of Springdale, Utah! You might not be able to check into your hotel or Airbnb (my recommendation below!) until late afternoon so just find a parking spot and meander around the town. Recommendations:

• Go Shopping: This tourist town is, of course, full of shops that line the block towards Zion National Park. Souvenirs, crystals, sweet treats, boutique-style clothes, and gifts.
• Coffee/Drinks: FeelLove Coffee Zion is the cutest place and it is not just coffee, there are dinner and cocktail menus as well.
• Beer: Definitely plan to have a beer or five at  Zion Brew Pub where there is both indoor seating as well as an awesome outdoor beer garden. It’s right near the entrance to Zion National Park.
• Eat: Whiptail Grill , a converted gas station, is a great place for lunch! Grab anything from steak tacos to chicken sandwiches on their Mexican fusion cuisine menu. They do have beer and wine.
• Visitor Center: go talk to park rangers and grab maps for tomorrow.

After your day of exploring, it’s time to grab dinner and then call it a night. (Note: if you are doing The Narrows hike tomorrow, grab your gear from Zion Outfitters . More information below.)

Zion Pizza & Noodle Co

Dine-in (there’s a beer garden) at  Zion Pizza & Noodle Co . or order your food from the counter and bring it to your hotel or Airbnb.  The European Trail  was a delicious pizza option.

Townhouse Airbnb (Night 1/2)

I stayed in the  most perfect townhouse  in the heart of Springdale and it was perfect! Very clean, modern, and has two bedrooms plus comfy living space, laundry machines, and a TV.  And the outdoor patio space (pictured below) makes it worth every penny.

You are only a short walk from the Springdale Shuttle that will bring you to the park (more on that below.) And there is a marketplace across the street that’s perfect for grabbing meals to prep at the place and snacks for your hikes. We stayed two nights and weren’t quite ready to leave! Highly recommend.

Options: Visit How to Spend 2 Days at Zion National Park for more places to stay.

Day 6: Zion National Park (South)

Hike: the narrows.

Today is a big day and a check-off of the Bucket List! If you didn’t get a major hike done yesterday, you’ll need to pick between The Narrows and Angels Landing—two of the most popular hikes.

This itinerary will walk you through The Narrows , a fun and unique experience that isn’t quite as close to death as Angels Landing. (LOL I’m kidding. Sort of…)

Note: if neither of these sounds appealing, check out the list of other popular Zion National Park hikes .

Early. Start early. It cannot be stressed enough. As I mentioned, Zion is a very popular place. And between the number of people and the shuttle bus(es) requirement, it’s best to get going. We’re talking like, be in line for the Zion Canyon Shuttle at 6:00 AM. EEK! Don’t worry, it’s worth it. First things first:

Zion Shuttle Buses

The most popular hikes in Zion National Park REQUIRE taking the Zion Canyon Shuttle Bus. There are TWO separate shuttles in the area.

• The Springdale Shuttle : connects the town of Springdale (stops near your hotel or Airbnb) to the South Entrance of the park where you catch the Zion Canyon Shuttle. Note: this runs April-October. This is not required, you can also walk.
• Zion Canyon Shuttle : This gives you access from inside the park to the upper canyon (most popular hikes) since  private vehicles are prohibited along Zion Canyon Scenic Drive between March and November. It is first-come, first-serve. Don’t forget your park pass or purchase at the entrance.

Hike The Narrows

Shuttle bus stop 9: temple of sinawava.

One of the most unique hiking experiences in the United States  is through the Virgin River inside one of Zion’s canyons. After taking the Zion Canyon Shuttle to the last stop (#9) and making a mile or so hike on the Riverside Walk paved trail, you’ll enter the river with high canyon walls on either side.

*This Hike Takes as Long as You’d Like! Likely at least 4 hours*

Once you enter the water, you can go as far as 8 miles, but you can turn around and come back whenever you choose.  The scenery doesn’t change a ton, so we went about 1.5 hours or so before we made the trek back.

As far as gear, I recommend the boots, neoprene socks, and a walking stick from Zion Outfitters . You can find WAY more details in this post . Note: this is not required!

• Pick another shorter hike inside Zion National Park such as Emerald Pools or Weeping Rock.
• Head back out to Springdale to drink beer and eat; you’ve done enough hiking for one day!

Townhouse Airbnb (Night 2/2)

Back to the perfect townhouse in Springdale where you can enjoy your outdoor patio, maybe do some laundry before you head out, and relax!

Day 7: Travel Day

That’s it! You have reached Day 7 of your southern Utah road trip experience and it’s time to make you way back to the airport. You are 2 hours and 40 minutes from Las Vegas so depending on when you flight is, make sure you are packed and ready to roll!

Mix-and-Match + Additions

When you only have one week, including travel days, there is simply too many places to squeeze in on a southern Utah road trip. Here are other destinations in the area that you can replace in your itinerary, or add extra days for:

• Capitol Reef National Park: if you’re focused solely on national parks, you could potentially swap “Day 4: Escalante Slot Canyons” with this park which is also east of Bryce. It is more driving and you’ll likely need to stay the night.
• Canyonlands National Park: even farther east than Capitol Reef, you will probably need more days to work this in.
• Arches National Park: a tad more east from Canyonlands, these three national parks are pretty close in proximity. As I said, 10-14 days for “The Mighty Five” is what you’ll need. I plan to do these 3 as a separate trip.
• Dead Horse Point State Park: one of Utah’s state parks with views of the Colorado River. It’s near the three national parks above and the city of Moab, Utah.
• Cedar City + Cedar Breaks National Monument: a town north of Zion. You could choose to loop from Zion to Cedar City to Bryce and back around.
• Northern Arizona: PACKED with places to check out, this can easily be a vacation on its own! The Grand Canyon, Antelope Canyon (popular slot canyons that are currently closed), and Horseshoe Bend are all highlights.

One Last Thought…

It’s tough to come by in Utah! Lol. Here’s the skinny: You can get 5% or less at gas stations, marketplaces, etc. Anything percentage above that, and you have to go to a liquor store. The kicker? There aren’t many liquor stores! Ha. Definitely scope it out during your travels and figure out your option to stop and grab some booze.

As far as restaurants, many (not all) only have beer and wine. And many (not all) places don’t have an actual bar to sit at.

This was my least favorite part of Utah and thought you should know! Lol.

You will LOVE this trip! And you will come out of it with so many amazing pictures and incredible memories. Comment your favorite spot on this trip! Or one I may have missed.

Happy travel! 🙂

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Utah – The Best Choice for Solo Travelers

By Paula Colman \ March 9 2023 --> \ --> 0 Comments --> -->

In a land where the words ‘extreme’ and ‘adventure’ should be capitalized and copyrighted, a solo trip to Utah sounds intimidating – downright ridiculous – at first. However, Utah is also the home to top-rated ski resorts that offer something for everyone, from luxurious accommodations to backcountry yurts, fine dining to urban nightlife, and family fun to, yes, solitude. So, whether you’re remote worker, single, a busy parent, college student or retiree, an experienced skier or snowboarder or just want to learn without anyone watching, a solo trip to Utah will make you consider whether you ever want to travel any other way.

Solo By Nature

Solo Skiing is Simple

While imagining herding cats, I mean, family skiing, the structural ease of a solo ski trip comes into focus. One set of equipment to rent and carry, one person to get and find on the mountain…Even choosing which runs to ride or how long to stay outside or at lunch is so much easier. A solo ski trip is a vacation with a pace that can range from relaxing to hard-charging, and one person gets to decide.

Learning Solo

For those who have never skied or snowboarded or want to improve their skills, a solo trip is ideal. Camps and clinics are offered by Utah resorts for those at every level – beginner to expert  (like Deer Valley Resort 's ski with a champion program, and even adaptive  with Wasatch Adaptive Sports or the National Ability Center . Specialized women’s camps are also growing in number every year and, with on and off-mountain activities spanning single or multiple days, these are typically filled with solo female travelers. Private and group lessons (where solos are assembled with others of similar ability) are staples of the ski industry and available at all Utah resorts. 

Solo Doesn’t Have to Mean Alone

Some may find skiing alone…well, lonely. In a very unscientific study, skiers and snowboarders discovered that nine times out of ten, people engaged in conversation on Utah ski lifts. Yes, this is completely fabricated but probably still true. Many Utah residents and visitors sit down, take off up the mountain, look around at their beautiful surroundings and say to the folks beside them, “Having fun?” “Where are you from?” “Find any good lines?” No one will share the latter, but otherwise, these seatmates will likely find connection, advice and good humor for the next 7-12 minutes. They might even take a run or two together. 

Finding Your Way

A solo trip to Utah resorts should not be intimidating for those who have never skied or snowboarded or visited a particular resort. First, every Utah resort has a trail map (paper or digital) showing you every run on the mountain. Second, each run is designated by difficulty on that map and with signs on the mountain: green circle (easiest), blue square (Intermediate More Difficult), black diamond (Advanced Most Difficult), and double black diamond (Expert Only Extremely Difficult). Mobile digital tracking apps are also available showing you exactly where you are in relation to the mountain.

For those new to skiing or snowboarding, get an instructor to show you, not only how to get down the mountain but, where to go after the lesson is over. Additionally, mountain hosts are common at Utah ski resorts. These friendly employees and volunteers are roaming the mountain or stationed at popular points providing guests with trail recommendations and any other helpful on-mountain tips. Some resorts provide free guided tours of certain areas or topics giving solo and other travelers deeper insight into what’s available on and off-piste. 

Utah Skiing is the Best Choice for Solo Travellers

A solo ski trip to Utah doesn’t seem as ‘extreme’ anymore. However, if you are looking for more solo adventure, Utah offers some of the best snowcat , heli-skiing , and backcountry , including the epic Interconnect Tour , as well. So, whether you’re new to skiing and snowboarding or just looking for an easy getaway on your own, Utah has something for everyone…and, indeed, for just one, too.

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Solo Female Travel in Utah

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Safety: Very safe

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Is utah worth visiting, group travel experience.

I felt really safe in utah. i travelled with some friends, using a van. We travelled all the way from the salt flats to zion in 3 days. It was an amazing time and I totally reccomend it! We went to angels landing, and did the hike. we also did sunrise at the salt flats which was super worth it.

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Hi! This is Grecia :) I am a songwriter/singer, nature enthusiast and I absolutely love traveling and meeting new people! I am currently a solo traveler but can’t wait to have a new travel buddy! 💓

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10 Best Utah Backpacking Trips

Discover the best Utah backpacking trips across the state from easy but scenic one-night trips to multi-day backcountry adventures.

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Although Utah is most famous for its “Mighty Five” National Parks (Arches, Canyonlands, Capitol Reef, Bryce, and Zion), more than 70% of the state is classified as public land from national monuments to recreation areas to national forests to BLM areas, and the opportunities for outdoor recreation are expansive.

If you’re ready to stretch your legs on some longer multi-day hikes, here are 10 of the best backpacking trips in Utah, ranging from incredibly beautiful overnights to challenging week-long trips.

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Best Utah Backpacking Trips – Mapped

1. Coyote Gulch Loop

• Location: Glen Canyon National Recreation Area
• Trail Type: Loop
• Distance: 10.6 miles
• Suggested Time: 2 days, 1 night
• Difficulty: Hard
• Permit needed? Yes
• Best Seasons: Spring and fall

If you’re in the market for a relatively short but delectably sweet overnight hike, head to Coyote Gulch , which borders Glen Canyon National Recreation Area and Grand Staircase-Escalante National Monument.

This hike can be done in several variations, up to 22 miles in length, but this 10.6-mile loop hits many of the area’s highlights including two arches, a natural bridge, and numerous waterfalls.

First, stop at the Escalante Interagency Visitor Center in the town of Escalante to pick up your permit, inquire about road conditions and get the latest weather report.

The 10.6-mile loop is accessed by driving the notoriously rutted Hole in the Rock Road to the infamously sandy 40 Mile Ridge Trailhead. Depending on the road conditions, which change from year to year and season to season, you will likely need 4WD , especially for the deep sand on the last two miles to the trailhead. If your vehicle isn’t 4WD, you may be able to start the loop from the Hurricane Wash trailhead, 33.8 miles down Hole in the Rock Road.

Coyote Gulch’s biggest draw is the miracle of water in the desert. You’ll likely get your feet wet on this hike as the route follows and continuously crosses a perennial stream to its confluence with the Escalante River. Beware of flash flood danger in late summer and avoid this hike if thunderstorms are in the forecast.

From the 40 Mile Ridge Trailhead, the first mile is a bit of a sandy slog but soon you’ll enter the Crack in the Wall, a tight 18-inch wide fissure that drops you off the edge of the mesa into the canyon.

Plan to bring a rope to lower your backpacks through this section. The best campsites are found between miles 4 and 5 and water is found throughout the canyon seeping from natural springs trickling out of the canyon walls.

To exit the canyon, you’ll need to tackle a short scramble up some ledges just past Jacob Hamblin Arch. Inexperienced hikers may find this section intimidating, but there are often fixed ropes here to help protect the climb but you may want to bring your own.

Read next: For a slightly longer one-way trail (vs. loop above), check out our Coyote Gulch Backpacking guide which covers the hike from Hurricane Wash to Crack in the Wall.

Planning information

2. Reflection Canyon

• Trail Type: Out and Back
• Distance: 15.2 miles
• Difficulty: Moderate

This adventurous overnight hike ends at one of the best sunset/sunrise spots in southern Utah, overlooking a uniquely squiggly arm of Lake Powell. This view of bright blue goosenecked bays bordered by towering Navajo sandstone cliffs was made famous by National Geographic and then Apple computers, which used an image of this vantage point in advertisements for the 2012 MacBook Pro.

You’ll need a reliable 4WD vehicle to drive the 50 miles of ruts and bumps down the Hole in the Rock Road to the trailhead. From there, you’ll need a strong sense of direction and a lot of water. There are no sources of water on this trek so you’ll need to carry enough for two days of strenuous hiking and a night of camping and cooking.

Before leaving Escalante, be sure to have the route downloaded on your favorite hiking app . Most of the route runs over slickrock and there’s no defined trail. Aim to follow the long line of cliffs on your right (west) as you hike south. If you stray too far east away from the cliffs you’ll end up in a maze of often impassable slot canyons.

About five miles from the trailhead, you’ll turn southeast to head towards the overlook. From here, you’ll be treated to magnificent views from sunset to stars to sunrise.

New to hiking in the desert?

3. Lower Hackberry Canyon

• Location: Grand Staircase-Escalante National Monument
• Distance: 12.4 miles

Travel back in time to visit a historic cabin and the beautiful Sam Pollack arch on this overnight trek into Lower Hackberry Canyon.

Located at the southern end of the Cockscomb, an imposing and colorful ridge of uplifted sandstone, Lower Hackberry Canyon winds into the heart of the comb, following a beautiful creek that runs most of the year.

About four miles into the hike, you’ll reach Frank Watson’s cabin. Built in 1914 using cottonwood logs harvested on-site, this one-room cabin was restored in 2021 and is an excellent example of a 100-year-old homestead.

Intrepid hikers may also want to seek out an even older abode in the nearby side canyon: a small food storage granary, some grinding stones, and an intriguing humanoid pictograph found nearby in a hidden alcove.

After exploring the cabin and the side canyon, hike another half mile north up Hackberry Canyon to the confluence with Sam Pollock Canyon where you’ll find some great tenting options under the cottonwood trees.

Following Sam Pollock Canyon to the northwest, in another 1.5 miles you’ll reach the spectacular Sam Pollock Arch.

Read next: Heading to Kanab? Read our guide on the best things to do in Kanab, Utah to make the most of your visit.

4. Paria River to Lee’s Ferry and Buckskin Gulch

• Location: Paria Canyon-Vermilion Cliffs Wilderness Area
• Trail Type: Point to Point
• Distance: 40 miles
• Suggested Time: 4 days, 3 nights
• Permit needed? Yes (and they are competitive)

Get your fill of world-class slot canyons on this 40-mile route that starts in Utah and ends at the Colorado River in Arizona.

The Paria River is a major tributary of the Colorado, joining the Colorado River at Lee’s Ferry upstream of the Grand Canyon.

Along the way, you’ll spend two whole days in a narrow slot canyon with an optional side trip into Buckskin Gulch, one of the world’s longest continuous slots.

Permits for both the Paria and Buckskin Gulch are extremely competitive with only 20 people a day allowed into the Paria. See permit info below.

The Paria’s stunningly beautiful setting makes this a popular hike but it’s important to know that it is also extremely challenging . For much of the trek, you’ll be repeatedly crossing the creek and often wading in the water as well as dodging ubiquitous quicksand.

Spring and fall are the most desirable months but freezing water temperatures early and late season can make for miserable conditions.

In the summer, the canyon dries up and turns into a furnace while late summer monsoons can deliver deadly flash floods in these inescapable canyons.

If you manage to snag a permit during a good weather window when the Paria is running but not too high, you’ll be in for some of the most beautiful days of your life.

After leaving from the White House trailhead, the canyon begins narrowing down into its legendary slot, passing between towering red walls of Navajo sandstone.

Just after 7 miles, you’ll pass the confluence with Buckskin Gulch with a few campsites near the junction. A side trip up the narrow corridor of Buckskin Gulch is a must-do. This is one of the most beautiful and harrowing slot canyons on Earth!

Back in the Paria, you’ll continue south, following the endless twists, turns, and meanders into the ever-deepening and narrowing slot. Keep your eyes out for springs seeping from the walls. These are your best water sources, as the Paria itself is usually too silty to filter.

After more than 30 miles in the narrows, the canyon widens as it approaches its mouth at the Colorado River. Here you’ll find Lee’s Ferry, a historic crossing of the Colorado that now serves as the put-in for rafting trips into the Grand Canyon.

Read next: Get more tips for planning your adventure with our Paria Canyon Backpacking guide (which skips the Buckskin Gulch section).

5. The Boulder Mail Trail

• Distance: 15 miles
• Suggested Time: 3 days, 2 nights

Until the 1930s, the remote town of Boulder, Utah received its mail by mule, transported via the Boulder Mail Trail. Running in a fairly straight line between Escalante and Boulder, the Mail Trail crosses three major canyons and a lot of slickrock.

With precipitous drop-offs and deep water sections, the route is not for the faint of heart and it’s a wonder that the postal mules regularly traversed it with few mishaps.

The Mail Trail can be hiked in either direction but since the Boulder trailhead is almost 1,000 feet higher in elevation than the Escalante trailhead, most people hike from east to west for a net downhill hike, ending in Escalante.

Most of the route is well-cairned but you’ll want to be familiar with navigating on slickrock and have the route downloaded on your favorite hiking app before you begin.

The three major canyons, from east to west, are Sand Creek, Death Hollow, and Mamie Creek, each with its own character.

Water is usually found in both Sand Creek and Death Hollow and less reliably in Mamie. Death Hollow is the deepest and arguably loveliest of the three canyons, requiring an 800-foot descent down through Navajo sandstone benches into the canyon.

In Death Hollow, you’ll likely get your feet wet as you follow the creek for about a mile. Avoid the brushy banks as they’re often rife with poison ivy. Also, flash floods are a real danger here so be sure to check the weather before you commit to this hike.

The slickrock climb out of Death Hollow is marked by cairns and is easy to miss. The other route continues downstream to where Death Hollow meets the Escalante River.

You’ll also cross a fourth, unnamed canyon before reaching the Escalante trailhead. In total you’ll gain and lose around 2,500 feet of elevation throughout the 15-mile trek, going from Boulder to Escalante.

6. Bullet Canyon to Grand Gulch

• Location: Bears Ears National Monument
• Distance: 20 miles

More than 1,000 years ago, this complex of deep serpentine canyons in what is now Bears Ears National Monument was a neighborhood inhabited by hundreds of people.

Many generations of families made a living here by growing food and hunting wild game and living in multi-roomed dwellings, often situated under overhanging cliffs. They also created art by painting and etching the walls of the canyon.

But as the climate became warmer and dryer, resources became scarcer and people began building defensive dwellings and food storage structures high on cliff ledges, reachable by only seemingly superhuman feats of athleticism and bravery. Around 700 years ago, people left the canyon, moving into larger Pueblo communities to the south and east.

Thousands of ancient dwellings are found throughout the Bears Ears region but Grand Gulch is famous for the density and preservation of sites. Today, Grand Gulch is preserved as an outdoor museum , with many artifacts and relics left in place.

All visitors to this fragile and sacred place must follow all Leave No Trace principles , as well as additional guidelines for visiting archaeological sites, including:

Permits for this trip, which follows Bullet Canyon to Grand Gulch to Kane Gulch, are competitive and all hikers, including day hikers, need to check in at the Kane Gulch Ranger Station before exploring the area.

Water remains scarce in these canyons so be sure to check with the rangers that springs are flowing or you may need to carry water for your entire trip.

7. Under the Rim Trail plus Rigg’s Spring Loop

• Location: Bryce Canyon National Park
• Distance: 31.8 miles
• Best Seasons: Late spring, summer, and fall

Bryce Canyon is one of the country’s smallest national parks, only covering 55 square miles of land. But what the pocket-sized park lacks in size it makes up for in scenery. It boasts an incredibly colorful hoodoo spire-studded amphitheater that has been scooped out of the high-elevation Paunsaugunt Plateau.

Bryce is famous for its awe-inspiring overlooks but backpackers can get to know the park’s hoodoos, windows, and slot canyons on a more intimate level on the Under the Rim Trail.

This 23-mile trail begins at Rainbow Point in the south and runs north to Bryce Point, skirting the forested base of the plateau’s eastern edge. For bonus miles, add on the 8.8-mile long Rigg’s Spring Loop at the start of your trek.

Park shuttles connect all of the overlooks, including Rainbow Point and Bryce Point, making for easy logistics at the start and end of your hike.

Bryce Canyon reaches elevations over 8,000 feet, keeping this park much cooler in the summer months than the rest of Utah’s red rock country, which is often too hot for summer exploration. But even with cooler temperatures, water is still scarce in the amphitheater. Always check with park rangers about water availability before beginning your trek.

Some hikers elect to leave a water cache at the junction of the Under the Rim trail and the Swamp Creek connector trail. Bottles must be labeled with the hiker’s name and permit dates and must be packed out at the end of your hike.

Read next: Looking to spend more time in Bryce National Park? Check out our complete guide for more tips on the best hikes, where to stay, and things to do.

8. West Rim Trail

• Location: Zion National Park
• Distance: 14.1 miles
• Permit needed? Yes (permits are competitive)

Take the scenic footpath route into Zion via the West Rim trail. This 14-mile route starts at Lava Point in the Kolob Canyons unit of Zion, northwest of the main part of the park.

Lava Point sits at nearly 8,000 feet of elevation, while Zion Canyon dips down to 4,000 feet, making this a net downhill hike.

For the first 6.5 miles, you’ll be treated to sweeping views of Wildcat Canyon and the West Rim of Zion before beginning your descent at Cabin Spring into Zion Canyon where you’ll end at the Grotto Picnic Area.

With a little planning and a lot of luck, you could also apply for a permit to hike Angel’s Landing, which you’ll pass on your way down into Zion. A new lottery system was implemented in 2023 to limit the number of hikers on the notoriously narrow route, but it’s worth trying for a permit since it’s a spectacular hike (if you don’t mind heights!)

The West Rim’s higher elevation makes this route possible during the hotter summer months, but you should be prepared to spend part of the day in the shade and hike in the cooler morning and evening hours.

There are nine designated campsites along this route and water is usually available from several springs and natural sources along the way but be sure to check availability before you start your hike.

Read next: Need help planning your trip? Check out our West Rim Trail Backpacking Guide and our general Zion National Park Guide .

9. Mount Timpanogos

• Location: Uinta-Wasatch-Cache National Forest
• Distance: 14.3 miles
• Permit needed? No
• Best Seasons: Summer and early fall

Towering over the greater Salt Lake City metropolitan area, Mount Timpanogos , affectionately known as “Timp”, is the second-highest peak in the Wasatch Range, reaching 11,753 feet in elevation.

The 14.3-mile round trip hike to the summit gains over 4,400 feet of elevation and for many people, is best broken up into an overnight hike.

The trek begins at the Timpooneke trailhead, next to the Timpooneke campground, and follows the South Fork River past Scout Falls up into Timpanogos Basin. Most people elect to camp here, near Emerald Lake, and tackle the final climb up to the saddle and scramble along the windy ridge to the summit.

On top, you’ll be rewarded with unparalleled views of the Great Salt Lake Valley, Utah Lake and Provo Canyon. Mountain goats are often spotted on the surrounding cliffs and ridges.

Beware of lightning danger in the summer , though. It’s best to be off the summit by early afternoon to avoid thunderstorms.

This hike can also be done from the Aspen Grove Trailhead, which has a similar mileage and slightly more elevation gain, meeting the Timpooneke route near Emerald Lake.

Read next: 3-Day Backpacking Checklist

Read next: Read our Timopanogos trail guide for more tips on planning your hike.

10. Uinta Highline Trail

• Trail Type: High Uintas Wilderness
• Distance: 104 miles
• Suggested Time: 9 days, 8 nights
• Best Seasons: Summer

Utah’s most famous long-distance hike follows the crest of the Uinta Mountains, an east-to-west running mountain range in the northeast corner of the state. Along the way, you’ll tag King’s Peak, the highest point in Utah at 13,528 feet and known for being one of the most remote high points in the state.

The Highline Trai can be hiked in either direction, but most thru-hikers elect to go from east to west , starting at McKee Draw and ending at Hayden Pass near Mirror Lake.

The trail crosses eight named mountain passes, all over 11,200 feet of elevation, altogether gaining and losing over 16,000 feet of elevation.

Water abounds on this route and can be found in many small creeks and alpine lake basins and meadows. In between the passes, you’ll dip back into aspen groves and pine forests, which can give some cover during the afternoon thunderstorms that often roll across the mountains in late summer.

The hiking season can be short in the Uintas, especially in deep snow years when the passes may remain snow-covered until late July or August.

Utah is home to unlimited outdoor adventures. Here are a few more Utah blog posts to help you plan an epic trip to this incredible state:

• 9-Day Utah National Parks Itinerary
• Best Utah State Parks for Hiking and Camping
• Best Hikes in Utah: 20 epic trails
• Best Hikes Near Salt Lake City

Have you done any backpacking trips in Utah? What are your favorite trails and routes? Which of these are on your bucket list? Let us know in the comments!

Related Posts

Mary is a freelance science and travel writer. For over a decade, Mary was a roving correspondent for EARTH magazine, where her favorite beat was the Travels in Geology column. She also founded the Living in Geologic Time column for Eos magazine and her work has appeared in Science News, High Country News, and the Guardian. She also writes the popular blog Travels with the Blonde Coyote, and is the author of Aerial Geology: A High-Altitude Tour of North America’s Spectacular Volcanoes, Canyons, Glaciers, Lakes, Craters and Peaks. In her 15 years as a North American road-warrior nomad, Mary has hiked in all 50 states and visited over 200 national parks. When she’s not at the keyboard she can usually be found outside—hiking, skiing, climbing mountains, and taking photographs.

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UTAH NATIONAL PARK HIKING TOURS

United states.

Home to five National Parks, the stunning and varied geology of Utah draws visitors from around the globe.

Experience the best of canyon country with our expert guides and signature itineraries. Learn about local flora, fauna, and history; enjoy fresh healthy meals in beautiful locations, and sleep under starry desert skies or in comfortable lodging. If you’d like to check off all five National Parks, join one of our Utah Mighty 5 Tours. Try our Zion + Bryce Explored Tour for a more in-depth experience of these two parks. Explore all the sights of Moab by booking a trip to Arches + Canyonlands. Whether you are a solo traveler, couple, or family—these tours are crafted for you! Want to learn more? Chat with an expert by calling 1-800-206-7909

ALL UTAH HIKING TOURS

Utah mighty 5 | 5-day camping trip.

Experience all five of Utah's National Parks in just five days. The sandstone formations, dramatic coloration, and spectacular hiking trails will leave you awe-inspired.

Utah Mighty 5 | 5-Day Lodging Trip

Experience all five of Utah's National Parks in just five days from March through October! This lodging and hiking trip will allow you to see Utah's greatest gems.

Zion Bryce Escalante | 5-Day Camping Trip

Witness the astounding geology of ancient rock shaped by the rushing force of water as you hike through our favorite places in the desert of Southern Utah: Zion, Bryce Canyon, and Grand Staircase Escalante National …

Zion Bryce Escalante | 5-Day Lodging Trip

Experience the incredible geology of ancient rock formations carved by water as you hike through the landscapes of Southern Utah: Zion, Bryce Canyon, and Grand Staircase Escalante National Monument.

Why visit Utah with MountainBased?

Award Winning Utah Trips

MountainBased is proud of its TripAdvisor Award of Excellence as the top tour company in Salt Lake City. This accolade is largely due to the success of our flagship Utah Mighty Five 5-day Adventure, which showcases the breathtaking beauty of Utah’s National Parks. Each trip is unique, providing travelers with an unforgettable and one-of-a-kind experience.

Top-Quality Accommodations

Depending on your travel preference, you can book a trip with the option of camping at some of the best area camp sites or relaxing in some of our favorite local lodges and hotels.

Small Group Experience

Small group travel (12 people or less) is a great option for hiking because it allows for a more personalized and immersive experience. With a small group, you can visit off-the-beaten-path destinations and have more flexibility in your itinerary. Additionally, you may form stronger bonds with your fellow hikers, and it can be more cost-effective compared to individual travel. Click here to learn more reasons why to travel with us.

Expert Local Utah Guides

Our team of guides are knowledgeable and well-versed in the local flora, fauna, history, and culture, and love to share their experiences in these places. Our guides are trained in outdoor safety practices and handle all of the logistics, including transportation, gear, and meals, so you can relax and fully enjoy your adventure. Click here to learn more about our team of guides. 

Home to 5 National Parks

Utah is a state with diverse and varied landscapes, ranging from mountains in the north to mesas and canyons in the south. With 34 million acres of public lands, it can be overwhelming to plan an adventure. But with a guided tour from MountainBased, you can fully appreciate and understand the natural history of the area. Our expert guides are knowledgeable about the local flora, fauna, history, and culture, and can provide valuable insights about the best times to visit to avoid crowds. They are also adept at navigating the weather and handling permitting systems to ensure the best possible experience.

Each tour is great for couples, families, and solo travelers alike

More Information about Utah

If you’re an outdoor enthusiast looking for a destination that offers a wide variety of recreational opportunities, then Utah is the place for you. From the majestic red rock canyons of the Mighty Five national parks to the rugged beauty of the Grand Staircase-Escalante National Monument, there is no shortage of stunning landscapes to explore in this state. Consider exploring Utah with MountainBased where we truly showcase the best of Utah!

> Zion National Park

Zion National Park is home to some of the most iconic landmarks in the state, including Angels Landing and the Narrows, which were formed through the process of erosion and the uplifting of the Earth’s crust. The park is a popular destination for hiking, with several trails available for visitors to explore. Some popular trails include West Rim trail to Angel’s Landing and the Riverside Walk to the famous Narrows.

> Bryce Canyon National Park

Bryce Canyon National Park is known for its stunning red rock hoodoos, spire-shaped rock formations that have been formed through a process called “freeze-thaw cycle.” The park is a popular destination for hiking, with several trails available for visitors to explore. Some popular trails include the Navajo Loop Trail and the Queens Garden Trail.

> Arches National Park

Arches National Park is home to over 2,000 natural sandstone arches, which have attracted visitors from around the world. The park is a popular destination for camping, with several designated campsites available throughout the park. Some popular hiking trails in the park include the Delicate Arch Trail and the Devils Garden Trail. Photographers will enjoy the stunning vistas and unique rock formations found throughout the park.

> Canyonlands National Park

Canyonlands National Park is a true adventure seeker’s paradise, with a landscape that has been shaped by the forces of water and wind over time. The park is home to a variety of outdoor recreational activities, including hiking, rafting, and photography. Some popular hiking trails in the park include the Mesa Arch Trail and the Upheaval Dome Trail. The park is divided into four districts: Island in the Sky, Needles, Maze, and River District. Each district offers unique features and experiences for visitors to enjoy.

> Capitol Reef National Park

Capitol Reef National Park is known for its stunning red rock cliffs and canyons, which were formed through the process of uplifting and folding of the Earth’s crust. The park is home to a variety of outdoor recreational activities, including hiking, horseback riding, and photography. Some popular hiking trails in the park include the Capitol Gorge Trail and the Hickman Bridge Trail.

Utah National Monuments

In addition to the Mighty Five National Parks, Utah is home to a number of other national monuments, including Grand Staircase Escalante National Monument . This vast and rugged landscape is home to a number of scenic trails and offers visitors the opportunity to explore some of the most remote and rugged terrain in the state. Other National Monuments in the State of Utah include: Bears Ears National Monument, Cedar Breaks National Monument, Dinosaur National Monument, Hovenweep National Monument, Natural Bridges National Monument, and Rainbow Bridge National Monument.

Left: Goblin Valley S.P. | Right: Dead Horse Point S.P.

Utah State Parks

Utah is also home to an impressive collection of state parks, each offering its own unique geological features and recreational opportunities. The Utah Division of Parks and Recreation manages this system of 42 state parks, ensuring that the natural, cultural, and recreational resources within them are preserved and protected. Two of the most well-known state parks in Utah are Goblin Valley State Park and Dead Horse Point State Park. Goblin Valley is known for its striking and otherworldly landscape of hoodoos and rock formations, and it offers activities like hiking and photography. Dead Horse Point is renowned for its breathtaking views of the Colorado River from atop 2,000-foot cliffs.

*Based on Daily Averages

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• Jackson Hole: Week Two
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Park City Utah

• Testimonials

03/24/2025 - 03/30/2025

Spring skiing at its best, shared room $2,875, private room $3,570, pre-nights $275.

Season Pass Holders Will Receive a $300 Discount During Registration. Airfare Not Included

Trip Package Details >

Trip itinerary >, hotel information >, trip resources >.

If you haven’t joined us before this is what to expect on one of our trips.

We usually draw anywhere from 30 to 50 guests on any given trip. Ages run from 40 to 65+ ( average age at 52+-) with a 50/50 split male to female give or take a few. Abilities are from first time skier to advanced with everything in between so finding new friends to ski with is never a problem.

Visit our testimonial page for past guest comments!!

Come Ski Utah! With epic runs Park City Mountain boasts 7300 acre of skiable terrain with  the 2 separate base areas of Park City Mountain Resort and the former Canyons Resort.  There’s  limitless variety of this world renowned powder mountain for beginners to advanced riders.  Our stay which is at the Peaks Hotel offers guests spacious rooms, an on-site restaurant, lounge, on-site ski rentals as well as amenities such as ice skating, hot tubs, a pool and a well equipped gym. This makes the Peaks Hotel an ideal spot for your  singles ski vacation. With only a 10 minute shuttle service Park City and close by Deer Valley Resort  (Deer Valley is a separate pass and not part of the Epic Pass) makes for a convenient variety of mountains for single skiers who want to visit these high class mountain destinations.

Enjoy the luxurious nightlife of iconic Park City with the hotel shuttle or the local bus having a stop directly outside of our hotel. Stroll up and down this main street at one of the best known ski towns in America with newly formed friendships that happen that very quickly as you are amongst like minded guests.

Hi I’m Chuck the “Ski Guy” your trip host!

Feel free to call me with any questions at

215-397-7767 Or email me at [email protected]

TRIP PACKAGE DETAILS

Our Park City Ski Week Includes: 6 Nights Lodging !! Arrive Sunday – 6 Nights  at the elks Hotel – Depart Saturday 4 Day Mountain Lift Ticket Optional Wednesday Activities Included Meals: ……Daily Buffet Breakfast (6) ……Sunday: Welcome Reception with Light Dinner ……Monday: Dinner Included ……Tuesday: Dinner Included ……Friday: Farewell Dinner Included Room Mate Match for Singles On Site Hosts Discounts on Ski Rentals

TRIP ITINERARY

Sunday: Arrive SLC Airport before 4 Pm if possible to allow time for baggage claim  and shuttle to our hotel.  7:00pm Meet for welcome party Included

Monday: 7-9 AM  Full Hot Breakfast  Served at the Hotel Restaurant.  Included 9:00  Rent or Pick Up skis right in our Hotel! 12:30 Meet for Lunch Restaurant TBD 4:00  Happy Hour Hotel Bar 7:00 Meet for dinner Hotel   Included

Tuesday: 7-9 AM  Full Hot Breakfast  Served at the Hotel Restaurant.   Included 9:00 Head to the mountain! 12:30 Meet for Lunch Restaurant TBD 4:00 Happy Hour. Location TBD 7:00 Meet for dinner Hotel   Included

Wednesday: FREE DAY,  Rest up, ski an extra day or go shopping! 7-9 AM  Full Hot Breakfast  Served at the Hotel Restaurant.  Included “On your own Dinner”

Thursday: 7-9 AM  Full Hot Breakfast  Served at the Hotel Restaurant.  Included 9:00 Head to the mountain! 12:30 Meet for Lunch Restaurant TBD “On your own Dinner”

Friday: 7-9 AM  Full Hot Breakfast  Served at the Hotel Restaurant.  Included 9:00 Head to the mountain! 4:00 Happy Hour Hotel Bar 7:00 Meet for Farewell Dinner Hotel  Included

Saturday Departure Day: Sad Saturday… 7-9 AM  Full Hot Breakfast Buffet   Served at the Hotel Restaurant.  Included

Note: Alcohol is not included with dinners or Happy Hours All locations are subject to change

Optional Day Information (if applicable)

TRIP HOTEL DETAILS

Park City, UT 84060

P: 800-649-5012

Double Queen Room

TRIP RESOURCES

Ski & See rentals has a location right in our Hotel and you will receive a 35% discount. Click the link below and enter the code single35.  Once logged in select the Peaks Hotel as the pickup location. Unfortunately they do not allow for a skip day so if you planning on not skiing Wednesday you’ll need a reservation for Monday & Tuesday and another for Thursday & Friday

Discount Ski Rental Link

Canyon Transportation has offered our group a 15% discount on shuttle service to and from the airport Salt Lake City airport. Below is a direct link to our pre-discounted page.

Discount Shuttle Link

Discount Code SINGLES2023

Once the page comes up use the “From” drop down select Airport then select SLC Airport. Next on the right at the “To” drop down select Park City/ Deer Valley, scroll down to Park City Peaks Hotel. Then enter your flight info.

Transportation

Trip videos.

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