utah trip

• Search Please fill out this field.
• Manage Your Subscription
• Give a Gift Subscription
• Sweepstakes
• Destinations

24 Best Places to Visit in Utah — Including National Parks, Turquoise Lakes, and Giant Salt Flats

Red sandstone arches, turquoise lakes, and epic skiing are some of the many standout attractions in Utah.

Evie Carrick is a writer and editor who’s lived in five countries and visited well over 50. She now splits her time between Colorado and Paris, ensuring she doesn't have to live without skiing or L'As du Fallafel.

Utah doesn't get as much attention as some of its neighbors (ahem, Colorado), but anyone who's visited the Beehive State knows that it's in a class of its own. Its motto is "Life Elevated," after all. The landscape goes from desert marked with red sandstone arches to giant, snow-covered ski mountains and bright-white salt flats. In fact, the terrain is so stunning and varied that much of the natural landscape is designated national park, national monument, or national forest land.

It's impossible to check out every site the state has to offer in one visit, but certain places stand out. In addition to housing five phenomenal national parks, there are endless ski areas, state parks, hot springs, lakes, and mountain towns that are all worth exploring.

With that in mind, here are 24 of the best places to visit in Utah.

Zion National Park

Don Eim/Travel + Leisure

Utah has five renowned national parks, but Zion was the state's first — and there's a reason why. Hiking below the steep red cliffs surrounding Zion Canyon is truly awe-inspiring, as are the park's slot canyons, emerald-colored pools, and waterfalls with hanging gardens.

Park City is one of those places where you can have it all. It's just over 30 minutes from Salt Lake City, but has a mountain town feel that's complemented by a huge network of biking and hiking trails in the summer and two great ski areas — Deer Valley Resort and Park City Mountain Resort — in the winter.

Goblin Valley State Park

In addition to camping among Goblin Valley State Park 's hoodoos, you can spend the day exploring Little Wild Horse slot canyon, which includes a stretch where the walls are so tight that you have to turn sideways to get through.

Powder Mountain

With the most skiable acreage in North America, Powder Mountain is the place to be when the snow starts flying in Utah. In addition to cruising down the resort's 154 trails, you can go off piste, exploring the mountain's untracked in-bounds terrain. (Oh, and the area receives an average of more than 500 inches of snow annually.)

Paria Canyon

This natural wonder lies on the Utah-Arizona border, but is still on the Utah side. Paria Canyon is one of the longest and deepest slot canyons in the world, found within the wildly beautiful Paria Canyon-Vermilion Cliffs Wilderness.

Arches National Park

The reddish-orange sandstone arches of this national park feel like they belong in another world. In addition to hiking under or walking over the arches (there are more than 2,000 of them), you'll find other geological wonders, including Balanced Rock, which towers over the desert landscape.

Salt Lake City

Salt Lake City is unlike any other state capital in the U.S. It sits at the base of the Wasatch Range, providing a mountain backdrop to even the most urban downtown area. To see the two sides of the city, you can walk the Temple Square , headquarters for the Church of Jesus Christ of Latter-day Saints, before grabbing lunch at the Mark of the Beastro , a vegan diner with a devil theme.

Unlike other parts of the state, the city of St. George boasts year-round warm weather and easy access to endless recreation — from the dunes and red sandstone cliffs of Snow Canyon State Park to the reservoir of Sand Hollow State Park to the iconic Zion National Park . This destination also has incredible dining and great golfing.

Canyonlands National Park

The desert landscape of Canyonlands National Park is marked with towering rock pinnacles, remote canyons, and Native American rock paintings. Meanwhile, the Colorado River cuts through the dry scenery, providing whitewater rapids sought out by rafters and kayakers.

This city in eastern Utah is a gateway to the red rock wonders of the state — many of which are found within neighboring Arches and Canyonlands national parks. In addition to the parks, Moab is home to myriad petroglyphs and real-life dinosaur tracks.

Grand Staircase-Escalante National Monument

The Grand Staircase-Escalante National Monument is as rugged and remote as it gets, which is why it was one of the last places in the continental U.S. to be mapped. These days, you can view rock art by the ancient Anasazi and Fremont cultures, see dinosaur fossils, and explore the monument's slot canyons, arches, and monoliths.

Dead Horse Point State Park

This state park is as dry as it is immense. With a high-desert landscape of canyons crisscrossed with trails, travelers come to look out over the dramatic Colorado River and Canyonlands National Park. Note: When the sun drops, stick around — Dead Horse Point State Park also has stellar stargazing.

Bonneville Salt Flats

You don't have to travel all the way to South America to see the Uyuni Salt Flat; you just have to get to northwestern Utah, where the Bonneville Salt Flats sprawl over 46 square miles. The flats, which resemble snow, are actually a blinding-white salt crust that's five feet thick in some areas.

Bryce Canyon National Park

The largest concentration of hoodoos (columns of rock jutting out of the ground) can be found in Bryce Canyon National Park . In addition to the red sandstone wonders, the park provides stunning sunrise and sunset views and dark skies perfect for stargazing.

Coral Pink Sand Dunes State Park

Admiring the sunset on the mounds of red sand in Coral Pink Sand Dunes State Park should be on every travel wish list. Visitors can hike, drive, and even slide down the dunes, which are estimated to be between 10,000 and 15,000 years old. (Sandboards and sleds are available to rent.)

Mystic Hot Springs

This unique take on natural hot springs funnels the mineral water into a series of reclaimed bathtubs and pools where you can soak the day away. For the full experience, stick around for some on-site live music or sleep in one of Mystic Hot Springs ' many buses (including one that followed the Grateful Dead ).

Not far from Salt Lake city in the Wasatch Range of the Rocky Mountains lies this ski area that boasts 3,240 feet of vertical terrain and around 500 inches of snow annually (it has the longest ski season in the state). In the summer, you can play on Snowbird 's alpine slide or take the tram to the top.

Dinosaur National Monument

Dinosaurs once roamed much of Utah, and there's no better place to see and learn about it than at Dinosaur National Monument . The remains of these great wonders are still visibly embedded in the rocks, while petroglyphs showcase the area's first human populations.

Fifth Water Hot Springs

It doesn't get much better than hiking to hot springs. After just over two miles on the trail, you'll come upon a waterfall and the Fifth Water Hot Springs or Diamond Fork Hot Springs. Sit back and relax, but keep in mind you have to hike back to your car.

Homestead Crater

One of Utah's lesser-known natural wonders, the Homestead Crater is a geothermal hot spring set in a limestone dome. Inside, under the "natural skylight" created by the dome's opening, you can swim, scuba dive, or snorkel. (Fun fact: This is the only warm-water dive site in the continental U.S.)

Bear Lake State Park

Everything in Bear Lake State Park revolves around the park's shining jewel: Bear Lake. This freshwater spot is nicknamed the "Caribbean of the Rockies" because of its bright turquoise color, which is thanks to an abundance of calcium carbonate deposits in the water. In addition to sunbathing on the sandy shores, fishing, jet skiing, and sailing are popular activities.

Mount Timpanogos

One of Utah's most popular and recognizable mountains, Mount Timpanogos tops out at 11,752 feet above sea level. To summit the mountain — nicknamed "Timp" — it's a 14-mile hike round-trip. Along the way, hikers are treated to views of glacial lakes, waterfalls, and wildflowers.

Capitol Reef National Park

Everything in Capitol Reef National Park revolves around a literal wrinkle on the earth that consists of layered sandstone, canyons, and rock formations. Known as the Waterpocket Fold, the geologic monocline extends almost 100 miles and is surrounded by white sandstone domes, towering monoliths, and otherworldly pillars and arches.

Goosenecks State Park

Goosenecks State Park is tiny, but mighty. It's renowned for its clifftop vistas over the roaring San Juan River. And the views don't stop when night falls — you just have to look up. The park was recently even given an International Dark Sky designation .

Protect Your Trip »

28 Fun Things to Do in Utah

Natural attractions and otherworldly landscapes make Utah one of the most unique states to explore.

Getty Images

From mountains to unique rock structures to lakes, there are plenty of things to do and see in Utah.

Utah's landscape might be one of the most unique in the country. From flat expanses of salt that seem to go on for miles to vibrant red rock formations that make you feel like you've landed on Mars, this state is something of a natural playground.

Utah boasts five national parks and a whopping 40-plus state parks for visitors and residents to explore. Plus, with an array of small towns, mountains, ski areas and an urban hub in Salt Lake City, it's difficult to get bored in Utah. On the other hand, there are so many adventurous options and fun things to do at your fingertips, you may have difficulty deciding where to begin. Keep reading to narrow down your shortlist of things to do in Utah.

(Note: Some tours and excursions may be affected by the COVID-19 outbreak. New policies may be in place, including capacity restrictions and parking reservation requirements. Check with the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention, the U.S. Department of State and local tourism boards before traveling.)

Arches National Park

Soaring sandstone arches and towering hoodoos make Arches National Park in eastern Utah one of the most striking places in the state. Plus, the snow-capped La Sal Mountains in the distance only add to this area's beauty. If you only have a few hours to explore, drive the 18-mile scenic road (Arches Scenic Drive) to enjoy a brief, but thorough tour of the park. You'll pass Balanced Rock as well as the Windows area, which is home to a large concentration of arches. Luckily, there are plenty of spots to pull over and admire the views.

If you have a full day or more, get out of the car and explore on foot. Some of the most popular hikes in the park include the trails to Delicate Arch and Double Arch . If you're looking for less crowded hikes, there are plenty of hidden gems. The 3-mile round-trip hike to Navajo Arch is a relatively easy excursion that brings you to a quiet arch in a fairy tale-like setting. Ring Arch is another lightly trafficked route (3.5 miles round trip) with stellar views.

Visitors recommend touring the park in the late fall or early spring for cooler temperatures and fewer tourists than the busy summer season. Thanks to the park's convenient location near the town of Moab, you can stroll downtown and grab a bite to eat after a long day of hiking. Entrance to the park costs $30 per car, and the pass is valid for seven days.

[See more of Arches National Park: Things to Do | When to Visit | Photos .]

Canyonlands National Park

If you can't make it to the Grand Canyon or you're just seeking a less-crowded park with similar geological features, consider Canyonlands National Park in southeastern Utah. The Colorado and Green rivers cut through the park and act as natural dividers between three designated sections: Island in the Sky, the Needles and the Maze.

Island in the Sky is the most popular among visitors as it contains diverse hiking opportunities as well as a scenic driving route with ample pull-out spaces and picnic areas. Some of the best stops include Mesa Arch and Aztec Butte, according to visitors. (If you have time, schedule a stop at Dead Horse Point State Park, which is located near the entrance to Island in the Sky, to witness a spectacular sunset over the canyon.)

For a more off-the-grid experience, head to the park's Needles section via Route 211, which ends at the Needles Visitor Center. Note: You cannot drive directly from Island in the Sky to the Needles within the park. This area is reserved for more advanced hikers and is overall less accessible. However, dramatic views of towering sandstone columns await those who make the trek.

The Maze is the most remote and least-visited area of the park. This section features difficult roads and very challenging trails; you shouldn't travel there without the proper equipment and the ability to be self-sufficient for at least three days. Canyonlands National Park costs $30 per car to enter; the pass is valid for seven days.

Bryce Canyon National Park

The whimsical landscape of this park in southern Utah will amaze travelers young and old. Visitors can explore mazes of towering hoodoos as they descend into the canyon, or admire them from above while strolling along the rim. Bryce Canyon is the smallest of Utah's five national parks, and it's easy to conquer in a day. If you visit for a daytrip, be sure to stop at Sunset Point and Sunrise Point to take in the views. Then, hike the Queen's Garden and Navajo Loop trails for an approximately 3-mile tour of the land.

Those who would rather do a scenic driving tour of the park can start at Rainbow Point (located on the southern end of the park) and enjoy views throughout the 38-mile round-trip excursion. If you have more time, opt for one of the park's more challenging hikes, such as the 8-mile Fairyland Loop or the strenuous out-and-back 4-mile Hat Shop trail.

The park is open 24 hours a day and costs $35 to enter. Entrance passes are valid for seven days. Most people choose to park at the Sunset Point lot, which acts as the trailhead for an array of hikes. (Even the views from this parking lot are spectacular.)

For more specific guided activity options, check out the free ranger-led programs at the park. You can drive to this park from St. George (about 140 miles southwest) or Moab (around 245 miles northeast). Or, plan to stay overnight in one of the nearby hotels .

[See more of Bryce Canyon National Park: Things to Do | When to Visit | Photos .]

Zion National Park

Zion is Utah's most-visited national park and for good reason. It's characterized by the gaping Zion Canyon that measures 15 miles long and 3,000 feet deep, drawing adventurers looking for one-of-a-kind canyoneering opportunities.

Meanwhile, hikers will find an expansive network of trails to choose from, with many routes offering adrenaline-pumping experiences. Angels Landing , one of the most famous and highly trafficked routes in the park, starts at the Grotto Trailhead and weaves through narrow spaces and along steep, stomach-lurching drops. The trail is only a 5-mile round-trip excursion, but with a 1,488-foot elevation change, it is strenuous and not recommended for anyone with a fear of heights.

Less intense but equally beautiful hikes include the approximately 3-mile Watchman Trail , the 3.5-mile Pa'rus Trail and the 2-mile Middle Emerald Pools Trail. Ranger-led programs are available in Zion as well.

If you drive the park's scenic road (on U.S. Highway 9 from Interstate 15 to Mt. Carmel Junction), you can view Angels Landing and other attractions from below. Past visitors recommended planning your Zion trip for the late fall or early spring to avoid the sweltering temperatures and swarms of tourists that plague the summer season. Entrance to the park costs $35 per car. For easy access to the park, located in southwestern Utah, consider staying in nearby St. George.

[See more of Zion National Park: Things to Do | When to Visit | Photos .]

Bonneville Salt Flats

About 100 miles west of Salt Lake City , you'll find one of the country's most unique natural attractions: the Bonneville Salt Flats. This area features 30,000 acres of dazzling yet desolate white earth surrounded by mountains. The flats are a result of the ancient Lake Bonneville, which dried up long ago and left an otherworldly landscape behind.

Visitors can drive their cars directly onto the flats, or park in the lot and walk the flats on foot. In fact, there is even a section of the flats, the Bonneville Speedway, which is designated for car racing; the flat landscape and the salt's moisture balance makes for prime racing conditions. Some of the fastest driving speeds – more than 500 mph – have been recorded on these flats and there are racing events held here each year, including Bonneville Speed Week and the Bonneville Motorcycle Speed Trials each August.

The journey to the salt flats is essentially a straight shot on Interstate 80 from Salt Lake City; travelers recommend bringing snacks and water with you since you won't pass many towns or stores on the trip. If you're venturing to the flats in the winter months, be sure to check weather updates as it's not safe to drive on the flats in wet conditions. The Bonneville Salt Flats are free to enter.

Salt Lake City

Known for being the center of American Mormonism, Utah's capital city is home to plenty of religious and historic attractions. Spend some time in Temple Square to see the immense Salt Lake Temple and learn more about the Mormon faith from church representatives. For those interested in learning about the Great Salt Lake or the area's Native American populations, visit the Natural History Museum of Utah, which is located about 5 miles from the square. The Utah Museum of Fine Arts is also a great place to spend the afternoon, according to travelers. Plus, it's situated near the University of Utah campus as well as the large botanical garden and amphitheater at Red Butte Garden.

What's more, Salt Lake City offers an array of international cuisines and breweries. Some visitor favorites include Bewilder Brewing Co., Fisher Brewing Company and Kiitos Brewing. Families visiting the area may enjoy stopping at the Hogle Zoo or the Redwood Drive-In Theatre. There are plenty of luxurious accommodation options as well as budget-friendly properties here as well; check out the best hotels in Salt Lake City before booking your stay.

There are also plenty of ski resorts in the Salt Lake City region. Visitors love Snowbird for its 140 runs – many of which are quite challenging – and its terrain park. Another traveler-favorite is Solitude Mountain Resort which offers more beginner-friendly options among its 82 trails. Both resorts are located about 30 miles from Salt Lake City International Airport making them very accessible even if you're only in town for a brief visit.

[See more of Salt Lake City: Things to Do | Hotels | When to Visit | Photos .]

Lake Powell

Deep blue water surrounded by towering red rock cliffs makes the picturesque Lake Powell well worth a trip. Known for being the second-largest human-made reservoir in the country, this popular summer destination is located in southern Utah and spills into northern Arizona, where it is one of the state's most popular lake destinations and places to visit .

The water is used for swimming as well as water sports, such as kayaking and paddleboarding. Motorized water sports, including Jet Skiing and motor boating, are also allowed. (There are many equipment rental areas in the area.) The reservoir is encircled by 2,000 miles of shoreline, although much of it is only accessible by foot or by recreational vehicle. This means there are quite a few hiking opportunities on its shores, including traveler-approved areas like Davis Gulch and West Canyon.

While there are some hotels in the surrounding area, previous visitors agreed that staying in a houseboat is the best way to experience Lake Powell. Many of these houseboats – which you can book in advance from a marina – come equipped with kitchens, grills, bedrooms and even waterslides for fun, easy access to the lake. You don't need a boating license to rent a houseboat, but many rental companies will offer renters a lesson before they depart on their floating home.

[See: The Top Lake Vacations in the U.S. ]

Capitol Reef National Park

Although Capitol Reef is not as well-known as Utah's other national parks, the lack of tourists makes it all the more exciting to explore. Located north of Grand Staircase-Escalante National Monument and west of Canyonlands, this park offers diverse terrain. You can see much of Capitol Reef National Park from your car. The main Scenic Drive stretches just about 8 miles and takes passengers past the park's notable geological features like the Moenkopi Formation, Waterpocket Fold, Grand Wash and Wingate Sandstone. You can also opt to drive the nearly 60-mile Cathedral Valley Loop, which weaves through a more remote section of the park, passing massive sandstone structures like Temple of the Sun (the peak of which sits nearly 6,000 feet above sea level).

Visitors who would rather explore the park on foot have many memorable hikes awaiting. The easy-to-moderate Hickman Bridge (1 mile round trip) and Cassidy Arch (1.7 miles round trip) trails showcase Capitol Reef's stunning sandstone arches, while the leisurely Grand Wash Trail (6.25 miles round trip) brings hikers through narrow canyons. The Fruita Historic District – home to old Mormon settlements, a schoolhouse and a fruit orchard – is also worth exploring on foot. What's more, ranger-led programs like geology talks and full moon walks are available for free.

Entrance to the park costs $20 per car. Many travelers recommend exploring Capitol Reef on the way to or from Bryce Canyon via the 124-mile Scenic Byway 12. You might also consider glamping at Capitol Reef Resort , where you sleep in a Conestoga wagon.

Visit downtown Moab

If you're planning to visit Arches National Park or Canyonlands National Park, Moab is the best place to hang your hat. There are plenty of lodging options in town no matter your budget. While many people travel to Moab because of its proximity to many natural wonders, the downtown area itself is also worth exploring. You can visit Moab's cafes, peruse food truck options and sample an array of cuisines, including mouthwatering barbecue and Thai favorites, from downtown restaurants. There is also a popular brewery and distillery you can check out. You'll find art galleries and independent shops selling pottery, traditional Native American jewelry and souvenirs. Recreational activities abound in the city, including river rafting, horseback riding, rock climbing and all-terrain vehicle tours.

Past visitors recommended booking a UTV tour or renting a vehicle through the Moab Tour Company. And, don't miss the chance to drive along the Colorado River and even stop at wineries along the riverbank. After the sun sets, head to Dead Horse Point State Park (or pretty much anywhere outside the downtown area) for excellent stargazing opportunities.

[See the Best Hotels in Moab .]

Ski Park City

Park City is the perfect winter playground for skiers and adventurers. There are two major ski resorts in the area, as well as a lively downtown and ample upscale accommodation options. Park City Mountain Resort – the largest ski resort in the country – offers a plethora of shredding options for skiers and snowboarders of all levels. There are more than 330 trails across 7,300-plus acres of skiable terrain. Adrenaline junkies can hit any of the eight terrain parks, which vary by difficulty level.

Deer Valley Resort offers a more intimate ski setting compared to its counterpart thanks to its smaller size and prevalence of more beginner-friendly trails. Plus, snowboarders are not allowed at Deer Valley, which many skiers appreciate. The runs are longer, but the lift tickets are more expensive than those at Park City Mountain Resort. Both mountain resorts offer tons of fresh powder (typically seeing an average of 355 inches annually), making the slopes in Park City skiable from November to April. No matter which resort you choose, you won't be far from the city center. The historic downtown area offers a multitude of boutiques, pubs and fine dining experiences. Galleries and theaters bring life to the town as well. If you're visiting in the summer, there are often farmers markets, festivals and events as well. Best of all, free buses will transport you around the area.

[See more of Park City: Things to Do | Hotels | Restaurants | When to Visit | Photos .]

Monument Valley Navajo Tribal Park

Millions of years of erosion, high-powered winds and water flow resulted in a striking landscape scattered with lofty buttes and distinctive rock formations. This area, now known as Monument Valley Navajo Tribal Park, is open year-round for all to explore. Visitors can drive through the park on the scenic U.S. Highway 163 route (four-wheel-drive vehicles are recommended).

If you want to escape the car, you can also book a formal tour of the land . There are classic vehicle-operated tours that will take you to the top attractions, but there are also horseback tours and hot air balloon tours available if you are seeking a more unique experience. It's important to note this land belongs to Navajo Nation and is sacred to the tribe. If you want to learn more about the land's cultural significance and the tribes to whom this land belongs, opt to book a tour operated by a Navajo local. As you tour, the scenery might look familiar since the park has been used as the backdrop for many films, including "Stagecoach," "Forrest Gump" and "Once Upon a Time in the West."

Because this park is operated by Navajo Nation Parks & Recreation rather than the federal government, your national parks pass will not be sufficient to enter. Instead, you'll have to pay $20 per vehicle.

This city in the southwestern corner of Utah offers plenty of activities, whether it's your final destination or just a stop along your road trip. Travelers visiting sans kids can admire the city's massive Mormon temple and visit a plethora of art galleries. What's more, downtown offers plenty of bars and restaurants. A children's museum and a spacious town square – complete with a lazy river and picnic areas – make the city a great stop for those traveling with kids, too. Parents also recommend bringing little ones to the St. George Dinosaur Discovery Site at Johnson Farm where they can marvel at fossilized dinosaur tracks.

St. George benefits from plenty of sunshine and mild- to hot weather, which means it's great for outdoor activities. Explore the red rock formations at Pioneer Park, hike the trails in nearby Snow Canyon State Park and swim in the reservoir at Sand Hollow State Park. Past visitors also recommend driving to Quail Creek State Park where you can swim, kayak and camp. St. George is frequented by visitors to Zion National Park as the city sits about 40 miles west of the park.

[See the Best Hotels in St. George .]

Grand Staircase - Escalante National Monument

Similar to Utah's other parks, this national monument offers a rugged landscape with striking geological features like arches, slot canyons and mesas. Named for its series of plateaus and its proximity to the Escalante River, this area was declared a national monument in 1996. It's made up of three distinct sections: Grand Staircase, Kaiparowits Plateau and Escalante Canyon.

The Grand Staircase section offers a mix of trails and backcountry hiking opportunities; some popular trails include Upper and Lower Calf Creek Falls trails (2.2 miles and 5.8 miles, respectively) as well as Escalante Natural Bridge (3.2 miles round trip).

On the other hand, the Kaiparowits Plateau, which measures 1,600 square miles, is the most remote section as it sits 9,000 feet in the sky. It's sandwiched between Grand Staircase in the west and Escalante Canyon in the northeast.

The Escalante Canyon area is a popular destination for canyoneering trips. This section also boasts waterfalls and an array of gorges.

There is no entrance fee for this national monument. It's located near Bryce Canyon and the Grand Canyon, and travelers say it's easy to fit into a road trip itinerary. You can also experience great views of the monument on a drive from Bryce Canyon to Capitol Reef National Park by following state Route 12 (also known as Scenic Byway 12).

Antelope Island State Park

Located on a peninsula that juts into the Great Salt Lake, Antelope Island is an adventure-lover's paradise. You can try hiking, mountain biking on the network of trails or swimming in the lake. Past visitors recommended visiting Bridger Bay Beach for the best swimming options.

There are also spectacular wildlife viewing opportunities here. For starters, there are about 500 bison roaming the island. If you visit in late October or early November, you can witness the annual bison roundup. The park's other wildlife species include bighorn sheep, deer and, of course, antelope.

There are no formal lodging options on the island; if you want to stay overnight, you can reserve a spot at one of three campgrounds. The closest hotels are located on the mainland, near Syracuse, Utah. The route from Salt Lake City is just about 60 miles long, so Antelope Island makes for a good daytrip as well.

Note that you should come prepared with food as there is only one restaurant – the Island Buffalo Grill – on the peninsula. Entrance to the park costs $15 per vehicle.

Experience the Sundance Film Festival

Movie stars, directors and other celebrities flock to northern Utah each January to attend the Sundance Film Festival. Famous films like "Get Out," "Saw" and "The Blair Witch Project" have premiered to audiences at Sundance. In a typical year, the film festival draws more than 100,000 attendees from around the globe. Events at this 10-day festival take place in the theaters of Park City, Salt Lake City and Sundance Mountain Resort. The best part of this festival is that it's open to everyone.

If you're visiting Utah during mid- to late January, simply purchase a festival pass or a ticket package. Depending which kind you buy, a pass may cost upward of $1,000, but it gives the holder total access to screenings, panel discussions and other events for a range of dates. On the other hand, a ticket package provides a select amount of passes that can be used to attend different panels, events and screenings. You can also purchase an individual ticket to one specific screening for about $20. If you happen to be a local resident, you'll be able to purchase tickets before the general public.

Visitors should book accommodations early to ensure they secure a room with a reasonable rate (rates are known to double in price during this popular event). Check out the best hotels in Park City and the best hotels in Salt Lake City for lodging ideas.

This city in central Utah is known for being home to Brigham Young University – a large private research university sponsored by the Church of Jesus Christ of Latter-day Saints. Because of the college, there are plenty of restaurants to try, sporting events to enjoy and museums to peruse. Visitors recommend stopping by the Monte L. Bean Life Science Museum, the BYU Museum of Paleontology and the BYU Museum of Art.

However, there is more to Provo than the college campus: The city, which is situated at the foot of the Wasatch Mountains, is a great spot to stay for an outdoorsy vacation. Popular hikes include Rock Canyon Trail (about 5.5 miles round trip), Lost Creek Falls Trail (2.8 miles round trip) and the "Y" Mountain Trail (about 2.2 miles round trip). The short (about a half-mile from the parking lot), but scenic route to Bridal Veil Falls also draws many visitors who want to catch a glimpse of the more than 600-foot-tall rushing waterfall. Utah Lake State Park – which is home to the largest freshwater lake in the state – is located near Provo as well, and it offers swimming, boating and camping opportunities.

Attend the Utah Arts Festival

Swingman Photo | Courtesy of Utah Arts Festival

If you're visiting Utah in the summer, don't miss the chance to experience the state's largest outdoor arts festival. Over the course of three days, attendees can witness performance and visual art from an array of local and international artists. Events like poetry readings, storytelling presentations and documentary screenings add diversity to the festival. Musical acts bring a lively energy to the event, and dance groups entertain with everything from ballet to modern dance to hip-hop performances. Everything at the festival is infused with art – even down to the food. Food and beverage vendors impress visitors with culinary art techniques and serve a variety of international cuisines.

The festival is held in Salt Lake City and draws about 70,000 attendees every year. Tickets are available for purchase online or at the event and start around $15; three-day package ticket options are also available.

Address: 200 E. 400 S., Salt Lake City, UT 84111

Anasazi State Park Museum

Courtesy of Anasazi State Park Museum

A trip to Anasazi State Park Museum is essentially a trip back in time. At this museum in south central Utah, visitors can explore the remains of an ancient Puebloan village and learn about the people who once occupied the land. This area was home to one of the largest Puebloan communities west of the Colorado River and was thought to be occupied around A.D. 1050. A walk along the unearthed stone walls can help visitors understand the structure of the village. In addition, an excavation uncovered more than 100 buildings and numerous artifacts from the village.

In the museum, visitors can admire showcases of traditional Anasazi pottery, tools and art. The on-site gift shop offers authentically designed crafts and educational books, so visitors can learn more about these ancient civilizations.

Past travelers said the state park doesn't take long to explore because of its small size (about 6 acres), but they agreed it's an educational stop for people of all ages. The park, which is located in the town of Boulder, charges $5 per person to enter.

Address: 460 UT-12, Boulder, UT 84716

Outdoor adventure and small-town charm draw visitors to Ogden in northern Utah, set about 40 miles north of Salt Lake City. This up-and-coming city sits in the shadow of the Wasatch Mountains – specifically the towering Willard Peak and Ben Lomond – so there are plenty of recreational activities in store. Ogden offers easy access to Snowbasin Resort and Powder Mountain – two of the area's premier ski resorts.

If you're visiting in the summer, be sure to experience the Ogden River whether by swimming, boating, fishing or strolling along the shores. You can also explore the region's hiking and biking trails. Some visitor-approved hikes include the moderate Waterfall Canyon trail (2.5 miles round trip) and the more challenging Malan's Peak trail (about 5 miles round trip).

The downtown area is also not to be missed. Streets are dotted with art galleries, public art attractions, restaurants, breweries and dive bars. Plus, there are budget hotels, bed-and-breakfast accommodations and campgrounds for visitors to reserve. There are also museums in the area that teach travelers about the city's rich, yet tumultuous history as a railroad town. Ogden also offers free self-guided audio walking tours that start from Union Station at 25th Street and Wall Avenue.

[See: 15 Epic Outdoor Adventures to Enjoy Across America .]

Snow Canyon State Park

This expanse of red rock and petrified sand dunes covers 7,400 acres of land in southern Utah and is popular among travelers visiting nearby St. George or Zion National Park. Formed by an intense mixture of volcanic eruptions, flowing lava, rushing rivers and sandstone erosion, this state park's landscape is anything but ordinary. Luckily, there are many ways to explore the area.

Those looking to drive through the park should head from St. George to Snow Canyon Drive, which weaves through the park. The road trip should only take an hour or two even if you stop along the way. (Jenny's Canyon is a popular place to stop, as this slot canyon is located right off the road.)

If you want to get out and hike, try the easy Johnson Canyon Trail (2 miles round trip) or the moderate Lava Tube Trail (2.5 miles round trip). Cyclists may enjoy touring the park by bike on the paved trail that loops from St. George through the park and back. Entrance to the park costs $5 for pedestrians and cyclists or $15 for cars ($10 for Utah residents). If you're looking to stay overnight, there are spaces to camp as well.

Enjoy adventure activities in Coral Pink Sand Dunes State Park

Nearly 4,000 acres of blush colored sand dunes comprise this unique state park. One of the most exciting ways to experience this state park is on an ATV tour. Coral Pink ATV Tours offers a variety of excursions to choose from. The Sand Dune Paradise tour crosses over the dunes to backcountry trails, while the Dunes & Boarding Tour incorporates sandboarding and sledding into the typical route; both options are about an hour long.

Other tour options include hiking stops at slot canyons and prime sunset viewing. If you're interested in only sandboarding or sand sledding, you can rent equipment (for a fee) from the park's visitor center on a first-come, first-served basis. It's also possible to explore this state park on foot, though hiking options are limited. You can traipse the rolling dunes and admire the array of vegetation, or head a few miles north to hike the South Fork Indian Canyon. Entrance to the state park costs $10 per vehicle. There are options for camping in the area, or you can stay at a hotel in the nearby town of Kanab.

Fantasy Canyon

This geological attraction in northeastern Utah is straight out of a fairy tale. The gray-hued sandstone rock formations, which have been heavily eroded since prehistoric times, curve at peculiar angles and almost look as if they are dripping down to the ground. Because of its somewhat remote location – situated 40 miles from the nearest city of Vernal – Fantasy Canyon is a peaceful and quiet roadside attraction. It's a calming place for an afternoon stroll, and the signs on the self-guided trail educate wanderers on the natural forces that created the landscape. Plus, visitors often witness antelopes, horses and other wild animals grazing in the area, making the experience even more memorable.

Although the area is relatively small – about 10 acres – visitors agree Fantasy Canyon is worth the trip because the rock formations are unlike any others in the state. Plus, it's a great spot to take some Instagram-worthy snapshots. It should only take about an hour to walk around, though there are places for primitive camping near Fantasy Canyon if you want to spend more time here. The canyon is free to explore, and there are well-marked signs leading visitors to the area, according to recent travelers.

[See: 13 Unusual Roadside Attractions Across America .]

Boating at Flaming Gorge National Recreation Area

Escape Utah's sweltering summer heat with a trip to this enticing reservoir surrounded by crimson rocks that might seem as though they're on fire. The reservoir, which was created by the Flaming Gorge Dam on the Green River, stretches 91 miles from northeastern Utah through to southwestern Wyoming. It's popular among locals and tourists for its boating opportunities. There are plenty of marinas where you can rent boats and other equipment like kayaks and Jet Skis. Swimmers can escape the summer heat with a dip in the refreshing waters, which usually hover around 65 degrees in the summer.

If you visit between April and September, you can opt to book a tour of the dam to experience its depth and learn more about the powerful energy source. The recreation area is free to enter, though you'll have to pay a small fee if you plan to launch a boat.

There are numerous camping areas here, but some visitor-favorite spots are Antelope Flat – thanks to its accessibility and water sports options – and Dutch John Draw, because of its quiet cove. If you're in search of more traditional accommodations, there are a few motel-style options to choose from. Note: Because of the area's location at 6,000 feet above sea level, nighttime temperatures can drop by about 50 degrees, so pack accordingly.

Big Cottonwood Canyon

Big Cottonwood Canyon, which is located about 20 miles southeast of Salt Lake City, offers attractions for skiers, hikers, mountain bikers and even those travelers who simply want to enjoy views from the comfort of their car. The canyon is home to two renowned ski areas, Solitude Mountain Resort and Brighton Resort, which are connected by an intermediate trail. If you're visiting in the summer months, consider hiking the challenging 5-mile round-trip Broads Fork trail to see sprawling meadows and canyon viewpoints or the easier roughly 3-mile out-and-back Donut Falls trail to see a unique waterfall.

Visitors also recommend heading to nearby Little Cottonwood Canyon to hike or bike in the Albion Basin for spectacular mountain views and a plethora of wildflowers. If you don't have much time to spend, you can soak up the canyon views with a scenic drive. From the interstate, follow the signs for the ski resorts; the road snakes through mountains and passes stunning alpine scenery. There are also plenty of spots to pull over and snap photos as well as numerous designated picnic areas along the way.

Natural History Museum of Utah

Brian Twede | Courtesy of Natural History Museum of Utah

To fully comprehend Utah's unique beauty, you must understand its geological elements and the impacts of its native inhabitants. There's no better place to learn about all of this than the Natural History Museum of Utah , located just east of the University of Utah campus in Salt Lake City. The museum offers temporary exhibits as well as a breadth of permanent ones including Native Voices – a presentation about the art and culture of the state's eight federally recognized Native American tribes and the tribes' presence in modern-day Utah.

Visitors also enjoy learning about Utah's biodiversity at the Life exhibit and about its three distinct geographical regions – the Basin and Range, the Colorado Plateau and the Middle Rocky Mountains – at the Land exhibit. According to visitors, there are many kid-friendly elements at the exhibits, and children especially love the dinosaur attraction.

Entrance costs about $20 for adults, $18 for seniors and young adults ages 13 to 24 and $15 for children 3 to 12. The museum is open from 10 a.m. until 5 p.m. daily, with extended hours until 9 p.m. on Wednesdays. The museum recommends buying tickets online at least one day in advance. Visit the website to buy tickets and learn more.

Address: 301 Wakara Way, Salt Lake City, UT 84108

Dead Horse Point State Park

Located near the northeast entrance of Canyonlands National Park, Dead Horse Point State Park is a captivating site with an interesting history. In the 19th century, the area was used by cowboys herding wild mustangs. Now, the park is frequented for its scenic hiking and biking trails. The park sits about 2,000 feet above the Colorado River and is surrounded by vibrant red buttes and mesas as far as the eye can see. Dead Horse Point Overlook is one of the best spots for a photo-op and is easily accessed from the parking lot. Visitors say sunrise and sunset are the most beautiful times to visit. Popular hiking trails include the easy East Rim trail (which measures 2 miles one way) and the moderate West Rim trail (which measures 3.5 miles one way).

The park offers well-maintained campgrounds and yurt areas. It's worth staying overnight because Dead Horse is recognized as an International Dark Sky Park , making for prime stargazing opportunities. Kayenta Campground and Wingate Campground offer electrical hookups and restrooms; Wingate also offers a few tent-only sites as well as some yurts – which feature beds, table and barbecue areas – available for rent. Entrance to the park costs $20 per vehicle (up to eight people).

Address: UT-313, Moab, UT 84532

Red Fleet State Park

You can find this state park in a region of northeast Utah nicknamed "Dinosaurland," thanks to the plethora of dinosaur tracks discovered in the area. To witness these dinosaur relics firsthand, head to the northern section of the park and walk the Red Fleet Dinosaur Trackway Trail. While the park would be worth visiting for this attraction alone, there is even more to this park than just 2 million-year-old dinosaur fossils.

A lake surrounded by sandstone cliffs makes for a scenic place to kayak, paddleboard or lounge on the deck of a boat. There are water sports equipment rentals available within the park. Also, many hiking and biking trails surround the lake. Past visitors recommended the Three Amigos, Handsome Cabin Boy and Jazz Chrome Molly trails for mountain biking. Travelers who wish to spend the night can camp on the eastern shores of the reservoir. Campsites come equipped with fire pits, drinking water, flush toilets and electric hookups. The park costs $7 to enter and camping fees vary by season.

Address: 8750 N. Highway 191, Vernal, UT 84078

Take an adventure to the Uinta Mountains

Travelers looking for outdoor recreation options in northeastern Utah should look no further than the Uinta Mountains. This mountain range is one of the only ranges in the country that runs east to west, and it has some of the tallest peaks in the state. The area is a prime spot for essentially any outdoor activity you can imagine, including hiking, backpacking, riding all-terrain vehicles, off-roading, fishing, paddleboarding and snowshoeing.

Mirror Lake, one of the area's top-rated attractions, is a great place to cool off on a hot summer day. Situated about 10,000 feet above sea level and surrounded by majestic mountains, the lake is definitely worth a stop despite the crowds, according to recent visitors. Plus, it's open for nonmotorized water sports and swimming. Driving along the 42-mile Mirror Lake Scenic Byway is the perfect way to see the mountain area, and in the fall, drivers will be amazed by the bright foliage.

Many travelers choose to camp in these mountains and there are plenty of campgrounds to choose from. Summer is the best time to visit for outdoor adventuring. Even so, be prepared for changing weather conditions when visiting – snow can fall in the Uintas as early as September.

You might also be interested in:

• The Best National Parks in the U.S.
• The Best Places to Hike in North America
• The Best Travel Backpacks
• Print and Pack: The Ultimate Camping Checklist
• The Top Things to Do in Colorado
• The Top Things to Do in Arizona
• The Top Things to Do in New Mexico
• The Best Tourist Attraction in Every U.S. State

Tags: Travel , US Vacations , Utah Vacations , U.S. West Vacations

World's Best Places To Visit

• # 1 South Island, New Zealand
• # 4 Bora Bora

If you make a purchase from our site, we may earn a commission. This does not affect the quality or independence of our editorial content.

You May Also Like

12 cheap fourth of july getaways.

April 29, 2024

The Best Tours of Buckingham Palace

Laura French April 29, 2024

Flight Canceled or Delayed? What to Do

Amanda Norcross April 26, 2024

The Best Beach Hats

Megan Johnson and Sharael Kolberg April 26, 2024

The Best Florence Tours

John Rodwan April 25, 2024

The 9 Best Louisiana Swamp Tours of 2024

John Rodwan April 24, 2024

How Much Does a Cruise Cost?

Gwen Pratesi April 24, 2024

The Best Whale Watching in Cape Cod

Lyn Mettler April 24, 2024

Best Whale Watching Tours in Maine

Marisa Méndez April 23, 2024

The Best Wineries in Napa Valley

April 23, 2024

Explore Utah

Plan your trip to utah: best of utah tourism.

Essential Utah

Dig Into Utah

Utah Is Great For

Eat & drink.

High-octane

Hiking & camping

Absolute Best Things to Do in Utah: 14 Bucket List Experiences

By Author Jurga

Posted on Last updated: January 8, 2024

Considering traveling to Utah, USA, and wondering what the top experiences are that you shouldn’t miss on your first visit? In this guide, we share some of the best things to do in Utah for your bucket list . Find out! 

Utah is renowned for its stunning natural beauty. So you likely already heard of “The Mighty 5” – Arches, Bryce Canyon, Canyonlands, Capitol Reef, and Zion National Parks. Indeed, no Utah bucket list would be complete without these places. But there’s so much more to see and do in Utah!

The state’s diverse landscapes extend from the Great Salt Lake to the iconic Monument Valley, known for its sandstone buttes and a rich cultural history influenced by the Navajo Nation. 

With the highest concentration of Dark Sky Parks, Utah is also a prime destination for stargazers. If you are interested in prehistoric life, you can admire ancient art and dinosaur fossils. Winter sports enthusiasts flock here to find the “Greatest Snow on Earth” and speed lovers are drawn to the vast expanse of Bonneville Salt Flats for land speed record attempts…

Utah’s cultural diversity, shaped by Native American tribes, Mormon pioneers, and other settlers, is also reflected in its festivals, architecture, and museums. This cultural influence adds an enriching layer to the state’s natural wonders as well.

With such a wide array of landscapes and activities on offer, you can imagine that no list of the best things to do in Utah could ever do it justice – even if it contains 85 or 379 experiences… Plus, there’s no way you could see it all in one trip.

So in this guide, we showcase only the VERY BEST places and diverse bucket list experiences in Utah that – in our view – are worth it the most. If you are visiting for the first time and want to see the best that Utah has to offer, this list will give you plenty of ideas.

Good to know: This guide is published with the help and tips of Janae McCormick, a full-time travel writer and founder of Adventures With TuckNae . She has spent several months traveling all around Utah and exploring its vast beauty. We hope that this guide and our experience-based tips will help you plan the most memorable trip as well.

Here are some of the best things to do in Utah for your bucket list:

1. Roadtrip Through the “Mighty 5” Utah National Parks 

Let’s start this list with some of the most famous places in Utah!

No trip to the Beehive State would be complete without seeing the famous landscapes of the “Mighty 5” Utah National Parks – Arches, Bryce Canyon, Canyonlands, Capitol Reef, and Zion. Ideally, you plan a road trip that includes at least a few of them. Time permitting, definitely visit them all!

TIP: Driving from west to east, the best order to visit them is starting with Zion and Bryce Canyon, then Capitol Reef, Canyonlands, and Arches. If you are visiting from east to west, reverse the order. 

Here are a few photos and top things to do at each National Park: 

Arches National Park

Arches is famous for its over 2,000 natural stone arches. Key activities include visiting the iconic Delicate Arch, exploring the Windows Section for easily accessible arches, and enjoying spectacular landscapes from the best viewpoints along the Arches’ scenic drive .

LEARN MORE: Best Things to Do in Arches National Park

Canyonlands National Park 

Famous for its dramatic desert landscapes, Canyonlands is known for panoramic views and backcountry adventures. Must-dos include viewing the expansive vistas at Island in the Sky, exploring the Needles District’s unique rock formations, and enjoying stargazing in its remote wilderness.

LEARN MORE: Best Things to Do in Canyonlands National Park

Capitol Reef National Park

Capitol Reef offers a mix of historical and natural attractions. Popular activities include exploring the Waterpocket Fold, a unique geological feature, visiting the historic Fruita orchards, and hiking to viewpoints like Sunset Point.

Bryce Canyon National Park

Bryce Canyon is known for its extraordinary hoodoos and landscapes. Top activities include hiking the Navajo Loop and Queen’s Garden trails amidst the hoodoos, enjoying breathtaking views from Bryce Point, and stargazing under the park’s dark skies.

LEARN MORE: Zion – Bryce Canyon Itinerary

Zion National Park

Zion is famed for its stunning canyon views and hiking trails. Key activities include hiking Angel’s Landing for panoramic views, exploring The Narrows, a unique slot canyon experience, and taking scenic drives like the Zion Canyon Scenic Drive. For a quieter adventure, the Riverside Walk offers beautiful scenery.

LEARN MORE: Best Hikes in Zion National Park

2. Admire the Majestic Temple Square

Temple Square in the heart of Salt Lake City is one of Utah’s most visited and significant landmarks. This 10-acre complex is owned by The Church of Jesus Christ of Latter-day Saints (LDS Church) and serves as a spiritual, cultural, and historical center.

Even if you are not religious, this is an absolute must-see in Utah!

The square is famous for its stunning architecture, beautifully landscaped gardens, and historical and religious significance, making it a focal point of Salt Lake City for both members of the LDS Church and visitors from around the world.

At the center of Temple Square is the impressive Salt Lake Temple, a magnificent granite structure that took 40 years to build and was completed in 1893. While the temple itself is not open to the public, its imposing Gothic and Romanesque architecture, with six spires rising into the skyline, provides a striking image. 

Next to the temple, you’ll find the Tabernacle, home to the famous Mormon Tabernacle Choir. The Tabernacle is notable for its remarkable acoustics and the grand organ, which is one of the largest in the world. It’s absolutely impressive – a must-visit!

TIP: If you are in Salt Lake City, try to see Tabernacle Choir Performance . It’s a unique experience!

Good to know: Temple Square is particularly enchanting during the holiday season when it is decked out with thousands of lights and nativity scenes.

3. Stand Under the Iconic Delicate Arch

Delicate Arch in Arches National Park is one of the world’s most recognized geological landmarks. It is so iconic that is also pictured on the Utah license plate. So it definitely deserves a separate mention on any Utah bucket list!

The Arch can be reached by hiking one of the most popular trails in the park. The hike is about 3 miles round trip, with an elevation gain of about 480 feet. It’s a moderate hike but it can be done by most people, including children.

This trail begins at the Delicate Arch Trailhead, which is easily accessible by car. You’ll start on a well-defined path that winds through rugged terrain, offering glimpses of the park’s various rock formations.

The trail gradually ascends, leading you over slick rock and along a relatively exposed ledge for the final stretch. It requires some caution, especially with young children or those with a fear of heights.

Before you know it, you will reach Delicate Arch and be rewarded with an awe-inspiring view of the arch standing majestically against the backdrop of the La Sal Mountains. It’s hard to put into words just how incredible it is to see this arch in person! 

TIP: The best times to hike to Delicate Arch are in the early morning or late afternoon when temperatures are cooler. Summer months can bring extreme heat, making it essential to carry plenty of water, wear sunscreen, and wear appropriate hiking attire. 

LEARN MORE: Delicate Arch Hike Info

4. Walk Through the Belly of the Dragon

One of the most unique things you can do in Utah is wander through the Belly of the Dragon . Although it’s obviously not a dragon’s belly, it definitely resembles one! 

Located under Highway 89 near Kanab, Utah, this unique attraction is actually an old drainage tunnel. It received its name due to the erosion through the passageway, which resembles the inside ribcage of a dragon. 

Belly of the Dragon is part of a short 1.8-mile round-trip hike. The entrance to the tunnel is at the beginning of the trail and requires a small 4-5 foot scramble down into the ditch. Once you start through the tunnel, you will wind your way through until you reach the other end. 

Afterward, you can continue hiking through the sandy wash, or turn around and head back the same way you came. 

Good to know: Depending on the time of day when you visit, there is minimal light inside the tunnel, so be sure to pack a good flashlight. The terrain is rough and uneven in places, so watch your footing. 

This is a fun place to visit for kids and adults alike, and it’s also dog-friendly, which is a nice bonus. If you’re driving through the Kanab area, add a stop at Belly of the Dragon to your Utah bucket list. 

TIP: Plan your visit early in the morning or late in the evening to have Belly of the Dragon all to yourself. This is a popular stop and can become crowded very quickly. There is also free camping at this location. 

5. See Bison at Antelope Island State Park

The Great Salt Lake , the largest saltwater lake in the Western Hemisphere, is a must-see in Utah. The scenery is stunning and a swim in this lake is a unique experience in itself. Due to the high salinity of the water, you can effortlessly float at the surface of the lake. 

One of the bucket list destinations on the shores of the lake is Antelope Island State Park . This park is located northwest of Salt Lake City, just 45 minutes drive from downtown. It’s accessible via a causeway from Syracuse, UT. Despite the proximity to the city, it’s a serene getaway with open, grassy plains, rocky beaches, and the backdrop of the Wasatch Range.

Antelope Island is known for its wildlife, but it’s particularly famous for the herd of bison that call this state park home. The bison were first introduced to Antelope Island in 1893, with the initial herd consisting of just 12 animals. Since then, the population has flourished, becoming one of the largest and oldest publicly owned bison herds in the United States.

In addition to the bison, you’ll also have a chance to spot wild pronghorn antelope, bighorn sheep, and an abundant variety of birds. The island has hiking, biking, and horseback riding trails, and you can also camp here if you’d like. 

If you’re looking to photograph some of the best wildlife in Utah, then Antelope Island State Park needs to be on your bucket list! 

TIP: There is an annual bison roundup, typically held in the fall, when the bison are corralled and checked for health, allowing for the management and study of the herd. Plan your visit accordingly if you want to watch this fascinating event!

6. Brave the Heights of Angels Landing 

Angels Landing in Zion National Park is perhaps the most famous hike in the USA. This is one of the most thrilling hiking trails in the world, renowned for its stunning views and challenging terrain. 

Angels Landing is not for the faint-hearted or those with a fear of heights, but it offers an unforgettable experience for those who choose to take the challenge.

The round-trip hike is about 5 miles long, with the trail ascending approximately 1,488 feet. It typically takes 4 to 5 hours to complete, depending on fitness level and crowd conditions, and is rated as strenuous due to its steep and exposed sections.

The hike begins at The Grotto trailhead, accessible by the park’s shuttle bus. The first section is a well-maintained path that gradually ascends along the West Rim Trail. 

A series of 21 short, steep switchbacks known as Walter’s Wiggles significantly increase your hiking elevation. This section is physically demanding but manageable for most hikers in good condition.

After the switchbacks, you’ll reach Scout Lookout, a relatively flat area where you can take a break and enjoy the stunning views. This is also the decision point for many, as beyond here, the trail becomes more challenging and exposed.

The final half-mile is the most daunting, following a narrow spine with sheer drops on either side. Chains have been installed along this section for hikers to hold onto, providing stability and security. This section requires careful navigation and patience, especially when the trail is really crowded. Always stay focused, and hold onto the chains where provided.

TIP: Start early in the morning to avoid the crowds that can make the narrow trail more dangerous. Ensure you have enough water, wear sturdy hiking shoes, and check the weather forecast before starting. If you are afraid of heights, reconsider attempting the final spine to Angels Landing.

Good to know: Nowadays, you need a permit if you want to hike to Angels Landing. You can find more information about it here .

7. Hike Through a Slot Canyon

Utah boasts over 1,000 slot canyons so a trip to Utah wouldn’t be complete without hiking through one of them! Some of the best Utah slot canyons include Peek-A-Boo Slot Canyon, Wire Pass, and Crimson Slot Canyon. Some are technical canyons (requiring special equipment and training), and others are non-technical and can be easily visited by everyone.

If you are nervous about exploring a slot canyon on your own, you can hire a guide or a tour agency to take you through one. Some slot canyons are also hidden away and difficult to reach, making a guided tour even more appealing. 

The slot canyons in Utah are made up of various colors and sizes, so do some research to determine which one is most appealing to you. One of the best slot canyons you can easily add to your itinerary is Crimson Slot Canyon in East Zion, on the way to Bryce Canyon.

Good to know: Slot canyons can be very dangerous during flash floods. Make sure to check the weather before heading to a slot canyon, and never hike through one when any potential rain is in the forecast.

TIP: While not in Utah, the famous Antelope Canyon is located just over the border in Arizona. So a visit here can be easily added to any Utah itinerary.

The three most impressive slot canyons that you can visit here are the Lower Antelope Canyon, Upper Antelope Canyon, and Antelope Canyon X. Keep in mind that they can only be visited with a guide and are extremely popular. So it’s essential to plan and book ahead! Check here for availability and book as soon as you know your travel dates!

8. Touch Dinosaur Bones at Dinosaur National Monument 

Located on the Colorado and Utah border, Dinosaur National Monument is a paleontological treasure trove known for its well-preserved dinosaur fossils. The highlight is the Quarry Exhibit Hall , built over the Carnegie Dinosaur Quarry, where an array of dinosaur bones are still embedded in the rock wall.

Here you have a rare opportunity to see and even touch dinosaur fossils that date back to the Jurrasic period. Visitors can get up close to the remains of dinosaurs like Allosaurus, Apatosaurus, and Stegosaurus, among others. 

Educational exhibits and ranger-led programs provide deeper insights into the lives of these ancient creatures and the area’s natural history.

TIP: Don’t forget to explore the grounds outside of the Quarry Exhibit Hall as well! The scenery is very nice and quite different from the rest of Utah, plus, there are no crowds. Nearby, you can also find several sites with ancient petroglyphs, some just a few minutes drive from the visitor center. If you are lucky, you may even spot some wildlife like bighorn sheep and eagles.

9. Marvel at the Unique Scenery of Bonneville Salt Flats

The Bonneville Salt Flats is yet another famous natural landmark of Utah that’s well worth a detour. It’s located at the Nevada border, about a 1.5-hour drive west of SLC. So you can easily visit here on a (half) day trip from Salt Lake City.

Spanning over 30,000 acres, the salt pan is the result of a dried-up prehistoric saltwater lake that used to cover much of the Utah and Nevada desert. The surreal landscape captivates with seemingly endless white salt-crusted terrain that looks like a snow-covered desert. It’s somewhat comparable to the Badwater Basin in Death Valley National Park , but is much larger.

The Bonneville Salt Flats also attract adrenaline junkies and speed enthusiasts. The vast area of thick salt crust provides an ideal track for racing and is renowned worldwide as a high-speed haven. In fact, almost all the land-speed records in the world have been set or broken here!

Good to know: During the dry season (summer – early fall), the flats become a hardened, reflective surface due to the evaporation of rainwater. This creates a mirror-like illusion that merges the sky above with the ground below—a photographer’s dream.

When it’s dry, it’s possible to drive on the Bonneville Flats Speedway. However, the flats can occasionally be wet or impassable after rainfall, so be sure to check the conditions! It’s still worth visiting to admire the scenery and amazing reflections, but you are not allowed to drive on the salt pan when it’s wet. See here for more info.

TIP: If you just want to see the unique scenery, one of the best spots to go is a rest stop along I-80, about 10 miles east of Wendover. You can leave your car here and walk on the salt flats. There is even a place where you can wash the salt off your shoes after you come back.

Alternatively, you can visit here with this highly-rated private half-day tour from Salt Lake City. It also stops at a few other landmarks along the way.

10. Drive ATVs in Coral Pink Sand Dunes State Park

A fun bucket experience for the adventurous traveler is ATVing in Coral Pink Sand Dunes State Park ! This park is famous for the color of its coral-pink sand and is located in southern Utah, just east of Zion National Park.

Although you can enjoy the park on foot or even rent sandboards to take on the dunes, arguably the best way to enjoy this park is by ATV. There’s nothing else quite like racing over these pink sand dunes!

You can either choose to rent ATVs independently, or you can enjoy a guided ATV tour . Either option is great, but we recommend taking a tour, as the guides know the best dunes and are also there to help should you get stuck in the sand and need any extra assistance. 

TIP: This is a great activity to enjoy in the winter months when the heat is more bearable! Just make sure to wear layers, and have a blast taking on the dunes.

11. Discover Mystic Landscapes of Goblin Valley State Park

Goblin Valley State Park , located in southeastern Utah, is truly a hidden gem with otherworldly landscapes. The park is known for its thousands of hoodoos and mushroom-shaped rock pinnacles, known as “goblins”.

These unique formations create a surreal and almost alien environment that attracts visitors from all over the world.

The Valley of Goblins is the park’s main attraction. In this extensive area, you can wander among the hoodoos, enjoying an almost maze-like experience.

Photographers find this landscape particularly enchanting, especially during sunrise and sunset when the warm hues of the rocks are accentuated. Another great time to photograph the hoodoos is in the winter when the rocks are covered in a light dusting of snow.

Despite its remote location, the park has a campground, picnic areas, and restrooms, making it accessible for day trips and overnight stays. 

TIP: Goblin Valley is a very remote destination, with few amenities nearby and almost non-existent cell service. Bring everything that you need with you, including plenty of water and snacks, and don’t forget to fill your gas tank before reaching the area.

12. Meander Through Hoodoos at Bryce Canyon National Park

Goblin Valley State Park is not the only place to find other-worldly landscapes. Another great place to see hoodoos in Utah is Bryce Canyon National Park . The scenery here is phenomenal and should definitely be on your bucket list! 

These tall, thin spires of rock, formed by frost weathering and stream erosion, create a natural amphitheater of red, orange, and white hues that change with the light of day. You can admire the stunning scenery from various viewpoints on top of the canyon. But if you have the chance, be sure to take a hike and see the hoodoos up close!

Walking inside the Bryce Canyon is like stepping into another world. Trails like the Navajo Loop and Queen’s Garden descend into the canyon and offer easy access to get up close to these unique rock formations. 

As you explore the paths, the towering hoodoos rise around you, creating narrow passageways and sudden openings to reveal stunning vistas. The play of light and shadow through the corridors adds to the magic, especially during sunrise or sunset when the colors of the rocks are at their most vibrant.

Good to know: Wintertime offers an even more unique experience. The stunning contrast of white snow on the red and orange hoodoos is beyond gorgeous! Just beware that some roads might get temporarily closed during snowstorms.

13. Hit the Ski Slopes in Park City

While Utah is mostly known for its dry desert-like landscapes, the state also has some impressive mountains. And yes, in winter you can even go skiing in Utah!

One of the best and most popular destinations for winter sports enthusiasts is Park City, Utah. The charming and historic town transforms into a bustling hub of activity during the winter months.

Park City is known for its light, powdery snow, and extensive terrain. The area is home to two major ski resorts: Park City Mountain Resort and Deer Valley Resort.

Park City Mountain Resort is one of the largest ski resorts in North America. It provides a variety of runs suitable for all skill levels, from beginner to expert. Its interconnected trails and lifts offer plenty of areas to explore, and the resort is particularly known for its high-quality terrain parks and halfpipes. 

Deer Valley Resort is recognized for its luxury services and meticulously groomed runs and caters to a more upscale experience. It is a skiers-only resort known for its exceptional customer service, fine dining, and ski-in/ski-out accommodations.

Park City’s outstanding ski facilities and charming town atmosphere make it a top destination in Utah in the winter.

Good to know: The town also hosts various winter events, including the Sundance Film Festival, which brings a unique blend of art and culture to the snowy town.

14. Take a Drive Through Monument Valley 

And finally, no list of the best places to visit in Utah would be complete without the iconic Monument Valley . White technically in Arizona , it’s located right on the Utah border so we find that it’s well worth a mention here as you would not want to miss it when road-tripping in the area!

Monument Valley is one of the most recognizable landscapes in the American West. Its vast, open vistas and dramatic skyline have been featured in numerous films and advertisements, making it familiar even to those who have never visited.

Despite the name, it is not a valley in the conventional sense but rather a vast flat landscape interrupted by towering formations, sometimes rising to over 1,000 feet above the desert floor. These formations are made of de Chelly sandstone, which provides the red and orange hues that define the area’s distinct color palette. 

The Valley Drive, a 17-mile dirt road that runs through the park, allows visitors to experience the area’s beauty at their own pace, with many stops at popular viewpoints.

Good to know: Monument Valley is part of the Navajo Nation Reservation and holds deep cultural and historical significance for the Navajo people. The best way to support the local community and explore the area is with guided tours .

Tour options vary from scenic drives to more adventurous options like horseback riding and hiking. They offer insight into the cultural history and geology of the region from the Navajo perspective, plus, local guides can take you to places that are not accessible to the general public.

TIP: To replicate the famous picture from Forrest Gump, stop along the road at one of the provided pull-offs on the Utah side several miles before you reach the valley. Use caution and watch for approaching vehicles, as this is a busy road! 

LEARN MORE: How to Visit Monument Valley

As you can see, there are so many amazing places and experiences to add to your Utah bucket list.

From vast salt pans and deserts to canyons and mountains, and from prehistoric life and ancient rock art to contemporary landmarks, Utah has plenty to offer for all sorts of travelers and in any season.

This unique combination of natural beauty, cultural richness, and outdoor recreation opportunities makes Utah an unparalleled destination. One thing is certain – no matter where you decide to go on your first visit, you will want to return.

Have a great trip!

READ ALSO: Arizona Bucket List – Top Places to Visit

If you found this post helpful, don’t forget to bookmark it and share it with your friends. Are you on Pinterest? Pin these images!

Images: Janae McCormick of Adventures With TuckNae, Depositphotos.com, and personal collection.

This site uses Akismet to reduce spam. Learn how your comment data is processed .

Peggy Harper

Monday 8th of January 2024

Great blog, but one Utah place you didn't mention is Dead Horse Point State Park. It's less crowded than the national parks, but well worth spending time hiking and touring. And, the final scene of Thelma and Louise was filmed there. Fun times!

Hi Peggy, you are absolutely right - Dead Horse Point State Park is a beautiful place and the sunsets there are amazing! In fact, we wrote about it in pretty much all our guides about Canyonlands National Park and the Moab area. The purpose of this Utah bucket list was not to showcase everything there is to see in the state but to highlight just some of the most special places and experiences. Otherwise, it could have easily been 74 spots or even more. :) But if more readers tell me that it deserves a place on this list, I might reconsider. ;) Thanks for reading and happy travels!

© Michael Kunde/Visit Utah

Welcome to nature's most perfect playground. From red-rock mesas to skinny slot canyons, powder-bound slopes and slick rock trails, Utah's diverse terrain will stun you. The biking, hiking and skiing are world-class. And with more than 65% of the state lands public, including 14 national parks and monuments, the access is simply superb.

Best Time to Visit

Free things to do, attractions, must-see attractions.

Goblin Valley State Park

Southeastern Utah

A Salvador Dalí–esque melted-rock fantasy, a valley of giant stone mushrooms, an otherworldly alien landscape or the results of a cosmological acid trip?…

Bryce Point

Bryce Canyon National Park

If you stop nowhere else along the scenic drive, be sure to catch the stunning views from Bryce Point. You can walk the rim above Bryce Amphitheater for…

Natural History Museum of Utah

Salt Lake City

Rio Tinto Center's stunning architecture forms a multistory indoor 'canyon' that showcases exhibits to great effect. Walk up through the layers as you…

Utah Olympic Park

Visit the site of the 2002 Olympic ski jumping, bobsledding, skeleton, Nordic combined and luge events, which continues to host national competitions…

Best Friends Animal Sanctuary

Kanab's most famous attraction is outside town. Surrounded by more than 33,000 mostly private acres of red-rock desert 5.5 miles north of Kanab, Best…

Zion National Park

Southwestern Utah

A bold desert beauty, this 230-sq-mile park is a highlight of southern Utah. Hikes range from trails traipsing the ridge lines to river wading under steep…

Snow Canyon State Park

Red and white swirls of sandstone flow like lava, and actual lava lies broken like sheets of smashed marble in this small, accessible park. Snow Canyon is…

Antelope Island State Park

White-sand beaches, birds and buffalo are what attract people to the pretty, 15-mile-long Antelope Island State Park. That’s right, the largest island in…

Planning Tools

Expert guidance to help you plan your trip.

Traveling with Kids

Incredible natural wonders, unique cultural landmarks and hundreds of miles of play-all-day spaces make Utah a great destination for families.

Best Road Trips

There’s a lot to see in one of America’s most beautiful states. Which is why you should get behind the wheel and set on these top road trips through Utah.

Latest stories from Utah

Filter by interest:

• All Interests
• Adventure Travel
• Art & Culture
• Beaches, Coasts & Islands
• Food & Drink

Apr 23, 2024 • 9 min read

Utah is made for hikers. Strike out into its big wilderness and you’ll be floored by incredible diversity of the environs.

Dec 11, 2023 • 6 min read

Dec 8, 2023 • 6 min read

Jan 2, 2023 • 5 min read

Aug 22, 2022 • 15 min read

Jun 23, 2022 • 5 min read

Jun 23, 2022 • 6 min read

Mar 17, 2022 • 6 min read

Mar 2, 2022 • 5 min read

Mar 1, 2022 • 6 min read

in partnership with getyourguide

Book popular activities in Utah

Purchase our award-winning guidebooks.

Get to the heart of Utah with one of our in-depth, award-winning guidebooks, covering maps, itineraries, and expert guidance.

Utah and beyond

10 Best Utah Road Trips: Unique Itineraries + Maps

by Mark and Kristen Morgan

Published: July 16, 2020

Utah has many unique road trip options, including national parks, state parks and off-road adventures. Spectacular landscapes, bucket list hikes and beautiful photo spots make Utah one of the very best road trip destinations in the world.

In this guide, we’re going to show you 10 original and personally tested Utah road trips based entirely on our own experiences.

Our Utah Road Trip Experience

Why trust us with helping you to plan your Utah road trip?

Because we’ve explored far and wide throughout two separate Utah road trips, first in the fall of 2019 and again in the winter of 2021. We love the region and consider southern Utah to have some of the best road trips in the US .

During both our extended visits to Utah, we’ve hiked the iconic trails, explored the major parks and photographed the unmissable sunrise and sunset spots. Every Utah road trip itinerary in this guide is created from first hand knowledge . Read more about us .

With so many amazing US road trips available for your next adventure, why would you choose to road trip through Utah ?

Here’s what makes Utah such a popular place to visit:

• Five remarkable national parks
• Countless other special natural landscapes
• Year round accessibility
• Several of the best hikes in the US are in Utah
• Diverse and adventurous attractions
• Excellent weather for most of the year
• Easy logistics with Las Vegas and Salt Lake City airports

Other popular road trip routes in the US have the ocean, big cities, rainforests or rugged mountains. Utah offers dramatic canyons , extraordinary sandstone formations and bucket list hikes .

Choosing Where To Visit

Utah is home to a diverse range of topography including canyons, sand dunes, mountains and salt flats. The Mighty 5 national parks are the most heavily visited places in Utah, but there are so many other fun and underrated places to see.

So where should you visit on your Utah road trip?

Well, the answer depends on factors like your travel style, how much time you have and how many times you have visited Utah in the past.

• Are you a hiker? You should prioritize hikes in Zion National Park above all else.
• Are you a photographer? You should prioritize Arches, Canyonlands and Bryce Canyon.
• First time in Utah or short on time? You should start with Zion and Bryce Canyon.
• Already seen the national parks? You should head to the adventure town of Kanab.

We think Utah is a state you can return to time and time again because there’s just so much to do. Even after 2 extensive trips to Utah, our bucket list is still only half full!

Further Reading: The 20 best places to visit in Utah

About Our Itineraries

Next, we’re going to show you our 10 favorite Utah road trip routes. You’ll find route statistics , a description and a map for each itinerary.

You can click into the interactive maps associated with each itinerary listed below. Simply touch or click the map to activate, then you can move around or zoom in and out.

We’ve tried to be as inclusive as possible in order to accommodate every traveler who wants to see the very best of Utah. Please feel free to leave us a comment at the end of the guide if we haven’t quite covered exactly what you are looking for.

Let’s get into the first itinerary!

1. Utah Mighty 5 National Parks Road Trip

• Distance : 389 miles
• Time : 7 hours 20 minutes
• Days : 6-8 days
• Attractions : Zion, Bryce Canyon, Capitol Reef , Canyonlands, Arches

The Mighty 5 national parks road trip is the ultimate Utah experience . This famous route consists of many of the best US national parks with stops at Zion, Bryce Canyon, Capitol Reef, Arches and Canyonlands.

After driving the Mighty 5 we can confidently say that it’s the all-in-one scenic Utah ticket featuring the best hikes, photo spots and landmarks. If you’ve never been to Utah and you want to see all the major highlights , this is the road trip for you.

Utah Mighty 5 Road Trip Map

The Mighty 5 is most commonly driven as an out-and-back loop route from Las Vegas (here are the best things to do in Las Vegas ). Use the map above to see how the route begins in Zion, moves to Bryce Canyon and Capitol Reef before stopping near Moab for both Arches and Canyonlands.

Returning to Las Vegas from Moab, you have several amazing options for places to stop including Monument Valley, Page AZ, Grand Canyon North Rim and the adventure attractions around Kanab.

Road Trip Tip : Drive UT-12 from Bryce Canyon to Capitol Reef. The route through Escalante is slightly longer but it’s incredibly scenic and shouldn’t be missed.

2. Utah State Parks Road Trip

• Distance : 476 miles
• Time : 9 hours 40 minutes
• Days : 3-5 days
• Attractions : Gunlock, Snow Canyon, Sand Hollow, Coral Pink Sand Dunes , Kodachrome Basin, Escalante Petrified Forest, Goblin Valley, Dead Horse Point

We’ve created this original Utah road trip itinerary for return visitors to Utah or those who prefer to avoid heavy crowds . It follows the same route as the Mighty 5 but only stops at state parks and avoids national parks altogether.

We think Utah is overflowing with incredible state parks that are completely overshadowed by the national parks. There’s so much more to see, hike and photograph in Utah outside of the national parks. And the best part is that they’re always quiet .

Utah State Parks Road Trip Map

Our Utah state parks road trip is best driven in a loop from Las Vegas . Similarly to the Mighty 5 route, you can easily throw in plenty of extras stops along the way, which could even include one or two national parks if you don’t want to miss out.

Road Trip Tip : If state parks are your thing, do not miss the amazing Valley of Fire State Park in Nevada either on the way in or out of Utah from Las Vegas, which we have included in the route map above.

3. Zion To Bryce Canyon Road Trip

• Distance : 86 miles
• Time : 1 hour 55 minutes
• Days : 2-4 days
• Attractions : Zion, Bryce Canyon

Zion to Bryce Canyon is our top Utah road trips pick for visitors with just 2 or 3 days available. It’s a hugely popular and well established route which works perfectly with the nearby Las Vegas airport as a transport hub.

Both Zion and Bryce Canyon are amazing places, but they’re surprisingly different considering how close they are to one another. We love both parks and think this double header offers the perfect balance between ticking off some of the best Utah hikes and photo spots in a short trip.

Zion To Bryce Canyon Road Trip Map

The Zion to Bryce Canyon road trip route is easy to plan . You simply fly into Las Vegas, drive to Zion, then drive to Bryce Canyon and eventually return to Las Vegas the same way. Here are 5 very different ways you can spend one day in Zion National Park .

Road Trip Tip : Serious hikers should spend more time in Zion, whereas photographers and sightseers should spend more time in Bryce Canyon.

4. Arches And Canyonlands Road Trip

• Distance : 78 miles
• Time : 2 hours 5 minutes
• Days : 1-2 days
• Attractions : Canyonlands, Arches

Arches and Canyonlands is one of the best bang for your buck road trips in Utah. We loved the photo spots in these two parks and can’t wait to go back for more landscape shoots. It’s possible to see the highlights of both parks in one day by starting in Canyonlands and ending in Arches.

However, 2 full days would allow you to relax and visit more natural attractions by spending a day in each park. You can tick off the best hikes in Arches and end with sunset from Delicate Arch on the first day, before spending the next day in Canyonlands which begins with an incredible sunrise at Mesa Arch .

Arches To Canyonlands Road Trip Map

Many visitors to Moab only have time to do Arches and Canyonlands in one day . Our route map above shows you exactly how to see both parks in a day from sunrise to sunset .

With more time you can do one day in each of Arches and Canyonlands. Start the second day in Canyonlands Island in the Sky district before visiting the further away districts called The Needles, The Maze and The Rivers.

Road Trip Tip : Start with Mesa Arch at sunrise and end with Delicate Arch at sunset for one of the most amazing days in Utah.

5. Kanab HQ Road Trip

• Distance : 320 miles
• Time : 6 hours 55 minutes
• Days : 3-4 days
• Attractions : Belly of the Dragon , Coral Pink Sand Dunes, Buckskin Gulch, The Wave, Toadstool Hoodoos , Grand Canyon North Rim

Our Kanab headquarters road trip is unique because you will use one tiny town as a base and the driving aspect is essentially fanning out in all directions around Kanab to visit attractions. Don’t be put off by what sounds like a boring road trip, trust us, it really isn’t!

We spent a few days ticking off hikes , landscapes , caves and sand dunes around Kanab during our second road trip through Utah and we were blown away by the area so much that we included it in our list of the 50 best US vacation spots .

Kanab is one of the most underrated places we’ve visited in America. Not only are there countless awesome things to do in Kanab , but the town also has affordable hotels, excellent restaurants and a chilled vibe.

Kanab HQ Road Trip Map

The route map above shows driving routes from Kanab to each of the most prominent attractions and hikes nearby. Visiting Grand Canyon North Rim is totally optional but it does make for a fantastic experience.

By using Kanab as a base, you can see the likes of Coral Pink Sand Dunes , Belly of the Dragon , Toadstool Hoodoos , Buckskin Gulch and The Wave . It’s also close to slot canyons and a bunch of fun adventure tours going out into the harder to reach areas of Utah like Peek-a-boo canyon.

Road Trip Tip : For the ultimate Kanab experience you should apply for the online lottery to win a permit for The Wave .

6. Kanab To Moab Road Trip

• Distance : 423 miles
• Time : 8 hours 45 minutes
• Days : 4-6 days
• Attractions : Kanab, The Wave or Grand Canyon North Rim, Horseshoe Bend, Antelope Canyon, Monument Valley, Arches, Canyonlands

Moving into custom Utah road trips territory , we think our Kanab to Moab road trip itinerary could be among the very best in this list . It’s perfect if you want to get off the beaten path and do something a bit different.

You’ll start with the best of Kanab , which could include hiking The Wave if you win a permit, before moving to Page AZ for Horseshoe Bend and Antelope Canyon ( book your Antelope Canyon tour in advance). Next is Monument Valley and eventually you reach Moab for Arches and Canyonlands.

Kanab To Moab Road Trip Map

This route can be driven from Las Vegas to Salt Lake City or Denver with plenty of stops available on the back end after leaving Moab. It works perfectly for anyone who plans to spend time in Colorado either before or after Utah. Remember, Rocky Mountain National Park isn’t too far from Moab.

Do you want to visit Grand Canyon South Rim during your Utah road trip? You could leave Kanab and arrive into Page, then drive down to South Rim before re-joining the itinerary to Moab.

Road Trip Tip : You can see most of Monument Valley without actually going into the paid area.

7. Utah Hiking Road Trip

• Distance : 932 miles
• Time : 18 hours 20 minutes
• Days : 6-10 days
• Attractions : Fire Wave, The Subway , Angels Landing , The Narrows , Queen’s Garden , Hickman Bridge, Mesa Arch, Devil’s Garden, Delicate Arch, Buckskin Gulch , The Wave

We’ve created this custom road trip through Utah specifically for hikers and we think it’s pretty awesome! Utah’s unique landscapes are a paradise for hikers but the iconic trails are time consuming, so this is the longest itinerary in our list.

The route effectively follows the Mighty 5 path but it only consists of the best hikes . There are no photography stops, sunrises, sunsets or stops at other attractions. It’s a case of getting your permits in advance , driving from hike to hike and enjoying the trails.

Utah Hiking Road Trip Map

The map for our hikers Utah road trip route is created as though you have acquired permits for every necessary trail. Adapt the route if you are unable to obtain any permit, otherwise sit back and soak up what is going to be an incredible hiking trip !

Are you considering the Grand Canyon? Here’s our popular guide on the best hikes in Grand Canyon South Rim .

Road Trip Tip : In Utah you need permits to hike The Subway, Angels Landing, Buckskin Gulch and The Wave.

8. Utah Photography Road Trip

• Distance : 1,019 miles
• Time : 20 hours 15 minutes
• Attractions : Fire Wave , Zion Canyon Overlook , Cedar Breaks, Bryce Canyon Amphitheater , Fruita Barn, Mesa Arch , Delicate Arch , Monument Valley, Horseshoe Bend , Grand Canyon

Our next custom Utah road trip itinerary is designed for photographers . Utah is not just for hikers, it’s also a prime location for landscape photography. Some of our favorite photo spots are in Utah. Think Mesa Arch, Delicate Arch and the Bryce Canyon amphitheater and you’ll get the idea!

The major issue with a photography itinerary is that you often need to be out for sunrise or sunset , so we’ve crafted this Utah road trip mainly around the most prominent locations at the best times of day. It’s a longer itinerary to accommodate for being in the right place at the right time .

Utah Photography Road Trip Map

Our photography route is one of our favorite Utah road trips because it leads to nothing but stunning landscapes . Use our itinerary as a starting point but be sure to include any other photo spots you know along the way (there are so many more!)

Follow the map above to see how you can drive around southern Utah and place yourself at the best photo spots every day . There are several ways you could plan this trip based on how much time you have and how important each stop is to you.

Road Trip Tip : The more time you allow for this road trip, the more sunrises and sunsets you can include. Dawn and dusk really are the most amazing times of day in Utah.

9. 4×4 Adventure Utah Road Trip

• Distance : 745 miles
• Time : 17 hours 30 minutes
• Attractions : Sand Mountain, Coral Pink Sand Dunes, Red Canyon Slot, Willis Creek Slot, Kodachrome Basin, Zebra Slot, Natural Bridges, Valley of the Gods, White Pocket

Our custom 4×4 Utah road trip would be an entirely different experience to the typical routes. You can either hire a Jeep and drive yourself or take tours into the scorched wilderness. This adventure filled itinerary leads into countless slot canyons, washes and totally off the beaten path spots.

A lot of this itinerary is based around Vermilion Cliffs National Monument and Grand Staircase Escalante National Monument but you could also include Glen Canyon National Recreation Area . These are the places nobody else goes in Utah so you really get that lost world feel.

Utah 4×4 Road Trip Map

The map above shows a basic 4×4 off-road adventure itinerary that we would follow if we were to take on this awesome road trip through Utah. Adapt, remove and include as you see fit based on any other spots you have pegged to visit.

This is the only itinerary in this list that deserves a cautionary warning up front . It’s vital that you are experienced with these types of terrains and situations, as well as being proficient in vehicle fixes and knowing what to do in emergency situations.

Road Trip Tip : With more time you can take your Jeep way off the beaten path. Study the roads in Grand Staircase Escalante in particular to plan the perfect off-road adventure.

10. Salt Lake City To Yellowstone Road Trip

• Distance : 832 miles
• Time : 16 hours 10 minutes
• Days : 7-10 days
• Attractions : SLC, Bonneville Salt Flats, Antelope Island, Park City, Uinta Wasatch Cache National Forest, Bear Lake, Jackson, Grand Teton National Park , Yellowstone National Park

Our last Utah road trip is an extension of our extremely popular 7 days Salt Lake City to Yellowstone road trip itinerary . You can create a fantastic 10 day itinerary with Yellowstone and Grand Teton simply by including 3 days ticking off the top attractions around Salt Lake City.

Uinta Wasatch Cache is home to some seriously amazing hikes, Bonneville Salt Flats and Antelope Island are perfect for photographers, Park City is a famous skiing destination and downtown SLC is lovely to walk around.

SLC To Yellowstone Route Map

The map above shows an extended version of our classic 7 day SLC to Yellowstone road trip route with several spur trips near Salt Lake City creating a 10 day itinerary.

After leaving the Salt Lake City area, the route continues through Jackson to Grand Teton and Yellowstone before ending in Gardiner, MT. You can either fly home from Bozeman or return to SLC airport.

Road Trip Tip : Allow at least one full day in Grand Teton and two full days in Yellowstone at a minimum. In an ideal world you will have six full days to see both parks. Here’s our 4 days Yellowstone itinerary .

Planning Tools

So you know the routes and you’re excited to get started with planning. But what about logistics and the important things you need to know?

Here are the tools we use and the key information you should be aware of:

When searching for flights to Las Vegas or Salt Lake City, we recommend checking prices on both Skyscanner and Google Flights as the two best flight search engines.

Tips to save on flights to Las Vegas or SLC:

• Shop around and compare prices on several days of the week
• Use incognito or private browser and clear your cache
• Use several devices such as your laptop and smartphone
• Read our guide on how to book cheap flights

You should have no issues booking accommodation for any of the Utah road trips covered in this guide with the exception of Zion National Park hotels during the peak season.

We always use and recommend using Booking.com to book hotels in the US. You might want to compare prices with Hotels.com to see if you can find a better deal.

Tips for booking hotels:

• Book your hotels in advance
• Sign up for a free membership account with Booking or Expedia
• Arrive at Zion during the week to avoid expensive weekend prices
• Read our popular guide on how to book cheap hotels

Resource : Our sister site Best Hotels Anywhere can help you find the best hotels in Las Vegas, Moab, Kanab, Page, Bryce Canyon, Capitol Reef and Grand Canyon South Rim.

3. Hire Car

If you’re not driving your own car to Utah, you’ll need to hire a car when you land at Salt Lake City or Las Vegas airport.

Our top recommendation is to find prices with Rental Cars and compare costs against Discover Cars . Input Salt Lake City airport or Las Vegas airport and your travel dates to see your options.

They’re our go to car hire platforms and we always choose whichever has the better vehicle at the right price point.

Tips for hiring a car:

• Book in advance for a better selection of cars
• Small cars are better for parking in tight spots at the national parks
• You’ll need a 4WD high clearance vehicle to go off road in Utah

4. National Parks

It’s important to stay up to date with live conditions such as roads, weather, hiking trails and lodging when you visit any of the national parks in Utah.

One of the unsung positives to visiting Utah is that natural disasters, wildfires, flooding and other problematic conditions are rare. Just look at Yellowstone and Yosemite in 2022 and 2023.

With that said, we still recommend keeping on top of the following current status reports:

• Arches – Live conditions
• Bryce Canyon – Live conditions
• Canyonlands – Live conditions
• Capitol Reef – Live conditions
• Zion – Live conditions

What To Pack For Utah Road Trips

Packing for a road trip in Utah will depend on what you plan to do and what time of year you decide to visit.

Our two trips to Utah have been in the months of October and December. Both times we packed for cold mornings and cold evenings but warmer days, especially when hiking.

If you plan your Utah road trip for summer you can expect hot days so your packing list will look very different. Take plenty of shorts, t-shirts and socks in case you need to wear more than one per day.

Are you planning to visit the Mighty 5? The number one thing you should buy and pack is an America the Beautiful Pass to save money on national park entry costs.

Here is a basic road trip packing list to get you started:

• America the Beautiful Pass – REI
• Car emergency kit – First Secure
• In case of snow – Snow Brush
• Hiking shoes – Men | Women
• Day hiking backpack – Best day bags
• Down Jacket – Men | Women

Further Reading: The essential road trip packing list

Where To Stay On Your Utah Road Trip

Let’s take a summarized look at the top rated hotels in the most popular Utah road trip destinations to help get you organized. Don’t forget you can click the links below to read complete hotel guides on our sister site Best Hotels Anywhere .

Each hotel listed below is a hotel we have either stayed at or would stay at because they have excellent ratings.

Springdale (Zion)

• Cable Mountain Lodge
• Red Rock Inn
• Watchman Villas

Further Reading: The best hotels in Springdale UT

Bryce Canyon City and Tropic (Bryce Canyon)

• Best Western Plus Bryce Canyon Grand Hotel
• Bryce Canyon Log Cabins
• Best Western Plus Ruby’s Inn Bryce Canyon

Further Reading: Where to stay near Bryce Canyon National Park

Torrey (Capitol Reef)

• Capitol Reef Resort
• Broken Spur Inn
• Red Sands Hotel

Further Reading: Best places to stay near Capitol Reef National Park

Moab (Arches and Canyonlands)

• Aarchway Inn Moab Utah
• My Place Hotel Moab Utah
• Hoodoo Moab Utah

Further Reading: Where to stay in Moab Utah

• La Quinta Kanab Utah
• Kanab Suites In Kanab Utah
• Canyons Boutique Hotel Kanab Utah

Further Reading: Best places to stay in Kanab UT

Camping Special

Are you planning to camp during your Utah road trip?

We’ve teamed up with The Dyrt to offer our readers an exclusive no strings attached 30 day free trial with The Dyrt PRO .

This is our favorite camping app because it helps you find the best campgrounds along your specific driving route with benefits including no booking fees and free camping spots.

You can also use a fantastic new feature called Dyrt Alerts to receive notifications when sold out campgrounds have cancellations so you can snag near-impossible spots.

In Conclusion

Utah is home to some of the most scenic and exciting road trip routes in the US. Unique rock formations, dramatic canyons and adventurous hiking trails make Utah the perfect road trip destination for hikers, photographers and lovers of nature. It’s great for solo travelers, couples, groups and families alike.

After exploring most of the US, we can confidently say that Utah is one of our favorite states to visit. Hiking and landscape photography are our two favorite things to do when we travel, and Utah has both in abundance!

More Road Trips

• Las Vegas to Death Valley day trip
• Kancamagus Highway fall road trip
• Mt Rushmore to Yellowstone road trip
• New England fall road trip
• San Francisco to San Diego road trip
• Salt Lake City to Yellowstone road trip
• South Dakota road trip
• Best road trips in the USA
• Zion to Bryce Canyon road trip

Want more Utah content?  Head over to our Utah Travel Guides to explore the Mighty Five national parks and beyond.

We hope this Utah road trips guide helps with planning your visit to the Beehive State!

Please let us know if you have any questions about any of the routes in the comments below.

Happy Travels ,

Mark and Kristen

Enjoy This Utah Road Trips Guide? Pin It For Your Visit!

Note : This article contains affiliate links. When you make a purchase using one of these affiliate links, we may earn a small commission at no extra cost to you.

All Rights Reserved © Where Are Those Morgans, LLC. Republishing this article and/or any of its contents (text, photography, maps, graphics, etc.) in whole or in part is strictly prohibited.

Mark and Kristen Morgan are travel, hiking and photography experts. Over the last 6 years traveling full time, they have explored more than 40 countries and 30 US states.

Where Are Those Morgans has been featured in USA Today, Gestalten, Get Your Guide, CityPASS and Condé Nast Traveler along with various other publications. Read more about us .

13 thoughts on “10 Best Utah Road Trips: Unique Itineraries + Maps”

Dear Mark and Kristen, my boyfriend and I are thinking of having a 3-week vacation (we are coming all the way from Europe so less doesn’t really make sense for us) doing the classic national parks road trip in Utah and Arizona at the end of May. We are planning 2 days in each park (1 in Capitol Reef), and around 4 days in Kanab and Page each, trying to see and do as much as possible as most likely we will never come back to that part of the world again. We love hiking and active holidays, but we are not extreme hikers and we are not going to do the most challenging (even if they are the most famous) trails such as Angels Landing, the Narrows, or the Wave. I extensively used your website picking out the best trails and things to do and trying to estimate how much time is needed for each 🙂 The rough plan is this:

Day 1 – travel from Europe, arrive in Las Vegas the evening Day 2 – Valley of Fire, evening drive to Springdale Day 3 – Zion main canyon (Emerald pools & Kayenta trails, Watchman trail, Riverside walk, Zion Canyon overlook) Day 4 – Zion Colob canyons, evening drive to Kanab Day 5-7 – Kanab guided day tours to 1) Grand Canyon North Rim Toroweap Viewpoint, 2) White Pocket, 3) Peekaboo Slot Canyon, The White Wave, Coral Pink Sand Dunes, 4) Grand Staircase Escalante Day 8 – Kanab guided day tour (see above), evening drive to Bryce Canyon city Day 9 – Bryce canyon (Scenic drive viewpoints, Fairyland loop trail, Queen’s garden & Navajo loop trails) Day 10 – Bryce canyon (see above), afternoon/evening drive to Torrey Day 11 – Capitol reef, afternoon/evening drive to Moab Day 12-14 – Arches (Delicate Arch trail, Devil’s garden trail, Balanced Rock, Park Avenue trails, The Windows trail & Double arch) and Canyonlands (Island in the sky, Mesa Arch, Grand View point, Green river overlook, Needles/Chesler Park loop trail) Day 15 – Arches/Canyonlands (see above), afternoon/evening drive to Mexican hat/Monument valley Day 16 – Monument and Mystery valley full day Navajo guided tour OR Monument valley half-day guided tour and Natural Bridges national monument, evening drive to Page Day 17-19 – Page (Upper & Lower Antelope canyons guided tours, Secret Antelope Canyon guided tour & Horseshoe bend outlook, Antelope Canyon X guided tour, Navajo canyon boat tour, Horseshoe bend rafting tour, Paria Rimrocks Toadstool Hoodoos) Day 20 – Page (see above), afternoon/evening drive to Grand Canyon village Day 21-22 – Grand Canyon South Rim (all viewpoints, beginning of Bright Angel trail, South Rim trail, Shoshone point trail) Day 23 – morning drive to Las Vegas Day 24 – Las Vegas Day 25 – morning travel back to Europe

As you can see, the ideal plan is a bit longer than 3 weeks and we will have only 22 days (including traveling to/from Europe, which uses up 2 whole days). So we will have to cut 3 days our of our plan, and we are not sure what to sacrifice. I’m thinking the following: – 1 day in Valley of Fire → instead combine as day trip from Las Vegas on day 24 – 1 day in Kanab → which of the 4 tours do you think is the least interesting? – 1 day in Page → scrap Navajo canyon boat tour and Horseshoe bend rafting tour? Is there anything else you would suggest?

In addition, I wanted to ask if it’s worth visiting Natural Bridges national monument compared to all the other sites, and if a full day Navajo guided tour of Monument and Mystery valleys is worth it?

We will appreciate any advice that you can give us!

Hi Petia, thanks for getting in touch and we are more than happy to help. This sounds like an amazing travel plan but let’s trim it a bit so you can make it work.

To answer you final questions first:

1. Valley of Fire – If you don’t mind losing that last day in Vegas, then you can definitely do Valley of Fire as a day trip on your last day. But if you want the day in Vegas, you should still include Valley of Fire early in your itinerary because it is unique. We recommend trying to arrive at Fire Wave Trail as early as possible because sunrise here is the park’s top highlight. 2. Kanab – They all sound great, but we would skip Grand Staircase because the others have the best balance. Kanab is a nice little town. 3. Page – It sounds like you are more interested in the canyons, so yes skip the rafting and boat tour. It doesn’t take long to see Horseshoe Bend from the overlook. You will end up with a lot of spare time in Page because the canyon tours don’t take long. Maybe look around Lake Powell or hike a portion of Buckskin Gulch. 4. We haven’t been to Natural Bridges yet. It looks great but you can get a similar theme at all the national parks in Utah, so we would skip it. We have been to Monument Valley and we drove the self guided tour, which was cool but again we would skip this if we were doing your trip. You can see Monument Valley from the main road you will drive anyway. Tip – Monument Valley is best seen early in the day if driving from Moab to Page which you are.

That is 3 full days saved already (or 4 if you decide to combine VoF into your last day in Vegas). Here are our other tips:

1. By skipping the 4th tour in Kanab, you can travel to Bryce Canyon on the morning of Day 8, spend the day hiking and driving the scenic roads, watch sunset, stay over and then watch sunrise in the morning. There’s not much else to do and Bryce is small so you can leave early on Day 9, spend 6-8 hours in Capitol Reef and drive to Moab. It would be a long day but it would also save another full day on your itinerary. 2. You have loads of time for Arches and Canyonlands. If you wanted to, you could probably save a day at Arches by doing Devils Garden Trail, Windows, Park Avenue and Delicate Arch in one day. That’s Arches done. Canyonlands isn’t as easy because it is split into regions but unless you plan to go hiking long distances, you won’t need much time there either, you can do Mesa Arch, Green River and Grand View in a few hours. So overall for Moab you could save a day. Probably skip Dead Horse State Park because it is another $20 and is similar to Canyonlands. 3. Two days is more than enough time for Grand Canyon South Rim if you don’t intend on hiking down into the canyon. You can see the viewpoints on both Desert View Drive as you enter Grand Canyon and Hermit Road in one day. So again, you could save time here if necessary.

If you haven’t already got one, definitely buy an America the Beautiful Pass for $80 which will get you into all National Parks on your trip.

There are plenty of places you can cut or save, but it will depend on exactly what you both want to do. You will also need some downtime because this is a full on adventure! The driving and hiking gets tiring after a few weeks, so you might end up needing a half day to relax and take it easy.

Hope this helps but if you have any more questions send us an email which you can find on our Contact Page. Have a great trip!

Thank you so much for the feedback, we will definitely consider your advice! I find it very difficult to estimate how much time is needed for each park, probably they could be done in shorter time as you said, but we also need downtime between intense days as you said 🙂

Hello. If you had to choose between taking a Utah road trip in the spring months of April or May vs the end of October, which would you choose? We would like to see Zion, Bryce Canyon, Arches, and go on into Arizona for the Grand Canyon. Thanks for your help!

Hi Jane, both Spring and Fall are the best times to visit the Utah/Arizona parks so either time will be great. We personally prefer traveling the US southwest in Autumn, through September and October. However, if you are only able to do the very end of October, you may run a risk of temperatures cooling significantly in the morning and at night as you approach November (sunrise / sunset photography, long day hikes). If you are able to go in April or early – mid May, you are more likely to see more comfortable conditions for hiking (late May onward can be challenging for hiking with heat). Late October would also mean you may just about miss Utah’s considerable fall colors. With that said, hotels in Springdale, Moab and Grand Canyon will likely be more affordable in late Oct than in May. Finally, it’s impossible to avoid crowds in these parks, but late October will likely be slightly less busy than April / May. The balance between crowds, cost and weather is similar at either time. If you can make it slightly earlier in Oct, we’d say go for that, otherwise the beginning of May. April can have extreme weather in the US Southwest, which is something else to consider. Have a fantastic time whichever season you choose!

We’re planning a trip round trip Vegas through southwest Utah national parks to Grand Teton and Yellowstone. We’ve got two weeks. How would you split the time and what are the best roads to take. We’d like to see Bryce, Hoseshoe Bend, Arches, Canyonlands, up through Salt Lake City to Grand Tetons and Yellowstone. We don’t hike as we’re seniors but love photography. Any assistance would be appreciated. It’s feels so overwhelming! Btw….your website is fabulous!

Hi Marie – sounds like a fantastic trip and we know how overwhelming it can be with so many amazing places to see in just two weeks. You’re right to avoid Zion, it is a wonderful place but is more of an adventure hiking park. When visiting Horseshoe Bend in Page, you might want to try nearby Antelope Canyon if you can book a slot for a photography tour. If you’re planning sunrise photography – Bryce Canyon amphitheater, Mesa Arch in Canyonlands and Mormon Row / Schwabacher Landing in Grand Teton are our top 3 recommendations for your trip. Grand Teton is extremely photogenic and we’re sure your cameras will get a serious workout here! You’ll have an action packed driving itinerary here but this is roughly how we would do it:

D1 – Bryce, D2 – Bryce sunrise, drive to Page and HS Bend, D3 – Antelope Canyon, Monument Valley and arrive in Moab, D4 – Arches, D5 – Canyonlands, D6 – Drive to Salt Lake City, D7 – Morning in SLC and Drive to Jackson, D8 and D9 – Grand Teton, D10, 11, 12 – Yellowstone, D13 and D14 – Long drive back to Vegas, maybe break it up in SLC.

Roads – 89, 163 Monument Valley, 191, 6, 89 through Afton, 191 again through Yellowstone, then 20 and I-15 back to Vegas.

Hope this helps but let us know if you need any more info and have the best trip!

Hi! Could you please share your itinirerary from google maps? It isn’t loading anymore! Thanks!

Hi Agnes, thanks for getting in touch and sorry to hear you can’t load the map. Just checked and I can load all maps on both mobile and desktop on my end. I’ll shoot you an email to see if we can get the map working for you!

Thank you so much! It works for me now. We are planning to do the mighty 5 and do a big counter clockwise loop, and was wondering what you think the best order/road is. We are planning to start from the Grand Canyon and to finish with Zion and drive back to LA from there.

Perfect, glad it’s working. Sure, from Grand Canyon, drive to Page, AZ and do Horseshoe Bend / Antelope Canyon, then onto Monument Valley. Head up to Moab for Arches and Canyonlands, from Moab take UT-24 down into Capitol Reef, then drive the stunning UT-12 through Escalante to Bryce Canyon (don’t miss this one). Down US-89 to Zion / Springdale and maybe end with a night in Vegas?!! Have a great trip!

Omg Utah is now definatley on my bucket list to visit now.

That’s what we like to hear! Utah is an awesome US road trip destination Graham!

Leave a Comment Cancel reply

Subscribe to our newsletter

Get the latest in travel straight to your inbox

Click here to subscribe

• Things To Do

Scenic Byways Download a Highway Map

Find Itineraries By

See All Itineraries Previous Group Next Group

Red Rock & Dark Skies: Stargazing the National Parks

This road trip through southwest Utah takes you to four of Utah’s best places to see the Milky Way — Capitol Reef National Park, Kodachrome Basin State Park, Bryce Canyon National Park and Cedar Breaks National Monument.

Adventure, Scenic Drives/Road Trips, Solitude, Stargazing

• Hell's Backbone Grill
• Bryce Canyon Lodge
• Ranger-led Star Programs
• Road Trip Southwest Utah

See Itinerary

Ski Southern Utah: High Alpine Trails + Red Rock Wonder

Southern Utah is home to two high-elevation ski areas that contain generous helpings of what we call (with authority) The Greatest Snow on Earth®. Things can be a little quieter down here this time of year. Give yourself at least five days to combine the thrills of Southern Utah skiing and boarding with exploring the wintertime wonders to be found in Utah’s red rock country.

Non-ski Winter Activities, Ski and Snowboard

• Brian Head Resort
• Eagle Point Resort
• Cedar Breaks National Monument
• Southern Utah Ski Vacation
• Winter Hiking in Southern Utah

Base Camp Kanab

From the vermilion, white and pink cliffs and wide expanses of Grand Staircase–Escalante National Monument, to the twisting sandstone bottlenecks of Buckskin Gulch, even the vertigo-inducing views of Zion National Park if you've never been, this six-day itinerary will show you why Kanab is the perfect base camp for adventure.

Cycling, Hiking, Scenic Drives/Road Trips

• Grand Staircase–Escalante National Monument
• Lake Powell
• North Rim Grand Canyon
• Zion National Park

Bears Ears Area Starter Kit

A pair of distinctive, towering buttes stand against beautiful scenery. We call them "Bears Ears." With the help of local expertise, respectfully explore ancestral cliff dwellings and massive natural bridges in a fascinating desert ecosystem.

Community, Hiking, History and Heritage, Native American, Scenic Drives/Road Trips, Solitude

• Edge of the Cedars State Park
• Ancestral Puebloan Dwellings
• Hovenweep National Monument
• Natural Bridges National Monument

Powder Dreams

A three-day ski vacation itinerary with quick access to some of Utah's best ski resorts for fresh powder.

Ski and Snowboard

• Cottonwood Canyons Skiing
• Snowbird's Cliff Spa
• Ogden Valley
• Dream Ski Vacation

Things To Do on Your Road Trip

“Slow down and smell the flowers. It’s not the destination, it’s the journey.” Whichever cliché resonates, they often hold true — it can be tough not rushing from point A to point B. There are a lot of incredible places to discover. To make the most of your time traveling through Utah, follow these tips:

• Experience the Dark Skies  - Utah is home to the highest concentration of International  Dark Sky Parks and Communities  anywhere in the world. It pays to get up early and watch a sunrise, especially over a red rock horizon in Southern Utah. Once you reach your next stop, stay up late and spend some time gazing into the star-filled skies.
• Support Local  - Many of Utah’s most famous adventure destinations are surrounded by soulful basecamp communities. Skip the drive thru and stop into a local diner for a meal you’ll never forget. It’s these  local boutiques, outfitters, restaurants and museums  that will show you the heart and soul of a region.
• Fall Into An Audiobook  - A few hours between stops is the perfect opportunity to glean insights about Utah’s fascinating heritage, geology and ecology. Prepare for your journey by downloading a few of these  favorite books from Utahn authors .
• Download These Apps Beforehand  - Similarly, there are apps available to enhance your experience in Utah’s open spaces. Identify that desert wildflower, learn what left that track in the sand or discover a new constellation with these  must-have travel apps .
• Stay Flexible  - There’s a sense of freedom and independence that accompanies the southwest road trip. Utah’s destinations are best suited to the flexible — take a detour, pop into that intriguing store, and add a day to your trip if you find somewhere that captivates you.
• Take Pit Stops  - You’re doing it wrong if you think road trip  pit stops  are boring layovers on your way to more exciting destinations. You need to refuel, eat, answer the call of nature, and stretch your legs anyway, so why not make them into mini-adventures?

Wheeling It: An RV Primer for Utah Family Trips

Written By Nushin Huq

5 minute read

With 28-feet of vehicle space, one traveling family discovers the RV community.

Planning Resources

How to support local on your utah road trip.

Written By Elainna Ciaramella

Many small businesses in Utah rely on tourism for survival. These expert tips help road trippers make a real difference in communities by supporting local.

Road Conditions and Safety

Find Utah resources for the road conditions, weather, maps, public safety and more from the Utah Office of Tourism.

Utah Driving Laws

Find out about Utah Driving Laws including driver license requirements, speed limits, seat belt laws, helmet use and more from the Utah Office of Tourism.

Utah's Scenic Backways

Utah’s scenic backways combine paved, winding explorations into narrow canyons or remote landscapes with more adventurous turns down paths known for rough surfaces and extreme grades, all in the pursuit of hidden beauty.

Utah's Scenic Byways

In total, Utah’s distinct topography provides the surface for 28 scenic byways, which add up to hundreds of miles of vivid travel experiences wherein the road trip is as memorable as the destination.

Showing 0 of 0

Boulder Mountain

La Sal Mountains Highway 191

A mountainous, snow-capped backdrop sets downtown Salt Lake City apart.

Salt Lake City

Photo: Rosie Serago

The Complete Arches Trip

Discover a new side of Arches National Park with this four day itinerary. Start exploring the hidden gems in the Arches region today.

Hiking, Scenic Drives/Road Trips

The Complete Bryce Canyon Trip

Planning a trip to Bryce Canyon National Park? Explore these local-favorite destinations in the Bryce Canyon region to make the most of your trip!

The Complete Canyonlands Trip

The Canyonlands Region of Utah combines the best of the Moab area's easy proximity to Arches National Park and Canyonlands National Park's most accessible district with some of the United State's most remote and culturally significant landscapes.

The Complete Capitol Reef Trip

Planning a trip to Capitol Reef National Park? Explore these local-favorite destinations in the Capitol Reef region to make the most of your trip!

The Complete Zion Trip

Tucked into the southwest corner of Utah, Zion National Park is the centerpiece for a 6-day red-rock vacation that includes a little bit of everything that makes the state such a marvel to experience.

Ghost Towns, Hiking, Scenic Drives/Road Trips

Read the Stories

Previous Group Next Group

11 Utah Scenic Byways for Leaf Peeping

Written By Visit Utah

7 minute read

Explore 11 Scenic Drives in Utah for some serious leaf peeping. Utah is one of the best places to see fall foliage, visit great attractions, events and festivals.

8 Utah Hikes for Leaf Peeping and Natural Splendor

Written By Austen Diamond

6 minute read

When the leaves change, road trips through Utah’s mountains and forests take on a colorful new glow. Unlike their well-trodden counterparts on the East Coast, Utah’s fall foliage and trails are less well known among the broader leaf-peeping community.

A Quick Guide to the Bonneville Salt Flats

Written By Matcha

Here's everything you need to know to visit and plan for Salt Lake City's nearby Bonneville Salt Flats.

A Van Lifer’s Guide to Responsible Travel in Southern Utah

Written By Kristen Bor

2 minute read

When Utah’s dirt roads are calling you, it’s time to plan your van life road trip. Here’s what you need to know to travel safely, support Utah’s rural communities, and help preserve the delicate desert landscapes.

A Visitor's Guide to Zion's Kolob Canyons

In the Kolob Canyons section of Zion National Park, you’ll find a scenic wonderland with an adventure for everyone. Learn more about this unforgettable attraction and plan a visit.

Ancient Pictographs, Petroglyphs and Timeless Mysteries

Exploring Horseshoe Canyon isn’t for everyone. First of all, the effort to get there is an adventure in itself, but those efforts make the reward — namely, the chance to see up close some of the most significant pictograph panels in North America — even more noteworthy.

Boomer Travel: 76 Hours in Moab

Written By Ray Grass

Moab, Utah is a prime destination for Baby Boomer travel. Check out our specially-designed itinerary and plan your visit!

Chasing John Wesley Powell: Six Places to Explore Utah's Green and Colorado Rivers

Written By Heather May

One hundred and fifty years ago a one-armed Civil War veteran set off with nine mountain men on a scientific expedition to map one of the last blank spaces left on the U.S. map: The Green and Colorado rivers. Much of the river remains wild today. Follow Powell's journey here.

Cycling Scenic Byway 12: Escalante to Boulder

Looking for scenic bike rides in Utah? Scenic Byway 12 has all the breathtaking views (and riding) you could ever hope for. Get the scoop and get ready.

Explore Antelope Island's Fielding Garr Ranch

Volunteers Beth and Dennis Simonsen show visitors around the historic Fielding Garr Ranch complex on Antelope Island State Park in Northern Utah.

Hole N'' the Rock

Your road trip in Moab might call for a stopover at the famous Hole N” The Rock.

Kiva Koffeehouse

Kiva Koffeehouse is a welcome stop for fresh food and espresso tucked on a hillside down a dirt driveway near milepost 73 on the scenic byway.

Mesa Farm Market

Best local shops and healthy eats near Moab and Capitol Reef. Try the goat cheese!

Moonscapes, Marscapes and More

If you want to know what Mars looks like — then the dramatic terrain of Capitol Reef National Park and the surrounding lands are a good place to start.

Movies Filmed in Utah: Plotting a Cinematic Drive-Through

Written By Andrea David

Follow a Germany-based film enthusiast on an extended road trip to discover the rich history of Utah cinematography.

See the Fall Leaves Near Utah's National Parks

Sure, any of Utah’s Mighty 5 national parks are spectacular year round — covered in snow, peppered with spring wildflowers, and baked in sunshine. But find them exponentially special when the changing fall leaves are in juxtaposition to the immaculate red rock cliffs.

Serenity Found in Torrey and Capitol Reef’s Cathedral Valley District

Written By Melissa Fields

Taking Southern Utah’s remote, less-traveled path in Capitol Reef's Cathedral Valley District to nurture your body, mind and spirit.

The All-American Road: Scenic Byway 12

4 minute read

This is 122.863 miles (to be exact) of pure driving bliss. Welcome to Utah’s Scenic Byway 12, a designated All-American Road.

The Spiral Jetty, Utah’s Most Iconic Land Art Sculpture, Keeps Drawing a Crowd

Written By Elaine Jarvik

In April 1970, it took six days, 625 man-hours, 292 truck-hours, $9,000, and 6,500 tons of basalt, limestone and mud for Robert Smithson to construct the Spiral Jetty. His work still stands today. Visit and be inspired by this iconic piece of Utah's land art.

The Story of Monument Valley Navajo Tribal Park

Ancient erosion and modern cinema joined forces to elevate Monument Valley to one of the world's most iconic places to visit — but it's also the sacred home of the Navajo people. Learn more about the history, size and scenes that define the Monument Valley Utah experience.

Tooele? Tuilla? The Fascinating History of this Utah Town

While the town of Tooele has a fascinating story to its name, the best part about one of Utah’s original counties is its history.

Utah’s Unexpected Pit Stops

Written By Melissa McGibbon

You’re doing it wrong if you think road trip pit stops are boring layovers on your way to more exciting destinations. How many of these hidden gems have you been to? Here are 11 mini-adventures to check off your list next time you’re road-tripping through Utah.

Why You Should Ditch I-15 on Your Way to Zion

If you’re not in a rush to get to Zion National Park from Northern Utah, consider taking a long, meandering route that features historic sites, adventure breaks and out-of-this-world scenery. Hop off I-15 and take Highway 89 and four nearby scenic byways to see and do as much as you possibly can on your way to Zion.

Winter Road Trip: Where to Stay, Hike and Eat When Traveling from Capitol Reef to Bryce Canyon

Written By Jeremy Pugh

Need winter break ideas? Take a road trip from Capitol Reef to Bryce Canyon and enjoy the best of Utah landscapes during its quiet season.

Year-round Vibrance on the Nebo Loop Byway

A National Scenic Byway that Enchants at High Elevations, by Road or Trail

Well-prepared travel is responsible travel.

Do your part by planning ahead

• Bryce Canyon
• Canyonlands
• Capitol Reef
• Grand Circle Tour Itinerary
• River Rafting in Moab
• Anasazi State Park

Utah Trip Itineraries

• Visit our facebook
• Visit our pinterest

We've developed itineraries to help people plan and enjoy trips to the best destinations in Utah and the surrounding area. We live in Utah and we know these areas . Our itineraries are based on our own experiences, with input from many travelers and tour operators. They will help you enjoy our scenic attractions, byways, accommodations and restaurants.

Promotional Links

Itineraries, 5-day national park itinerary.

• Moab Family Itinerary
• A 7-Day, Budget-Friendly Utah Family Ski Vacation
• Zion National Park Itinerary for All Ages
• East Zion Adventure Itinerary  
• A Long Weekend in Bryce Canyon for the Family
• Bryce Canyon Winter Weekend Itinerary
• Kanab 3-Day Adventure Itinerary
• Summer in the City: SLC Day-Itineraries for Families
• Spiral Jetty & Golden Spike Itinerary for Kids
• Fall Staycation Itineraries – Salt Lake City or Park City
• Moab Rafting Itinerary
• Zion, Escalante AND Bryce? Thrice as nice.

5 Utah National Parks in 5 Days

• Logan–Ogden 2-Day Itinerary
• St. George 2-Day itinerary
• Utah Valley 2-Day Adventure
• Kanab 3-Day Family Itinerary
• Super Six Family Itinerary
• Super Six One Week Itinerary
• Fall/Winter Family Itinerary: 6 Days Logan to Jackson to Yellowstone

Salt Lake City Weather

Current weather -, average temperature, average precipitation, average snowfall, 10 days. 1,900 miles. 9 icons of the west..

The Grand Circle Tour take visitors to some of the most iconic places in the west. Check out this 10...

Zion, Escalante AND Bryce? Thrice as Nice.

Explore three of Utah's most famous national parks with a guided itinerary from Wildland Trekking.

Utah has five national parks within a few hours of each other. Check out this 5-day national park ro...

Learn how to visit all five national parks in Utah with this national park road trip. See Zion, Arch...

1-DAY FAMILY ITINERARY: WASATCH BACK

The Wasatch Mountains offer countless summer activities and the Wasatch Back is a perfect recreation...

Views like this delivered to your inbox

Recently visited.

BACK TO TOP

Utah National Park Road Trips With Scenic Stops

• There are plenty of scenic Utah national park road trip routes, especially since the state offers unique national parks with dramatic formations like arches, bridges, and canyons.
• Invest in an America the Beautiful Parks pass for $80 to save on entry fees at multiple park sites.
• Explore themed national park road trip itineraries in Utah, with routes featuring multiple park stops all in one trip.

Utah is one of the top destinations in the US for outdoor adventurers, home to many of America's bucket list hiking trails . With five national parks and 11 other national park sites (including national monuments, recreation areas, and conservation areas), it's no surprise some of the most bucket-list-worthy national park road trips take place in Utah.

Utah's national park sites protect some of the most unusual formations in the world. Hoodoos, natural bridges, mineral caves, and sheer canyon walls are just some of the dramatic structures road trippers can expect to find on a trip around Utah. From weekend loops to treks across the state, these Utah national park road trip routes are excellent ways to explore the national park sites in the Beehive State.

For those worried about the price tag of a national park road trip, consider investing in an America the Beautiful Parks pass , one of the best ways to visit national parks for cheap all year long. At $80, the pass grants free entry for the pass holder and their passengers to all NPS, BLM, and USDA Forest Service sites for one year, which can save a lot for those who visit parks often.

10 Dog-Friendly State Parks In Utah

Arches & bridges of utah, national park sites visited: 4.

Arches National Park may host the highest concentration of natural arches and bridges in the world, but there are actually three national park sites in Utah dedicated to these natural formations. Both Natural Bridges National Monument and Rainbow Bridge National Monument also protect one-of-a-kind arch formations, and they combine nicely with Arches National Park for a themed Utah national park road trip itinerary.

Starting in Moab with Arches National Park, Utah road trippers move south towards Natural Bridges National Monument. This is where the road trip takes a bit of a turn. Rainbow Bridge National Monument is part of Glen Canyon National Recreation Area, meaning that guests can enjoy two national park sites at once.

However, while this may be a road trip, getting to the Rainbow Arch itself won't be that easy. The only way to see one Rainbow Bridge National Monument, one of the world's largest natural bridges , is to catch a boat ride from Lake Powell or take the multi-day 14-mile (each way) hike through the Navajo Nation . As the last stop of this national park road trip route in Utah, these exhausting excursions may be the perfect escape from the car for a grand road trip finale.

• Road Trip Route: Moab → Arches National Park → Natural Bridges National Monument → Glen Canyon National Recreation Area/Rainbow Bridge National Monument
• Recommended Time: 3–4 days

Arches National Park is one of several US national parks that require reservations in 2024 . Be sure to visit the National Park Service website to get a timed entry reservation made ahead of time.

The Alpine Loop

National park sites visited: 2.

The Alpine Loop is a favorite for local Utahns looking for an afternoon drive, but with the right stops, this drive can easily become an exceptional national park road trip in Utah.

The entirety of the Alpine Loop is, in fact, in Uinta National Forest. Camping opportunities along the Loop, which stretches from American Fork Canyon to Provo Canyon, are plentiful, as are scenic hiking trails through the Aspen trees. The steep canyon walls also lend themselves to dramatic waterfalls, like the scenic Stewart Falls Trail .

As a Utah national park road trip, however, there is one more can't-miss stop on this weekend getaway. Timpanogos Caves National Monument in American Fork Canyon is one of Utah's most unique national park sites, requiring a moderate hike up switchbacks before reaching the caves themselves. Timpanogos Cave can only be explored as part of a tour, but the stalactites and stalagmites in the damp mountain caves are well worth the effort.

• Road Trip Route: Alpine Loop Byway (American Fork Canyon to Provo Canyon)
• Recommended Time: 1–2 days

10 Affordable Small Towns To Retire In Utah

Southeastern utah road trip, national park sites visited: 3.

There are countless scenic Utah road trips , ranging from just a few miles to all-day drives across the state. If even exploring half of the state isn't quite possible, one of the shorter Utah national park road trip itineraries through a small region may be the perfect solution. The Southeastern portion of Utah is rich in national and state park sites, ideal for a smaller-scale road trip.

Moab makes an excellent home base for this road trip, sitting just outside Arches National Park and just an hour from Goblin Valley State Park, one of the many Utah state park alternatives to Zion National Park and the perfect substitute for making the drive to the other side of the state.

At just 370 miles to drive, this loop is far more manageable for those looking for a long weekend-length road trip through Utah's national parks.

• Road Trip Route: Moab → Arches National Park → Canyonlands National Park → Goblin Valley State Park → Natural Bridges National Monument → Moab

Utah National Monuments Road Trip

National park sites visited: 8.

Utah has eight dedicated national monuments, in addition to the famous national parks. Seven of these national monuments work nicely to create one of the most unique and varied national park road trips in Utah from Salt Lake City. Following I-15 from Salt Lake to American Fork, road trippers will first detour to the Alpine loop to explore Timpanogos Cave National Monument in Uinta National Forest. A challenging hike to a mountain cave, Timpanogos Cave is the perfect first stop before heading to the rocky terrain of the rest of the trip.

The other four national monuments are in the southern portion of the state. From the ancient structures of Hovenweep National Monument to the red rocks of Cedar Breaks National Monument, this expansive road trip is a chance to explore the hidden gems of Utah, with fewer crowds but plenty of scenic national park views.

• Road Trip Route: Salt Lake City → Timpanogos Cave National Monument → Bears Ears National Monument → Hovenweep National Monument → Natural Bridges National Monument → Rainbow Bridge National Monument/Glen Canyon National Recreation Area → Grand Staircase-Escalante National Monument → Cedar Breaks National Monument → Cedar City
• Recommended Time: 7–10 days

Zion National Park & Dixie National Forest Road Trip

Zion National Park is the most-visited national park in Utah and was one of the most visited national parks in the US in 2023 . Many travelers recommend spending two or even three days exploring this spectacular park, including taking several scenic drives (or hopping on the eco-friendly shuttle) through the park.

Given the time spent in Zion National Park itself, limiting additional road trip stops might be necessary. By starting in Saint George in southwestern Utah, adventurers on a Utah national park road trip itinerary with scenic stops can stop in Red Cliffs National Conservation Area and Snow Canyon State Park on their way to Zion. After spending the desired time in Zion, and potentially even taking on one of America's most dangerous hikes (Angel's Landing), the road heads north to Dixie National Forest.

One of the numerous hidden gem destinations in Utah, Dixie National Forest is full of unique attractions of its own, including an arch that travelers can drive through and Red Canyon, one of the most underrated and worthwhile places to visit in Southern Utah.

• Road Trip Route: Saint George → Snow Canyon State Park → Red Cliffs National Conservation Area → Zion National Park → Dixie National Forest
• Recommended Time: 4–6 days

Got more time? By ending in Dixie National Forest, Utah national park road trip travelers are well-positioned to add Capitol Reef and even Canyonlands National Park to the road trip itinerary.

10 Hiking Capitals Of America

Route 89 road trip: the utah stretch.

Route 89 is often considered America's most scenic road trip , and for good reason. In its entirety, Route 89 visits seven national parks and 14 national park sites between Montana and Arizona. The Utah stretch of this picturesque drive takes travelers from Kanab in Southern Utah all the way to Bear Lake on the Utah-Idaho border.

The main national parks along this road are Zion National Park and Bryce Canyon National Park, both of which have their own scenic drives and hiking trails. For those interested in going further north, views of national forests as well as opportunities to detour to major cities like Provo and Salt Lake City help balance the attractions along this one-of-a-kind Utah national park road trip route.

• Road Trip Route: Kanab → Zion National Park → Bryce Canyon National Park → Provo → Salt Lake City → Logan → Garden City/Bear Lake

Mighty 5 Utah Road Trip

National park sites visited: 5.

The five national parks in Utah are perfectly spaced for one of the best national park road trips in the US with scenic stops , and it is arguably the most popular road trip route in Utah.

Starting in Salt Lake City, travelers can point their loop toward either Zion National Park or Arches National Park. For those starting in Zion National Park, road trippers will slowly move east across Southern Utah before moving north, ending at Arches National Park and returning to Salt Lake City.

One of the great advantages of the Mighty Five road trip is the ability to add plenty of additional stops, including Snow Canyon State Park near Zion and Goblin Valley State Park near Moab and Arches.

• Road Trip Route: Salt Lake City → Zion National Park → Bryce Canyon National Park → Capitol Reef National Park → Canyonlands National Park → Arches National Park → Salt Lake City
• Recommended Time: 5–8 days

There are a variety of ways to enjoy the Mighty 5 Utah road trip. For a more linear route, travelers can start in Salt Lake and go towards Arches National Park, moving westward and ending in Zion National Park. This opens the possibility of heading to Las Vegas, Nevada instead of simply returning to Salt Lake at the end of the trip.

• Skip to content

The Cornell Lab of Ornithology builds the eBird global platform for communities and partners around the world to advance data-driven science, education, and conservation.

Change Region

• Recent Checklists
• Trip Reports
• Illustrated Checklist
• Hotspot Map
• Rare Bird Alerts
• Printable Checklist

Recent Trip Reports

Bear river ucb 9 mar 2024.

• Casey Richardson

To/from locomotive springs 8 Nov 2023

Utah 7 – 9 apr 2023 (3 days).

• Amy Hudechek

Great Salt Lake Birding Festival Trip #4 with Adam Brewerton 12 May 2022

• Holly Minor

Bear river bird refuge 11 – 13 Mar 2022 (3 days)

• Eli Anderson

First Bear River Trip (most lifers at once so far!) (milo's first trip!) 26 Jul 2020

• Asher Ellis
• Katy Knight

• Car Rentals
• Airport Transfers
• Attractions & Tours
• Bundle & Save
• Destinations
• Trip.com Rewards

EVO MURPH | Evo Training Center | Logan Utah

Experience the intensity of EVO MURPH, a challenging fitness event held at Evo Training Center in North Logan, Utah. Participants will unite to tackle the renowned Murph workout, pushing boundaries and embracing the grind. This ultimate fitness challenge on May 25, 2024, is designed for athletes of all levels, from seasoned competitors to beginners embarking on their fitness journey. Don't miss this opportunity to test your physical and mental strength while supporting a noble cause. Proceeds from the event will benefit the LT Michael P Murphy Memorial Scholarship Foundation, honoring those who have served our country. Mark your calendars for a day of sweat, perseverance, and goal-crushing at EVO MURPH. Secure your $5 ticket and spend the Memorial Day weekend in a meaningful and rewarding way.

Provided by Halston | Published Apr 30, 2024

Are you interested in EVO MURPH?

More contents about west.

• Customer Support
• Service Guarantee
• More Service Info
• Website Feedback
• About Trip.com
• Terms & Conditions
• Privacy Statement
• About Trip.com Group

Other Services

• Investor Relations
• Affiliate Program
• List My Property
• Become a Supplier

• International edition
• Australia edition
• Europe edition

Utah cat found safe in California after sneaking into Amazon return box

Galena survived six days of travel with no food or water before being discovered in relatively good shape by Amazon employee

In the famous Schrödinger’s cat hypothesis, a cat in a box is both alive and dead until someone looks inside – and in the case of one mischievous cat from Utah discovered inside an Amazon return package, it was very much alive.

The cat, Galena, survived being shipped all the way from Lehi, Utah, across the US to California after sneaking into the package. Galena, six, an indoor-only cat, traveled more than 500 miles in a 3-by-3ft shipping container, according to NBC .

Galena endured six days of travel with no food or water, but was discovered in relatively good shape by an Amazon employee.

Her owner, Carrie Clark, first discovered that her beloved companion was missing on 10 April. Family and friends quickly helped her look for the cat, passing around posters.

“Galena, our super shy indoor cat escaped today,” Clark wrote about Galena’s disappearance to a Facebook group for lost pets. “She’s a part of our family and has never been gone this long before.”

A week later, Clark and her husband got an astonishing notification from Galena’s microchip: the cat had been discovered in Los Angeles.

At first she thought the notification was a mistake. But Galena the cat had actually been mailed cross-country.

Brandy Hunter, an Amazon worker at a California warehouse, said co-workers informed that they had found a cat in a returned package, Hunter said on Facebook .

Hunter, who self-described as a “crazy cat lady”, took Galena in for the night, then to a local veterinarian.

When the vet scanned Galena’s microchip the Clarks were instantly notified, and the vet also called the Clarks to confirm Galena was now in their care.

The Clarks hopped on a plane and traveled to California to be reunited. While “much skinnier”, Clark confirmed Galena was “completely unharmed”.

after newsletter promotion

“We’re in awe of all the tender mercies that have taken place. It’s a total miracle!” she posted.

She believes Galena may have gotten into the Amazon box while they were trying to seal the return delivery, she told the New York Times . Because the box already weighed more than 30lb, they did not notice the extra weight.

“She doesn’t meow a lot and she loves boxes, so for her, she was really happy in that moment, I’m sure,” Clark said. “Although I’m sure that wasn’t the case later on.”

Most viewed

• Latest Latest
• The West The West
• Sports Sports
• Opinion Opinion
• Magazine Magazine

Deseret News archives: Public transit found a higher gear in Utah when FrontRunner debuted 16 years ago

A look back at the first weekend of frontrunner travel in utah in 2008.

By Chris Miller

A look back at local, national and world events through Deseret News archives.

Perhaps it was fitting that the first official FrontRunner run began in Ogden, which has many of its ties to rail travel dating back to the transcontinental railroad days. Also, in the first half of the 1900s, rail service between Salt Lake and Ogden was routine via the Bamberger Railroad.

The weekend of April 26-27, 2008, dawned bright and warm as dignitaries gathered at Ogden’s Union Station. After a bunch of speeches, riders jumped on the FrontRunner’s train and traveled south, according to front page coverage in the April 27 Deseret News .

Small celebrations were held along the way in Roy, Clearfield, Layton, Farmington and Woods Cross before arriving at the plaza of the new Salt Lake Central Station, according to the Deseret News’ Art Raymond in the April 27, 2008, story .

Now the iconic red, white and blue FrontRunner engine and bi-level passenger cars are visible all along the Wasatch Front. Rail service extends to Provo, with expansion in both directions a constant consideration.

“As an homage to the famous image that captured the driving of the golden spike at Promontory Summit in 1869, UTA put two FrontRunner trains nose-to-nose behind the speakers’ podium as a backdrop to the grand ceremony,” wrote Raymond.

The Utah Transit Authority came into existence on March 3, 1970, when Salt Lake City, Sandy and Murray voted to form a transit district. Bus service was extended to Weber and Davis counties three years later, and to Utah County in 1985.

Light-rail mass transit debuted in Utah on Dec. 4, 1999, months ahead of projected construction timetables — and seven years after Salt Lake County voters rejected a sales-tax increase to pay for it, per reports .

Earlier this month, members of the International Olympic Committee’s host site commission mentioned the public transit options in place as a key part of Salt Lake’s bid for a 2034 Olympic Games.