travel for less utah

THE 10 BEST Cheap Things to Do in Utah

Best budget-friendly things to do in utah.

• 5.0 of 5 bubbles
• 4.0 of 5 bubbles & up
• 3.0 of 5 bubbles & up
• Budget-friendly
• Good for Kids
• Good for Couples
• Good for Big Groups
• Good for Adrenaline Seekers
• Adventurous
• Hidden Gems
• Good for a Rainy Day
• Honeymoon spot
• Things to do ranked using Tripadvisor data including reviews, ratings, photos, and popularity.

1. Bryce Canyon National Park

2. Arches National Park

Recommended Experiences (5)

3. Monument Valley Navajo Tribal Park

4. Dead Horse Point State Park

5. The Narrows

6. Zion National Park

7. Angel's Landing

8. Canyonlands National Park

9. Zion Canyon Scenic Drive

10. Delicate Arch

11. Navajo/Queens Garden Loop

12. Capitol Reef National Park

13. Best Friends Animal Sanctuary

14. Big Cottonwood Canyon

15. Temple Square

16. Hell's Revenge

17. Natural History Museum of Utah

18. The Tabernacle

19. Antelope Island State Park

20. Inspiration Point

21. Canyon Overlook Trail

22. Utah State Capitol

23. Corona Arch

24. Cedar Breaks National Monument

25. Goblin Valley State Park

26. Mesa Arch

27. Zion Canyon Shuttle

28. Backcountry Snowmobiling

29. Zion's Main Canyon

30. Observation Point

What travelers are saying

• Plan Your Trip
• Travel Guides & Maps

Official Utah Travel Guide

Downloadable PDF with travel tips, recommendations and maps

The Utah Travel Guide is filled with information for those who want to visit The Mighty 5® national parks, ski resorts, the urban Wasatch Front, and all the scenic drives and towns in between. You can download a digital version or order a printed guide by mail using the form below.

Download the Utah Travel Guide

Request a Free Travel Guide & Map by Mail

Have a shipping address in the United States or Canada? If so, you can order a free printed version of our Utah travel guide, highway map and national parks brochure.

Other Utah Guides & Maps

Utah Highway Map

Downloadable PDF of official Utah highway map

Utah Scenic Byways Guide

Downloadable PDF with information and maps of Utah's Scenic Byways

Dark Skies Exploration: A Beginner's Guide

A complete guide to enjoying the majesty of Utah's dark skies

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More Travel Resources

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Northern Utah: National Monuments & Recreation Areas

Downloadable PDF of Northern Utah National Monuments and Recreation Areas

Southeast Utah: National Parks, Monuments & Recreation Areas

Downloadable PDF of Southeast Utah National Parks, Monuments, and Recreation Areas

Southwest Utah: National Parks, Monuments & Recreation Areas

Downloadable PDF of Southwest Utah National Parks, Monuments, and Recreation Areas

East Yellowstone Loop Itinerary

Downloadable PDF with a full eastern route and itinerary for exploring East Yellowstone National Park

West Yellowstone Loop Itinerary

Downloadable PDF with a full western route and itinerary for exploring Yellowstone National Park

Utah State Parks Field Guide

Downloadable PDF with a comprehensive list of Utah State Parks and Recreation Areas

Salt Lake Visitor's Guide

Downloadable PDF with travel tips, regional info, maps, dining, and attractions around Salt Lake.

Utah Travel Guides for International Visitors

• Deutsch (order a mailed guide here )
• English (UK)
• English (Australia)
• English (Canada)
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"Utah’s location at the crossroads of the western United States means travelers enjoy easy access to The Greatest Snow on Earth®, The Mighty Five® national parks and everything in between. Without a several-week road trip, it’s hard to experience it all, so pick a region and itinerary to start with, then come back again and again."

Salt Lake City

Photo: Douglas Pulsipher/Visit Salt Lake

Deer Valley Ski Resort

Photo: Martha Howe/Ski Utah

Bryce Canyon National Park

Photo: Alison Vagnini

Well-prepared travel is responsible travel.

Do your part by planning ahead

The 8 greatest places to visit in Utah: experience the outdoors at its best

Dec 2, 2021 • 6 min read

Hiking beneath Golden Cathedral's high arches in Utah © Federica Grassi / Getty Images

With soaring sandstone arches, serpentine slot canyons, slickrock domes, and hoodoos of all shapes and sizes, Utah boasts some of the most otherworldly panoramas on planet Earth.

Public lands cover two-thirds of the state, offering vast opportunities to hike, bike, raft, ski, climb and camp – or simply gape at epic views from behind the wheel of a car. If the outdoors is your thing, Utah is your place. Here are the best places to go for a uniquely Utah experience.

Base yourself in Moab for outdoor adventures

On the doorstep of two national parks, a national forest with summits over 12,000ft, and endless acres of slickrock-clad Bureau of Land Management (BLM) lands, Moab is ground zero for outdoor action in Utah. A variety of restaurants, shops, hotels and outfitters line the streets downtown.

Just to the north, Arches National Park is graced with some of the most spectacular examples of what wind, water, freezing, and thawing can do to rock over time. If there is one must-see destination in Utah, this might be it, though in peak season the crowds can be the stuff of nightmares.

Nearby Canyonlands National Park (Utah’s largest) sees far fewer visitors while offering countless spots to view a Martian-like landscape from the rims or the bottoms of huge canyons, or among formations such as The Needles , Chocolate Drops, or Land of Standing Rocks. The Green and the Colorado Rivers meet in the heart of the park.

Moab also offers easy access to some of the best mountain biking anywhere, as well as prime desert rock climbing, river rafting, and more.

Canyons of the Escalante is a great hiking region

Prepare to get wet and dirty hiking this sinuous canyon system that’s hewn into a massive field of petrified sand dunes. Spanning some 1500 sq miles, including sections of both Grand-Staircase Escalante National Monument and Glen Canyon National Recreation Area , the Escalante is wild, rugged country. Though you’ll probably end up wading through pools and creeks, struggling among tamarisk groves, and scrambling over rocks, it’s more than worth it. The sublime beauty of the sensuous red- and orange-hued walls, streaked with desert varnish, inspires a sense of gratitude for life itself. Each side canyon has its own character – some feel private, intimate, while others are impressively grand. Aim for highlights such as the Golden Cathedral and Stevens Arch, or pick a route where you’re less likely to run into other people. Either way, you’ll be glad to be wherever you are.

Wasatch Range has world-class skiing

Home to the alpine events during the 2002 Olympic Games, the Wasatch Range features world-class skiing on the western fringe of the Rocky Mountains. Want to hit the varied terrain at the largest ski area in the US? Head for Park City . Want to ski on slopes that ban snowboarding? Deer Valley and Alta are for you. And these are just a few of the top resorts in a region that receives some 500 inches of powder each winter. But snow sports aren’t the only draw. Each January you can join the filmmakers, celebrities, and movie lovers who flock to the Wasatch for the prestigious Sundance Film Festival . Perfect for even a quick getaway, all of this is within an hour’s drive from Salt Lake City airport.

Bears Ears National Monument is home to Ancestral Puebloan Sites

Covering 1.36 million acres of land sacred to the region’s Native American tribes, Bears Ears National Monument features some of the most remarkable Ancestral Puebloan sites in Utah. Regardless of how much time (and energy) you have, there’s something here for everyone. You can practically drive right up to the petroglyphs that crowd onto Newspaper Rock . Hiking for a few hours on Cedar Mesa will take you to ruins with names like Moon House and House on Fire – named for the effect of the morning sunlight reflecting on the rocks around the stone structure. And on a multi-day backpacking trip in Grand Gulch , you’ll find cliff dwellings, kivas and granaries set between burly canyon walls. Wherever you choose to go, you can’t fail to wonder about the lives of the people who lived on this land some 2000 years ago, and what they were expressing through their art.

Highway 12 is perfect for a scenic drive

In a state with no shortage of scenic roads, this route may well top the list. At one end, you’ll drive among the huge, surrealistic domes of Capitol Reef National Park , where the rock is every color of the rainbow. Just to the west, Highway 12 then plunges south, over a 9400ft pass, and down into the exquisite geology of Grand Staircase – Escalante National Monument. Some of the most eye-popping views from the road are found between the towns of Boulder and Escalante, but there’s plenty to explore along the way, too. Take a quick side trip east of Boulder along the Burr Trail Scenic Byway, or get out from behind the wheel and hike around the drip-castle world of Bryce Canyon National Park , near the western end of the highway.

San Juan River is the best spot for rafting trips

Meandering through Utah’s southeastern corner, the San Juan carves a gorgeous route through 300 million years of geologic time. On rafting trips, ranging from two to seven days, you’ll float between sheer canyon walls, past cliffs etched with hundreds of petroglyphs, and through miles of twisting “goosenecks.” At night, you’ll camp on sandy beaches gazing at pristine starry skies. Since most of the rapids rarely rise above class II, this trip is less about white water and more about the scenery and experiencing the rhythm of the river. It’s perfect for families with kids and hardcore outdoor enthusiasts alike. 

Dinosaur National Monument is packed with fossils

Back in Jurassic times, animal carcasses washed down a river, ran aground on a sandy bank, and settled into the sediment. Many of these creatures were deposited in the same place, forming a densely packed pile of bones, now preserved as fossils in exposed layers of sandstone in Dinosaur National Monument . Quarry Exhibit Hall was built around one such formation, making it easy to see about 1500 fossils "‘in the wild" – in an air-conditioned space. More fossil beds can be viewed on trails, including a 1.2-mile loop from the visitor center. More than just one of the richest dinosaur caches in the world, the park, which stretches into Colorado, also features stunning scenery within the Green and Yampa river corridors that can be hiked and rafted.

Salt Lake City has excellent dining options

Hands down the best culinary scene in Utah is in its capital. You’ll find everything from innovative farm-to-table restaurants to family-run diners. Salt Lake’s top-notch international cuisine includes Mexican, Ethiopian, Greek and Nepalese. There’s even a New York-style deli that Jewish publication,  The Forward , calls “a must.” Brew pubs and coffeeshops abound. For a more serendipitous exploration of the Salt Lake City food scene, the neighborhoods of downtown, Liberty Park or Sugar House are abundant with a diverse selection of restaurants and coffee shops.

You might also like: The best ski resorts in Utah for everyone    See the best of the Mighty Five on these best hikes in Utah    Zion or Bryce Canyon? How to choose between Utah's top national parks   

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PRESENTED BY VISIT UTAH

• DESTINATION GUIDE

The essential guide to visiting Utah

Here’s what you need to know before exploring the state’s sublime national parks, dynamic cultural scene, and wild spaces from salt flats to slot canyons.

Why you should visit Utah

Park City skiing. Zion National Park ’s soul-stirring landscapes and Bryce Canyon ’s hoodoos. The starry Sundance Film Festival . The Mormon Tabernacle and religious history in Salt Lake City .

Best time to visit

Spring:   Mild temperatures make for long days on the trail in destinations like Moab and St. George. While some snow may still be found at higher elevations—like Bryce Canyon National Park or Alta —lower elevations are perfect for rock climbing, hiking, and mountain biking. Wildflowers begin to paint high elevation areas with shades of violet, ruby, and gold.  

Summer: While throngs of RVers and road trippers make their way to Utah’s famous national parks, backcountry hikers aim for the cooler heights of the less heralded High Uintas Wilderness . Recreational boaters take to Lake Powell for water skiing and houseboat adventures. Rafting on the Green River and Colorado River is at its peak. The summer concludes with Speed Week at Bonneville Salt Flats International Raceway .

Fall: Autumn foliage of the Wasatch Range—with its kaleidoscope of birch, maple, and fir trees—paints a portrait rivaling the best of New England. Drive the 38-mile Mount Nebo Scenic Byway or hike to Lake Solitude in Big Cottonwood Canyon. Summer crowds peter off at national parks, leaving campgrounds and trailheads more open for spontaneous road trips.  

Winter: Sparkling powder caps the Wasatch Range. Ski resorts from Ogden to Park City come to life, welcoming travelers to a playground of slopes that once hosted the 2002 Olympic Winter Games. Sundance Film Festival puts a spotlight on independent cinema not far from the slopes.

Lay of the land

Wasatch Range: A striking 85 percent of Utah residents live within 15 miles of the Wasatch Range. Salt Lake City and suburbs are home to about one third of the entire population of Utah. Professional sports like the Utah Jazz and Real Salt Lake entertain the crowds, while travelers roam the grounds of Temple Square , the headquarters of the Church of Jesus Christ of Latter-Day Saints. Park City provides a haven for mountain bikers, snowboarders, and skiers on the eastern flanks of the Wasatch Range. Provo is anchored by Brigham Young University. Hike to 600-foot Bridal Veil Falls. Photograph fall foliage on the Alpine Loop. Ogden is a launchpad for angling and rafting the Green River, and for snow resorts like Nordic Valley,   Powder Mountain , and Snowbasin .

Northern Utah: Fish for Kokanee salmon at Flaming Gorge National Recreation Area . Soak in a surreal, purple sunset over the prehistoric seascape at the Bonneville Salt Flats. Camp beside the Great Salt Lake at Antelope Island State Park . Photograph waterfowl at Bear River Migratory Bird Refuge. Hike out to the Spiral Jetty . Explore otherworldly granite at The Devil’s Playground .

Central Utah and Southern Utah: Picnic under an oculus at Goblin Valley State Park . Off-road to the Temple of the Sun and Moon at Capitol Reef National Park. Visit Pando, the world’s largest tree (a 40,000-stem aspen) at Fishlake National Forest . Follow in the footsteps of early National Geographic photographers at Kodachrome Basin State Park . Hike to the top of Angel’s Landing (permit required), squeeze through   The Narrows or descend into lava tubes of The Subway at Zion National Park. Jet-ski through geologic history on Lake Powell. Hike through hoodoos on the Navajo Loop Trail at Bryce Canyon National Park. Mountain bike through red rock at Thunder Mountain Trail . Slide through Peak-a-Boo Slot Canyon and Spooky Gulch and hike past pictographs to Calf Creek Falls inside Grand Staircase-Escalante National Monument. Hike the Cutthroat Castle Trail to ancient Puebloan dwellings at Hovenweep National Monument .

Eastern Utah: Hike to Delicate Arch and scramble through the Devil’s Garden Trail to   Dark Angel at Arches National Park (timed reservations required). Pitch a tent beside panoramic views of the Colorado River at Dead Horse Point State Park . Soak in Islands in the Sky from the top of   Whale Rock or (for rock climbers) the towers of Zeus and Moses. Trek to Druid Arch and investigate ancient petroglyphs in   The Needles district of Canyonlands National Park. The Mighty Five : Utah’s national parks are the state’s most popular destinations for travelers. Arches National Park and Canyonlands National Park anchor the Moab area. Zion and Bryce Canyon National Parks lure visitors to the state’s southwestern corner, while Capitol Reef National Park provides a geologic warp in the Earth’s crust in Central Utah.

Dark skies: Utah has a staggering 22 International Dark Sky parks, spanning every corner of the state. State and national park rangers offer sporadic, public stargazing tours. Guide services like Sleeping Rainbow Adventures , Zion Stargazing Tours , and Dark Ranger Telescope Tours can be booked privately.

Getting around

By plane:   Salt Lake City International Airport (SLC) is the state’s largest airport, with 12 passenger airlines offering 700 routes throughout the United States and nonstop international flights from Amsterdam, London, and Paris. Provo Airport (PVU) serves domestic destinations like Austin, Los Angeles, Phoenix, and San Francisco. Canyonlands Field Airport (CNY) services Moab from domestic destinations, while St. George Regional Airport (SGU) operates limited commercial service near Zion National Park.  

By car:   Utah has more than 3,600 miles of state highways and 977 miles of interstate highway, allowing travel by car from Salt Lake City to far-flung state and national parks. Major routes include I-15 from the Wasatch Range to St. George, Highway 191 through Moab, and Highway 89 from Salt Lake City to the gates of Bryce Canyon and Zion National Parks near Kanab.

By train: Train travel is limited. The long-distance California Zephyr makes stops at Amtrak stations in Salt Lake City, Helper, Provo, and Green River, traveling in each direction once per day.

Know before you go

Cultural history: The area now known as Utah has been inhabited for more than 10,000 years. Ancestral Puebloan and Fremont people may have been among the first to call this place home. Today, five distinct groups of contemporary Indigenous people are recognized in Utah: Shoshone, Ute, Paiute, Goshute, and Navajo. Approximately 60,000 Indigenous people representing 50 tribal nations (eight federally recognized) reside in the state.

The first settlers from the Church of Jesus Christ of Latter Day Saints arrived in the Great Salt Lake Valley in 1847 in what was then part of Mexico. Today, about 60 percent of Utahns identify with the religion.

Park reservations:   During peak season, June through August, Utah’s national parks can be busy. Expect to share trails, visitors centers, and viewpoints—especially from mid-morning to mid-afternoon. Arches National Park requires reservations to enter, while the most popular trails in Zion National Park require a hiking permit to limit traffic.  

Hours:   Late-night restaurants and bars (open past 9 p.m.) are easily found in the Salt Lake City area. In general, things slow down the farther afield travelers go. Plan to pack a meal to enjoy after remote sunset hikes.  

Fuel: When traveling outside of the Wasatch Range, it’s a good idea to fuel up often—even if the tank is half-full. Roadside services in much of the state are sparse.  

LGBTQ+:   Utah ranked squarely in the middle of a 2023 24/7 Wall St. report of the most LGBTQ-friendly states in the U.S., clocking in at No. 28. The state scored a “low” ranking on the Movement Advancement Project’s Mapping Equality report, but Salt Lake City bucks the trend. Utah Pride regularly draws crowds of more than 100,000 people into the revelry. Meanwhile, the Utah LGBTQ+ Chamber of Commerce sponsors events like a Queer Food FEASTival. Logan, Ogden, and Park City are also considered welcoming places for the LGBTQ+ community.

How to visit sustainably

Practice leave no trace principles. Pack out trash on the trail, including human waste, which decomposes slowly in the desert. Learn to identify the state’s living biological soil crust. Walk and ride on durable surfaces like slick rock, gravel, dirt, and deep snow. Look at—but don’t touch—petroglyphs and rock imagery. Leave artifacts like arrowheads and clay pots alone. Respect sacred Indigenous sites.  

Only start campfires in approved fire pits, and never on a windy day. The majority of wildfires in Utah are traced back to humans. Avoid geo-tagging social media posts. Check the FAA’s B4UFLY   app before flying a drone.

What to read

Desert Solitaire by Edward Abbey. A former park ranger and conservationist tells first-hand stories of adventure and conflict, while grappling with the damage caused by land development and tourism.

Postcolonial Love Poem by Natalie Diaz. This poetry collection explores erasure and the wounds of Indigenous people through literary and real-world landscapes.  

On Zion’s Mount   by Jared Farmer. This nonfiction work looks at how the Utah Valley was marketed as a hiker’s paradise while balancing a cultural knife-edge as the home of the Ute people and a destination for religious settlers.  

Between a Rock and a Hard Place by Aron Ralston. This memoir of a canyoneering trip gone wrong was written by the subject of the harrowing film 127 Hours. It serves as a cautionary reminder to never enter canyon country without a plan.  

Related Topics

• NATIONAL PARKS
• CANYONEERING
• MOUNTAIN BIKING
• DARK-SKY PRESERVES
• ROCK CLIMBING

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This is Utah

You're welcome..

Perfect powder, rugged red rock, alpine lakes and more. If Utah doesn't have it, you don’t need it.

Every state thinks it’s fun. Every state claims to have “something for everyone.” But not every state has 3.5 distinct geographic regions, five national parks , 45 state parks , 5 national historic sites & trails, and a dozen national monuments & recreation areas .

Not every state lets you  ski  and  golf  and go to the ballet in one day. Not every state has 12,000 years of human history  and  fry sauce. We’re sorry. We know it’s not fair. But hey, Utah’s landlocked, so at least it doesn’t have nice beaches. (No, wait. Actually, it does.) More »

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Travel to Utah for some of the most stunning scenery, iconic national parks, and the greatest snow on earth. Utah is home to world class ski resorts, mountain biking, river rafting, hiking, off roading, and more. If you need a change of pace, then Utah is the place for you.

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

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

Where in Utah?

Get to Know Utah

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Watch My Videos from Utah

Accommodation.

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

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

Transportation

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

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

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

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

Things to Do

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

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

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

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

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

Apps to download 

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

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Cost of a Trip to Utah & the Cheapest Time to Visit Utah

The average price of a 7-day trip to Utah is $1,284 for a solo traveler, $1,934 for a couple, and $3,477 for a family of 4 . Utah hotels range from $66 to $290 per night with an average of $106, while most vacation rentals will cost $200 to $640 per night for the entire home. Average worldwide flight costs to Utah (from all airports) are between $689 and $1,010 per person for economy flights and $2,163 to $3,171 for first class. Depending on activities, we recommend budgeting $50 to $103 per person per day for transportation and enjoying local restaurants.

See below for average , budget , and luxury trip costs. You can also look up flight costs from your airport for more tailored flight pricing.

The Cheapest Times to Visit Utah

On average, these will be the cheapest dates to fly to Utah and stay in a Utah hotel:

• January 15th to March 4th (except the week of February 12th)
• April 16th to May 6th
• August 6th to December 9th (except the week of November 26th)

The absolute cheapest time to take a vacation in Utah is usually mid to late September .

Average Utah Trip Costs

Average solo traveler.

The average cost for one person to visit Utah for a week is $1,304-$2,654 ($186-$379 per day)

Food, Travel, and Sightseeing : $50 to $103 per day for one person’s daily expenses

Flights : $408 to $883 for economy

Lodging : $91 to $115 per night for one 2 or 3-star hotel room

or $143 to $175 per night for a 1-bed vacation rental

Average Couple’s Trip

The average cost for a couple to visit Utah for a week is $2,069-$4,258 ($296-$608 per day)

Food, Travel, and Sightseeing : $101 to $206 per day for two people’s daily expenses

Flights : $816 to $1,766 for economy

Average Family Vacation

The average cost for 4 people to visit Utah for a week is $4,132-$7,981 ($590-$1,140 per day)

Food, Travel, and Sightseeing : $202 to $411 per day for four people’s daily expenses

Flights : $1,632 to $3,532 for economy

Lodging : $181 to $229 per night for two 2 or 3-star hotel rooms

or $215 to $262 per night for a 2-bed vacation rental

Traveling Cheap to Utah

How cheap can you make a vacation to Utah? The cheapest trip to Utah is about $131 per person per day for travelers willing to take standby flights, deal with inconvenience, and otherwise limit travel expenses. About 1% of rentals are available in the $0 to $100 range for an entire place, and vacation rentals can be booked for as low as $60 per night. These inexpensive rentals must be booked as early as possible and may not be in the most desirable areas. 1-star hotels are more likely to be available, with rooms starting at around $56.

Even cheaper trips are possible depending on where you live and whether you can drive. Check the cheapest times to fly for more saving ideas.

Budget Solo Traveler

The lowest cost for one person to visit Utah for a week is $919-$2,349 ($131-$336 per day)

Food, Travel, and Sightseeing : $25 to $50 per day for one person’s daily expenses

Lodging : $56 to $66 per night for one 1-star hotel room

or $155 to $186 per night for a 1-bed vacation rental

Budget Couple’s Trip

The lowest cost for a couple to visit Utah for a week is $1,502-$3,575 ($215-$511 per day)

Food, Travel, and Sightseeing : $50 to $99 per day for two people’s daily expenses

Budget Family Vacation

The lowest cost for 4 people to visit Utah for a week is $3,004-$6,587 ($429-$941 per day)

Food, Travel, and Sightseeing : $100 to $199 per day for four people’s daily expenses

Lodging : $112 to $132 per night for two 1-star hotel rooms

or $228 to $277 per night for a 2-bed vacation rental

Overall it is very difficult to travel to Utah cheaply.

The Cost of a Luxury Utah Trip

There is no true ceiling on the cost of a luxury trip, so our estimates are based on what most people do in Utah.

Luxury Solo Traveler

The high-end price for one person to visit Utah for a week is $2,639-$11,150 ($377-$1,593 per day)

Food, Travel, and Sightseeing : $102 to $205 per day for one person’s daily expenses

Flights : $1,031 to $2,185 for first class

Lodging : $149 to $290 per night for one 4 or 5-star hotel room

or $625 to $1,255 per night for a preferred vacation rental

Luxury Couple’s Trip

The high-end price for a couple to visit Utah for a week is $4,383-$14,770 ($626-$2,110 per day)

Food, Travel, and Sightseeing : $204 to $410 per day for two people’s daily expenses

Flights : $2,061 to $4,370 for first class

Luxury Family Vacation

The high-end price for 4 people to visit Utah for a week is $8,767-$25,677 ($1,252-$3,668 per day)

Food, Travel, and Sightseeing : $408 to $820 per day for four people’s daily expenses

Flights : $4,123 to $8,741 for first class

Lodging : $298 to $579 per night for two 4 or 5-star hotel rooms

or $942 to $1,866 per night for a preferred vacation rental

Utah Hotel Prices

The cost of staying in Utah is much higher than the average city. On average hotels are less expensive than vacation rentals. Luxury vacation rentals are more expensive in Utah due to very high property costs. The graphs below show how much cost can vary depending on the type of experience you’re looking for.

Utah Lodging Cost by Star Status

The average price for the class of hotel is on the (y) axis. The hotel class (out of 5 stars) is on the (x) axis.

Prices are based on Utah hotel averages and may not reflect current prices. In some cases, we extrapolate prices to estimate costs, and hotels with your desired star rating may not be available.

Vacation Rental Prices

The percent of vacation rentals in the price range is on the left (y) axis. Price range is on the bottom (x) axis.

There are a healthy amount of vacation rentals serving all budgets in Utah.

Flight Costs to Utah

Averaging flights around the world, prices go from a high of $1,010 average in late December to a low of $689 in mid to late September. Median flight price is $651. These prices are based on millions of flights. For Utah our data includes hundreds of originating airports, and dozens of airlines. The area has more variance in price compared with other locations.

Average Flight Cost by Season

Average flight cost by day of week.

The cheapest day to fly in is typically Tuesday, and the cheapest day to fly back is usually Tuesday. Click here to see data for the cost of flights from your airport. In Utah, the difference between the cheapest and the most expensive week is about $321, so you can easily save about 47% simply by using our free flight guides and booking in advance.

Daily Expenses Budget

Daily vacation expenses vary more based on what you’re interested in doing. A fine dining restaurant with drinks around Utah can easily cost $373 per person or more, while a standard nice meal might be about $25 per person. Private tours can cost $746 per day, but self-guided tours to see the outdoor sights can be free. Costs vary wildly, so recommendations are made based on the cost of living and averages we see for this type of vacation.

Other Utah Guides

Travel costs nearby.

• Scipio, UT, US
• Nephi, UT, US
• Gunnison, UT, US
• Salina, UT, US
• Central Utah, the United States
• Fillmore, UT, US
• Manti-La Sal National Forest, the United States
• Richfield, UT, US
• Delta, UT, US
• Payson, UT, US

Travel Costs in Popular Places

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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

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11 Best Small Towns in Utah With Epic Nature and National Park Access

These communities sit at nature's front door.

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.

When it comes to landscapes, Utah is one of the most diverse states in the country. You can go from red rock arches and sandy deserts to wooded forests and towering mountains in a single day. Home to outdoor lovers who enjoy easy access to nature, many of Utah's small towns act as gateways to the spectacular scenery.

The following communities may be modest in size (they all have populations under 10,000), but they pack a punch when it comes to location. Here are 11 of the best small towns in Utah.

Moab is a shoo-in for the best small town in Utah title, with easy access to not one, but two of the state's most popular national parks. Arches National Park is approximately 10 minutes by car, while Canyonlands National Park is just over 30. The town itself is full of people who love to climb, hike, and 4x4 over the auburn-colored rocks the area is known for. You can embrace the spirit of the scenery by checking into one of the most exciting accommodations in Moab, Ulum , an expansive glamping resort that has a view of the Looking Glass Arch.

Beautiful and quaint, Midway has a location on the backside of the mighty Wasatch Mountain Range. No trip here is complete without a stop at the historic Homestead Resort , where a geothermal mineral spring is hidden within a 55-foot rock formation. People come from all over to swim, scuba dive, and paddleboard in the crater's warm spring water. In downtown Midway, you can enjoy some shopping at local boutiques like Cactus & Pine and the forest-inspired perfumery Scents of Wood , then pick up a sweet treat from Judy's Donuts & Coffee .

Fewer than 1,000 people call Eden home, which is part of what makes this town so peaceful. The picturesque community at the base of the mighty Powder Mountain ski resort is known for its expansive terrain and heavy snowfall, but it also has a wealth of hiking and biking trails. Head to the Brim Trail , a 6.5-mile loop that's particularly stunning during wildflower season. If you have a taste for craft spirits, make an appointment to tour Eden's New World Distillery and learn how its organic agave tequila, vodka, and other liquors are made. Eats of Eden serves up comfort food like pizza, pasta, and burgers along with a good pun.

Garden City

With a nickname like the "Caribbean of the Rockies," it's easy to see why Bear Lake and adjacent Garden City have long been desirable destinations. With fewer than 1,000 residents, this small town welcomes big crowds during the summer when everyone wants to spend the day out on the famously turquoise lake that straddles the border of Utah and Idaho.

One of the most popular destinations in Utah, Kanab is within easy driving distance of three national parks. The town has a population of about 5,000 and is surrounded by towering sandstone cliffs that have provided a backdrop for "Planet of the Apes" and other Hollywood classics. After a day exploring the photogenic landscape, grab a table on the patio at Wild Thyme Cafe , which offers an eclectic menu of comfort food and decadent desserts. For animal lovers, a free tour at the Best Friends Animal Society is a must — the largest no-kill sanctuary in the country, it's set in sprawling grounds with a cafe overlooking lower Angel Canyon, a gift shop, and access to hiking trails.

Mount Pleasant

The small community of Mount Pleasant lives up to its name, as you'll discover on a stroll along its beautiful main street lined with well-preserved 19th-century buildings. Starting from here, you can take a 40-minute drive for a hike around Salt Creek Canyon Falls, which offers a 2.6-mile out-and-back trail with a waterfall reward at the end. If you're visiting Mount Pleasant in the spring or summer, catch a movie at the nostalgic Basin Drive-In .

Park City is about 45 minutes from Salt Lake City, but it feels like another world. In the winter, skiers and snowboarders come to experience the biggest ski area in the U.S., Park City Mountain Resort . Not to mention, you have another ski resort right next door in Deer Valley , where accommodation options include the ultra-luxury Goldener Hirsch , a Travel + Leisure reader favorite . Park City's great restaurant scene and friendly vibe entice year-round, and stellar bike trails draw the cycling crowd in the summer.

Springdale is perfectly situated right outside the boundaries of Zion National Park . In addition to providing access to the park , which is home to wildlife, waterfalls, and plenty of hiking and biking trails, this small town boasts beautiful views of Zion's sheer cliffs. You can fuel up for your adventures with delicious Mexican food at Oscar's Cafe , and if you need to soothe sore muscles afterward, book a treatment at The Spa at Cable Mountain .

Roughly 700 people live in this town on the shore of the Pineview Reservoir. Huntsville is located in the beautiful Ogden Valley, which has three major ski areas — Powder Mountain , Nordic Valley , and Snowbasin — as well as great camping and trails that crisscross the area's ample mountains. In the warmer months, you can rent kayaks or paddleboards to explore the reservoir or fish for bass and catfish.

Torrey is about a 10-minute drive from the entrance of Capitol Reef National Park , but there's more to this welcoming community than its proximity to one of Utah's best and least crowded national parks . The leafy town is surrounded by red cliffs and about a two-hour drive from both Fishlake and Dixie national forests. It's also home to the Capitol Reef Resort, beloved for its quirky glamping facilities that will give you the rare opportunity to sleep in a covered wagon .

Panguitch may just be the quintessential Utah small town. The distinctly rural community holds tight to its Western heritage, with a main street that has been recognized by the National Register of Historic Places. However, most visitors find themselves here in between visits to Zion and Bryce Canyon national parks. While you're in the area, be sure to explore the town's antique shops and stop for a bite at Cowboy's Smokehouse for a homestyle meal.

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

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

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

Who Should Go on a Southern Utah Road Trip?

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

Where Does This Southern Utah Road Trip Itinerary Take Me?

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

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

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

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

How Can I Spend 7 Days in Utah?

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

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

The Best Southern Utah Road Trip Itinerary: One Week

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

Before Your Southern Utah Road Trip

Do your research.

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

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

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

Annual Park Pass

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

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

What to Pack for a Southern Utah Road Trip

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

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

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

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

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

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

Day 1: Travel Day

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

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

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

Pick Up Your Rental Car

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

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

Places to Stop between Las Vegas and Springdale

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

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

Where to Stay in Springdale, Utah

Best western plus (night 1/1).

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

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

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

Day 2: Zion National Park (East)

Hike: observation point via east mesa trail.

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

* This Hike Takes 3-4 Hours *

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

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

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

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

Where to Stay in Hatch, Utah

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

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

Day 3: Bryce Canyon National Park

Hike: the figure 8.

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

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

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

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

Hike the Figure 8 Hike

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

*This Hike Takes 3-4 Hours*

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

Day 4: Grand Staircase-Escalante National Monument

Hike: peekaboo gulch & spooky gulch slot canyons.

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

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

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

Hike Peekaboo Gulch + Spooky Gulch

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

*This Hike Takes 2-3 Hours*

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

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

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

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

Circle D Eatery

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

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

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

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

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

Day 5: Zion National Park (South)

Hike: rest day or your choice.

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

Zion Pizza & Noodle Co

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

Townhouse Airbnb (Night 1/2)

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

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

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

Day 6: Zion National Park (South)

Hike: the narrows.

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

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

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

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

Zion Shuttle Buses

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

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

Hike The Narrows

Shuttle bus stop 9: temple of sinawava.

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

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

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

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

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

Townhouse Airbnb (Night 2/2)

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

Day 7: Travel Day

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

Mix-and-Match + Additions

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

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

One Last Thought…

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

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

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

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

Happy travel! 🙂

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