what places to visit in utah

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Best places to visit in utah.

Utah is truly an outdoor lover's dream. With natural wonders – including five national parks – and small towns with outdoor activities galore, Utah offers ample opportunities to reconnect with nature. To help you decide where to go for your next getaway, U.S. News took into account factors like attractions, value and accessibility to determine the best places to visit in Utah. Vote for your favorite destination below to help decide next year's list.

Zion National Park

Arches national park, bryce canyon national park, monument valley, canyonlands national park, dinosaur national monument, dead horse point state park, capitol reef national park, grand staircase-escalante national monument, salt lake city.

More and more people are discovering the beauty of Zion National Park. Utah's first national park features more than 90 miles of backpacking and hiking trails, including The Narrows, a one-of-a-kind slot canyon that takes travelers through the slimmest section of the park. There are also easier paths like Canyon Overlook Trail and Pa'rus Trail, as well as more strenuous ones, such as Angels Landing (permits are required) and the Watchman Trail. If hiking doesn't present enough of a challenge, visitors can also go canyoneering down or rock climbing up Zion's 2,000-foot-tall sandstone cliffs.

With an array of jaw-dropping red rock formations, including 2,000-plus natural arches (the most you'll find in any area on Earth), Arches National Park delights more than 1.5 million visitors each year. Some of the park's most popular rock formations include Landscape Arch (the longest arch in North America), the Windows Section (one of the most picturesque locations in Arches) and Fiery Furnace (a challenging natural labyrinth between sandstone walls). Adventurous visitors can go hiking, rock climbing, canyoneering and more, while less-active travelers might prefer to see the park from the comfort of a vehicle or on horseback.

Bryce Canyon National Park is often described as otherworldly, and it's easy to see why. Its sunset-colored natural amphitheaters and hoodoos (Bryce Canyon has the highest concentration of these irregular rock columns in the world) are almost too perfect to be real. Hiking and horseback riding are great ways to see these natural beauties during the warmer months. Meanwhile, cold-weather pursuits like snowshoeing and cross-country skiing are available in winter. For an extra memorable experience, camp out at this International Dark Sky Park at night to enjoy a full moon hike.

Moab sits conveniently between Arches National Park and Canyonlands National Park, making it a great home base for travelers looking to visit both parks. Vacationers will find plenty to do in and around town, too, including outdoor activities like biking, hiking, off-roading and whitewater rafting. For a bird's-eye view of Moab's stunning red rock formations, visitors can go skydiving or enjoy a thrilling flight in a plane or hot air balloon. After an active day, head to a local restaurant to satisfy your appetite and listen to some live music.

Located in Utah and Arizona, Monument Valley features a red landscape that is easily recognizable. Here, you'll find Monument Valley Navajo Tribal Park, which houses sandstone towers and buttes that have appeared in movies like "Forrest Gump" and "Stagecoach." Must-do activities in the Utah section of the valley include hiking, horseback riding and stargazing. You'll want to also save time for learning more about the park's Navajo history, which you can do while admiring the scenery during a guided vehicle or horseback tour with a Navajo tour operator.

With a prime location near the Utah-Arizona border, the small desert town of Kanab is an excellent jumping-off point for outdoor explorers. Not only is Kanab surrounded by several must-see national parks, including Bryce Canyon, Zion and the Grand Canyon, but the town also provides access to lesser-known wonders like Coral Pink Sand Dunes State Park and the Sand Caves. What's more, Kanab is known as the gateway to The Wave, an iconic Arizona sandstone formation that is only accessible via an online lottery system. Save time for hiking Wire Pass Trail to the Buckskin Gulch, the longest and deepest slot canyon in the Southwest.

This Utah national park is divided into four districts, each of which offers a different experience. The most accessible district is Island in the Sky; it rises more than 1,000 feet above the ground and provides spectacular views of the area. In the southeast corner of the park lies The Needles, a region with colorful sandstone spires, a historic cowboy camp and prehistoric rock art. The Maze's challenging, remote roads and hiking trails are best attempted by those with experience. And in the last district – where the Colorado and Green rivers form – you can explore via canoe or kayak.

Dinosaur National Monument, a protected area on the Utah-Colorado border, is a must-visit destination for anyone interested in dinosaurs. Budding paleontologists can venture to the Utah side of the monument to see its array of fossils, many of which are on display inside the Quarry Exhibit Hall. After admiring the fossils, visitors can head to the Cub Creek Area, where several hiking paths – including the Fossil Discovery Trail – and pictographs and petroglyphs left behind by the Fremont people are located. The national monument also offers opportunities to camp, fish and go whitewater rafting.

Sitting about 30 miles outside of Moab, Dead Horse Point State Park is undeniably one of Utah's most magnificent travel destinations. There are ample ways to explore this state park, from mountain biking the Intrepid Trail System to traversing the park's eight miles of family-friendly hiking trails. Just don't leave without visiting Dead Horse Point's overlook, which towers 2,000 feet over the powerful Colorado River and provides panoramic views of Canyonlands National Park. In the evening, retreat to one of the park's campgrounds to admire the stars from this International Dark Sky Park .

While Capitol Reef National Park may not be as well known as Utah's other national parks, it is just as breathtaking. The park's main attraction is the nearly 100-mile-long Waterpocket Fold, a buckling of the Earth's surface. Capitol Reef is home to plenty of hiking trails and backcountry routes; just remember, backcountry routes here are not official maintained trails, so you'll need to obtain a backcountry permit and exercise caution. Other popular activities include biking, horseback riding, rock climbing and canyoneering. If you'd rather exert less energy during your visit, opt for a scenic drive.

Grand Staircase-Escalante National Monument is a natural wonder that took millions of years to create. Occupying nearly 2 million acres, this protected area is divided into three units. The Escalante Canyons section is a hiker's dream, with backcountry trails that travel past waterfalls, arches and narrow canyons. The remote Grand Staircase region is where visitors will find Utah's most extensive network of slot canyons, as well as the colorful cliffs that give the monument its name. Separating the two areas is the Kaiparowits Plateau, which contains an impressive collection of fossils that are sure to delight paleontology enthusiasts.

You may immediately think of The Church of Jesus Christ of Latter-day Saints when you think of Salt Lake City, but you would be remiss if you limited yourself to Temple Square. Utah's capital city is also home to interesting museums (the Natural History Museum of Utah is a popular option), multiple professional sports teams (attend events from rugby matches to motorsport competitions) and an exciting live music scene (catch an outdoor show at Red Butte Garden). Plus, Salt Lake City boasts proximity to a number of ski resorts and trail-filled Wasatch Mountain State Park, making it especially appealing to adventure seekers.

Vote to Add these Destinations to the Rankings

Bonneville Salt Flats

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21 Top-Rated Attractions & Places to Visit in Utah

Written by Lana Law Updated Feb 15, 2022

Utah is one of the nation's great outdoor states, with fabulous ski resorts, incredible national and state parks , and natural wonders like you won't find anywhere else in the world. A road trip through Utah is one the best ways to see the sights, and scenic drives are everywhere throughout the state.

For cultural highlights or nearby skiing, head to Salt Lake City . If you're looking for outdoor adventures, from hiking, mountain biking, and camping to ATV motorcycle riding and off-road pursuits, be sure to check out Moab and St. George . You'll even find lakes in Utah where you can bask on a beach or enjoy a boat ride.

Keep in mind, Utah's elevation varies considerably, and while it's hot and sunny in some areas, it may be snowing in others. Some parks have only limited accessibility in winter, and some towns almost shut down during this season , but most of the best places to visit are open year-round. For more ideas, see our guide to the top attractions in Utah.

1. Zion National Park

2. arches national park, 3. monument valley, 4. canyonlands national park, 5. bryce canyon national park, 6. salt lake city temple, 7. utah's ski resorts, 8. park city, 10. grand staircase-escalante national monument, 11. dead horse point state park, 12. capitol reef national park, 13. st. george, 14. sand hollow state park, 15. snow canyon state park, 16. cedar breaks national monument, 17. natural bridges national monument, 18. dinosaur national monument, 19. great salt lake, 20. bonneville salt flats, 21. coral pink sand dunes state park.

Zion National Park, less than a three-hour drive from Las Vegas , features some of Utah's most outstanding scenery. Red rock cliffs, waterfalls, and stunning vistas are some of the key attractions.

Many of the park's most impressive sites are found in Zion Canyon, along the Zion Canyon Scenic Drive , which follows the valley floor. From spring until fall, a sightseeing bus takes visitors through the park along this route, stopping at all the major sites and trailheads. This makes touring the park very simple. In winter, you can drive this route in your own vehicle.

The Zion-Mount Carmel Highway runs east-west through the park and is also a must-do drive. This self-drive route takes you high above the valley and offers incredible views from the lookouts.

Sometimes referred to as a vertical park due to its sheer vertical walls, Zion is a hiker's paradise. The most popular hikes in Zion are accessed off the Zion Canyon Scenic Drive and the Zion-Mount Carmel Highway. Here, you'll find everything from simple walks along the valley floor to cliff-side trails, like the famous Angel's Landing trail, which is not for the faint of heart or anyone with a fear of heights.

If you are here to truly experience the outdoors, you'll find quality campgrounds and RV parks in and near Zion National Park .

• Read More: Top Attractions & Things to Do in Zion National Park

Stunning stone arches and rolling petrified dunes, backed by the often snow-capped peaks of the La Sal Mountains, make this one of the most scenic parks in Utah. Arches National Park is home to more than 2,000 natural stone arches. The most famous of these, and the most photographed, is Delicate Arch , standing like a horseshoe jutting out of the ground, framing the distant mountains.

Numerous walking trails and hikes lead to the most popular arches and other interesting rock formations. But many of the main highlights can be seen right from the scenic drives through the park and easily accessed from the parking areas.

The best places to visit in the park are Devil's Garden, Delicate Arch, Fiery Furnace, Double Arch, Park Avenue, Balanced Rock, the Windows, Broken Arch, and Sandstone Arch.

Arches National Park is located just outside Moab , a town well-known by mountain bikers and outdoor adventurers. The park is considerably higher than the town and reached via a winding road with impressive views. You'll find several other scenic parks in the vicinity and a variety of good campgrounds in the area.

Like a scene from an old western film, red rock buttes rise up from the orange desert floor, and occasionally a horse and rider even wanders by. This is Monument Valley Navajo Tribal Park , located on the Navajo Indian Reservation on the Utah-Arizona border.

Numerous films and commercials have been shot in this scenic area, which is famous for its spectacular red mesas and stone pinnacles. Within the park is Valley Drive, a one-way, 17-mile, self-drive dirt road running between the buttes and through the dramatic landscape. Pullouts all along the route offer great opportunities for photography and soaking up the scenery.

If you want to go beyond this one road to explore the park more fully, you must use a guide, which can be arranged at the visitor center. If you don't have time for the drive, which is usually done at a snail's pace due to the curves and sightseeing stops, the view from the Monument Valley Visitor Center is spectacular, and one of the best viewpoints in Monument Valley.

Canyonlands National Park is Utah's version of the Grand Canyon, without the crowds. The park has three sections, but the main portion, which attracts the majority of sightseers, is Island in the Sky . This area offers incredible vistas looking out over carved canyons and beyond to the snow-capped mountains. It is arguably as impressive as the Grand Canyon in its own unique way, and far less visited.

One of the main attractions in Island in the Sky is Mesa Arch . This beautiful stone arch, particularly stunning in the early morning hours or late afternoon, forms a window to the canyons, buttes, and torn landscape below. Also of note in this section is the White Rim Road , which runs down from the park to the valley below, following a dirt road of switchbacks along sheer cliff walls. This road is only for the brave. Visitors can catch a glimpse of the White Rim Road, across the road from the Island in the Sky Visitors Center.

Canyonlands' Island in the Sky section is located not far from the town of Moab. The main access point is reached by heading north along Highway 191, beyond Arches National Park. The Needles District is located in the opposite direction, off Highway 191 heading south from Moab and takes about two hours to reach.

The other two sections of the park, the Needles District and The Maze , offer a slightly different type of landscape but are also impressive. These areas are more remote. The Needles area is one of the best places for hiking in the park, and The Maze is a popular place for 4x4 road trips.

The brightly colored and tightly packed hoodoos that dominate the landscape at Bryce Canyon are what set this national park apart from the rest of the spectacular sites in Utah. Stone pillars, glowing in shades of orange, pink, cream, and cinnamon, jut up from the floor of a huge natural amphitheater, creating a magical landscape that almost begs to be explored.

A scenic drive runs through the park and provides numerous lookouts all along the canyon. However, it's worth venturing down into the forest of hoodoos on one of the numerous hiking trails in the park to fully appreciate the size and unique shapes of these formations. Bristlecone pine trees are another surprise attraction found in Bryce.

Bryce Canyon National Park is located at an elevation of 8,000 to over 9,000 feet and receives snowfall during the winter months and into spring. Temperatures up here, even in summer, can be cool to very cold. The best time to visit is from April to October, particularly if you are planning on staying at one of the campgrounds in the area .

This park might feel like it's a long way from anywhere, but there are several options for visiting Bryce Canyon from Las Vegas .

Salt Lake City is often associated with skiing and winter activities, and certainly many of the best ski resorts in the state can be reached within an hour's drive of here. But this is a city worth visiting, regardless of the season, and offers numerous attractions and things to do .

Standing on Temple Square is the late 19th-century Temple , the largest Church of Jesus Christ of Latter-day Saints and one of Salt Lake City's principal sites. The temple may only be entered by church members, but it is definitely worth walking by to have a look. Another site in the area worth checking out is the Salt Lake Tabernacle.

The entire complex is in the midst of a massive multi-year renovation and revitalization, with different buildings under construction at different times. Be sure to check to see what is open before visiting to avoid disappointment.

If you're a skier and haven't been to Utah, it's time to go. While other states like Colorado and California tend to steal the spotlight, Utah has some fantastic ski resorts .

Utah gets a surprisingly large amount of snow every year, and the snow that does fall is light and fluffy, making powder days especially amazing. Fun fact: The largest ski resort in the United States is located in Utah.

Many of the best resorts are located within an hour of Salt Lake City, either in the Little Cottonwood Canyon, where you'll find Snowbird and Alta; or Big Cottonwood Canyon, where Solitude and Brighton call home; or up by the town of Park City, where Deer Valley and Park City Resort are located. Other popular ski resorts in Utah are Snowbird, Alta, Snowbasin, Sundance, and Powder Mountain .

Park City is a fun mountain town, about 45 minutes southeast of Salt Lake City, and home to some of Utah's best ski resorts . Park City is an actual historical town not something artificially created for the skiing crowd. As a result, you'll find an authentic main street with buildings, now full of restaurants and shops, dating from the town's mining days.

One of Park City's most famous events, the annual Sundance Film Festival , is held in late January. At this time, the town is buzzing with creative energy, and regular celebrity sightings are the norm.

On the town's doorstep is Park City Mountain Resort , with lifts operating right from town, and just down the road is Deer Valley Resort , one of Utah's poshest ski resorts. Both of these offer outstanding terrain for all levels of skiers.

Utah Olympic Park , also located in the vicinity, was used as a venue for the 2002 Winter Olympics. Today, it offers year-round activities for kids and adults, from ziplining and hiking in summer to bobsledding in winter.

• Read More: Top-Rated Attractions & Things to Do in Park City, UT

For outdoor adventures in the Southwest, it's hard to beat the town of Moab. As the closest community to Arches National Park , Canyonlands National Park , and Dead Horse Point State Park , this area offers endless opportunities for hiking, biking, rafting, off-road adventures , and more. The rolling petrified dunes and surrounding mountains provide breathtaking scenery and offer a playground for numerous outdoor pursuits.

Mountain bikers come here in droves in the spring and fall for the outstanding riding. Although the town is known among mountain bikers for being the home of the famous and challenging Slickrock Trail , you can find trails here for all levels of bikers. When it comes to hiking, the trails in the nearby parks offer amazing scenery, including Utah's famous Delicate Arch . You'll also find some incredible campgrounds near Moab .

In winter, this area receives snow, and the adventure opportunities diminish. The best time to visit is in the spring (March to May) and fall (September to October) . You can still enjoy yourself here in summer, but daytime temperatures get very hot.

Grand Staircase-Escalante National Monument is a huge area of rugged terrain, with a landscape of canyons, arches, hills, waterfalls, forest, and scrubland. It offers a sense of remoteness that is hard to find in other parks.

Dirt roads, where you can drive great distances without ever passing another vehicle, are all part of the experience. Covering 1.9 million acres, this is the largest national monument in the United States, and it's managed by the Bureau of Land Management, not the National Park Service.

Hiking is a popular way to explore the region. Lower Calf Creek Falls Trail offers some fabulous scenery and is one of the most photographed locations in Grand Staircase-Escalante.

In the southern part of the monument is Paria , a town near the Paria River, founded in 1865, but abandoned by 1920. Remnants of the town and the nearby areas have been used in a number of western films.

The park offers camping, but if you're looking for a little more luxury, one of the best resorts in Utah is right next to Grand Staircase-Escalante.

Dead Horse Point State Park, just outside of Moab , delivers one of the best lookouts of any state park in Utah . The main viewpoint looks over a gooseneck in the Colorado River carving through the colorful landscape. Cliff walls rising 2,000 feet and plateaus at various levels stretch out into the distance.

On a shelf of land below the viewpoint, the Potash Road runs along a ledge. Looking to the left along this road, you can see Thelma and Louise Point , where the final scene of the motion picture Thelma and Louise was filmed.

The best way to see the sights at Dead Horse Point State Park is to take a stroll on the walking trail along the rim.

Capitol Reef National Park is another great place to explore Utah's interesting landscapes. Located directly west of Canyonlands National Park, Capitol Reef reveals a huge wall of banded sandstone rising above the Fremont River.

The canyons, rock spires, cliff walls, arches, and gorges are an inspiration for anyone with an interest in photography. From a distance, the wall dominates the landscape and glows an almost purple color in the late-day sun.

Most people come here for sightseeing, but you'll also find a variety of hiking trails in the area. This park sees far fewer tourists than most of the other big parks in Utah, which can be a refreshing treat.

The nearest town to Capitol Reef is Torrey , to the west of the park, where you can find accommodation and camping options . The park's visitor center is 15 minutes from town and located at the start of the beautiful Capitol Reef Scenic Drive , one of the main highlights of a visit to the park.

St. George's position in southern Utah, near some incredible parks, makes it a convenient city to base yourself if you're interested in outdoor activities. But, even if you're not, the town has its own attractions and is worth a visit.

Zion National Park is just an hour away, and one of Utah's great undiscovered natural areas, Snow Canyon State Park , is less than 20 minutes away. Within a half-hour drive of St. George, you'll find outstanding hiking trails , as well as beautiful areas to camp .

The city of St. George has a number of attractions and things to do related to its Church of Jesus Christ of Latter-day Saints history, including the St. George Temple and the Brigham Young Winter Home Historical Site . Pioneer Park and the adjoining Red Hills Desert Garden are also must-see sites.

Just down the road from St. George is one of Utah's best state parks , Sand Hollow. This unique park holds a large lake with several unique features. At one end, exposed sandstone rocks descend into the clear waters; at the other, sand dunes extend towards the water's edge, making for wide and wonderful beaches, some of the best in Utah.

The park is one of the most popular places to camp near St. George , with sandy, but tight sites located just back from the beach at the Sandpit campground, or for the RV set, the West Side campground is near the entrance and is more spread out.

The park is full of great things to do, like motorized off-road riding in the 15,000 acres of sand dunes, swimming in the warm waters, kayaking, and pleasure boating.

Located mere minutes from downtown St. George is Snow Canyon State Park. Somewhat overshadowed by the famous national parks nearby, this amazing state park has the best of everything the big parks have but all packed into a relatively small area, and without the crowds.

Take one of the many wonderful hiking trails across petrified sand dunes to see the spectacular red and tan rocks tower up from the valley floor against impossibly blue skies. If you'd like to get underground, climb down into one of the lava tubes , and give some thought to what fiery events once took place here. If slot canyons are your thing, the park has those, too.

A popular campground attracts RVers and tenters from across the country to its scenic sites.

The same forces of nature that shaped Bryce Canyon were at work in Cedar Breaks, creating a smaller but equally dynamic-looking amphitheater. Dominated by colorful hoodoos, the amphitheater is more than 2,000 feet deep and three miles in diameter.

Located at an elevation of 10,000 feet, the park sees full on winter conditions, with snow covering the monument from fall until spring. Cedar Breaks is open year-round, but the scenic drive through the park (Highway 148) is closed from approximately mid-November to late May or June.

The best views can be seen from the Rim Drive . A number of short hikes along the rim and through alpine meadows and forest offer good views of the canyon and access to a few bristlecone pines.

The Spectra Point and Ramparts Overlook Trail is a popular four-mile route along the edge of the plateau that leads to a viewpoint of the spectacular Cedar Breaks Amphitheater.

Less spectacular, but interesting nonetheless, is the Alpine Pond Trail , a circular, two-mile hike to a subalpine forest glade and a pond at the end of the trail.

South of Canyonlands National Park, but somewhat out of the way, is Natural Bridges National Monument, protecting some outstanding formations. If you are in the vicinity, or if you haven't had an opportunity to view a natural bridge before, this park is definitely worth a stop. The main tourist attractions are three natural bridges ; Kachina, Owachomo, and Sipapu, all of which are accessible by short hikes.

If you are only going to visit one, make it Sipapu , the largest and most impressive of the three. The walk in is a moderately strenuous, 1.2-mile round-trip hike, and it involves navigating steep sections and climbing a few stairs and ladders.

Kachina Bridge is reached by a 1.5-mile round-trip hike, but the trail is easier, although it still has some steep sections.

Owachomo Bridge is the easiest to reach, requiring less than a half-mile round-trip walk. It is the smallest of the three but still worth seeing.

Also of interest in the park are the Horsecollar Ruins , revealing the remains of ancient Native American buildings inhabited more than 700 years ago.

Dinosaur National Monument is known not only for the large number of Jurassic period fossils that have been discovered here but also for the surrounding terrain. The main highlight is the collection of more than 1,500 dinosaur fossils, which can be seen embedded in the cliff wall of Carnegie Quarry.

The new Quarry Hall has been built right over top of a section of the rock, allowing for close up access and comfortable conditions for visitors. Hiking, rafting, and camping are also popular activities at Dinosaur National Monument.

The Great Salt Lake, a half-hour drive northwest of Salt Lake City, is the largest inland lake west of the Mississippi, measuring 72 miles long, 34 miles wide, and up to 50 feet deep. It is a remnant of a much larger freshwater lake, Lake Bonneville.

Following a fall in the water table, this lake was left with no outlet and shrank as a result of evaporation, leaving the Great Salt Lake Desert. The combination of evaporation with the inflow of surface waters rich in minerals led the salt content of the lake to rise steadily, and at one stage it reached 27 percent (eight times as high as the world's oceans).

At the south end of the lake are bathing beaches and a recreation park . Like the Dead Sea in Israel, Great Salt Lake is salty enough to allow bathers to float without sinking.

About 90 minutes west of Salt Lake City along I-80, near Wendover, is an unassuming area of flat land, extending off into the distance as far as the eye can see. But during certain times of the year, this area becomes the world's fastest race course .

This natural salt flat is perfectly flat, devoid of all vegetation, and most of the time has a hard surface, making it perfect for high speeds. Speed Week is held here each year in August and World of Speed is held in September. These races have produced world land-speed record runs.

Most of the time it's completely empty, and you can try it out for yourself. If you venture out here when no event is taking place, you'll find little more than a sign on the side of the road and endless miles of salt flats. Take exit 4 off I-80 , turn right, and drive past the truck stop. There is nothing else out here. Eventually, you'll come to a sign and an area where you can drive onto the flats at your own risk.

In winter, some areas of the salt flats are covered in a thin layer of water and are not drivable.

The coral pink color of the sands at this park make for an interesting twist when it comes to sand dunes. Sculpted by the wind, the shifting dunes and rolling hills are also a fun place to play. Popular things to do here, beyond simply climbing the soft sand mountains, are sandboarding, ATVing, and of course, photographing the scene.

While the park is mainly used for day-use visits, a pleasant campground is located on the edge of the dunes, with sites sheltered by small trees.

More on Utah

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

By Author Jurga

Posted on Last updated: January 8, 2024

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

Arches National Park

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

LEARN MORE: Best Things to Do in Arches National Park

Canyonlands National Park 

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

LEARN MORE: Best Things to Do in Canyonlands National Park

Capitol Reef National Park

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

Bryce Canyon National Park

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

LEARN MORE: Zion – Bryce Canyon Itinerary

Zion National Park

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

LEARN MORE: Best Hikes in Zion National Park

2. Admire the Majestic Temple Square

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

3. Stand Under the Iconic Delicate Arch

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

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

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

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

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

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

LEARN MORE: Delicate Arch Hike Info

4. Walk Through the Belly of the Dragon

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

5. See Bison at Antelope Island State Park

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

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

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

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

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

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

6. Brave the Heights of Angels Landing 

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

7. Hike Through a Slot Canyon

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

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

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

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

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

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

8. Touch Dinosaur Bones at Dinosaur National Monument 

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

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

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

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

9. Marvel at the Unique Scenery of Bonneville Salt Flats

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

10. Drive ATVs in Coral Pink Sand Dunes State Park

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

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

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

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

11. Discover Mystic Landscapes of Goblin Valley State Park

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

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

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

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

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

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

12. Meander Through Hoodoos at Bryce Canyon National Park

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

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

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

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

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

13. Hit the Ski Slopes in Park City

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

14. Take a Drive Through Monument Valley 

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

LEARN MORE: How to Visit Monument Valley

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

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

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

Have a great trip!

READ ALSO: Arizona Bucket List – Top Places to Visit

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

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

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

Peggy Harper

Monday 8th of January 2024

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

Zion National Park

Don Eim/Travel + Leisure

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

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

Goblin Valley State Park

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

Powder Mountain

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

Paria Canyon

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

Arches National Park

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

Salt Lake City

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

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

Canyonlands National Park

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

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

Grand Staircase-Escalante National Monument

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

Dead Horse Point State Park

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

Bonneville Salt Flats

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

Bryce Canyon National Park

Taylor McIntyre/Travel + Leisure

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

Coral Pink Sand Dunes State Park

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

Mystic Hot Springs

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

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

Dinosaur National Monument

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

Fifth Water Hot Springs

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

Homestead Crater

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

Bear Lake State Park

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

Mount Timpanogos

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

Capitol Reef National Park

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

Goosenecks State Park

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

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25 Best Places to Visit in Utah (Vacation Spots Not to Miss!)

If there’s one word that sums up all of the best places to visit in Utah, it’s unique.

With its enormous variety of landscapes, its incredible collection of national and state parks, and its huge number of interesting things to do, Utah just may be one of our favorite US states to explore!

If you’re looking for the best Utah vacation spots to add to your itinerary, this travel guide is for you.

We teamed up with several other travel writers for this roundup of the best travel destinations in Utah, and one thing is for certain: they definitely show off just how diverse Utah is.

From beloved national parks set in the desert to cherished ski towns located high in the mountains, the Beehive State is a year-round destination that is deserving of a very long bucket list.

Here are the best places to visit in Utah!

Table of Contents

Best State + National Parks to Visit in Utah

Cool utah vacation spots in cities + towns, other beautiful places to visit in utah, map of the best places to visit in utah.

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Arches National Park

With over 2,000 sandstone arches within its borders, Arches National Park definitely ranks among the most unique places to visit in Utah–or, in fact, the entire USA.

Packed with trails and desert views, a visit to Arches National Park feels a bit like visiting a playground that’s big enough for adults.

The best hikes in Arches are exciting but not too difficult, the views of and through the arches themselves are magnificent, and the variety of places to visit will ensure that you’d need to spend several days in the park in order to cover most of its most famous arches.

(But that being said, even one day in Arches NP is worth the effort to get there).

Located just outside of Moab in southeastern Utah, Arches National Park is easily combined with a visit to Canyonlands National Park and Dead Horse Point State Park–but more on those below.

Dead Horse Point State Park

From Allison of Eternal Arrival

If you’re in Moab enjoying all the amazing hikes there are to do in nearby Arches National Park and Canyonlands National Park, don’t forget about some of the lesser-known hidden gems in the Moab area as well!

One of these such gems is Dead Horse Point State Park, just a 45-minute drive from Moab.

This little-known state park offers one of the most marvelous vistas in all of Utah, which is saying quite a bit given how many incredible views there are in the state.

Dead Horse Point is best known for its incredibly impressive outlook over the Colorado River, in a particularly beautiful canyon where the powerful river has etched a gorgeous landscape over the millennia.

At this point, you can look out from the mesa over the Colorado River 2,000 feet below you.

It’s an incredible spot for sunset and you’ll often find plenty of keen photographers prepping their tripods each night at the overlook. 

Despite its famous overlook, there are other reasons to visit Dead Horse Point State Park, including hiking and mountain biking trails.

The landscape itself is really interesting, an arid high desert nearly 6,000 feet in the sky, a riot of red rock strewn with purplish and orange tones as well.

The colors become even more impressive during the golden hour and time just after sunset, when the reds richen and turn even more vibrant. 

It’s possible to camp at Dead Horse Park State Park: there are 40-some-odd spots for RVs, a few yurts you can rent, and some spots for tent camping as well.

However, there is also plentiful  free camping in Utah even in the pricy Moab area, so there are plenty of places to get even more lost out in Utah’s beautiful nature.

Canyonlands National Park

From Adriana of Czech the World

Breathtaking canyons, beautiful views, and fantastically formed buttes: welcome to Canyonlands, the largest national park in Utah!

If you want to see the true wild west, this is the place.

One can sit at these magical viewpoints for hours and it doesn’t get old!

Canyonlands is perfect for everyone – either you just drive from one viewpoint to another or you are searching for a real backcountry adventure like hiking or cycling.

Canyonlands National Park is divided into four districts: the Island in the Sky, the Needles, and the Maze.

The Island in the Sky is the closest district to Moab, and can easily be enjoyed while driving your car on a paved park loop.

This is also where you’ll find the famous Mesa Arch.

The Needles District is the perfect place for hikers because there are more than 100 hikes leading into the backcountry full of amazing sandstone spires!

The Maze is the least accessible district of Canyonlands and requires more time, proper equipment, and self-sufficiency.

In case you want to enjoy the rivers, several rafting companies offer guided tours from half-day excursions to week-long floats.

If you are staying overnight in the park, don’t forget about stargazing!

Canyonlands is one of the International Dark-Sky Reserves and it’s possible to see up to 15,000 stars throughout the night.

Canyonlands National Park is simply an amazing destination and shouldn’t be left out of any  western road trip .

Coral Pink Sand Dunes State Park

From Lauren of Ready, Set, PTO

Coral Pink Sand Dunes State Park should definitely be on your Utah travel bucket list!

The sand dunes were formed from the erosion of Navajo sandstone, which is where it gets its light pink coloring, and the dunes are nestled between red sandstone cliffs.

Coral Pink Sand Dunes State Park is very picturesque and one of the best state parks in Utah .

Located near the town of Kanab, Utah, about 30 minutes southeast of Zion National Park, Coral Pink Sand Dunes is a great stop along a southwest Utah road trip .

I recommend visiting for a day to hike, go sandboarding down the dunes, or just capture some epic photos!

However, there’s also a campground in the park if you want to spend more time there. 

Entrance to Coral Pink Sand Dunes costs $10 per car

I recommend hiking up to the top of the dunes to soak in the views!

It’s harder than it looks to walk up to the top, and it might help to keep your shoes on if the sand is hot.

If you’re feeling adventurous, you can rent a sled or sandboard from the front office to slide down the dunes once you reach the top!

Go early in the morning to have the place to yourself, before people start riding ATVs, and also for a chance to see wildlife tracks in the sand. 

Natural Bridges National Monument

From Cosette of KarsTravels

Natural Bridges National Monument is in Southeast Utah and has 3 beautiful natural bridges, named Sipapu, Owachomo, and Kachina.

It was the first national monument of Utah on April 16th, 1908, and definitely belongs on your Utah bucket list!

The Owachomo bridge is the oldest, smallest, best accessible, and the most photographed of the 3.

Sipapu Bridge is the largest of the 3 and the second-largest natural bridge in the USA.

Kachina bridge is the widest and youngest of the 3 bridges.

To reach all the natural bridges you can use a trail and an overlook. They’re along the main driving loop.

The overlooks are 10-minute hikes and a must-visit for everyone.

With more time on your hands try one of the hikes leading to the bridges, they take 1 to 2 hours.

For more strenuous hiking go on one of the 3 loop trails, they pass all 3 or 2 of the natural bridges and the canyon. The hikes vary from 5.7 to 9.8 miles.

The natural bridges are the main attraction at the national monument, but not the only ones.

There’s also the Horse Collar Ruin, an ancestral Pueblo site, which is exceptionally well preserved.

The overlook for the ruin is a little further than the others, it’s a 30-45 minute hike, and well worth it to learn more about the human history of the monument.

For lovers of stars and dark sky, Natural Bridges National Monument has some of the darkest skies in the USA and was the first International Dark Sky Park.

Zion National Park

Home to what is arguably Utah’s most famous hike–the formidable yet widely loved Angel’s Landing–Zion National Park is the most visited of all of Utah’s Mighty Five National Parks.

Standing in the stunning canyon and looking down on the Virgin River, it’s not hard to see why!

Zion National Park is stunningly beautiful, and home to a wide variety of hikes.

In addition to ascending high into the air at Angel’s Landing, you can also go completely in the opposite direction by hiking in the bottom of a canyon right through the river in The Narrows .

Other popular hikes in the park include the Canyon Overlook Trail , the Subway (permits required), and the Observation Point Trail.

Whatever your skill level, there is definitely an unforgettable hike for you within Zion National Park!

Due to its popularity, Zion is also one of the most crowded vacation spots in Utah–if you have your heart set on visiting, be sure to plan ahead and/or visit during winter!

Winter trips to Zion, while a bit different than more typical spring and fall trips, can be magical.

Kodachrome Basin State Park

From Daria of The Discovery Nut

Located 20 miles away from Bryce Canyon National Park , Kodachrome Basin State Park is one of Utah’s best hidden gems.

Compared to more popular national parks in Utah, Kodachrome isn’t crowded.

The area boasts over 2,000 acres of prime wilderness with bright orange colors and clear blue skies.

It’s surrounded by the Grand Staircase Escalante National Monument and can be accessed through the northern entrance from Cannonville.

What makes this park special is the sandstone spire-like formations and towering sand pipes, that dominate its bright-orange landscape.

These geologic formations are believed to be the remains of geysers that once populated this area.

After the sandstone eroded, these colorful layers of sediment became exposed giving the area an array of unique colors that change under the bright sun. 

Kodachrome offers multiple hiking trails with relatively low elevation gain which makes it a perfect place for hikers of all levels.

Some of the best trails are the 1.5-mile Angel’s Palace Trail, and Shakespeare Arch and Sentinel Trail, a 1.7-mile loop that offers a stunning overlook of the Grand Staircase Escalante National Monument. 

Aside from being an excellent hiking destination, Kodachrome is also a photographer’s paradise. Many people come here to snap photos of amazing bright rock formations, especially during sunrise and sunset. 

Unfortunately, the arch collapsed in April 2019, but although you no longer can see it, you can still hike the trail and enjoy the great views. 

Bryce Canyon National Park

From Francesca of Homeroom Travel

Bryce Canyon National Park is one of the most unique places to visit in Utah.

One of the “Mighty 5” National Parks of Utah, it offers majestic sites and has miles of amazing hiking trails.

Opt to spend at least   one day in Bryce Canyon National Park  on any Utah trip. You will not be disappointed!

Bryce Canyon is about 270 miles from both Las Vegas and Salt Lake City. From there, visitors will need a rental car to get out to the park.

Although there are many places to stay near Bryce Canyon, you can opt to stay in Springdale near Zion National Park if you do not want to continually move hotels.

April through October is the best time to visit the park, but visiting in the wintertime will also get visitors some snow-covered views!

The most popular hike in Bryce Canyon is the Queen’s Garden Trail combined with the Navajo Loop.

Combined, this 2.5-mile trail takes visitors through Wall Street , a trail lined with tons of gorgeous rock formations.

Visitors will also see Thor’s Hammer and the Queen Victoria Hoodoo (both popular formations).

Besides hiking, visitors can take in one of the many gorgeous viewpoints.

Bryce Point will give visitors the best view of the park and is a popular place to watch the sunset.

No matter what adventure visitors choose, Bryce Canyon National Park is well worth a visit.

Goblin Valley State Park

Wandering into Goblin Valley feels a bit like wandering into a classic Mario game on an old Nintendo 64.

The unique hoodoos that are found in this valley give the desert landscape a distinctly whimsical appearance, and depending on who you ask, look a bit like overgrown mushrooms… or curious goblins.

While there are some trails in the park, the valley where you’ll find the largest concentration of goblins has no distinct trails.

Instead, when visiting Goblin Valley State Park, you can wander through an absolute maze of formations.

Goblin Valley State Park is located conveniently between Moab and Capitol Reef National Park.

If you’re road-tripping Utah’s Mighty Five, consider adding this quirky state park to your list of places to go in Utah!

Capitol Reef National Park

From Taylor of Travel Outlandish

Capitol Reef is often forgotten on a southwest road trip , being overlooked for the jagged canyons of Zion and the spectacular geology of nearby Arches nearby.

But, cruising right past Capitol Reef National Park on Highway 24 would be a massive mistake.

The grandest feature of Capitol Reef National Park is the Waterpocket fold, a 160km bend in the earth’s crust.

It’s hard to understand what that actually means until you’ve seen it for yourself. Climb up high to see the sloping effect of rock layers tilting from west to east some 2100 meters.

Another feature of the park is that scenic Highway 24 meanders right through it.

It’s possible to drive the length of Capitol Reef and see many of its most impressive features out your window!

The other scenic drive in the park, the creatively named Scenic Drive, is also a good way to experience the slickrock, slot canyons, and sandstone formations. 

While hiking isn’t the main draw of Capitol Reef, the Upper Muley Twist Canyon and Rim Overlook and Navajo Knobs are a couple of the best trails in the park.

And perhaps the most unexpected thing to do in Capitol Reef is to pick fruit in the Fruita Rural Historic District.

Between June and October, you can pick fruit from some of the 3,000 fruit trees flourishing in the desert.

Salt Lake City

From Stella Jane of Around the World in 24 Hours

Salt Lake City is one of the most unique cities in the United States. Where else can you visit Brigham Young’s old house or eat funeral potatoes?

There are enough museums, botanical gardens, and other cultural wonders to keep a visitor to Salt Lake City occupied for several days.

The most visited tourist attraction in Salt Lake City is Temple Square.

This National Historic Landmark belongs to the Church of Jesus Christ of Latter-Day Saints, so it’s the best place to go to learn more about this church’s history.

The sister missionaries lead free tours of the square every day. But if you’re not interested in the tour, you can explore the lovely square on your own.

You can also hear the famous Tabernacle Choir perform here. They have open rehearsals on Thursday and a broadcast every Sunday, but you should definitely reserve tickets in advance.

Don’t make the mistake of thinking Temple Square is the only thing to do in SLC!

If you want to learn what life in 19th and early 20th century Utah was like, be sure to check out the living history museum This is the Place.

If you are more interested in science, stop at the Natural History Museum of Utah to see some amazing dinosaur bones.

The stunning Red Butte Garden is just a short distance away, and it offers amazing views of Salt Lake City and its surrounding mountains.

Finally, remember Salt Lake City is Utah’s capital, so take a moment to tour the Utah State Capitol Building. Keep an eye out for the beehive sculptures. After all, Utah’s nickname is the Beehive State!

From Becky of Two Wheeled Wanderer

For many travelers, Hurricane, Utah is simply the gateway town into Zion National Park, but it’s actually an incredible area to explore.

There are miles upon miles of world-class mountain biking singletrack, a great state park, endless off-roading opportunities, and a surprising number of great restaurants. 

For mountain bikers, the most popular network is Gooseberry Mesa. Explore slickrock riding, incredible views, and trails for every level of rider.

If you’re looking for an epic day in the saddle, head out on the 24-mile Hurricane Rim Loop that showcases amazing views of Zion and a pedal along the Virgin River.

If you have kayaks or want to spend an afternoon by the water, Sand Hollow State Park is one of the prettiest parks in the state.

The blue waters of Sand Hollow Reservoir contrast with the surrounding red rock making it a very picturesque and special place. You can also camp overnight.

Off-roading is one of Hurricane’s most popular draws. The surrounding area is scattered with fire roads that can be explored by truck, jeep, or OHV.

A popular drive is to head out to beautiful Toquerville Falls, 35 minutes from Hurricane, to swim in the idyllic swimming hole and watch the cascades fall down the red rock. 

And for those looking for a meal or snack, Hurricane is home to some really good food.

The Dixie Pizza food truck makes homemade pizza every weekend (call to order ahead!) and the River Rock Roasting Company serves incredible breakfasts and really good coffee.

From Dan of Cabin Critic

Whether visiting in winter or summer, Park City is a gem in Utah located an easy 45-minute drive from the Salt Lake City airport.

In the winter months, the city is alive and the slopes are filled with skiers and snowboarders at the largest lift-served ski resort in the USA, Park City Mountain Resort.

At the Utah Olympic Park, you can see the structures and memorabilia from the 2002 winter Olympics.

One of the many unique experiences is going on a thrilling bobsled ride on the Salt Lake 2002 Olympic Winter Games Sliding Track. 

When you aren’t enjoying winter sports you can stroll the shops on Park Slope’s picturesque Main Street and enjoy the hearty local cuisine.

End your day relaxing in a hot tub or keeping warm around a firepit.

The summer comes with beautiful weather and smaller crowds.

The ski resorts offer unique activities like an alpine slide, mountain coaster, zip lines, mini-golf, and a few ski lifts are open you can take up enjoy hiking and mountain biking.

Take the opportunity to be outside, enjoying fly fishing, mountain biking, hot air ballooning, horseback riding, river rafting, and golf all summer long.

Park City has a unique charm unlike any other area in Utah.

If you love enjoying the snow or being outside in the summer, you might find Park City to be perfect for you.

From Leigh of Campfires and Concierges

Vernal is definitely one of the best places to visit in Utah. Known as “Dinosaurland,” the geology of this region has allowed for the amazing preservation of dinosaur bones and fossils.

While the majority of the best things to do in Vernal  are outdoors, there are some key Vernal museums to include in your trip as well.

Start your trip to Vernal at the Utah Field House of Natural History State Park Museum, where dozens of dinosaur skeletons are on display.

Next, head to Dinosaur National Monument, where you can view 1,500 fossils still embedded in the Quarry Wall exhibit.

Don’t miss the scenic drive out to Harper’s Corner, with several hikes and scenic overlooks along the way.

About an hour south of Vernal is a spot on BLM land known as Fantasy Canyon. This surreal area is full of unusual rock formations that will make you question if you are still on Earth.

It’s a small area that you can explore in about an hour, but well worth the drive from Vernal.

Other things to do in Vernal include a rafting trip on the Green River, where day trips and overnight camping trips are both an option.

Red Fleet State Park and Flaming Gorge National Recreation Area are both great spots for water recreation, hiking, and camping.

From Jarrod of Ramble Around the World

Moab, Utah is a tiny little town in the middle of the desert, packed with all the lodging, supply shops, and restaurants an adventurer could need to appreciate the surrounding landscape.

Its deep red cliffs shoot toward the sky forming arches, balancing rocks and skyscrapers made of pure sandstone in the desert.

It’s a place of extremes, where summer heat quickly rises above 110 degrees and winter coats its landscape in snow.

Moab is a paradise for outdoor lovers, including hikers, rock climbers, mountain bikers, and off-roaders . It offers an untamed version of fun for each of those and many more.

Its extremes lend themselves to the surrounding landscape, which includes easy access to 2 national parks.

At the town’s center, Moab sits just 10 minutes from Arches National Park, 30 minutes from Canyonlands National Park, and 40 minutes from Dead Horse Point State Park, an astounding landscape in its own right.

But those who seek adventure don’t have to go far from town. Corona Arch sits outside of both national parks and is one of the best and most underrated arches in the area.

Those seeking a taste of history can drive the banks of the Colorado River down Highway 279 or Kane Creek Boulevard in search of pictographs, an ancient art form of the Ute Indians from more than 500 years ago.

Pictographs can be found carved into the sides of those precious red rock sandstone cliffs that surround the town in every which way.

Whatever kind of adventure you’re searching for, you’ll have a great chance of finding it in Moab.

From Samantha of My Flying Leap

Nestled between Zion, Bryce, and the Grand Canyon lies a small town packed full of amazing scenery and set against a tapestry of gorgeous red rock.

Just a little over an hour north of Page and Lake Powell , you’ll find the town of Kanab, Utah.

This area is known for its Western Legends Roundup festival, an ode to lovers of the Old West, and the filming of some notable classic western films like “Gunsmoke.” 

Kanab is filled with some beautiful scenery including the Vermillion Cliffs overlooking the town.

The Grand Staircase-Escalante National Monument holds many of the sights including the Peek-a-Boo and Spooky Slot Canyons and the famous and often-elusive area in Coyote Buttes North known as The Wave.

A permit is required to view this stunning striped slickrock painted in streaks of orange, red, and gold and it’s challenging to secure one. 

A striking alternative with much easier access is Coyote Buttes South with similar features including arches, thin fins, and teepees.

Hike out to see the free-standing wind-sculpted erosional statues with names like Dali Rock, the Frog, and Turtle Rock.

Then head over to the photo-worthy expanse of the Coral Pink Sand Dunes State Park where you can see the wind-blown erosion of these striking sandstone buttes and plateaus. 

Now that your heart is pumping from some great hiking and stunning scenery, head over to the Best Friends Animal Sanctuary to do your heart some more good.

Located in a stunning red-rock canyon, Best Friends is home to over 1,500 animals including dogs, cats, horses, pigs, bunnies, and others. 

Though many people pass through this amazing area on their way to some of the most famous national parks in the area, Kanab is worthy of its own stop.

Admire the gorgeous surroundings or fill your heart with love by visiting the largest animal sanctuary in the country—you’ll have it all in Kanab.

Grafton Ghost Town

From Hannah of HH Lifestyle Travel

The ghost town of Grafton sits on the Virgin River, hidden from view beyond the town of Rockville.

A mere 5 miles from Zion National Park, this ghost town is a great stop while you’re in the area.

Settled by Mormons fleeing persecution in 1859, when the area was Mexican territory, Grafton was fraught from the beginning.  

The first settlement was washed away in the floods of 1862. The location was contentious for the local Indigenous population too, and the Black Hawk War broke out in the mid-1860s and decimated the population of Grafton.

Eventually, peace was restored, but continued irrigation issues meant that viable farmland was limited. The last inhabitants left Grafton in 1945.

As  Grafton became a ghost town , its destiny lay not in dusty ruin, but by being immortalized in Hollywood movies!

Butch Cassidy and the Sundance Kid, In Old Arizona,  and  The Arizona Kid  were all filmed in Grafton.  

The abandoned town of Grafton has now been preserved – a legacy of pioneer Utah and Hollywood heritage, frozen in time.  

The town hall (which was also used as a church and school), the founders’ house, a weaving shed, the cemetery, and a few other homes and farm buildings have been restored and maintained.

Grafton Ghost Town is a fascinating place to visit on your way to or from Zion National Park.

From Nicole of American SW Obsessed

St. George Utah often gets overlooked in favor of other Utah cities and towns, but there are so many  fun things to do in St. George .

First, St. George is located close to Zion National Park and two state parks, Sand Hollow and Snow Canyon. All three parks are known for their hiking and cycling.

Snow Canyon is located on the edge of the Mojave Desert and has some pretty incredible landscapes.

From the rock formations to the sand dunes, this is one of the most beautiful places in Utah.

Sand Hollow State Park is a unique and deservedly popular corner of Utah, offering something a bit different than many of the parks surrounding it.

The warm waters and the red rock formations make it a favorite with locals. It’s a popular place for fishing, boating, and swimming.

And you can’t forget about the things to do in towns such as Dinosaur Park and Pioneer Park. 

Yes, there is an actual Dinosaur Park where you can see footprints and fossils and learn all about dinosaurs.

And Pioneer Park may not have a playground, but this is a great outdoor park where kids can play and run around.

Bonneville Salt Flats

From Rachelle of Adventure is Never Far Away

Ready to visit a place that will mess with your senses and make you believe you’ve stepped foot onto an alien planet?

The Bonneville Salt Flats in Utah is the perfect place to experience the wild nature of forced perspective for the first time!

You don’t need to go all the way to Bolivia to visit incredible salt flats: these are located just a short drive west of downtown Salt Lake City.

If you’re ready to get away from the city and be surrounded by silence, the Bonneville Salt Flats is the perfect destination.

Pack up your car with blankets, sunscreen, water, and props, and head towards one of the most unique ecosystems in the world.

The salt pan ecosystem is essentially a desert, unable to support most forms of life, with the exception of some microorganisms. 

If you have a high-clearance vehicle and want to do some off-roading into the middle of the salt flats, go for it!

Many record land speeds have been reached at the nearby Bonneville Speedway.

One of the best things to do at the Bonneville Salt Flats is to take unique perspective pictures.

Putting a prop in the foreground and having human subjects walk a quarter of a mile behind the prop creates an interesting illusion.

With this kind of perspective, you can take pictures of people standing on the roof of cars, being stepped on by a giant foot, or running out of a Pringle’s can!

Monument Valley Tribal Park, Navajo Nation

From Mae-Gene of The Wandering Suitcase

Monument Valley Tribal Park  is part of the Navajo Nation which sits on the border between Arizona and Utah.

As one of America’s most recognizable places, Monument Valley is famous for its large sandstone buttes.

Many travelers might recognize Monument Valley from old John Ford country films or the movie Forrest Gump.

Most travelers experience Monument Valley from a distance, by stopping at Forrest Gump Hill, where Tom Hanks’ character, Forrest stops running on the US-163 highway, with Monument Valley in the background. 

Despite this, the Monument Valley Tribal Park is more than a brief photo stop.

If you’re looking for the best places to vacation in Utah, actually visiting the park is highly recommended for its incredible views and to learn about its significance for the Navajo people. 

Entry fees are $20 per car (remember the Monument Valley Tribal Park is not a US National Park and National Parks Passes are not valid here).

Once in the park, travelers can drive the 17-mile Tribal Park Loop which includes the most popular spots in monument valley.

The roads aren’t paved, with lots of gravel and dirt, so this is not recommended on a rainy day or for those who are precious about their cars!

A great alternative to the self-drive is to go on a backcountry tour, where you are taken out on a 4WD to parts of Monument Valley inaccessible to self-drivers.

Tours are operated by the Navajo Nation, and this is a great way to learn about the history, significance, and importance of the Monument Valley Tribal Park.

For active travelers, you can also go hiking! The Wildcat Trail is a 4-mile return loop that takes 2-3 hrs and is the only self-guided hike in Monument Valley.

There are also longer hikes with incredible views, but these require a tour guide to access them. 

Regardless of your interests, there are so many things to do at the Monument Valley Tribal Park.

If you’ve worked up an appetite at the end of your visit, don’t forget to visit The View Hotel for Navajo-inspired food and get a window seat for your last glimpse of Monument Valley’s iconic views.

Powder Mountain

From Nicole of Wandering With a Dromomaniac

Located 55 miles north of Salt Lake City, Powder Mountain is  Utah’s best-kept secret .

For the ski and snowboard enthusiasts out there, Powder Mountain has the most skiable terrain in the county with 8,464 acres.

The beauty of this mountain is it does not have the traditional ski mountain feel, it’s very backcountry and the lodge has a comfortable cabin-in-the-woods feel. This location is very much a local’s mountain.

You will never have to worry about crowds here, as tickets are capped at 1,500 a day ($99 for adults/day).

The best part is that you don’t have to “ski within the boundaries.” The wide expanse of the mountain provides terrain that allows you to ride the groomers or head into the trees at a moment’s notice.

It’s recommended that you take the local bus ($4 each way) to the mountain from Ogden as the roads can get a little hairy in the winter.

So, unless you have chains for your tires, the bus is an easy solution.

The views here are incredible and the powder is second to none. Powder Mountain does not make any snow as the location provides more than you could ever need.

Of course, the best time to visit is on a “powder day” after some fresh snow has fallen but the groomed trails provide a good variety if the fresh powder is in short supply.

You can also pay ($25) to take a snowcat up to some of the backcountry runs. Each of these runs leads to a road where buses regularly come through to pick you up.

This mountain is more for moderate to advanced riders, though there are sections of the mountain where beginners could spend their day learning the ropes.

Valley of the Gods

From Jenifer of The Evolista

Valley of the Gods is a sandstone valley with incredible rock formations and monoliths that is one of the coolest places in Utah and should definitely be on your USA bucket list .

The richly colored geologic masterpiece was formed 250 million years ago, carved by water and erosion.

It is a favorite Utah hidden gem due to its backcountry location where camping, backpacking, hiking, and biking are allowed without a fee or permit.

Some people heading to Monument Valley on the border of Utah and Arizona dismiss a visit to Valley of the Gods since it’s smaller, thinking they will see the better version in 30 minutes.

But, it’s a mistake. Unlike super touristy Monument Valley, what Valley of the Gods lacks in size, it makes up for in intimacy.

Best accessed with an SUV, you can take a 17-mile, self-guided tour that weaves through the valley.

The bumpy, unpaved road is also passable by cars in dry weather. Just make sure there’s no rain in the forecast.

Park anywhere along the road to get out and explore. You will be blown away by the beauty of this remote location.

If you are here in the evening hours, the stargazing is phenomenal.

There is no staff or facilities like restrooms, food, or trash cans. Be prepared with everything you need, including water, food, sunscreen, and a first aid kit.

As always when visiting Utah’s incredible nature, pack out whatever you bring in.

Ice Castles of Midway, Utah

From Melissa of Parenthood and Passports

Utah may be known for its red rocks and stunning desert landscapes, but in winter one small town in the Beehive State is known for its icy and Instagrammable attraction.

Less than one hour from Salt Lake City, the charming town of Midway, Utah is transformed into a winter wonderland each January through March.

If you’re visiting Utah in winter, especially with kids, the Ice Castles belong at the top of your list of places to visit in Utah!

The Midway Ice Castles are made entirely from ice and span across roughly an acre of land at the Homestead Resort.

The man-made structures resemble frozen waterfalls and boast ice slides, beautiful fountains, crawl tunnels, and narrow slot canyons.

Adults and kids alike will enjoy roaming through the maze-like tunnels and exploring secret passageways made from ice.

At night, the ice is illuminated with color-changing lights that fade from brilliant blue to vibrant red, pink, and purple.

Visiting the Midway Ice Castles requires some pre-planning .

The attraction is only open for about 2 months each winter. It typically opens in early January and closes in early March when the weather starts to warm up. 

Pro tip: For those visiting the frozen paradise, snow pants, boots, and a warm coat are a must.

Plan your visit for around sunset for a chance to see the ice in both daylight and nighttime hours.

Lake Powell

From Chantae of Chantae Was Here

Wedged along the border of Utah and Arizona, Lake Powell runs 200 miles long and has hundreds of winding inlets to explore.

The rust color landscape is unique to the region and the sculpted buttes on Lake Powell’s coastline formed over millions of years, making it a geological wonder.

One of the best ways to explore Lake Powell is on a  houseboat trip. If you venture out of the main bays, you’ll find untouched sandstone beaches to enjoy all by yourself.

Since much of the lake lacks phone service, you’ll be able to disconnect and enjoy water skiing on mirror-flat water, wakeboarding, kayaking, and standup paddling through the many coves of Lake Powell.

Pack a pair of sturdy shoes and head out on a hike–there are panoramic views at the top of just about every hill!

A houseboat trip will allow you to truly experience the lake, embedding yourself into the scene.

If you can only visit Lake Powell from the shoreline, camp at Lone Rock Beach at Wahweap Bay, or consider going on a one-day cruise through Glen Canyon.

No matter how you visit Lake Powell, it is sure to be memorable. 

Mystic Hot Springs

From Jeanine of Le Wild Explorer

The fascinating Mystic Hot Springs is located in the city of Monroe in central Utah.

This small city has a population of just over 2,000 but has a lot of geothermal activity. It’s home to natural hot springs that can reach up to a temperature of 168°F.

Mystic Hot Springs is one of Monroe’s hot springs and one of the most interesting Utah vacation spots.

Many visitors arrive at Mystic Hot Springs just to soak for the day and you can do so by booking a soaking pass.

However, if you want to extend your stay a little longer you can spend the night in one of the authentic pioneer cabins or retrofitted buses.

Each cabin and bus are unique and offer a cool experience.

If you’re driving your RV, you can park the night as well or set up a tent at the campsite.

Staying the night is an experience to remember as you can opt to relax and watch the sunset or even enjoy a midnight soak to stargaze.

And you’ll be nice and cozy in one of the pools that range in temperature from 100 -111°F.

Mystic Hot Springs is an out-of-this-world gem you will not forget, and definitely one of the most unqiue places to visit in Utah!

Take This Map With You! Click each highlight to pull up the name of the destination. To save this map to “Your Places” on Google Maps, click the star to the right of the title. You’ll then be able to find it under the Maps tab of your Google Maps account! To open the map in a new window, click the button on the top right of the map.

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About Kate Storm

In May 2016, I left my suburban life in the USA and became a full-time traveler. Since then, I have visited 50+ countries on 5 continents and lived in Portugal, developing a special love of traveling in Europe (especially Italy) along the way. Today, along with my husband Jeremy and dog Ranger, I’m working toward my eventual goal of splitting my life between Europe and the USA.

4 thoughts on “25 Best Places to Visit in Utah (Vacation Spots Not to Miss!)”

Wow, amazing! Thanks for sharing.

Did I miss the map somehow?

It’s an embedded google map at the bottom of the post, right after the section about Mystic Hot Springs! 🙂

I really love this! 🙂

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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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25 Best Things to Do in Utah + Map

Home | Travel | North America | United States | Utah | 25 Best Things to Do in Utah + Map

If you long to explore the American West and its rugged terrain, you’ll find plenty of  things to do in Utah . With five national parks and eight national monuments, this state is a wonderland for hiking, skiing, and outdoor recreation.

Besides, it’s a landlocked state bordered by Colorado and Wyoming to the east, Arizona to the south, Idaho to the north, and Nevada to the west, so there is a ton of open space to explore.

In this guide, I’ll share the top  attractions in Utah  so you can make the most of your trip here. Utah is my favorite place on earth and has given us so many photographic opportunities. The first time we visited was during our 10-day West Coast Road Trip, but we have been coming back since then because there are so many places to explore. If you fly here, hire a car to get around this beautiful state.

You can also rent an RV for an adventure of a lifetime (check our guide with all you need to know before renting an RV in the USA ).

Now, let’s dig into the  best places to visit in Utah. At the end of this article, you will also find a map with all the important tourist spots in Utah so you can plan your perfect route.

1. Hike in Zion National Park, the best thing to do in Utah

It’s no contest that  Zion National Park  is one of the  best places to visit in Utah . The park is the ultimate playground for hiking enthusiasts, although there are plenty of family-friendly trails, too.

Two of the best trails in Zion National Park are  The Narrows  and Angels Landing . The former follows the gorge where the North Fork of the Virgin River runs (bring your water shoes!), while the latter include a via ferrata section that takes you to a beautiful lookout with panoramic views (not for those who are afraid of heights).

Some easier trails include the Lower Emerald Pool Trail , which passes by several waterfalls, and the  Weeping Rock Trail . The  Canyon Overlook Trail  is also a popular choice, and you might see wildlife along your route.

A  must-see in Utah  that you might recognize is  The Subway , a colorful pipeline carved into the canyon by the Left Fork North Creek. It requires a permit to visit, but it’s one of the most surreal sights in the world.

Even if you can’t see The Subway, you can explore the  Zion Canyon Scenic Drive  by hopping on the park’s shuttle bus. It makes stops to the Zion Canyon Visitor Center and Museum, Canyon Junction, Court of the Patriarchs, Zion Lodge, The Grotto, Weeping Rock, Big Bend, and the Temple of Sinawava.

We have a specific guide for those visiting Zion National Park . Besides, if you plan to do an overnight trip, check the best places to stay in Zion.

2. Bryce Canyon, aN STUNNING place to visit in Utah

If you’re not familiar with  Bryce Canyon National Park , it will be a pleasant surprise as it’s one of the  coolest places to visit in Utah .

Bryce Canyon is famous for the  Hoodoos rock formations , which are some of the most peculiar natural structures on earth. Here, you can find Thor’s Hammer, Queen Victoria, and stunning overlooks like Sunrise Point and Sunset Point.

This place is also perfect for  outdoor activities in Utah,  like camping and hiking. Among the easiest hikes is the  Queens Garden Trail , which starts at Sunrise Point and passes by the Queen Victoria rock formation. The Navajo Loop is very popular and does a circuit around Thor’s Hammer and the Two Bridges rock formation. There are also several backcountry trails if you’re going to be in the area for more than a day.

2. Bryce Canyon National Park, a breathtaking place to visit in Utah

While you’re in Bryce Canyon, you must check out the best viewpoints, such as Bryce Amphitheater, Fairyland Point, and the Natural Bridge. Inspiration Point is especially beautiful at dawn, and the area around Thor’s Hammer is perfect for Milky Way photography.

We have written a specific guide on visiting Bryce Canyon National Park and another on where to stay in Bryce Canyon .

3. Arches National Park, a spectacular place to see in Utah

Arches National Park  is appropriately named for its many natural arch formations, and it’s a beautiful  place to visit in Utah .

There are over 2,000 arches in the park, but some of the most popular are the Turret Arch and The Windows. A heavily-trafficked 1.2-mile trail loops around these rock formations and can be a fun  thing to do in Utah with kids .

Double Arch  is one of the most popular sights in the park and has the tallest opening and second-longest span in Arches. Another cool feature in the park is  Balanced Rock , which is visible from the road. The entire structure is nearly 130 feet tall, with the balancing rock rising 55 feet above the base.

However, the most popular sight is Delicate Arch (it’s even on Utah license plates). You can see it from afar at the Upper and Lower Delicate Arch Viewpoint or you can hike the 3.4-mile trail to the arch, which is especially beautiful at sunset.

My favorite hike in the park is the Devil’s Garden loop which is twice as long but passes through the Landscape Arch , Dark Angel Spire, and several interesting rock fins.

While you’re in Arches, you can check out the town of  Moab . Along with the famous  Corona Arch , Moab also has places to stay overnight.

4. Canyonlands National Park, another place to visit in Utah

Canyonlands National Park  is another area near Moab with a distinct landscape that you must see. The park is divided into four parts: The Island in the Sky, the Needles, the Maze, and the Green and Colorado Rivers Plateau.

The Island in the Sky region includes the 500-foot-tall  Washer Woman  and 600-foot-tall  Monster Tower . The  Mesa Arch  is one of the top attractions in Utah  and stunning at sunrise. I also recommend walking to the  Green River Overlook , which sits 1,000 feet above sea level and boasts impressive views.

This area also overlooks the White Rim Sandstone level of the park, so it’s a good place to go in Canyonlands. That said, the Needles area south of the Colorado River features the  Druid Arch  and the  Elephant Hill Trailhead . It’s worth checking out, but most visitors choose just one region to visit because they’re spread far apart.

The entire park is gorgeous and full of wildlife, such as cottontail rabbits, mule deer, and pronghorn. There is also ample opportunity for bird-watching, as you’ll find several varieties of hawks and eagles here.

For some outdoor  activities to do in Utah , Canyonlands offers hiking, mountain biking, backpacking, rafting, and kayaking.

5. Visit Dead Horse Point State Park, another awesome thing to do in Utah

Dead Horse Point State Park  is another  place to visit in Utah  if you’re looking for a unique experience in nature. This state park covers over 5,300 acres and offers spectacular views of the Colorado River and Canyonlands National Park.

The name originates from a legend that 19th-century cowboys used the land as a corral, but the horses often died from exposure. Whether or not that’s true, Dead Horse Point remains a beautiful natural area with great viewpoints, especially at sunrise. You might even recognize this high-desert setting from the classic film  Thelma & Louise .

Dead Horse Point has a few picnic areas and campgrounds, as well as eight miles of hiking trails. The hikes are relatively easy, so it’s a  fun thing to do in Utah with family .

The most popular hiking path is  Dead Horse Point Overlook Trail , although the  Visitor Center Nature Trail  is good for all levels and leads to the East Rim Overlook.

The West Rim Trail System is a moderate hike and includes several stunning overlooks and impressive cliffs. The Bighorn Overlook Trail is the longest and most worthwhile, featuring desert potholes and canyon views.

You could also take the mountain bike paths at Dead Horse Point for a pleasant day trip from Moab.

6. Salt Lake City, the best city to visit in Utah

As the state capital,  Salt Lake City  has plenty of interesting places to visit. The city offers a mix of urban attractions and natural scenery, so it’s one of the  best places to visit in Utah .

You might enjoy taking a free tour of the  State Capitol  building, or maybe  Temple Square , one of the main  Utah attractions . The Square includes the world’s largest Mormon temple and the Mormon Tabernacle. If you go inside, you’ll see one of the biggest pipe organs ever, with over 11,000 pipes.

If you’re looking for  cool things to do in Utah’s  wilderness, check out  Antelope Island  at the Great Salt Lake , which is the largest saltwater lake in the Western Hemisphere. You can also explore the caves at  Timpanogos Cave National Monument and drive the 20-mile Alpine Loop Scenic Byway .

We’ve written more tips about visiting Utah’s capital city in our guide to the best things to do in Salt Lake City .

7. Capitol Reef National Park, an interesting place to visit in Utah

A visit to  Capitol Reef National Park  is one of the top  things to do in southern Utah . The name Capitol Reef comes from the white sandstone domes in the park, as well as the rocky cliffs that resemble reefs.

The park is in the heart of red rock country, so it’s a wonderland of canyons, cliffs, and natural bridges. It’s also the most accessible part of the  Waterpocket Fold , a monocline or natural wrinkle in the earth, that extends for 100 miles.

If you’re looking for  adventurous things to do in Utah ,  take a hike  in the national park. The Fruita area has 15 hiking trails, many of which are along the Scenic Drive. Ranging in difficulty, the paths traverse deep canyon gorges, high cliffs, and stone arches.

You can also check out the Waterpocket District for longer hikes, or the Cathedral District for unpaved, backcountry trails. These challenging hikes will lead you through the high desert to volcanic dikes, crags, and monoliths. Keep an eye out for the ancient  Mormon petroglyphs  along the main highway.

Capitol Reef is also an International Dark Sky Park, so it’s an excellent place for night photography.

8. Grand Staircase-Escalante National Monument

The  Grand Staircase-Escalante National Monument  (GSENM) is one of the best  places to visit in southern Utah . This vast area is one of the most remote in the country. You could spend a week here and still not be able to see everything.

There are three main regions: The Grand Staircase, Kaiparowits Plateau, and the Canyons of the Escalante. We drove the  Hole-in-the-Rock Scenic Byway , which passes by many attractions. I highly recommend renting a 4×4 if you’re going to visit!

For example, a 3-mile trail leads to the 126-foot Lower Calf Creek Falls, and there are several slot canyons along the Byway. A few notable ones include Zebra Canyon, Peek-a-Boo Canyon, Spooky Gulch, and Brimstone Gulch.

8. Grand Staircase-Escalante National Monument, another exciting place in Utah

We did the  Coyote Gulch Trail  loop through the Crack-in-the-Wall to Jacob Hamblin Arch, and it was the best hike we’ve ever taken. If you do this hike, you’ll need water shoes to cross the river, and a rope to get out of the gulch at the Jacob Hamblin Arch.

A few other  attractions in Utah  worth visiting are Devil’s Garden and the four hoodoos; the Cosmic Ashtray ; and the Golden Cathedral Trail in the lower Neon Canyon. The dramatic lighting makes for an unforgettable experience.

9. Glen Canyon National Recreation Area

Another top  Utah destination  is  Glen Canyon National Recreation Area . This is another large swath of land around Lake Powell and the lower Cataract Canyon in Utah and Arizona. It shares borders with Capitol Reef and GSENM, so if you’re in those areas, be sure to stop by.

Glen Canyon is also a conservation area, and the rugged, high desert terrain can feel otherworldly at times. This is where you can find the  Rainbow Bridge National Monument , the world’s highest natural bridge and a  must-see in Utah.

9. Glen Canyon National Recreation Area, an extraordinary place to visit in Utah

Another popular spot in this area is  Lake Powell , the second-largest manmade reservoir. The lake extends to the Escalante River, and many interesting sights line its shores. For example, Castle Rock, Gunsight Butte, and the Waterpocket Fold can be found along the lake. You can also enjoy a swim or a bit of kayaking on the water.

From Big Water in Escalante, you can hike to  Alstrom Point , one of the best overlooks in the area. We opted for the hike t o Reflection Canyon , which was a challenging overnight trek of nearly 19 miles. The trailhead is at Hole-in-the-Rock Road and the path takes you to the astonishing canyon that lives up to its name, especially at sunrise.

10. Goblin Valley State Park, a unique place to go in Utah

Located in the San Rafael Desert, the  Goblin Valley State Park  resembles an alien planet. It features thousands of hoodoos rock formations, some of the largest in the world. They are often referred to as “goblins”, hence the name of the park.

Goblin Valley is a haven for mountain biking and hiking. The Goblin’s Lair is a strenuous hike, but it leads to an awesome cavern hidden within a slot canyon. The Carmel Canyon loop is 1.5 miles and passes by Molly’s Castle butte, another fascinating sight.

The easiest route is the Three Sisters trail, which leads to one of the most famous  attractions in Utah , the Three Sisters monument. Or you can follow the Curtis Bench Trail between the rock formations to a lookout over Goblin Valley.

The state park is also an International Dark Sky Park and a good place for wildlife spotting, so keep an eye out for jackrabbits, scorpions, pronghorn, kit foxes, and coyotes. There is an entrance fee, but I think it’s worth it.

Not far from Goblin Valley is Little Wild Horse & Bell Canyon , two other interesting  tourist spots in Utah . You can do an 8-mile loop to explore these beautiful slot canyons, but I recommend doing the loop counterclockwise through Little Wild Horse first, as the elevation gain is nice and gradual.

11. Visit Coral Pink Sand Dunes State Park

If you’re not sure  what to see in southern Utah , then  Coral Pink Sand Dunes State Park  is a great option. It’s the only major sand dune field on the Colorado Plateau and is just southeast of Zion National Park, which I mentioned earlier.

The park is instantly recognizable for its exquisite, pink-colored dunes, which look striking next to the red sandstone cliffs and scattered pinyon pines. The dunes, which are believed to be at least 10,000 years old, get their distinct orange color from grains of hematite-covered quartz.

11. Visit Coral Pink Sand Dunes State Park, another thing to experience in Utah

This state park is also a conservation area and a great place for wildlife viewing and photography. It’s also the only place where you can find the Coral Pink Sand Dunes tiger beetle.

The hiking trails here are quite easy and not very long, but they’re scenic. Interestingly, the dunes can move as much as 50 feet per year, so the park may look different the next time you see it!

There is a small entrance fee, but this is one of the  coolest places in Utah , so it’s worth it.

12. Goosenecks State Park, an unusual place to visit in Utah

A visit to  Goosenecks State Park  is a  unique thing to do in Utah  that you won’t regret. However, unlike other state parks in Utah, Goosenecks is mostly undeveloped, so come prepared with enough water and gear.

The park has some impressive overlooks that span the San Juan River, and the views extend for miles. There, you can look out at the meanders, also called goosenecks, that resulted from years of flowing water cutting into the rock. The San Juan River flows through and eventually makes its way to Lake Powell.

Goosenecks is a small park, but its landscape reflects 300 million years of geological activity. It truly is one of the most impressive  things to see in Utah . For example, you can see Alhambra Rock, a volcanic formation made of cooled magma, as well as the buttes of Monument Valley.

There aren’t any marked hiking trails in Goosenecks, but the nearby Honaker Trail leads to the park. On your way there you can stop by  Fry Canyon , a small ghost town that’s just 8 miles from the  Natural Bridges National Monument . The monument was the first International Dark Sky Park, so the stargazing here is divine.

13. Try your luck in Kanab & win The Wave lottery

Kanab  is known as Utah’s Little Hollywood due to its appearance in many film westerns. Just north of the Arizona border, Kanab offers convenient access to Bryce Canyon, Zion National Park, Lake Powell, GSENM, and several other  Utah attractions .

Close to Kanab, you’ll find the  Paria Canyon-Vermilion Cliffs Wilderness , which spans southern Utah and northern Arizona.  Coyote Buttes North  is just a small part of the 112,500-acre region, but it’s easily accessible from Kanab. It’s most famous for  The Wave  sandstone rock formation, which you need a permit to visit.

Only 20 people can go through this area each day, so if you want to visit, try your luck with the  online lottery  or the in-person lottery in Kanab. We tried four times, but no luck.

13. Try your luck in Kanab & win The Wave lottery, something you must do in Utah

Besides The Wave, Coyote Buttes North includes The Second Wave, The Alcove, Top Rock Arch, Melody Arch and the Grotto, Sand Cove, and Fatali’s Boneyard.

The lottery for  Coyote Buttes South  is said to be easier, but we didn’t have any luck there either. If you manage to win a permit, you’ll get to see some of the most striking geology in the country. Just opt for a 4×4 or take a tour because the sands are deep.

Both Coyote Buttes North and South are strenuous hikes, so bring plenty of water. And if you’re lucky enough to be able to visit these incredible  Utah destinations , be sure to take plenty of photos!

14. Buckskin Gulch, one of the best things to see in Utah

In the same county as Kanab, you can see  Buckskin Gulch , the longest and deepest slot canyon in the US, and maybe the world. Together with  Paria Canyon  and the  Wire Pass , it’s one of the  best attractions in Utah  and a prime hiking spot.

We hiked through the Wire Pass and a portion of the Buckskin Gulch. The  Wire Pass Trailhead  is right off House Rock Valley and leads to Coyote Buttes North too, where you’ll find The Wave. However, as I mentioned, you can’t hike to The Wave without a permit. The rangers check, and you’ll be slapped with a heavy fine if you’re caught!

From I-89, you can take the Buckskin Trailhead or the White House Trailhead. If you have more time, get a permit  to stay overnight and hike the 31 miles between these two trailheads (you’ll need to book a shuttle back to your car).

With its huge walls and narrow passageways, Buckskin Gulch is one of those  must-see places in Utah . In this area, I also recommend visiting the  Toadstool Hoodoos  (1.8-mile hike) and the  Wahweap Hoodoos  (a 9-mile hike). If you’re willing to get off the beaten path, check out the  White Rocks  and  Sidestep Canyon , two unique geological structures worth the extra effort!

15. White Pocket, another amazing attraction to visit in Utah

White Pocket is one of the top  places to visit in southern Utah , so be sure to add it to your itinerary. It’s close to the Coyote Buttes, and a good alternative if you can’t snag a permit to see The Wave.

Actually, it’s part of the Vermilion Cliffs National Monument in Arizona. However, the area is more accessible from Kanab, Utah, which is where most tours depart from.

The sandy roads are hard to navigate, so I don’t recommend driving there. It’s safer to take this tour to see the varied landscape, with layers of white, yellow, and orange mineral deposits that span millions of years.

Not only is this one of the best  road trips from Utah , but it’s also a great place for photographers. The cliffs, some of which are as tall as 3,000 feet, consist of layers of sandstone, siltstone, limestone, and shale, and look absolutely incredible against the Western sky.

16. Monument Valley, another place to visit in Southern Utah

Monument Valley  is one of the highlights of the American West, so it’s a  must-see in Utah . Often referred to as Navajo Nation, Monument Valley is also on the Utah-Arizona border.

Take the  Monument Valley Scenic Drive  if it’s your first time here, as this will introduce you to some of the most well-known landmarks. Just keep in mind that there is a $20 entrance fee.

It’s a small price to pay to see all the geological wonders that await.  The Mittens and Merrick Butte  are some of the most famous rock formations in Monument Valley. Rising 6,500 feet above the plains, they are an impressive sight, especially at sunrise.

16. Monument Valley, another place with more things to do in Utah

Be sure to also check out  Elephant Butte, Three Sisters,  and  Camel Butte , which are all named after their appearance. That said, Camel Butte is best seen facing west, so you might have a hard time spotting it. And if you’re a fan of western films, check out the view from  John Ford’s Point .

There is only one hiking route that you can take on your own, and it’s the  Wildcat Trail . It takes about 2 hours and leads to the East Mitten Butte. Alternatively, you might enjoy a  guided Navajo tour  to learn more about Navajo culture, history, and the tribe’s important connection to Monument Valley.

If you want to further explore this area, be sure to read our guide to  visiting Monument Valley , and spend a day or two in one of the best places to stay in Monument Valley .

17. Rafting on the Colorado River from Moab

For thrill-seekers,  rafting on the Colorado River  is one of the most  adventurous things to do in Utah . The town of  Moab  offers incredible rafting tours and opportunities, so if you’re in the region, be sure to check them out.

I recommend this   half-day rafting trip , which covers seven miles of Class 1 and 2 rapids. As you travel down the river, you’ll get great views of Fisher Towers and the La Sal Mountains.

17. Rafting on the Colorado River from Moab, something to do in Utah with kids

While you’re in town, you should also check out  Scenic Byway U-128  which meanders along the Colorado River gorge, the sixth-longest natural rock span in the US. Starting at the city’s northern end, you’ll pass by several beautiful hiking and bouldering spots and picnic areas.

You might want to stop at  Lions Park  or the  Castle Valley Overlook  for stunning photos. The  Film Heritage Museum  is great for movie buffs, while the  Castle Creek Winery  is a perfect pitstop for couples.

Of course, driving on the Scenic Byway is a fun  thing to do in Utah with kids , too. For some outside time, check out the Grandstaff Hiking Trail or Fisher Towers Trail.

18. Kanarra Creek Canyon, another quiet place to go in Utah

Kanarra Creek Canyon is another fun place in Utah . It’s not far from Zion National Park, but you will need to book a spot in advance since there is a daily limit.

If you’re able to take the Kanarra Falls Hike , bring water shoes because you’ll have to tread through the stream. There are two waterfalls along the hike, but you’ll have to work a bit to get there.

About 1.5 miles into the hike, you’ll find the first one, and then you’ll have to climb a narrow log-ladder to the top of a boulder. Then, continue through a narrow slot canyon and tread knee-deep water to get to the second waterfall and a beautiful natural pool.

This hike is one of the most adventurous things to do in Utah , and it’s well worth the effort. However, if you can’t get into Kanarra Creek Canyon, you can check out Hidden Haven and Spring Creek Canyon, which are free, or Taylor Creek .

Hidden Haven is about 1.5 miles and is an easy hike that ends at a waterfall. Spring Creek Canyon is perfect for a day hike and passes by lush canyon flora. Taylor Creek is a bit longer and runs through a wooded area with old rancher cabins.

19. Go to the Cedar Breaks National Monument, a stunning thing to see in Utah

Another cool place to visit in Utah is Cedar Breaks National Monument . Located 10,000 feet above sea level, this area overlooks a natural amphitheater and the vast landscape of southwestern Utah.

The rock formations at Cedar Breaks are ancient, but the land is constantly changing. An array of hoodoos, spires, and cliffs make it one of the best attractions in Utah for day hiking.

There are two easy hiking trails near the canyon’s rim. The Sunset Trail runs between the Point Supreme Overlook and Sunset View Overlook, while the Nature Trail connects the Point Supreme Campground to the Sunset Trail. From there, you can see striking views of the badlands’ fins, arches, and caves.

For a more moderate hike, take the Alpine Pond Loop Trail or the South Rim Trail to the Spectra Point Viewpoint. If you’re up for it, continue to Ramparts Viewpoint and Bartzen Viewpoint. Along the way, keep an eye out for mule deer and porcupines, as well as other canyon rodents.

There is a small entrance fee, but the park is open year-round. I suggest going during the warmer months so you can see the eroded canyon layers of iron and manganese. It creates a brilliant display of reds, oranges, yellows, and purples, which is why the canyon is often called the Circle of Painted Cliffs.

20. Explore the Bonneville Salt Flats, something fun to do in Utah

The Bonneville Salt Flats is one of those hidden places in Utah that you might not know about. Located in northwestern Utah near the border with Nevada, the salt flats are what remains of Lake Bonneville from the Pleistocene era. The lake dried up, leaving behind one of the largest salt flats in the state. Covering over 30,000 acres, you can see it as you drive along I-80. Just be sure to stay on the marked roads, as it’s a very fragile environment.

The salt flats are one of the most extraordinary places to go in Utah . This area boasts a unique landscape in that it’s totally flat and seems to extend forever.

While you’re visiting, you might want to check out the Bonneville Speedway . This area of the salt flats is used exclusively for motorcar racing and has been a tourist attraction since 1914. If you visit in mid-August, you can catch Bonneville Speed Week, one of the major racing events of the year.

21. Red Cliffs National Conservation Area & Snow Canyon State Park

If you’re visiting southern Utah, it’s worth stopping by St. George , a city surrounded by the Mojave Desert, Colorado Plateau, and the Great Basin.

Here, you can visit the Red Cliffs National Conservation Area . Located on the edge of the Mojave Desert, it’s part of the larger Red Cliffs Desert Reserve, which protects the endangered habitats of native species like the Mojave Desert tortoise.

There are plenty of recreational opportunities, too. I suggest hiking the Silver Reef Trail or the Anasazi Trail. The former leads to dinosaur tracks while the latter goes to ancient Ancestral Puebloan ruins.

21. Visit Red Cliffs National Conservation Area & Snow Canyon State Park

Or take the Red Reef Trail, an easy route of about 1.5 miles. It starts at the campground and leads to natural pools, passing by a rugged landscape of Navajo sandstone.

In the same Reserve, you can explore Snow Canyon State Park which is known for its red and white canyon. Here, you’ll also find lava tubes and the extinct Santa Clara volcano, two awesome things to see in Utah . The stunning red rock formations provide shelter for creatures like the Gila monster, horned rattlesnake, and giant desert hairy scorpion.

Finally, I highly recommend the Toquerville Falls Trail via LaVerkin Creek . The 12-mile route leads to a beautiful natural pool with a waterfall. It’s one of the top swimming holes and has cliffs you can use to jump into the water.

22. Go to Mystic Hot Springs, the best thing to do in Utah for couples

With its bohemian vibe and rustic setting,  Mystic Hot Springs  is one of the  coolest places in Utah . These natural hot springs have been used by the Ute, Shoshone, or Piute tribes for generations, although it has a more hipster atmosphere these days.

After an artist/filmmaker discovered the area, he purchased the land and made some aesthetic changes to create an immersive experience for visitors. Along with hosting concerts throughout the year, Mystic Hot Springs has several soaking area and offers massages and other therapeutic services.

The 165° F water flows downhill, and by the time it reaches the pools, it’s between 100°-111° F. There are also nine cooler ponds full of tropical fish, and a few wild animals roam the property. It makes for a relaxing experience that revolves around nature and art, and some people call it a hippie oasis.

Not far is  Meadow Hot Springs , which has three private thermal baths. A visit here could be a good  thing for couples to do in Utah  for some much-needed TLC. Just be aware that it’s about a half-mile hike to get to the springs.

23. See the Dinosaur National Monument, the best thing to do in Utah with family

For something that will appease the whole family, check out  Dinosaur National Monument , one of the best-kept  hidden places in Utah . This American national monument sits in the Uinta Mountains, on the Utah-Colorado border. Most of the monument is in Colorado, but the Dinosaur Quarry is in Utah, and it’s well worth a visit.

There are over 800 paleontological sites at Dinosaur National Monument spanning millions of years of natural history. These include numerous petroglyphs and dinosaur fossils, and a nearly-complete  Abydosaurus  skull.

The park also includes  Mantle’s Cave , a cliff alcove dating to the pre-Columbian Fremont culture, and several rustic buildings, including the  Josie Bassett Morris Ranch Complex .

Moreover, the area is a designated International Dark Sky Park and provides stunning panoramic views of the Green River Canyon, so it’s a  must-see in Utah  for nature lovers.

24. Park City & nearby ski resorts, the top-rated place for winter sports in Utah

Park City Mountain Resort  is part of the Wasatch Back region of the Rocky Mountains and is just over 30 miles from the capital, so skiing here is an awesome  thing to do near Salt Lake City, Utah .

Park City actually gets less snow than other Utah ski resorts, but it’s more accessible. The resort features 17 slopes, 300 trails, and 22 miles of lifts. Besides, the town of Park City offers tons of shops, clubs, bars, restaurants, hiking and biking trails, and hot springs. It was even named one of the “20 prettiest towns” in the United States.

If you’re not near Park City or you want to check out other  Utah ski resorts , you have plenty of options.

Alta  and  Snowbird  are close to each other and are great for experienced skiers.  Deer Valley  is a more upscale ski resort, and  Powder Mountain , while being a bit further out, is much less crowded. Finally,  Snow Basin  and  Brighton  ski resorts are more affordable and offer more  fun things to do in Utah for the family .

25. Antelope Canyon & Horseshoe Bend, two amazing places to visit near Utah

Antelope Canyon  is a slot canyon on the Navajo land of Page, Arizona. While it’s not in Utah, it’s just 15 minutes from the border, so it makes for an excellent  road trip from Utah .

As we wrote in our  guide to Antelope Canyon , this region is famous for its curving, red-streaked canyon walls. While it’s a touristy spot, it is worth braving the crowds because of the fascinating geology. Whether you visit Upper or Lower Antelope Canyon, you will need to book a tour with a Navajo guide because the slot canyon is in the Navajo Nation.

Upper Antelope Canyon  is absolutely stunning because during the early afternoon in summer, sunlight filters through the water-carved crevices. If you’re a photographer, this is the section you will want to visit.  Lower Antelope Canyon is longer and, while not as popular, is the cheapest and more convenient option for most of visitors.

If you’re going to be in this area, you should also stop by  Horseshoe Bend , which we’ve also written about. As the name suggests, this horseshoe-shaped meander is an imposing structure on the banks of the Colorado River. The sinuous form is nearly 1,000 feet tall, so while sitting on the edge is mesmerizing, it’s also dangerous.

You’ll spend less time at Horseshoe Bend than at Antelope Canyon, but if you want to stay overnight, we have a guide to the best  Page accommodations .

Now you know the top 25 things to do in Utah, so you can plan the perfect itinerary. To help you figure out your trip, we’re including this map of  attractions in Utah .

There is a lot to see in this western state, from natural formations to beautiful recreational areas. Take your time looking through this guide and if you have any other questions, just leave a comment, and I’ll be happy to help. Happy trails!

Ascen Aynat

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45 Best Things To Do & Places To Visit In Utah

By: Author Jerric Chong

Posted on Published: April 8, 2021  - Last updated: October 17, 2023

Are you packing for a trip?

The United States is home to innumerable options; you are spoilt for choice on what to do in Utah for your adventure or sightseeing.

Utah is a beautiful state that brings travelers from within and beyond, with its many tourist attractions and amazing sights.

You may find this a top destination for wildlife exploration, thanks to its five national parks, which earned the state the ‘Mighty Five’ name.

Utah is also covered by acres of wilderness, exciting to look, walk, or bike through.

The outdoors are attractive, and natural wonders are lined for your visit.

Utah’s cliffs and mountains make great hiking grounds, and its waterfalls are spectacular.

The state’s varying elevation means that certain areas may snow, while others are sunny hot.

Therefore, you can consider visiting ski resorts in Salt Lake City and enjoy some splash of snow.

Moab and St. George could be your stop for motorcycle riding, off-road thrills, and camping, among other activities.

Utah is also home to American history; there is plenty to learn about old dinosaurs, the Mormon Temple, and the Old West.

As you look around the state, going through your options, there are beautiful places you may not wish to miss and things you must do. Below is a bucket list:

Table of Contents

1. Zion National Park

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You may find Zion National Park to be one of the remarkable places to visit in Utah.

It boasts of plant and wildlife variety and incredible scenery, with waterfalls, red rock cliffs, slot canyons, and lovely vistas to grace every visitor’s eyes.

Driving from Las Vegas could take you under three hours to get to the park.

If you visit between spring and fall, you can enjoy a bus ride through some of the park’s most beautiful areas, such as in the Zion Canyon, through the Zion Canyon Scenic Drive.

If you consider self-driving, the park’s east-west Zion-Mount Carmel Highway could be one of your places of interest, with its amazing views above the valley.

Off the two scenic drives, you can consider various hiking options.

The valley floor can be suitable for a walk; the Angel’s Landing trail, among other cliff-side trails, could also be fun for heights.

You can enjoy an ultimate camping experience in or near the park, thanks to the quality grounds and available RV parks.

Address: Utah, United States

2. Lake Powell

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Despite its name, Lake Powell is a human-made reservoir in Utah rather than a lake.

Its vast size makes it possible to indulge in various activities, such as boating, kayaking, wakeboarding, and swimming, among more.

Watercraft is another possibility for enthusiasts; you can get a hand from one of the available rental companies.

A quiet and relaxing stay in a houseboat could also work for you.

Visitors love Lake Powell for its shoreline stretch of 2,000 miles and lovely sunny weather.

Annually, the reservoir attracts about 2,000,000 people, making it a top destination in Utah and the United States.

If the breathtaking blue of the water or the attractive contrasting stones are not enough, you can explore the various hiking trails and the nature around Lake Powell.

Nearby, you must see the Rainbow Ridge National Monument, dubbed as the world’s highest natural bridge and situated in the Glen Canyon National Recreation Area.

3. Arches National Park

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Utah offers more in the Arches National Park of beautiful rock formations and over 2,000 stone arches.

The park’s rich red stone is a natural exhibit of the Old West.

Explore history further in the 1898 one-room cabin, Wolfe Ranch.

Most guests love to visit the Delicate Arch, the Double Arch, the Broken Arch, and the Sandstone Arch.

Other significant points of interest include the Fiery Furnace, Devil’s Garden, Park Avenue, the Windows, and Balanced Rock.

The drive to Arches National Park is one of the fun things to do in Utah.

You may love the views through the winding road, which towers over Moab, a neighboring town.

You can visit any of the other scenic parks, and if you would consider camping, you may love the available grounds.

Why drive if you can hike?

Besides the scenic drives, hiking or walking through the trails to the park’s arches is a healthy and fun way to spend your day.

Address: Moab, Utah, United States

4. Monument Valley

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One of the fun things to do in Utah besides hiking is horseriding and jeeping.

Monument Valley Navajo Tribal Park offers an excellent destination for indulgence and lovely sights in the Navajo Indian Reservation.

It is one of the top 10 destinations that could transform your trip’s experience.

You should walk out of the Valley with the history of the Old West and Native America.

Some of your must-sees are the 1,000 feet-tall sandstone formations.

A self-drive through the 17-mile dirt road of Valley Drive is an exciting way to spend your time; between the buttes, you can enjoy the sights of the remarkable landscape.

You can capture your moments throughout the drive on pullouts.

The Monument Valley Visitor Center offers incredible views of the park.

Local guides can help get your way around the Valley; you can also get a travel guide for further visits to other areas of the park.

Most guests love to tour the Lower Monument Valley and the Mystery Valley.

Address: US Highway 160 & US Hwy 163, Monument Valley, UT 84536, United States

5. Park City Mountain Resort

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How far would you go for a good time in the snow?

Skiing down the Park City Mountain Resort in Utah could be one of the cool things to do for your adventure.

The ski resort is considered America’s second-largest and attracts a large number of skiers all around Utah and beyond.

Park City Mountain Resort sits on 7,300 acres of mountain.

If you feel unconfident or rusty, you can join the US ski team’s training.

The resort offers more to all guests, regardless of their skills or age, at the Park City Ski and Snowboard School.

The 330 available trails pump the fun by allowing appropriate trails according to skiing abilities or level.

Besides the 9 am to 4 pm winter schedule, you can enjoy night skiing on selected runs.

One of the best things any snow-lover would do is let loose and enjoy the cold.

Park City Mountain Resort offers a fantastic opportunity for skiing and snowboarding enthusiasts.

Address: 1345 Lowell Ave, Park City, UT 84060, United States

6. Natural Bridges National Monument

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Have you seen a natural bridge before?

If not, the Natural Bridges National Monument could be a fun stop for siteseeing in Utah.

You will come upon the bridges south of Canyonlands National Park.

The natural bridges you will view at the monument are Sipapu, Kachina, and Owachomo; getting to them takes short hikes.

Of the three bridges, Sipapu attracts the most visitors, thanks to its large size and fascinating looks.

However, you may not find the hike to it the easiest.

You will have to go through 1.2 miles of steep regions and climb some ladders and stairs.

The trail to Kachina Bridge is more extended than Sipapu’s by 0.3 miles but more manageable, despite its steepness at some points.

Owachomo Bridge is the smallest, with the easiest trail and shortest distance of a half-mile.

Before leaving the park, why don’t you tour the Horsecollar Ruins?

It holds 700-years-old Native American building remnants.

Address: Lake Powell, UT 84533, United States

7. Canyonlands National Park

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Enjoy more places to see natural wonders at the Canyonlands National Park , with million-year-old canyons and rock formations, which resulted from the Colorado River.

The Canyonlands settlements have ensured the preservation of native culture; you can explore the various Native American art in the Horseshoe Canyon.

You can catch the canyons’ prettier sights and even view snow-capped mountains from the Island in the Sea, a section out of the park’s three that most guests visit.

If you tour Island in the Sky early in the morning or in the afternoon, you may love the sights of the spectacular Mesa Arch.

The White Rim Road offers an adventurous drive on a dirt road and through sheer cliff walls to a valley.

If you do not brave up for the drive, you can enjoy views from the Island in the Sky Visitors Center.

Besides the Island in the Sky section are The Maze and the Needles District.

If you have the time this weekend, you can take a 4×4 drive around The Maze or hike the Needles District.

Wangkun Jia / Shutterstock

If you want to spend more time indulging in fun outdoor activities, you can consider the town of Moab for your next destination in Utah.

Moab is strategically situated in proximity to Canyonlands National Park, Arches National Park, and Dead Horse Point State Park.

You can have fun biking, hiking, rafting, or on off-road adventures, among other entertainment indulgences.

You may enjoy watching the rolling dunes or catch the remarkable sights of the surrounding mountains.

You can also tour them to try various other activities, such as mountain biking.

Moab is popular among bikers during spring and fall, thanks to the conducive weather.

Slickrock Trail is one of the town’s renowned trails for its challenges.

If you are hoping for all-level trails, you will find a suitable one.

Nearby parks have hiking trails that lead to breathtaking sights, among them being the Delicate Arch.

You can also try an overnight experience camping out in any of the nearby and quality grounds.

You may not have as much fun in Moab during winter due to the snow.

Summer can get extremely hot during the day but is accommodative of some outdoor activities.

Therefore, you may find spring and fall to be the most suitable times to travel here.

9. Homestead Crater

Homestead Crater

One of the things you must do in Utah is to visit the Homestead Crater —take a dip, or at least take a trip.

This geothermal spring is a top destination, thanks to its concealment under a 10,000-year-old 55-foot limestone rock.

After the Wasatch Mountain’s melting snow tore into the earth’s interior, the heated water formed a volcano-shaped limestone deposit.

The spring is situated within the Homestead Resort, Midway, Utah.

To get to the hot waters, you can make a reservation with the resort for a self-guided tour without necessarily being Homestead’s guest.

While the Homestead Crater is a hub for adventure and fun, you do not need the first-hand experience for a good time.

The in-built tunnel could be exciting enough, as it leads inside the cave, where you can swim, snorkel, practice yoga on a paddleboard, scuba dive, or get a therapeutic soak.

Address: 700 North Homestead Drive, Midway, UT 84049, United States

10. Bryce Canyon National Park

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Consider a tour of the Bryce Canyon National Park , one of the famous places for hoodoo rock protrusions.

The park offers various views of the beautiful formations and more places to see.

You can catch these sights in a scenic drive through Bryce Canyon or camp down when the weather is right, taking your time to look around.

Nevertheless, hikers can enjoy an up-close experience with many perspectives.

You can also tour the park on horseback; the available outfitters make it easy to organize rides.

One of the park’s hiking trails runs through the forest of hoodoos, an attraction you may love to explore.

Nature offers its best with bristlecone pine trees.

When planning for your visit to Bryce Canyon, Utah, you can consider any time between April and October.

Due to the park’s elevation of 8,000 to 9,000 feet, the region’s winter months could extend into spring with cool to cold temperatures throughout the year.

11. Salt Lake City

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You can pack up any time of the year and be sure to have some fun in Salt Lake City , Utah.

It is a popular destination for, among other year-round activities, skiing.

Salt Lake City is packed with excellent ski resorts within proximity.

You can find something interesting to do this weekend from one of the city’s many tourist attractions.

If you would like a trip down history lane, Salt Lake City has plenty of lessons to share.

One of the oldest structures that yet stands is the Mormon Temple.

The Latter-Day Saints temple was put up in the 19th century as one of the largest in the city.

Today, the Mormon Temple holds loads of American history, after some of the country’s most significant events.

While the temple serves a Mormon-only entry, you can enjoy views of the old and historical structure walking by.

The State Capitol and the Mormon Tabernacle could also interest you some time along the day.

12. Antelope Island

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Wildlife is one of nature’s best, and the Great Salt Lake provides a lovely home.

It is where to go for beautiful views.

The Great Salt Lake is otherwise known as one of the world’s largest lakes.

On it is Antelope Island , the lake’s largest island.

One of the best things to do in Utah is to visit Antelope Island, where you can catch sights of antelopes, coyotes, sheep, water birds, and bison, among other wildlife.

Besides the animals, you can also enjoy views of natural springs and mountains, which make the island stand out.

The 1848 Field Garr Ranch has not changed since its original establishment and stands in Antelope Island as Utah’s oldest building.

You can look around and enjoy all the beauty while learning about the region’s history.

Thanks to its proximity to Salt Lake City, you may not have trouble getting to the island.

Address: Davis County, Utah, United States

13. The Great Salt Lake

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How would you like to float on the water surface?

The Great Salt Lake is a fun destination in Utah for swimmers and lovers of the wildlife.

Anyone else can also visit the lake for its amazing sights.

It is one of the free things to do.

What was once part of the 20,000 square miles of the ancient Lake Bonneville today stretches over 75 miles.

Little of the great ice age lake sits as the Great Salt Lake and today boasts being the Western Hemisphere’s largest lake, with none as large all through the west of the Mississippi River.

The lake’s high salinity makes it buoyant enough for swimmers to float over the water surface.

Its salinity also affects fish, making it a habitat only conducive for migratory birds, among other wildlife that does well in salty waters or its environments.

Most of the Great Salt Lake’s visitors love to start with Antelope Island, thanks to its fabulous beaches and waters; from there, you can also catch views of the Great Salt Lake and rare surrounding sights.

14. Grand Staircase-Escalante National Monument

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One of the things you can consider doing in Utah is tour some of the region’s most remote areas of arches, canyons, forest, scrubland, waterfalls, and hills; the Grand Staircase-Escalante National Monument offers it all.

The park sits on 1.9 million acres, making it America’s largest national monument.

Enjoy a drive through the less-traveled dirt roads.

Hikers are also sure to have a fun time.

Enjoy the Lower Creek Falls Trail’s breathtaking scenery, one of the park’s most popular areas.

The nearby Paria town is an interesting stop you could make during your tour.

The town was established in 1865, south of the monument and neighboring the Paria River.

While Paria town has been lost to time since its 1920 abandonment, several western films have shot scenes in its remains.

For non-stop adventure, you can camp out in the Grand Staircase Escalante.

If the wild doesn’t interest you as much as luxury does, you can settle in any resort near the park.

Address: 745 US-89, Kanab, UT 84741, United States

15. Moqui Cave

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Your exploration of Utah should go all the way to Moqui Cave , the Southern Utah sandstone cave, and one of the state’s tourist spots.

It doubles up as a history museum with fluorescent minerals.

Take a trip down history lane in the footprints, fossils, art, pottery, among other displays of remnants from the cave’s early occupants—Native Americans and dinosaurs.

If your day is getting hotter, you can relax with some refreshments at an outdoor cafe.

While temperatures may go up, they do not exceed 65 degrees in the cave.

The museum holds a great collection of artifacts; look through them and travel back in time.

The teepee will lead you to a black-lit room with glowing paintings and minerals.

Do you have vacation ideas for a good time?

You can consider the Moqui Cave.

Besides having fun and relaxing, you can look into the history of Native America and the museum’s extinct dinosaurs.

Things to see include glowing minerals and paintings in the museum’s black-lit room.

Address: 4581 US-89, Kanab, UT 84741, United States

16. Utah Shakespeare Festival

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Do you love plays?

The Utah Shakespeare Festival is one of the events you must attend in Utah; it is held every year between June 29 and October 21.

If your schedule can accommodate the nine plays in line along with several other events, then you are sure to have a trip of a lifetime.

You can attend play seminars in the mornings and enjoy talks about performances.

On Mondays and Fridays, you can join the Repertory Magic and share your inquiries on scene changes.

Do you get curious about what goes on backstage?

Have a tour; you must see the gear, including props and scenery.

Between July and August, you can enjoy Q&As over luncheons.

Would you take a free event offer?

Catch Greenshows between June 29 and September, and daily production seminars.

The Utah Shakespeare Festival is a perfect stretch of exciting events and entertainment that you do not want to miss.

Besides the enjoyable performances, the festival offers plenty of helpful lessons and holds regular discussions or talks.

Address: 195 W Center St, Cedar City, UT 84720, United States

17. Best Friends Animal Sanctuary​

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Would you provide sanctuary to a homeless animal?

Best Friends Animal Sanctuary is a haven for homeless animals.

The no-kill center with roughly 1,700 cats, dogs, horses, bunnies, birds, among other animals, offers adoption, receiving more from all over the country.

Since animals with special needs often go unattended, Best Friends provides a sanctuary; recovering animals also have some safe space here.

You can visit Best Friends to meet the adorable animals.

The sanctuary offers lessons and tours.

Events that may interest you include Thanksgiving dinner, Paint Your Pet’s Portrait, and binny yoga.

The animals are grouped into respective houses: Cat World, Dogtown, Horse Haven, Bunny House, Parrot Garden, and Piggy Paradise.

If you love pets, one of the things you can consider doing in Utah is adopting from Best Friends.

Nevertheless, a mere visit could transform your trip’s experience.

Address: 5001 Angel Canyon Rd, Kanab, UT 84741, United States

18. Sri Sri Radha Krishna Temple

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Utah’s Hindus come together in the Sri Sri Radha Krishna Temple , established in 1998 and inspired by the Indian Rajasthani architecture.

Due to Utah’s Mormon popularity and populace, a Hindu temple stands out.

The temple was built on 15 acres.

It has a beautiful landscape of some animals, a large pavilion, a lake, and a waterfall.

The beautiful surroundings make this temple one of the lovely places to be in Utah.

If your schedule will be clear over this weekend or any time of the week, why don’t you pay a visit?

The temple is open for daily visits.

Besides watching the animals, you can have a look at the rare architecture.

You can also enjoy a vegetarian buffet for lunch.

In the temple room, a kirtan session awaits; you can then visit the gift store before proceeding with your tour.

Why don’t you join the Hindu festivals?

You can celebrate Holi and Diwali and understand a little about their culture.

Address: 311 W 8500 S, Spanish Fork, UT 84660, United States

19. Natural History Museum of Utah

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Preservation of history is one of the ways to keep culture and heritage alive.

One of the places to visit is the Natural History Museum of Utah for a trip down history lane with its 1.5 million and more artifacts.

Various items in the paleontology section represent the Intermountain West.

The history houses cover the anthropology section, with 11,500 BC specimens.

Frozen DNA swatches are exhibits of the botany section.

You can also view reptile, bird, mammal, and amphibian specimens in the vertebrate zoology section.

Other sections you can visit include the entomology section; it is home to the six continents’ insect specimens.

The malacology section presents six marine mollusks classes.

The mineralogy section holds a worldwide minerals collection.

You can use the gift shop and if you have time, relax at the in-house café.

If you would like some lessons or enjoy recreational activities, the museum’s all-ages program could suit you.

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

20. Angels Landing

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Do you imagine an entire day dedicated to only hiking?

If you are an enthusiast, the idea may sound fun.

Angels Landing is one of the places to visit in Utah.

Hikers who travel worldwide to try Angels Landing’s hiking trails enjoy a fun stretch to Zion National Park.

The valley floor at Zion is a spectacular view from the top.

Not all who try make it to the top of Angels Landing, considering the hike’s challenges.

It rises to a 1,500-feet elevation through 2.5 miles.

You will come upon narrow sections and sharp drop-offs along the trail, which may test your limits the more.

Nevertheless, if you are up for it, you could walk out of this place with plenty of experience and after lots of fun.

If the hike does not go well for you, the Scout Lookout could be a suitable turnaround; you are not limited on the best ways to spend your day!

Address: West Rim Trail, Zion National Park, UT, United States

21. Valley of the Gods

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Looking for more places to visit in Utah?

Try the Valley of the Gods .

There, you will find many mesas and rearing rock formations.

You will come upon the Valley of the Gods, driving southwest of Utah and outside the Mexican Hat.

The valley stretches over 27 kilometers through a dusty trail.

You may enjoy the drive and the many sights along the way; above are massive mushroom rocks and huge sandstone towers.

You don’t have to end your visit there; the valley offers quality camping grounds.

You can enjoy an overnight experience, with beautiful scenery.

Hikers and mountain bikers can have fun exploring the terrain.

Make memories in the Valley of the Gods.

You can enjoy your week bursting with activity and have a weekend retreat in the valley.

Its beautiful sights, hiking, mountain biking, and camping opportunities make this one of Utah’s best destinations.

Address: Mexican Hat, UT 84531, United States

22. Hill Aerospace Museum

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One of the best things to do in Utah is to learn from the Air Force and its preservation of American history.

The Hill Aerospace Museum holds one of the wealthiest artifacts’ collections in the United States, with items from five eras.

The United States Air Force’s field museum takes the shape of an aircraft and is one of the top Utah attractions you may love to visit in Utah.

While the museum’s collection exceeds 4,000 items, only 20% is displayed.

Therefore, learn from and marvel at what you can get your eyes or hands on.

The Lindquist-Stewart Gallery receives most of the museum’s visitors who love beautiful artwork, among other artifacts on display.

If you would be interested in attending aerospace and defense speeches, the Plane Talk lecture series could be an exciting stop.

You can consider more of what to see, visiting the Utah Aviation Hall of Fame before departure.

Address: 7961 Cottonwood St Building 1955, Hill AFB, UT 84056, United States

23. The Narrows

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Did you get to Zion National Park?

If the Angels Landing is a hiker’s sport, The Narrows is a hiker’s paradise.

A majority of Zion National Park’s guests enjoy a hiking chance through The Narrows trail.

The adventure you can expect in this hike best suits the brave-hearted and the daring.

As the name suggests, The Narrows is Zion Canyon’s narrowest section; you may come upon areas of width twenty feet.

The canyon is towered by impressive walls that you may love.

Along the trail are other interesting Utah attractions and exciting challenges.

Prepare to get wet and cold as you cross over the Virgin River.

You may find the river’s boulders discomforting to walk on; they can also get slippery.

Therefore, quality hiking gear would go a long way to transform your experience.

If your weekend schedule is flexible, a hike through The Narrows could be an exciting thing to do in Utah.

Address: Temple of Sinawava, Zion National Park, Springdale, UT 84767, United States

24. Mirror Lake

Guy In Utah / Shutterstock

A lake can offer plenty of opportunities for exciting activities; you can enjoy some time out on the Mirror Lake, one of the Utah attractions, and indulge in various exciting stuff.

The lake stretches over 22 acres at the bottom of the Bald Mountain, which stands at 12,000 feet.

Its visitors love its clear waters and the perfect location.

You can boat for hours, fish, and explore the beautiful waters.

Kayaking is also a fun sport.

If you would like to extend your time, you can camp out for one or more nights.

The Mirror Lake wins most of its visitors’ hearts, with the wildlife sights from the surrounding forest; any time of the day, you can enjoy watching wildlife.

The lovely surroundings of Mirror Lake result in more possibilities of fun through any of the various hiking trails.

You may find it perfect for a stopping or recharge point.

25. La Verkin Creek

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Utah offers additional hiking opportunities for what to do at the La Verkin Creek.

You will come upon the Creek near the Zion National Park.

If you are thinking of ways to spend your weekend, a hike through the Creek’s trails could be exciting; you can also camp in the quality grounds.

Nearby is the stunning Toquerville Falls—here, sandstone ledges surround beautiful waterfalls, flowing into a pool.

You may love to visit the Creek during summer since it provides a suitable environment for a chill or cool-off.

Utah’s La Verkin Creek is simple but impressive.

After looking around, you can settle down to enjoy the ambiance of the surrounding areas.

The Toquerville Falls’ clear water could be an ideal solution for the summer heat.

Why don’t you visit this Creek today?

26. Meadow Hot Springs

Do you love the feeling of steam over your skin or watching springs shoot?

One of the places to visit is the Meadow Hot Springs.

Enjoy time in exceptionally clear water with a perfect backdrop.

Utah is the home of adventure; you should not leave the state before discovering the awesomeness of Meadow Hot Springs.

The pool is situated on private property, four miles from Fillmore.

The property’s owner has been so kind as to allow public access to the springs.

Nevertheless, the rules you will find at the main gate help to uphold the friendly co-existence.

When you pay a visit, be sure to abide by the rules.

Address: Meadow, UT, United States

27. Four Corners

Images by Dr. Alan Lipkin / Shutterstock

You may know the Four Corners Monument as a meeting point for four of America’s states.

The monument serves as an attraction to all interested in a bit of history and other lessons.

Four Corners is situated at the USA’s South-west, connecting some of the most beautiful states : Utah, New Mexico , Colorado , and Arizona .

You may not come upon any such states’ meeting point in the United States; therefore, some guests love to see this rarity and enjoy an on-foot experience.

Navajo and Ute Mountain Ute Tribe governments also border at the Four Corners.

Therefore, you can visit the monument to be part of history and get a sense of the area’s indigenous culture and heritage.

If you hope to have more than an adventure in Utah, the Four Corners Monument could offer something unique for your trip.

Explore the native history and learn about the surrounding states.

After that, drive around Utah for more tourist attractions and fun stuff to do.

Address: 597 NM-597, Teec Nos Pos, AZ 86514, United States

28. Alpine Loop

Abbie Warnock-Matthews / Shutterstock

You do not have to do much sometimes but enjoy the magnificence of a scenic drive.

For 20 miles, the Alpine Loop takes you through a stretch of alpine canyons.

You can stop at many points along the way to enjoy Utah attractions, such as views of Mount Timpanogos, famous for its glaciers, among other incredibly-looking mountains.

You can detour to the Timpanogos Cave National Monument, which you will come upon along your drive.

Take some time to look around the spectacular Cascade Springs, which may as well interest you.

Most visitors love to watch the springs, whose water trickles from the mountains.

Enjoy the beauty of nature, watching the native trout swim around the more extensive and clearer pools of water.

It is okay to take some time off all the adventure and enjoy your surroundings; the Alpine Loop does not disappoint.

29. Corona Arch

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If Moab town and the Arches National Park have made it to your destination considerations, you can add Corona Arch to your list of things to see.

While Utah is home to many land formations and fantastic arches, the Corona Arch makes one of the state’s largest, attracting visitors from within and beyond.

The arch is a natural sandstone formation situated between Moab and the park.

You may find it a great chance to hike.

Since the distance to the arch is relatively short, most if not all visitors manage the hiking trail.

The trail picks up north of the Colorado River, off Highway 191, and stretches through three miles.

You may enjoy climbing ladders, rocks, and metal cables, among more.

Touring and hiking to the Corona Arch is one of the exciting and free things to do.

Address: Moab, UT 84532, United States

30. Under Canvas

NickSpinder / Shutterstock

Can you imagine how a camping experience in some of the most luxurious settings would be?

Under Canvas is an ideal stop in Utah for lodging and camping on excellent grounds.

Under Canvas sits on an estimated 200 acres and is situated near Zion National Park, about 20 miles apart.

You may love the destination for a quiet and solo retreat or an overnight exploration of what the American Southwest has for you.

Inside, you will enjoy showers, a sink, a private deck, and a flushing toilet.

The camping site is also towered by sandstone cliffs, providing a beautiful view.

During winter, you may find the woodstove within the tents to be quite handy for heat generation.

Address: 3955 Kolob Terrace Rd, Virgin, UT 84779, United States

31. Bluff Fort Historic Site

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History presents more lessons at Bluff Fort Historic Site .

Among what to do is spend your day going through the olden days’ establishments and determining their purposes; explore the Hole-in-the-Rock expedition.

You may find the fort’s construction interesting and effective on its goal—it provided defense from invaders.

Therefore, the cabin doors and windows face inward.

You can tour Bluff City and learn about its communal purposes, including a church, school, and public meeting venue.

You can also have a look through the Bluff co-op, where residents got their food and staples.

The fort has transformed since the late 1880s.

It was taken down in 1883 and upgraded in 1890 to Victorian-style houses.

Despite the fort’s changes, the community retained its culture, shifting to ranching.

You can enjoy plenty of sights to see and lessons at the fort’s visitor’s center.

If you have time, you can also visit the gift shop before departure.

Address: 550 East Black Locust Ave, Bluff, UT 84512, United States

32. Utah Symphony

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One of the oldest expressions of the arts is music.

The Utah Symphony promotes the arts in Utah through tours and educational programs.

The symphony is a part of the American West culture.

One of the places to visit is the Abravanel Hall to catch the Utah Symphony’s performances.

If you have the time, you can also consider attending Park City’s Deer Valley Music Festival summer concerts.

The symphony boasts of several Grammy Awards nominations.

It also holds records of its creations.

Catch the 6.45 pm MasterWorks performances’ pre-concert lectures or the 8 pm concerts.

If you are in no hurry, the 90 to 120 minutes of performance could turn out remarkable.

You can enjoy an experience of a lifetime, attending the symphony’s events; this is one of the places in Utah that can offer the best for your trip.

Depending on how flexible your budget is, a VIP package could suit you for one of the Utah Symphony concerts.

Address: 123 W S Temple, Salt Lake City, UT 84101, United States

33. Dead Horse Point State Park

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Some of the most breathtaking views can be a fantastic way to unwind during your vacation.

One of the places to visit is the Dead Horse Point State Park for great lookouts in Utah.

There are various viewpoints from which you can catch beautiful sights.

From the main point, the lovely landscape presents a gooseneck in the Colorado River.

You may also enjoy looking over at the distant 2,000-feet cliff walls.

You can drive down the Potash Road below the viewpoint; to the left, views of Thelma and Louise Point will grace your eyes—Thelma and Louise, a motion picture’s final scene, was filmed at the point.

A walking trail stretches through the rim, providing some of the most remarkable views in the park.

You can stroll down the trail and enjoy the experience.

You will come upon Dead Horse Point State Park near Moab, a suitable location for the adventure.

Address: UT-313, Moab, UT 84532, United States

34. St. George

Layne V. Naylor / Shutterstock

More outdoor activities and Utah attractions await you at St. George.

Located in southern Utah, the city is home to some of the top parks and the state’s points of interest.

St. George holds a Mormon history; therefore, it is one of the destinations most visitors to Utah want to see.

You can tour the Brigham Young Winter Home Historical Site or visit St. George Temple.

Over the weekend, you can walk to Pioneer Park or view the Red Hills Desert Garden.

If you enjoy hiking, you may find various trails within a thirty-minute drive of the city.

You can also camp out in some of the highest-quality grounds in Utah.

Drive to Snow Canyon State Park, which is under 20 minutes from St. George.

If you have time, you can also take the one-hour drive to the nearby Zion National Park.

Planning to visit St. George soon? Why not check out some of the things to do in St. George, Utah ?

35. Sundance Film Festival

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Every January, the Sundance Institutes hosts the Sundance Film Festival in Utah’s Park City; it is America’s largest independent film festival.

Robert Redford’s Wildwood started Sundance in 1978, intending to take Utah’s film-making to another level.

Thanks to the festival’s independence, Sundance has maintained its goal and continues its annual event.

If you enjoy films and entertainment, you may have a good time at the festival, which runs for two weeks.

Park City’s night screenings make the destination more attractive.

Enjoy some fun time with your friends or family.

Since the event happens only in January, early preparation could go a long way in ensuring you get the most out of your trip.

Address: Park City, UT, United States

36. Carl’s Critter Garden

Carl’s Critter Garden

Would you like to try an experience, unlike many others?

You do not need much time or any money for it; one of the things to see in Utah is Carl’s Critter Garden.

The outdoor museum features a simple design and presents themed collections of animals and artwork.

You will come upon Carl’s Critter Garden in Hanksville and along Highway 24.

It is on the way to Capitol Reef National Park.

Therefore, why don’t you spare some minutes to start your day with a fun exploration of abstract artwork?

You can enjoy a chill during the stop, looking through the exciting exhibits, among them dinosaur sculptures put together from recycled materials, such as old car parts.

Carl’s Critter Garden is free to enter and view; nevertheless, you may donate if you wish.

While you may not walk out with history lessons or ancient culture, there is so much you can love about this roadside stop’s simplicity.

Stopping by is one of the free things to do.

Address: 864, Hanksville, UT 84734, United States

37. Cove Fort Historic Site

jdjohannsen / Shutterstock

Take a trip back to the 1800s at the Cove Fort Historic Site ; you may not come across any such constructions of the Latter-Day Saints.

Cove Fort’s purpose was to provide shelter, food, and water to Idaho and California travelers of the Latter-Day Saints.

You can enjoy educative tours around the fort to get a sense of how life was like in the early times.

Among the available sections for exploration is the feeding area for residents, known as the “big room” or kitchen; this was also a space for meetings and religious gatherings.

Residents bathed and washed their garments in the washing and weaving room.

You can look around the family and guest rooms or see the telegraph office, post office, blacksmith shop, replica barn, prairie wagon, and even bunkhouse.

Cove Fort preserves some of Utah’s history and could be one of the destinations to have a good time and learn.

Address: Highway 161se, Beaver, UT 84713, United States

38. Utah Field House of Natural History State Park Museum

mark byzewski / flickr

Explore prehistoric geological exhibits at the Utah Field House of Natural History State Park Museum .

The park is home to some of history’s oldest records in geological objects.

Of what may interest you is the Unita Fossil Journey; you will see a 90-foot Diplodocus skeleton.

You may also enjoy the Stories in Stone film.

For a more interactive experience, the Morrison Dig Site and Fossil Lab allows you to look into an article’s fossil or debris identity; you can also learn more touring the lab.

Go back 145 million years at the Jurassic Hall, with three old skeletons; from around the same time, are displays at the Eocene Gallery.

The Rocks Revealed section takes you through the earth’s four major eras, with fossils exhibits.

Are you traveling with children?

You can consider the dinosaur garden, which has interesting models, or the children’s lab for more fun.

Address: 496 E Main St, Vernal, UT 84078, United States

39. Park Silly Sunday Market

Shopping is one of the top things to do in Utah, and the Park Silly Sunday Market is one of the places to go.

Before leaving the state, you must visit Park City and shop in the open-air Park Silly Sunday Market.

The market was established in 2006 and is opened every June through to mid-September.

The great variety of items and the roughly 2,000 vendor booths bring the city at least 200,000 visitors every year.

Depending on your interest, you can visit various stalls and view their options.

Farmer’s market stalls are lined with delicious pantries, while the many antique vendors or regional arts and crafts offer rare and unique selections.

If you are looking for excellent food joints, plenty of food trucks could interest you.

Live music performances are held during the market season, topping all the activity; you can also catch stilt walkers, balloon artists, and magicians, among other strolling performers.

Between June and mid-September, why don’t you find time to visit the Park Silly Sunday Market and spoil yourself with something nice?

Address: 780 Main St, Park City, UT 84060, United States

40. Mystic Hot Springs

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Utah is home to some of the best sights and ancient histories of the United States; hot springs are major tourist attractions.

One of the places to go for a good time in a soaking pool is the Mystic Hot Springs .

In 1995, an artist came upon the area covering Mystic Hot Springs on his way to Denver from Vegas .

The natural hot spring would serve two pools of his creation.

Today, it attracts many visitors to Utah.

Besides two concrete pools, the soaking area is built with six vintage cast-iron bathtubs; the bathtubs have mineral-rich water, which will leave you refreshed, with no after-smell.

Mystic Hot Springs is situated in Monroe.

The soaking passes go for $15, purchasable on their website.

You may also have to make a reservation for access.

Address: 475 E 100 N, Monroe, UT 84754, United States

41. Amangiri

How would you like to dine and enjoy breathtaking views?

The Amangiri offers luxury dining options in Southern Utah.

It sits on 600 acres and is located in a protected valley, half an hour from Page town.

You can catch spectacular sights of the Grand Staircase-Escalante National Monument from Amangiri.

Guests love the beautiful swimming pool built into the center of the hotel.

Besides working out in the fitness center, you can enjoy spa services or practice yoga in the yoga pavilion.

The hotel serves a seasonal menu based on the American Southwest and the Navajo culture and heritage.

Address: 1 Kayenta Rd, Canyon Point, UT 84741, United States

42. Hole N’ The Rock

Ruslan Kalnitsky / Shutterstock

One of the roadside stops you may love in Utah is the Hole N’ The Rock .

The 5,000 square foot home provides a unique experience—it is carved into a rock.

You will come upon the Hole N’ The Rock home on your way to the Arches National Park and Moab, along Highway 91.

Take some time to explore the home’s exotic zoo.

Things to see include camels, zebras, and bison.

You can also shop in the gift store.

You can visit Hole N’ The Rock any time of the year.

If you would consider a guided tour, you may have to part with some admission fee.

Address: 11037 US-191, Moab, UT 84532, United States

43. Dinosaur National Monument

As the name suggests, Dinosaur National Monument attracts visitors for its extensive record of dinosaur fossils discovered within the region and its surroundings.

The primary collection of over 1,500 fossils may astound you; they are embedded in the Carnegie Quarry’s cliff wall.

Visit the monument for an amazing experience and learn about the evolutions through time.

For closer access to the monument, you can now enjoy your time in the Quarry Hall, opened over a section of the rock.

Most guests love to hike or raft.

The quality camping grounds also attract overnight guests.

If the weekend is nearing and you are out of ideas of what to do, you can head over to the Dinosaur National Monument with your friends or family and make memories that last, learning from fossils lost to time.

Address: 11625 E 1500 S, Jensen, UT 84035, United States

44. Coral Pink Sand Dunes State Park

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What do you have in mind for fun things to do in Utah?

You can try sandboarding or sand games in the Coral Pink Sand Dunes State Park .

You may find the park’s pink sands attractive; the shifting dunes and rolling hills make good playing areas.

Visit the state park today, go over the soft sand mountains, have fun ATVing, and even sandboarding.

Every once in a while, stop for some rare photo shots.

The park is open for day-use visits.

Due to the nature of sand, you can find suitable campgrounds on the edge of the dunes, where small trees provide some shelter.

You may find the site perfect for solo retreats or trips with friends and colleagues.

Look around and play in the sand.

Address: 12500 Sand Dune Rd, Kanab, UT 84741, United States

45. Cedar Breaks National Monument

Sara Edwards / Shutterstock

You should not end your trip to Utah before visiting the Cedar Breaks National Monument .

The amphitheater goes to a depth of 2,000 feet and around a three-mile diameter.

Despite being open throughout the year, Cedar Breaks experiences winter conditions, regardless of the season, thanks to its elevation of 10,000 feet.

Therefore, Highway 47, which offers a scenic drive, is closed between mid-November and late May-June.

You can take down the Rim Drive for some of the most incredible views; you can also catch the canyon’s sights on short hikes through the rim and alpine meadows.

The bristlecone pines look beautiful.

Enjoy a four-mile drive on the Spectra Point and Ramparts Overlook Trail and through the edge of a plateau.

You will come to the Cedar Breaks viewpoint.

End your exploration with the two-mile Alpine Pond Trail.

The circular hike leads to a subalpine forest clearing and, as the name suggests, a pond.

Address: UT-143, Brian Head, UT 84719, United States

Start Planning Your Trip To Utah

If you are looking up adventurous destinations and vacation places in the United States, Utah could be top of your list.

There are various things to see and places to visit in the state.

Plenty of fun outdoor activities, such as hiking, biking, skiing, swimming, fishing, sandboarding, ATVing, among others, await you.

You can go back in time and learn from the abundant natural resources, such as fossils, artwork, pottery, footprints, and artifacts conserved over time.

Visit forts and have a sense of the native cultures and heritages.

The state’s national and state parks preserve the country’s rich history.

You can enjoy some time in hot springs and dine in some of the most scenic restaurants in Utah.

View various wildlife and explore different lakes, cliffs, mountains, and even valleys.

Utah is the home for adventure and a place you may not wish to leave.

You are spoilt for choice on the best things to do in Utah.

If you have the time, spend it making memories.

Happy travels.

25 Best Places to Visit in Utah For Your Utah Bucket List + Map

This Utah Bucket List is filled with adventurous things to do and mind-blowing beauty.

The Utah Mighty Five National Parks are a huge draw to the state but the epic Utah hidden gems are also what make it one of the most beautiful states in the USA The destinations on this list are undeniably the best places to visit in Utah .

A road trip is our favorite way to explore Utah. Use the Utah attractions map at the bottom to plot your course. That way you can plan your route without missing any of the best sights to see in Utah.

We’ve road tripped Utah in our car several times and tried out van life with an Outdoorsy rental. If you are looking to do a sprinter van rental, the code  Jen50 will get you $50 off your first Outdoorsy rental .

This post contains affiliate links. If you book or buy something through one of these links, we may earn a commission at no extra cost to you. You can read our full disclosure  here .

Planning a trip to the American Southwest? Check out these latest posts.

• 18 Things to do in Kanab, Utah on the Utah/Arizona Border
• 20 Best Places to Visit in Arizona for Your AZ Bucket List
• 20 Bucket List Adventures Around the World
• 10 Hiking Essentials to Pack for a Day Hike

25 Best Places to Visit in Utah For Your Utah Bucket List

These 25 places to put on your Utah bucket list came from spending a few months exploring the state and some of our favorite travel bloggers recommendations.

You’ll also find tips and the best places to stay to make your trip planning easy. Where we can, we’ve listed the best things to see along with hotels and campgrounds.

This interactive Utah attractions map will allow you to see where everything is located.

Utah Attractions Map

Best Things to Do in Northern Utah

Bonneville Salt Flats Tops the List of Cool Things to do in Utah

About 1.5 hours west of Salt Lake City at the Nevada border are the Bonneville Salt Flats. This picturesque area has a hard salt crust that covers more than 25,000 square acres of land.

The high speed cars that race on the salt at Bonneville Speedway is one of the reasons this remote area is well known. We were lucky enough to catch all the action including a new world record set at 470 MPH.

Visiting Bonneville Salt Flats in Utah is such a unique, bucket list experience.

Bonneville is also the site for other annual events like the Salt Flats Endurance Runs. These races vary in length from a 5K to a 100 mile ultra marathon. The Utah Rocket Club hosts a rocket launch event called LDRS (Large Dangerous Rocket Ships).

To visit Bonneville, pull off Interstate 80 at the rest stop and drive your own car right onto the salt. We highly recommend catching sunrise or sunset there.

Regardless of the time you visit, bring a camera and have fun taking photos especially when it turns into a big mirror after it rains. If it’s wet though, you can’t drive your car on it because you can get stuck.

Since the area is run by the Bureau of Land Management, you can camp for free in one of the designated areas. Check the weather first, it’s really hot in summer. The Best Western Plus Wendover Inn is also nearby.

Ice Castles in Midway is One of the Best Winter Places to Visit in Utah

Recommended by Melissa from Parenthood and Passports

Located in the cute mountain town of Midway, Utah, Ice Castles is a winter attraction built entirely from ice.

The experience, which is typically only open in January and February, features 25 million pounds of icicles, all hand-placed to create the acre-size walk-through display. The ice glows and lights up at night with color-changing LEDs. 

But this unique Utah attraction is more than just a beautiful, artistic place to visit. It also features ice slides, crawl spaces, a maze of tunnels and caverns, and narrow squeeze spaces designed to look like the famous slot canyons in Utah .

It is great for a romantic date night or a family outing, as kids love exploring the icy playground. Dress warmly, in insulated pants and coats, and plan to spend about an hour to truly appreciate this man-made wonder.

You’ll want to book tickets in advance on their website, as the popular attraction sells out quickly since it’s only open two months of the year. 

Hiking Mount Timpanogos Alpine Loop is a Fun Thing to Do Near Salt Lake City

Recommended by McKenna Hurd of One More Step Travels

When hiking near  Salt Lake City Utah, the Alpine Loop is a must visit! This scenic byway is one of the most beautiful places in the Wasatch Mountains. It’s home to Utah’s most famous mountain: Mount Timpanogos, measuring 11,752 feet tall.

Reaching the summit is a rite of passage for Utah hikers and definitely bucket list worthy!

There are two ways to hike Mount Timpanogos—the gradual way through wildflower-filled meadows or the steeper way past waterfalls and lakes. Both ways are stunning and get you to the top after about 8 miles of hiking.

16 miles in one day can be a daunting task, so if you aren’t ready to conquer Mount Timpanogos, take a drive along the entire Alpine Loop. There are enough activities on the loop to last a day or even a long weekend.

You can explore Timpanogos Cave National Monument, kayak or stand up paddleboard in Tibble Fork, and stroll along Cascade Falls or one of the many other hikes in the area.

Before you leave, stop by or stay overnight at Sundance Mountain Resort ! It’s a beautiful resort with lodging for all group sizes. The activities at Sundance are endless, from skiing in the winter to zipping over the mountains anytime of year.

Entrance to the alpine loop is $6, or free with a National Parks Pass . The road past Sundance is closed during the winter, so visit before then to enjoy the beauty of nature, away from the bustling cities on the other side of Mount Timpanogos.

Rafting the Green River in Utah is a Great Family Bucket List Adventure

Recommended by Ladona Stork of Walking the Parks

Rafting the Green River is an adventure not to be missed that starts at Brown’s Park National Wildlife Refuge in the SW corner of Colorado. It continues for 3 to 4 days through the Dinosaur National Monument, and ends near Vernal, Utah.

Floating through the aptly named Gates of Lodore , rafts pass through a narrow canyon that is carved out by the Green River. The canyon walls, 800 feet tall, cast an ominous shadow over your raft as you travel downstream.

As a protected area, rafters experience exhilarating class II, III and IV rapids just as naturalist and explorer John Powell’s team did in 1869.

Well, except in a modern raft designed for the rushing water instead of his small wooden boat that smashed against the rocks.

Group camping sites are spread along the river bank where the dark sky makes for amazing star watching. 

This multi-day rafting trip is best experienced with a professional guide, although you can enter an annual lottery for your permit if you have heavy duty gear. OARS rafting trips on the Green River are available from May – September.

May brings high water and strong river currents so children must be at least 11. However, summer trips are calmer and kids as young as 7 are welcome. Best of all, the guides provide all your gear.

The guides secret spots along the river like their favorite swimming hole, hot springs and waterfalls.

The Green River also offers fishing opportunities as the river is stocked with trout. Both a Colorado and Utah fishing license is required as the river flows through both states.

Visiting Utah’s Mighty 5 National Parks

Arches National Park is One of the Must Sees in Utah

With over 2,000 natural stone arches – the largest concentration of arches in the world, Arches National Park has something amazing for everyone.

There are quite a few easy trails that are really close to the parking areas and great for families like Sand Dune Arch, Double Arch, and the North and South Window.

Photographers and hikers head up the slick rock Delicate Arch for spectacular sunsets.

The area of Moab itself is one of the best Utah places to visit for adventurers. Bike enthusiasts come from all over for the Slickrock Moab Bike Trails .

It’s a strenuous 12 mile ride though incredible terrain. If it sounds fun but maybe too hard, just know that E-bikes are allowed.

A few great tours that will add lots of fun to your trip are the half day Colorado River rafting trip and driving a 4×4 on the Hells Revenge Guided Tour . You can even take the kids and get a serious adrenaline rush.

A great time to visit Arches is Spring and Fall when the weather is nice, tons of activities are available but the crowds are definitely the biggest. Summer is extremely hot.

The winter is peaceful and cold but you get a chance to see massive arches at times all by yourself.

The Needles in Canyonlands National Park for a Backcountry Adventure

Recommended by Meg of Fox in the Forest

Backpacking The Needles District in Canyonlands National Park should be on everyone’s bucket list, especially if you’d like to experience the raw desert magic of eastern Utah.

Think wacky sandstone spires piercing the sky, hoodoos twisting their way into canyons, and landscapes that look like they came straight out of Mars. That’s what visiting this secluded district in Canyonlands is like!

There are countless routes for the intrepid backpacker, many of which are considered the best  hikes in Moab   for those who don’t mind roughing it.

By far, the Elephant Canyon area is the best part to backpack in Canyonlands. It offers super secluded spots to catch the most magical views. You’ll get to choose from plenty of spur trails and have lots of backcountry campsites to spend the night.

Tip: Make sure to check out Druid Arch at sunset, you’re almost guaranteed the entire place to yourself!

Spring and fall are the best seasons for backpacking the Needles, particularly mid-March through April, and October through mid-November. Avoid summers are temperatures are extreme.

You can backpack the Needles in two days. Spending a night at one of its backcountry campsites is essential to fully get to experience the desert.

The Needles is a very remote place and you’ll need to carry enough water for the time you’ll be there. Moreover, you need a permit to backpack the Needles.

They tend to book out months in advance, so make sure you snag one as soon as you confirm your trip.

Backpacking the Needles is not recommended for dogs or children due to the extreme conditions. For an even longer adventure, look into bikepacking the famous White Rim Loop .

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Glamping in Moab to Visit Arches and Canyonlands National Parks

Recommended by Allison Green of Eternal Arrival

One of the most bucket list worthy places to visit in Utah is Moab, and you can up the ante by glamping at the beautiful Under Canvas Moab glampsite — a must on any  Moab itinerary .

Located just a short drive from two national parks, Arches National Park and Canyonlands National Park, glamping in Moab is the perfect way to continue the outdoor adventure, even while you sleep!

While glamping at Moab, there are tons of different activities you can do during the day before returning to your glampsite.

Check out Delicate Arch for a sunrise hike, admire the sunset at Dead Horse Point State Park, or take a scenic drive through Canyonlands. Then return to Under Canvas Moab for s’mores, stargazing, and an amazing sunrise the next morning. 

Visit Under Canvas Moab in fall and spring for the best weather. Summers are boiling hot and the tents only have small battery-powered fans. 

Winter is cold and can snow in Moab! However, there are wood-fired stoves you can use to heat the glamping tent on chilly nights, and plenty of warm blankets if you need it.

Under Canvas Moab is both kid- and pet-friendly! Kids will have a great time staying in the tents, and some of the tents come with a small tipi-style structure for kids to sleep in away from the parents. 

Bring a portable battery pack for any electronics, and be prepared to unplug — there is no WiFi (though I was able to get phone service).

Book it in advance because it sells out quickly, especially the nicer tents with private bathrooms! The tents without private bathrooms share the bathrooms on-site are very clean and well tended.

RELATED POST: 7 Amazing Glamping Destinations in the USA

Capitol Reef National Park Petroglyphs

Recommended by Ale Leon of Sea Salt & Fog

Capitol Reef is the hidden gem of Utah’s National Parks. Located in the south-central area of the state, the park is relatively unknown (a good thing!).

Capitol Reef is stunning, and has many epic, bucket-list worthy adventures for everyone. The best part? No crowds! One of the  best things to do in Capitol Reef National Park  is to explore its history.

The park is home to beautifully preserved petroglyphs carved by the Native American people that inhabited the land hundreds of years ago, and they don’t require a ton of effort to see. 

The most accessible area to see the petroglyphs is right off the main road (Hwy 24). There are signs pointing the way, a parking lot, and a boardwalk with signs that will tell you where to look.

Bring binoculars to see the petroglyphs better, they’re high off the ground in the red rock face. 

Another spot to see petroglyphs is on the Capitol Gorge trail. This super easy hike will first take you to see petroglyphs so close you can touch them, then to see the Pioneer Register where settlers carved their names into the rock in the 1800s. 

The Capitol Reef Resort in nearby Torrey has beautiful cottages, luxurious Teepees and even covered wagons to add the adventure. In the park, the Fruita campground is a good choice.

The weather tends to be beautiful and cooler than the rest of Utah, but winter brings snow that can close down the park. Aim for early fall or late spring for your visit!  

Hiking in Bryce Canyon National Park

Recommended by Kate Storm of Our Escape Clause

Dramatic, striking, and easy to find, hiking through Wall Street slot canyon is not only one of the best things to do in Bryce Canyon National Park, it’s one of the best Utah bucket list destinations!

So many visitors just see Bryce Canyon from up above at the various view points but hiking down among the hoodoos gives you a better appreciation for how amazing they are.

Wall Street, one of the most popular hikes is a perfect quick addition that allows you to experience the beauty first hand.

It can be accessed either from the Navajo Loop trailhead or the Queen’s Garden trailhead. The views from Navajo Loop are a bit better, as you descend into the slot canyon rather than climb out of it.

If you combine both trails (two of the most popular in the park!) with a hike through Wall Street, the total distance is about 3 miles. Wall Street closes during the winter but there are plenty of things to still do in Bryce Canyon in winter .

If you are looking for a longer distance, more challenging hike try the 7.8 mile Fairyland Loop Trail .

For the best views, consider hiking in the middle of the day when the light reaches the bottom of the canyon. It’s a great place to capture an amazing family photo.

To stay in the Bryce Canyon area overnight, the Best Western Plus Bryce Canyon Grand Hotel features beautiful views, great rooms, and a fantastic breakfast.

Zion National Park Has Some of the Top Sights to See in Utah

Zion National Park is one of the best places to visit in Utah and many people end up staying for at least a few days. There are multiple Utah bucket list hikes and it’s great to do one per day.

Stay in the area for a multi day Zion trip at South or Watchman campgrounds or Red Rock Inn Cottages is also a great option.

The Narrows is a Top Tourist Attraction in Utah for Good Reason

Recommended by Mark and Kristen Morgan from Where Are Those Morgans

The Narrows river slot canyon hike deserves not only to be on every Utah bucket list, but also every US hiking bucket list. It is that good.

Walking through ankle, shin, knee and even waist deep water up the North Fork of the Virgin River, with towering red cliffs just meters apart on each side is endlessly exhilarating.

You can choose two ways to do this hike; either from the top down (permit required) or the bottom up.

The Narrows top down can be done either as a 16 mile one-day hike or an overnight backpacking trip. It begins at Chamberlain’s Ranch and ends at the Temple of Sinawava.

Permits must be obtained in advance or with a walk-in permit.

Hiking The Narrows bottom up  is the more popular way to experience this extraordinary canyon. Visitors can begin at the Temple of Sinawava and simply turn around whenever ready.

To reach the “end” of the day hike version, you must wade through water, traverse boulders, scale banks and have a good level of stamina. It will take around 8 hours total to reach ‘Big Springs’ and return back to the trailhead.

Fall is the best time to hike The Narrows. The water level is lower and there are fewer people.

Summer is crowded but the water is warmer. In Spring the trail closes regularly due to high water levels. The Narrows hike is not good for pets or younger kids.

Renting a walking pole is vital and renting neoprene boots, socks and pants is highly recommended.

The Angels Landing Hike is One of the Coolest Sights to See in Utah

Recommended by Karen of Outdoor Adventure Sampler

Angels Landing is an immense rock formation in Zion National Park that is often touted as the one of the most breathtaking and dangerous hikes in the world. The knife edge ridge trail with drop-offs on each side draws experienced hikers from all over.

The 5-mile roundtrip route usually takes 4-5 hours to hike and involves steep slick rock and holding on to chains to protect you from falling off. Leave kids and pets at home for Angels Landing. Off-season is the time to go to avoid summer queues.

The route begins at the Grotto Trailhead with easy hiking along the canyon bottom into the shady Refrigerator Canyon. Next Walter’s Wiggles begin. The 21 switchbacks bring you up the slope to Scout Lookout.

Views of Zion Canyon and the behemoth formation of Angels Landing are abundant. Scout Lookout is a perfect rest stop before tackling the challenging steepness to come.

From here the excitement begins with a climb of 500 feet with steep drop-offs on either side. This final half mile up a razor thin ridge gripping chains to keep you from falling is the essence of a Utah bucket list adventure.

The view from the top of Angels Landing across the expanse of Zion Canyon makes it all worthwhile.

The Subway Hike is One of the Best Hikes in Utah

Recommended by Agnes of The Van Escape

The Subway Hike in Zion   is an amazing adventure for everyone who likes hiking and fabulous rock formations. What makes the Subway special is it’s tube-like tunnel.

After the challenging trek getting there, it seems like you enter a different world, the Subway, to a different galaxy. Mother nature made this oval tube perfectly. Step by step, you move forward on the slippery rock, wondering what is at the end of the tunnel. 

This unusual slot canyon is located within the Zion Wilderness in Zion National Park in Utah and you need a Zion wilderness permit to do this hike.

It’s a long, 8 miles round trip in rough terrain, so start your hike early in the morning. The all-day adventure includes walking in the cold stream and crossing it from one riverbank to another with plenty of slippery stones.

The best season to do this hike is fall, when the level of water in the stream is the lowest.

Check the weather forecast before hitting the trail if you want to do it in spring or summer. For your safety, check the water level and the speed of its current. 

Pack your items, especially the camera, in a waterproof bag to prevent them from getting wet. Also, wear waterproof shoes with good grip and neoprene socks for this hike. Trekking poles will also be helpful.

Sights to See in Utah Near Escalante

Lower Calf Creek Falls is a Great Place to Visit in Utah with Kids

The area around Escalante, Utah is off the beaten track for most people. Hands down it has some of the most magnificent landscapes in the state.

It’s definitely worth a trip on Utah Scenic Byway 12 through Grand Staircase-Escalante National Monument.

Right off the highway, you’ll find the trailhead for Lower Calf Creek Falls. The hike is 6.7-miles out-and-back with very little elevation gain. It’s easy enough for kids but it does take 3-4 hours to complete the trek.

Since there’s very little shade, make sure you head out early. Along the hike, you’ll enjoy beautiful views of Calf Creek Canyon, as well as some prehistoric petroglyphs.

The enormous sandstone canyon walls are reminiscent of Zion National Park without the crowds of people.

And at the end of the trail, you’ll be rewarded with a dip in the pool at the base of a stunning 130-foot waterfall. It’s a great spot for picnic too.

So if you’re looking for a memorable outdoor adventure, be sure to add Lower Calf Creek Falls to your list. Yonder Escalante Luxury Glamping is a great place to stay in the area with the coolest cabins, a pool and outdoor theater.

Coyote Gulch Tops the List of Utah Outdoor Adventures

Recommended by Jenny Kotlyar of Limitless Hiker

Coyote Gulch is a must do backpacking trip in Grand Staircase – Escalante National Monument in Utah.

This is one of the most stunning backpacking trips and Utah bucket list adventure. It takes you from the top of the canyon down to the bottom where you will spend a majority of the time hiking through the river.

You’ll see alcoves carved by water, natural arches, and pictographs. Spend time exploring some of the local waterfalls, enjoying the arches, or scrambling to see ancient archeological sites.

This is an 11 to 25 mile backpacking trip depending on which trailhead you start at and if you do any side hikes while you’re there. There are several trailheads, but the most popular one starts at Hurricane Wash.

Although it’s a backpacking trip, it’s a beginner-friendly one because there is minimal elevation gain/loss. 

The Utah desert can get very hot so this hike is best done in April, May, October, or early November when temperatures are warm but still mild.

Backcountry permits are required, but they can be acquired at the trailhead. Pets are not permitted on this trail and make sure to properly dispose of human waste by carrying it out in WAG bags.

Cosmic Ashtray is Definitely a Utah Bucket List Hike

If you’re looking for a challenging hike that’s sure to test your endurance, look no further than the Cosmic Ashtray near Escalante, Utah.

This rugged hike is 8-11 miles long, depending on the trail you take, and features some of the most breathtaking views in the state.

The Cosmic Ashtray was created by erosion over hundreds of thousands of years and is now a massive weathering pit that’s almost 200 feet wide.

The oval pit is filled with a red hued sand dune and features a large 33′ tall rock inside, garnering the nickname, the Navel.

While it may not be the most comfortable hike on the list, it’s definitely one of the most unique and definitely worth checking off your Utah bucket list.

Just be sure to bring plenty of water and a GPS to avoid getting lost – this is one hike you don’t want to take lightly.

Utah Tourist Attractions in Southern Utah

Kanarra Falls is a Must Do Utah Hike

Kanarra Creek Falls is a Utah hidden gem. This slot canyon is unique for its two interior waterfalls, and it’s a popular destination for hikers because it’s so beautiful and it’s a canyoneering adventure. This is like a mini-Narrows.

Depending on the time of year, when you first enter the canyon you may be walking through water. It might be cold too!

As you approach the first waterfall, you’ll find an aluminum ladder attached to a tree. Then there is a boulder you need to climb over that is more difficult to get to the 2nd waterfall.

Make sure you wear waterproof hiking boots when it’s cold and water shoes for hiking (flip flops won’t work) in the summer. You need a good grip for climbing and it can be slippery.

A permit is required for this popular hike. You can purchase a $12 permit online or at the trailhead kiosk. Only 150 hikers are allowed per day, so if you’re planning a visit to Kanarra Creek Canyon Trail, plan ahead!

Check the weather before you go. Like all slot canyons, Kanarra Creek is subject to flash floods.

It’s only a 1 hour drive from Zion National Park, making it the perfect day trip for visitors to Utah.

Visit Utah State Parks – Snow Canyon State Park is One of the Best Things to do in St George Utah

Snow Canyon State Park is a 4,700 acre hidden gem at the bottom southwest corner of Utah that’s perfect for your bucket list. It’s only and hour from Zion National Park and filled with gorgeous red rock hikes that most people don’t know about.

Families love Jenny’s Canyon , a short hike with a cool slot canyon. The lava tube caves are one of the most unique sights to see in Utah. Take the 2.5 mile round trip Lava Flow Overlook Trail and bring a flashlight so you can see in the dark caves.

Dogs are not allowed on the trails in Snow Canyon State Park but the rest of the Red Reef Conservation area is kid and pet-friendly. Red Reef Trail is a 2.2 mile round trip hike to a waterfall. Don’t miss this beautiful hike!

Since St. George is such a popular golf destination, definitely add a tee time to your trip. In the evening check out a concert or show under the stars at the outdoor Tuacahn Amphitheatre .

Or combine your stay with relaxing spa services at Red Mountain Resort .

Weather wise, St. George, like all of Utah is nicest in Spring and Fall. Winter is temperate with some rain and snow but generally mild. Summer is crazy hot but also busy because so many people stay in St. George to visit Zion National Park.

Buckskin Gulch is a Utah Hidden Gem Most People Miss

Recommended by Chris and Lindsay of Called to Wander

One of the most beautiful ways to connect with Buckskin Gulch is via the Wire Pass Trail.

This hike in itself is amazing, as it takes you through the narrow slot canyons that lead to Buckskin Gulch. The trail eventually opens up to wide expanses with towering walls.

People that want to hike the entire 15 miles typically do this as a multi-day backpacking trip, for which a permit is required. There aren’t many places in the world with better views of the night sky than from within Buckskin Gulch! 

The best time to hike Buckskin Gulch is in the fall or spring. You are still likely to encounter water in the gulch leftover either from the snow or the rain. Still, this is part of the journey and adds to the adventure. 

Buckskin Gulch is one of the most popular hikes in Utah . At 15 miles, this adventure is not for everyone. But you don’t have to tackle the whole thing if you don’t want to. In fact many people only go in for the first few miles and are completely wowed.

Utah slot canyons and gulches can be extremely dangerous when rain causes flash flooding. Don’t go on this hike if the weather report is predicting rain.

Another safety issue can be extreme summer temperatures so make sure to bring tons of water and hike early in the day.

The hike through Buckskin Gulch is both kid and dog-friendly. An awesome hotel if you are traveling with a pet is the Best Friends Roadhouse and Mercantile in Kanab, Utah.

In addition to being the nicest hotel for pets and owners, it’s conveniently located to the office for Buckskin Gulch overnight permits and The Wave Lottery .

RELATED POST: 18 Awesome Things to Do Near Kanab Utah

Toadstool Hoodoos – One of the Coolest Utah Tourist Attractions

Recommended by Wendy Lee of Empty Nesters Hit the Road

Located in Grand Staircase Escalante National Monument in Southern Utah, not far from Kanab, is an unusual grouping of rocks called The Toadstools.

It looks as if someone has intentionally placed these rocks to mimic a collection of giant mushrooms, but this is a naturally occurring sight. In fact these are actually hoodoos, columns or pinnacles of weathered rocks. 

Fortunately it’s easy for anyone to see these rocks since the mostly flat trail to and from Toadstools is just 1.5 miles.

While you can’t climb on the actual Toadstools, the rocks around them are very kid-friendly. There are also great views of the surrounding canyon. Dogs are also permitted on the trail as long as they remain on a leash. Allow about one hour for this hike.

This area gets very hot in the summer. It’s not unusual for temperatures to exceed 100 degrees, so this may not be the best season for hiking to The Toadstools. But winter, spring, and fall are all good times for this hike. 

Page, Arizona is conveniently located 30 minutes from The Toadstools, where you’ll find other activities, like the Horseshoe Bend Hike , and hotels.

Monument Valley is One of the Most Unique Places to Visit in Utah

Recommended by James Ian of Travel Collecting

When you think of classic wild west scenery with picturesque buttes and mesas rising up out of the valley floor, you are probably thinking of Monument Valley. Featured in countless movies, it has the most iconic western scenery in the United States.  

Monument Valley is half in Utah and half in Arizona, and fully in the Navajo Nation. The whole area is officially the Monument Valley Navajo Tribal Park and there is a $20 per vehicle entrance fee.  

The main route through the valley is a 17-mile loop scenic drive, which is currently only available on a tour with a Navajo guide. 

There are also tours into the backcountry where you see less visited places and visit a Navajo hogan (traditional mud house).  On the main loop drive, you’ll see all of the most famous landmarks and get to stop at John Wayne Point.

The only hike you can do without a guide is the Wildcat Trail. It’s a great way to experience a part of the valley that very few people do. 

Best visited in spring or fall, Monument Valley can be very hot in summer and snow in winter. If you visit in summer, it is best to head out early in the morning or late in the afternoon, especially if you have kids.

In a one day visit, you can do the scenic drive, possibly a longer back country tour, hike the Wildcat Trail, try Navajo nachos at the restaurant, and do some souvenir shopping.  The closest place to stay is The View overlooking the main valley. 

Valley of the Gods is an Epic Place to Explore in Utah

Utah is home to many amazing geological attractions, and the Valley of the Gods is one of the most impressive. However, it’s rarely visited because it’s impressive neighbor, Monument Valley is only 35 miles away.

This area of Cedar Mesa sandstone was sculpted 250 million years ago into buttes and monoliths, and today it offers breathtaking views.

There is a 17 mile unpaved loop that allows you to drive past these sandstone monuments. This is a great place to break out your camera or drone to capture

The Valley of the Gods is less crowded than nearby Monument Valley, making it a great option for those who want to avoid the crowds.

And since it’s located on Bureau of Land Management land, there’s no permit required and camping is free. So if you’re looking for an Utah attraction that’s truly out-of-this-world, be sure to add the Valley of the Gods to your list.

Rainbow Bridge National Monument

If you’re looking for an unforgettable experience, add a visit to Rainbow Bridge National Monument to your Utah bucket list. Spanning 275 feet and standing 290 feet tall, Rainbow Bridge is one of the world’s largest natural bridges.

The bridge was first discovered by the ancestors of the Navajo almost 8,000 years ago, and in their culture, it is considered a sacred symbol.

Rainbow Bridge is best visited in spring or fall, and there are several ways to get there. You can take a boat tour from Waheap or Bullfrog Marina, or you can rent a boat and make the 50-mile journey yourself.

Or, if you’re feeling adventurous and you’re in great shape, you can get a permit from the Navajo Nation and hike the 32-mile round-trip backcountry hike (just be prepared for some rough terrain).

No matter how you get there, a visit to Rainbow Bridge National Monument is sure to be a memorable Utah experience.

We hope that this list helps you find some of the best places in Utah that you may not have known of before. What places do you have on your Utah Bucket List? Have we missed any of your favorites? Let us know in the comments below.

Must Sees in Utah – Central Utah

Goblin Valley State Park is a Great Stop on a Utah Road Trip

Recommended by Ashley Jansen of Jetset Jansen

Utah is full of unique places to visit but one that looks particularly other-worldly is  Goblin Valley State Park .  

The state parks in Utah can often get overlooked because of the 5 National Parks within the state, but that’s also an advantage when it comes to the crowds. 

Goblin Valley is a little off the path and kind of in the middle of nowhere. It’s about a 40-min detour south of I-70 and about 1.5 hours from Moab. However, if you have the time, it’s a great stop for the afternoon or a short day trip. 

This state park is full of weird looking formations, nicknamed ‘goblins’.

There are 3 valleys to explore that are full of rock formations and one of the fun things about this park is that you can roam free. It’s essentially a rock playground, because they allow you to climb all over the rocks here.

Some of the formations are quite large, so exploring the valleys is pretty fun, although you definitely want to keep an eye out for how to return. 

As you can imagine with rocks in the middle of nowhere, there’s little to no shade here. Going in the middle of summer and in the middle of the day can get extremely hot and you’ll want to make sure you have plenty of water and snacks.

If you want to stay in the area, Goblin Valley does have a campground and even a unique yurt option. It’s a fun place to explore and definitely worth the effort to get there!

San Rafael Swell One of the Secret Beautiful Places in Utah

Recommended by Ashlee Fechino of The Happiness Function

The San Rafael Swell is a dramatic upheaval in Utah close to Green River. The area has become one of the fastest-growing places to visit, thanks to its rock formations and wide-open spaces.

For outdoor enthusiasts of all types, the San Rafael Swell offers full enjoyment with its diverse terrain that ranges from steep canyons to wide open spaces for camping, hiking, mountain biking, and more.

It is free to explore and camp in the San Rafael Swell since it is public land managed by the Bureau of Land Management (BLM).  Camping on BLM land  is one of Utah’s best-kept secrets because camping on public land is free!

Once campers find a dispersed campsite (meaning camping without a formal campground), it is important to be mindful not to damage biological soil crust along the way.

These complex crusted dirt ecosystems take years and even centuries before growing across arid west landscapes.

This part of Utah can be hot in the summer. The best times to hike and camp in the area are spring and fall.

Since there are practically no facilities, recreationists must bring their own food, water, bathroom equipment, electricity, etc., and practice  Leave No Trace . There is limited to no cell phone reception in this remote area.

For outdoor enthusiasts of all types, whether you’re a couple, a solo traveler, or family, the San Rafael Swell makes for the perfect backcountry adventure.

Dogs are even allowed in the area too! Be sure to add exploring the San Rafael Swell to your Utah bucket list!

Meadow Hot Springs is One of the Awesome Hidden Places in Utah

Recommended by Jessica Schmit of Uprooted Traveler

On a Utah road trip , a fun thing to do in central Utah is take a dip in Meadow Hot Springs. It’s a series of three warm pools in the bucolic town of Meadow.

These springs reside on a private farm, in the middle of a literal cow pasture, so their more rural location has allowed this picturesque spot to fly under the radar.

The road to get to the main parking area is gravel and, while it has a few potholes, most passenger vehicles should be able to make it down the road just fine.

The first pool from the parking lot is the clearest and hottest of the springs, at a toasty 100°, making it the perfect spot to warm up during the cooler months.

The second and third pools are a bit chillier (and can be, at times, murkier) than the first and are probably a better bet to soak in during the warm summer months.

The springs are child-friendly and while leashed dogs are welcome, they must not swim in the springs themselves.

While some soakers seem to get a bit rowdy at night, plan your visit for just before sunset and watch the stars twinkle to life here- with little light pollution around. The stargazing is incredible.

During your visit, be sure to follow the posted rules and when you’re done soaking, remember to pack out any of your trash.

These pools are privately owned and if treat badly, the owners may cut off access to them and prevent future hot spring lovers from relaxing at this beautiful spot.

If you’re looking for a place in the area overnight, try the Best Western Inn & Resort or camping at the Fillmore KOA Journey.

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Home » Travel Guides » United States » Utah (UT) » 19 Most Beautiful Places to Visit in Utah

19 Most Beautiful Places to Visit in Utah

Utah , nicknamed “Beehive State”, offers some of the most beautiful and spectacular sights and places to visit! Just browse through these awesome pictures and be amazed by it’s beauty. Fun fact: The name Utah derives from the Native American Ute tribe and means people of the mountains.

1. Monument Valley

Monument Valley is one of America’s most iconic landmarks, home to huge sandstone formations that reach up to 1,000 ft tall. The desert area is a popular hiking, jeeping and horseriding location, with local guides available to navigate you through the Valley. Steeped in a rich Native American and Old West history, Monument Valley is atmospheric and unforgettable.

2. Bryce Canyon

Bryce Canyon is home to the largest collection of hoodoos in the world. Hoodoos are unique rock formations created by uneven erosion and weathering, giving them a distinctive and unmissable appearance. At Bryce Canyon, you will also find woodland, wildlife and caves, making it a hiker’s paradise. At night, the lack of local light sources create the perfect location for stargazing with unparalleled starry skies.

3. Arches National Park

Arches National Park features over 2,000 natural stone arches as well as a variety of other strange and captivating rock formations, including balanced rocks. The stone here is a rich red, evocative of the Old West and natural America. You can also find Wolfe Ranch on site, a one-room cabin built in 1898 and largely unchanged today. The Ranch offers a glimpse into the harsh desert life for early 20th-century Americans.

4. Escalante National Monument

The Escalante National Monument has been around for millions of years, forming an incredible rock formation that we can enjoy today. The Monument features three main areas with the most famous being the Grand Staircase (Escalante). The Staircase features a number of plateaus descending like steps from Bryce Canyon to the Grand Canyon. Perfect for hikers, Escalante also features the fossil-filled Kaiparowits Plateau at its highest point, and the Escalante Canyons at the base.

5. Red Cliffs

Utah’s Red Cliffs span a stunning and colourful 45,000 acres. The cliffs are formed from red sandstone which gives them their unique appearance and the shade of the towering formations offers some respite in the hot desert. The Red Cliffs Conservation Area offers plenty of space for tourists to explore and hike. There is an Archeological Site featuring ruins of Native American pueblos, and even dinosaur tracks from the Early Jurassic period.

6. Zion National Park

Zion National Park is Utah’s first national park and offers a slice of the Utah wilderness. The multi-coloured sandstone cliffs and desert wildlife craft an immersive environment that was once inhabited by Native Americans and pioneers alike. At Zion National Park, there are plenty of opportunities to hike, rock-climb, mountain-bike and explore. Climb to the top of the cliffs to witness a desert sunset like no other.

7. Buckskin Gulch

Buckskin Gulch is considered to be the world’s longest slot canyon, full of twisting narrow corridors formed from towering red stone. Buckskin Gulch is considered by climbing and hiking enthusiasts to be a challenge. Some points along the route are extremely narrow and dark, whilst others are filled with waist-deep water. This makes it ideal for those seeking adventure or a unique location to be active.

8. Canyonlands National Park

Canyonlands National Park features many canyons and other rock formations, carved out by the Colorado River over millions of years. Humans have been on the Canyonlands for over 10,000 years, weaving a rich Native American and pioneer history. Native American art can still be found in the Horseshoe Canyon today. In addition, the Canyonlands offer a variety of different desert environments for tourists and hikers, including the labyrinthine Maze, hiking trails, and rafting or kayaking on the rivers.

9. Mirror Lake

Mirror Lake is a 22-acre lake with stunningly clear waters at the base of the towering 12,000 ft tall Bald Mountain. The Lake is a popular spot for fishing, camping, and kayaking. The lake is surrounded by forest so it is ideal for wildlife-watching. There are a number of hiking trails accessible from this serene location making it a great place to relax after a long hike – or to recharge before setting off.

10. Antelope Island

Situated in the Great Salt Lake – one of the largest lakes in the world – is Antelope Island, the lake’s biggest island. Antelope Island is situated near Salt Lake City making it easily accessible. The island is a haven for wildlife including its namesake antelope, as well as bison, sheep, coyotes and water birds. The island features a number of mountains and natural springs. You can also find the Fielding Garr Ranch here. The house was built in 1848 and is the oldest building in Utah still on its original foundations.

11. Capitol Reef National Park

Capitol Reef is a large national park in Utah filled with beautiful rock formations. The park is a reminder of the Old West with its colourful canyons and cliffs, and the shrubbery that lines much of the desert floor. In the park, you can find the famous Waterpocket Fold which is a huge ridge in the earth formed by shifting plates lifting one side of a fault. You can also see Native American art and rock shelters alongside later settlers’ houses.

12. Dead Horse Point State Park

Dead Horse Point is a collection of overlooks surrounding a portion of the Colorado River, which runs below. Dead Horse Point was originally a corral used by cowboys and got its name from the horses that frequently died of exposure. Today, the state park offers stunning views of the Colorado River and the Canyonlands, as well as a small taste of the extreme conditions that the cowboys of old would have faced. The area was also used to shoot the final scenes in the 1991 film ‘Thelma and Louise’.

13. Toquerville Falls, LaVerkin Creek

LaVerkin Creek can be found near the Zion National Park and offers hiking trails and camping opportunities. The Toquerville Falls can also be found near the Creek. The falls feature sunbaked sandstone ledges surrounding three crystal-clear waterfalls flowing into a pool. The falls are perfect for cooling off in the summer and offer a true oasis in the middle of the baking Utah desert.

14. Lake Powell

Lake Powell is a huge man-made reservoir visited by 2,000,000 people every year. It straddles both Utah and Arizona. The water is stunningly blue and the rocks contrast beautifully in hues of red, orange and yellow. In the adjacent Glen Canyon National Recreation Area, you can also find the Rainbow Bridge National Monument. This is considered to be the world’s highest natural bridge.

15. Alpine Loop

The Alpine Loop is a scenic drive spanning 20 miles through alpine canyons. On the drive, the glacier-topped Mount Timpanogos and other mountains are visible, offering impressive views. Along the way you can access the Timpanogos Cave National Monument as well as the Cascade Springs. The Springs are fed by water trickling down from the mountains. In the larger pools, the water is clear and shallow enough to see native trout swimming.

16. Goblin Valley State Park

Goblin Valley is so-called because of its natural abundance of unique rock formations called hoodoos. These formations are locally known as goblins due to their likeness to the mythical creature. There are a number of hiking trails through the park as well as evidence of ancient Native American art in one area called the San Rafael Swell. It is also possible to see some hardy local wildlife including lizards, scorpions and jackrabbits.

17. Four Corners

The Four Corners Monument marks the location in the Southwest of America where four states meet: Arizona, Colorado, New Mexico and Utah. This is the only place in America where four states meet in such a way. The spot also marks the boundary between the Navajo and Ute Mountain Ute Tribe governments, making it an excellent location to learn about the indigenous culture and history of the region.

18. Golden Spike National Historic Site

The Golden Spike site commemorates the joining of the Union and Central Pacific Railroads to create the first Transcontinental Railroad. This historic event occurred in 1869 at Promontory Summit, the current location of the Golden Spike site. At this site, you can see replica working locomotives that run on a regular basis each day. In addition, the visitor centre offers souvenirs and historical exhibits that explore the significance and cultural importance of America’s first Transcontinental Railroad.

19. Timpanogos Cave National Monument

The Timpanogos Cave National Monument protects the cave system on Mount Timpanogos in Utah. The caves are accessible to visitors via a trail and guided tour during spring and summer. The cave system features a number of interesting formations and cave features including stalactites, stalagmites and helictites, which are slim spiralling cones of rock.

19 Most Beautiful Places to Visit in Utah:

• Monument Valley
• Bryce Canyon
• Arches National Park
• Escalante National Monument
• Zion National Park
• Buckskin Gulch
• Canyonlands National Park
• Mirror Lake
• Antelope Island
• Capitol Reef National Park
• Dead Horse Point State Park
• Toquerville Falls, LaVerkin Creek
• Lake Powell
• Alpine Loop
• Goblin Valley State Park
• Four Corners
• Golden Spike National Historic Site
• Timpanogos Cave National Monument

Touropia Travel

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18 Best Places to Visit in Utah

By Jamie Gambetta · Last updated on February 5, 2024

Utah translates to people of the mountains. Its rich heritage is borne in exploration, one that led to the discoveries of some of America’s most treasured destinations. Its sun-soaked desert landscapes filled with mesas, buttes and hoodoos along with world-class winter adventures make the Beehive State a worthy destination all year long.

Utah has been delivering epic road trips for generations. Journeying between the state’s Big Five national parks is, for many, a rite of passage. They are, of course, some of the top places to visit in Utah but as you’ll soon realize, there are many more layers to discover.

Map of Places to visit in Utah

State parks and monuments are spread throughout. These bring more local culture and history, plus significant Native American heritage. In addition, the state’s capital, Salt Lake City, proves to be far more than just a launchpad for adventures.

18. Dead Horse Point State Park

One of several must-see destinations minutes from Moab, Dead Horse Point State Park, boasts one of the best views in Utah. The state park is home to high desert woodland that leads to jaw-dropping canyons which sparkle when the sun rises and falls.

But the star of the show is Dead Horse Point. The point is a mesa that continues to narrow until there’s nothing but cliffs ahead, to the left and right. Back in the day, cowboys corralled horses here. Today, it’s an incredible overlook that showcases the Colorado River, making close to a 360-degree turn through a landscape packed with buttes and canyons.

From this point you can head along the East or West Rim trails to further views. The latter being more popular for its addition detours and views towards Canyonlands National Park.

17. Goblin Valley State Park

If you get bored with hoodoos, take things to another level by admiring the hobbit like rocks within Goblin Valley State Park. Not far from Bryce Canyon, this park takes your regular hoodoo and transforms them into mythical looking creatures.

However, these peculiar, mushroom-shaped formations are, in fact, Entrada Sandstone pillars that have been eroded over millions of years. They are spread apart like a kooky looking community. It makes for a different experience than neighboring Bryce, ensuring you should visit both.

There are three hikes through the mystical Goblin Valley State Park, which will deliver an up-close experience with the rock residents. But it also presents the opportunity to admire ancient petroglyphs created by the Fremont and Paiute tribes.

Aside from hiking, travelers can try their hand at canyoneering or explore on a mountain bike.

16. Bonneville Salt Flats

Whether you’re interested in head scratching optical illusions or just want to drive fast, there are plenty of reasons to travel to Bonneville Salt Flats. A fun ninety-minute drive west of Salt Lake City, you’ll venture from one salty expanse to another. However, rather than a lake, the inch (or sometimes five feet) of salt creates some marvelous photography.

Getting to the flats is easy. What you choose to do when there is up to you. The road it ends abruptly, and you’re welcome to drive onto the salty flats. The temptation for speed is ever present, but beware – the ground is not always solid.

After taking a quick spin, place your camera close to the ground so your reflection and distant self come into view. The best time to visit is at sunrise or sunset, when the mix of colors creates a stunning landscape.

15. Dinosaur National Monument

A designated UNESCO cultural site, the Dinosaur National Monument, is a wondrous look into the discovery of thousands of prehistoric fossils. These bones date back 160 million years and can be seen embedded into the vast cliff within the Carnegie Quarry.

It all began in 1909 when paleontologist, Earl Douglass discovered eight dinosaur tailbones. Over time, that number grew to 1,500 fossils, providing the quarry with international fame. But why so many in one place? The amount is unusual, leading scientist to believe the quarry was a prehistoric watering hole.

In 1915 it became Dinosaur National Monument. Today you can admire the cliff wall and embark on several short hikes around the monument, where you’ll uncover a vast rolling desert punctuated by a river that offers great rafting.

14. Monument Valley

It’s a picture you can hear, the red rock buttes of Monument Valley complemented with the distinct twang of rustic guitar. For generations, old Western films used this very image as a backdrop to iconic flicks. But it’s a real place, one found within the Monument Valley Navajo Tribal Park.

Straddling the border between Utah and Arizona, the park is home to the 17-mile Valley Drive. This is a road whose stark black color is interrupted only by straight yellow lines. On either side is a vast expanse of red and orange, with a tinge of green desert flora hanging on for dear life.

It’s a dramatic landscape that has been made famous by van lifers showcasing the road as it heads straight well into the distance. Along the way, there are numerous pullouts, but to explore further, one needs a Navajo guide.

13. Bears Ears National Monument

The fight to protect Bears Ears National Monument has been splashed across our TV screens over the last few years. It’s all the more reason to visit this important place to learn more about its importance to Native American communities such as the Zuni, Ute and Hopis.

Visitors to Bears Ears National Monument won’t have to go far to find fascinating rock art, ancient cliff dwellings and significant sites that have been at the forefront of local life for hundreds of years. This is a land that has long been sacred and it’s easy to see why.

Wide open mountain meadows quickly dissipate as they reach the edge of sandstone canyons. On the edge of the San Juan, cliff dwellings such as the River House Ruin, once home to generations of tribes, offer a glimpse into the past as the land now stands frozen in time.

12. Grand Staircase-Escalante National Monument

For thousands of years, Native American tribes such as the Paiute, Navajo and Hopi called the breathtaking Grand Staircase-Escalante National Monument home. In 1996, it became a protected monument, ensuring the significant cultural and historic sites are protected for generations to come.

The monument is a massive expanse of land hiding secrets around every corner. The archaeological sites, along with the Escalante canyons, are the star attraction. Here, centuries of river flow have carved deep and slender slot canyons that make for epic day hikes and even multi-day expeditions.

With no official entrances, the monument can often feel remote and a true desert wilderness. As travelers converge within the more popular national parks, it’s easy to escape the crowds whether on foot or via 4WD. If you choose the latter, Cottonwood Canyon Road provides 47 miles of epic views, including the main canyons, the Paria River Valley and Grosvenor Arch.

11. Cedar Breaks National Monument

If you fell in love with Bryce Canyon, then you’ll want to spend time exploring Cedar Breaks National Monument. The monument is a smaller, yet equally beautiful landscape filled with hoodoos and a sprawling amphitheater 2,000 feet deep.

Like Bryce, Cedar Breaks erodes from the top down, exposing the eye-catching platforms in the valley. From the rim, you’ll stand at over 10,000 feet above sea level. From fall to spring, you can expect the massive expanse of yellow, orange and red to be complemented by a hearty dose of snow.

Just as in the more famous national parks in Utah, you can see Cedar Breaks National Monument along a scenic road. The Rim Drive delivers views and memorable hikes. Spectra Point and Ramparts Overlook Trail is the cream of the crop, taking you from the plateau to the edge of Cedar Breaks Amphitheater across four miles.

10. Lake Powell

The winding, slender nature of Lake Powell sets it apart from other famous lakes in America’s west, including Lake Tahoe. Lake Powell accentuates the red rock canyon vibe of Utah by adding an enormous body of water that has a longer coastline that most American states.

Lake Powell is surrounded by soaring canyon walls and meandering across Utah and into Arizona in a snake-like manner. Because of this, from any given perspective, you’ll never understand the sheer scale of this impressive lake. Thankfully, there are many ways to explore the lake that will have you appreciating its unique beauty.

Hiking trails spread along the lake’s shoreline, bringing you to postcard-worthy views. But getting around the 280 square mile lake is no easy task. Thanks to the rolling rock walls, driving is limited. You’re best off exploring on a boat to explore the flooded canyon country.

Numerous attractions can also be found here, including canyons that are home to Anasazi ruins. The lake has also served as a shooting location for dozens of television series and films, including both the 1968 and 2001 versions of Planet of the Apes.

9. Antelope Island

Around 90 minutes from Salt Lake City, Antelope Island presents impressive views of the Great Salt Lake with plenty more to discover. The island is the largest on the record-breaking lake at 15 miles long and is named after the pronghorn antelope that roamed the space when it was discovered in 1845.

Three years later, Antelope Island’s began what would become a rich ranching heritage before becoming a state park. It was during this time that 12 bison were introduced, the beginnings of what would become a modern day herd of over 550 beasts.

A winding road takes you through the state park, allowing you to see the herd and quickly load up on photographs. But the chance to see pronghorn antelope, the continent’s fastest animal (and distant relative to the giraffe) attracts many visitors. Mule deer, bighorn sheep and coyotes are other common sights.

In eastern Utah, Moab has become America’s face of outdoor recreation. It’s here that mountain bikers, rock climbers and hikers converge into a mass of outdoor enthusiasts, it what will become a long season under the Utah sun.

Wherever you find yourself in Moab, you’re just minutes from some of the most spectacular landscapes in the country. This includes both Arches and Canyonlands. It’s no surprise that the rather remote town boasts such a transient community, which is also why it’s such a fun place to be.

With an official population of just over 5,000 folks, it’s both a small village yet a bustling town with a fabulous atmosphere. When you aren’t ripping up the trails on Potash Road or rafting down the nearby Colorado River on world class rapids, Woody’s Tavern is the place to trade stories with seasoned adventurers.

7. Park City

After a simple yet scenic drive from the state capital, you’ll find yourself in one of the United States’ best adventure playgrounds. Park City may be famous for its role in the 2002 Winter Olympics, but you can rest assured that it’s a year-round destination.

Long before skiers and snowboarders came to town in droves, Park City was a 19th century mining town. It boomed upon the completion of the Transcontinental Railroad and thus, has plenty of historic architecture and a charming main street.

This part of town is where you’ll find a great collection of restaurants and bars, ready to help reflect on a day of fun. In the summer, you’ll have a packed itinerary of local hikes, fishing, rafting and swimming. Come winter, prepare for a memorable day on the slopes and the arrival of January’s Sundance Film Festival.

6. Salt Lake City

Salt Lake City is the most common gateway to the many highlights around Utah. From the state’s capital you can access the Big Five national parks, go skiing in Park City and biking in Moab. However, there are plenty of reasons to stick around for a little first.

The city is the home of the Mormon church and some of the top attractions in Salt Lake City include Temple Square home to the Salt Lake Temple. The square features memorable architecture, including the temple, plus the Gothic-Revival Assembly Hall and the Tabernacle, home to the church’s famous choir.

From Temple Square, you’ll find the remainder of downtown SLC to be extremely walkable. But within a quick drive, you’ll find yourself on the edge of Great Salt Lake, the largest of its kind in North America. To see it from above, make your way to the summit of Ensign Peak.

5. Capitol Reef National Park

Out of Utah’s Big Five, Capitol Reef National Park can get lost among the flurry of hoodoos, arches and canyon. However, place this national park in a different state and explorers would be singing a different tune. Thus, it’s not a place to be missed.

Capitol Reef was formed thanks to a collection of major geological events that saw a conglomerate of different rock as old as 270 million years settle in the region. Then a major mountain building event saw the Waterpocket Fold expose these rocks, placing them thousands of feet higher than the valley below.

Overtime, literal pockets of water continue to erode the rock, creating more hoodoos, arches, rugged cliffs and narrow gorges. When viewing the fold from a distance, it indeed looks like a sedimentary reef and an eye-opening collection of warm colors.

Hikes such the Rim Overlook and Capitol Gorge bring you away from the main drag and into the heart of the park.

4. Canyonlands

Back in the 1800s, the Wild West was in full swing. It was here, in what is now Canyonlands National Park, that Butch Cassidy and the Wild Bunch Gang would hide out for weeks on end until the heat from their latest heist subsided.

Fast forward to the modern day and hikers can make their way to Robbers Roost, the infamous canyon home to the old outlaws. It’s just one of the many worthwhile hikes that allows you to dive deep into exploring this magical place.

Despite this historic connection, the most popular part of Canyonlands is the Island in the Sky. The name alone should pique your interest and it doesn’t disappoint. At the center of the island is Mesa Arch. The arch itself is impressive, but the views are more so. From elevation, you can gaze upon a maze of canyons spread as far as the eye can see.

3. Arches National Park

The name Arches National Park is an apt description of this incredible landscape. Yep, spoiler alert, there are a ton of natural stone arches here. In fact, there are more than 2,000. Each was painstakingly formed across the span of 100 million years.

It’s hard to imagine what this landscape may have looked like back then. But it now is home to some of Mother Nature’s best work, featuring the largest collection of arches on earth. The best part? You don’t even have to work hard to see them.

Arches National Park presents visitors with a 36-mile scenic drive that is a veritable highlight reel. Spread along the road are famous arches such as Delicate Arch and the Fiery Furnace. The former being the largest free-standing arch in the national park and the latter the perfect sunset spot.

But there’s more than just arches here. Short side trails take you into the desert wilderness where you’ll uncover such memorable gems as Balanced Rock.

2. Bryce Canyon National Park

In southern Utah, Bryce Canyon National Park is home to towering spires and a gorgeous amphitheater carved by wind and time. The spires, aka hoodoos, aren’t uncommon throughout the world. Yet here, you’ll find the largest collection of these fascinating rock columns on earth.

As you enter the park, you’ll already find yourself at a high elevation. In fact, as you explore, you’ll mostly stand above the marvelous creations below. Erosion, which has occurred over thousands of years, has essentially carved the park from the top down.

Bryce Canyon is particularly arresting during sunrise and sunset. It’s here, in the low hanging light, that the shadows do their best work, illuminating and darkening different hoodoos and canyons to create a living piece of art.

Utah does a great job of making its parks accessible. That trend continues here with wheelchair accessible trails and an abundance of short treks that take to the park’s best spots like the Fairyland amphitheater and Bryce Point.

1. Zion National Park

Even among America’s National Parks, few can match the stunning beauty of Zion National Park. Situated near Springdale in southern Utah, is the cream of the crop in a state that arguably has the best collection of national parks. It’s the pinnacle of the Big Five and the centerpiece of epic road trips that connect them all.

Nothing can quite prepare you for the majestic landscapes within Zion. It’s a place that is so utterly Utah, yet out of this world. Unlike many other parks in the American Southwest, where visitors look down from the rim of a canyon, visitors to Zion walk on the canyon floor and look up. The sprawling mix of burnt orange rocks, lush desert flora and startling cliffs make for unforgettable views and photographs wherever you look.

Running east to west through the national park is the Zion-Mount Carmel Highway. This winding road will deliver you to a litany of spectacular pullouts and trailheads that allow you to venture deep into the park, particularly the mesmerizing Zion Canyon.

Boasting a thousand-foot drop, the canyon’s shadows dance as the sun moves and is home to famous short hikes such as Angel’s Landing. It’s a hiker’s paradise. But one should be warned, the views are as grand as the cliffs are daunting.

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May 22, 2021 at 5:07 pm

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65 Awesome Things to Do in Utah

04/17/2024 by Kristin Addis 2 Comments

Have you ever wanted to know what it’s like to spend time on Mars? When traveling through Utah, you just might ask yourself if you’ve actually taken a trip to the red planet, because the landscapes can be out of this world.

After spending a cumulative 6 weeks in Utah over five trips, I’ve looked high and low for the coolest things to do, both urban and natural. These are some of the best things you can possibly do in Utah:

Table of Contents

65. Zion National Park

If coming from the south, your first logical stop will be Zion National Park . Picture a gorgeous red canyon with hikes and adventures galore. This was my first stop on my first-ever trip to Utah, and I’ll always treasure my memories here.

The following are some specific places in the park you won’t want to miss:

64. Angel’s Landing

This has become the most popular hike in the park over the last few years, and when you see the viewpoint at the top, it’s obvious why. If you can believe it, when I did this like in 2007, I was the only one at the viewpoint! But times have changed, and now it can sometimes be dangerously crowded. Try to pick an off time to go, like a weekday afternoon or early morning, and know that you’ll have to apply for the lottery to get a slot.

Keep in mind that this hike has very narrow passages at the top, requiring that you hold onto chains as you go. For those afraid of heights, this could be an uncomfortable experience. But if you still want that view, consider the next entry.

63. Observation Point

This is the hike that I chose the second time that I visited Zion National Park. It is higher and steeper than Angel’s Landing but does not have the chains and narrow passages. You get a similar view — actually looking down on Angel’s Landing. I recommend starting this hike in the morning so that you’re not climbing up with the sun on you in the heat of the day.

Still choosing between the two hikes? Here’s a full comparison.

62. Slot Canyon

This canyon is the photography muse of many hikers, and for good reason! The way the light pours into the narrow cavern creates a dreamy orange atmosphere for the entire length of the canyon. The widest gaps you can walk through are just 10 feet wide, and the narrowest are a mere 6 feet wide. Considering the stellar height of the canyon walls — reaching over 100 feet in some places — it’s a pretty breathtaking hike.

This tour features Slot Canyon and even provides a detailed description of its unique geology and Native American cultural significance.

61. The Canyon Overlook

If you want an easy hike that’s only a 15 minute walk from the parking lot, the Canyon Overlook in Zion National Park is gorgeous. Sunset is a great time to go and enjoy the show!

60. White Mountain on horseback

What’s better than exploring the backcountry of Zion? Doing so on horseback! Horseback riding is very popular in southern Utah, so this is a fun way to get in touch with the local culture. Consider this White Mountain tour , which welcomes beginner riders and goes through some impressive slot canyons along the way.

59. Dixie National Forest

Are you ready to visit the largest national forest in Utah? Dixie National Forest is nearly two million acres of red sandstone formations, mountain peaks, and unique landscapes in every direction. Plus, it’s right next to three national parks and two national monuments, making it the perfect central point for all kinds of outdoor adventures.

58. Bryce Canyon National Park

Famous for its hoodoos (natural columns of rock) and overlooks, Bryce Canyon is stunning at any time of year, but I sure did love it in March with a fresh layer of snow. Since it’s higher in elevation than much of the rest of this list, you can get beautiful white snow covering the hoodoos on a wet year.

It’s great for camping and hiking , as well as those incredible sunrise and sunset viewpoints.

Here are a couple of trails in Bryce Canyon:

57. Bryce Canyon Rim Trail

This 5.5-mile trail is easily accessible from the road and takes you to many famous viewpoints throughout the park. Most of the pathway between sunset and sunrise viewpoints is paved as well, making it more accessible.

56. Navajo Loop Trail

Start at the sunset point and make your way down to the canyon floor on this 1-2-hour hike through the hoodoos. You’ll see the famous Wall Street, Two Bridges, and Thor’s Hammer.

55. Mystic Hot Springs

Mystic hot springs would be a detour if you plan on heading to Escalante from here, but a worthy one. The entrance fee is $25 for a two-hour soak, and you can also book one of the old buses to spend the night in.

It’s rustic, but I loved watching the sun setting over the mountains while soaking in the travertine hot springs. I highly recommend booking for the sunset hours. Reservations will most likely need to be made ahead of time due to popularity.

54. Grand Staircase–Escalante National Monument

Grand Staircase was once the largest protected area in the US. It was reduced by nearly half in 2017, but it still remains one of the most remote areas in the country, full of adventures. A four-wheel-drive (4WD) vehicle is recommended.

53. Paria Canyon Backpacking Trip

This five-day backpacking trip begins in Kanab, Utah, and takes you through gorgeous canyons and rivers all along the way. Permits are required , as there is a strict 20-person per day limit.

NOTE: Keep in mind that this part of Utah is huge, and if you choose to experience this adventure, the best way to orient your itinerary would be to place this after Zion, and before Bryce. This is also close to Page, Arizona, the jumping-off point for the Wave and Horseshoe Bend.

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52. Zebra Canyon

Love slot canyons? This one is way less popular than Antelope Canyon and the Narrows, though just as stunning. This out-and-back hike is just over 5 miles through a narrow slot canyon that can, at times, have waist-deep water in parts. The best time to hike it is in the spring and fall. Keep in mind that you want to avoid any times that rain is predicted in the vicinity.

51. Devils Garden

This requires a long drive down a washboard road outside of Escalante town, but it’s on the way to Coyote Gulch and has unique rock formations and hoodoos. So while I wouldn’t make it my destination, it’s absolutely worth the stop. The hike is short and easy!

50. Glen Canyon National Recreation Area

Glen Canyon covers a large area as well, and much of it is accessed via Grand Staircase–Escalante. Honestly, an entire trip could revolve around this part of Utah alone, as there’s so much to see and do. Here are some favorites:

49. Jacob Hamblin Arch hike in Coyote Gulch

When I did this hike, I actually thought that it was part of Grand Staircase–Escalante, because you’ll be driving through Escalante to access it. But as you begin this hike, you actually cross into the Glen Canyon National Recreation Area.

There are several ways to access the Jacob Hamblin Arch, including parking at the more accessible Hurricane Wash, or taking a 4WD vehicle to the crack in the wall. The third option, which is the only single-day one, is to take the sneaker route at the water tank and rappel down with a rope. This is how I did it, and you can learn all you need to know about the hike here .

48. Reflection Canyon backpacking trip

This hike is completely exposed and requires a 4WD vehicle — you’ll be driving along the same washboard road that brings you past many of the preceding stops on this list. It’s a 15.2-mile hike that requires overnighting, but imagine that view as the sun rises over the canyon!

47. Capitol Reef National Park

Are you tired of amazing national parks yet? Neither am I! Capitol Reef provides quite a grand entrance while you drive by gorgeous buttes and bentonite hills. This is one of my favorite areas of Utah.

46. Navajo Knobs Hike

The Navajo Knobs is a tough hike, clocking in at just over 9 miles. But the views are incredible. Imagine alien-like holes in the rocks, unique formations, and grand, sweeping views. This hike is uncovered, and is best done during the cooler months.

45. Goosenecks Overlook

I stopped by this overlook for the first time on my most recent trip to Utah, and I love how easy it is to just pull right up and do the quick hike to the overlook. This road can get a little tricky, and though I drove it in my 4WD truck, I feel a high-clearance vehicle would be best, as a 4WD is probably not needed.

44. Scenic Drive

The most accessible part of Capitol Reef National Park, the Scenic Drive takes you through lovely canyons and washes. Having driven it, I admit I’m not that impressed with it, and I believe there are other parts of the park that are more beautiful. Those would be the Bentonite Hills in the Temple of the Sun and Moon — which we will discuss next — but to access these, it is imperative that you stop by the visitor’s center at the beginning of the Scenic Drive, just off of Highway 24, to check the road conditions first (when wet, the road is impassable).

43. Bentonite Hills

Have you seen the photos of that Mars-like landscape with multicolored hills? Though there are probably hundreds of bentonite hills all throughout the American Southwest, these are some of the more famous. They’re conveniently on the way to the Temple of the Sun and the Moon (see below) as well. The whole drive is stunning, so give yourself plenty of time for it.

As mentioned in the previous stop, be sure to check the road conditions at the national park headquarters before you go, as this road can become impassable when wet.

42. Temple of the Sun and Moon

I loved seeing this part of Capitol Reef. When my friend Kristen and I went a couple of years ago in February, we were the only ones there.

Keep in mind these are accessed down a dirt road that can become impassable at times. However when accessible, this is a must-see in my book.

41. Goblin Valley State Park

On your way from Capitol Reef to Moab, you’ll see a sign to the left with a detour to Goblin Valley State Park . This is absolutely worth it, as this is one of the most unique landscapes I have ever seen — and that is saying a lot, considering how crazy beautiful Utah is! These hoodoos are different from the ones that you will see in Bryce Canyon, with a more knob-like shape.

There is a campground in the area, and of course plenty of dispersed camping.

40. Little Wild Horse Canyon

For lovers of slot canyons, we’ve got another one close to Goblin Valley! Little Wild Horse canyon is an 8-mile loop, but you can see some amazing parts of the narrow canyon right at the beginning. When Kristen and I visited in February a few years ago, it looked like it might rain, so we just explored the beginning part, and that was amazing in and of itself.

Next we’re heading into my absolute favorite part of Utah, and the one place that I have visited every single time that I have made it out. There is so much to see in Moab that I always feel like I have only barely scratched the surface! It’s the perfect jumping-off point for the next 15 things on this list:

38. Off-road Canyonlands tour

Getting off-road to explore the canyons, cliffs, and winding rivers of Canyonlands is a thrill. This tour takes you on a wild ride through Canyonlands (of which there’s more information later on). It’s perfect for anyone who wants to get their heart pumping and enjoy the beauty of Canyonlands in an exciting way.

37. Rafting on the Colorado River

I think it’s a rule that you can’t leave Utah without rafting on the Colorado River, right? I’m pretty sure they won’t let you fly home unless you arrive to the airport soaking wet and flushed from the adrenaline rush…

All jokes aside, rafting on the Colorado River is a fun way to take in the gorgeous scenery of the Fisher Towers and Professor Valley. You’ll be able to take in the spectacular desert sights while you splash through mild rapids on a raft fit for beginners and expert rafters alike. This rafting tour from Moab — along a seven-mile stretch of the Colorado River known as the Fisher Towers section — is an excellent option.

36. SUP-board the Colorado River

If rafting isn’t quite your thing and you’d rather take in the sights of the Colorado River at a slower pace, try stand-up paddleboarding! There is a section of the Colorado in Arches National Park where the steady flow of water is perfect for a leisurely float. Consider a guided SUP-board tour that includes some neat information about the area while you paddle.

35. Arches National Park

Easily one of the most famous parks in Utah, Arches truly delivers! Whether you are going in to look at the beautiful dark skies, catch sunset at Delicate Arch, or drive up to the Windows, prepare to be wowed. You should also prepare to share this with plenty of people, as this somewhat small national park is popular, and highly accessible.

34. Corona Arch

This might be the best arch in the entire area, IMHO. Although you have Arches National Park practically across the street, I loved that Corona Arch was so much less crowded. When my friend and I hiked there in late July 2021, we were the only ones there for sunrise.

This is an easy, three-mile round-trip hike that also takes you past Bowtie Arch. Just keep in mind that it is completely uncovered and can get brutally hot. I highly recommend it for sunrise!

33. Bride’s Canyon

On your way to Dead Horse Point and much of Canyonlands National Park, you’ll have the opportunity to stop at Bride’s Canyon. I know at this point, you’ve seen a lot of unique rock formations, but Bride’s Canyon has a uniqueness all its own, and plenty of dispersed camping options too!

32. Dead Horse Point Overlook

This must be one of the best sunset views in all of Utah! Having seen the sunset on the Grand Canyon, I can’t say it’s any better than Dead Horse Point State Park. There’s not much to do other than drive up and look, but I highly recommend that you do so at sunset.

Plus, if you happen to go in the winter, you can buy a drone permit, which they don’t allow in the summer. This was one of the best drones of my life!

31. Canyonlands National Park

On the same road as Dead Horse, you’ll find your way to the most accessible and popular part of Canyonlands National Park. For incredible canyon views and even more arches, you’ve come to the right place!

30. Island in the Sky District

The Island in the Sky District is the most popular part of the park, but for good reason. There are several overlooks in the area, including the Green River Overlook, that are stunning at sunset.

I recommend giving yourself plenty of time in order to stop at all of the overlooks that interest you. Most of them are easily accessible and quick stops, but they each have unique views.

29. Mesa Arch at sunrise

Certainly the most popular sunrise spot in the whole area, Mesa Arch provides the perfect frame for the rising sun over the canyon. Having witnessed it myself, I can vouch that it is beautiful, but even having arrived an hour early, the best spots for the photo were taken up by other people and their tripods. I got lucky, though, as there were low-hanging clouds on the morning that I went, causing some of the photographers to leave early and vacate a prime spot. By waiting a little bit longer, I got that gorgeous morning glow on the arch.

The moral of the story is, if you’re a photographer and you want an iconic photo, it’s probably best to get there at least two hours early during the busy spring and fall months. If you don’t really care, then still prepare to queue up for your opportunity to take the photo at any time of day!

28. Flight over Canyonlands and Arches at sunset

The sunset flight over Canyonlands and Arches National Parks was one of the highlights of my Utah experiences. Imagine the opportunity to view these amazing places from above, and with the perfect light! It’s a small, lightweight plane, so everyone gets an amazing view.

This is such a special experience to share with one or two other people as you fly for an hour over stunning landscapes and get a bird’s eye view of what would take weeks to traverse by car and foot.

Our pilot, Tracey, always had photography in mind and would perfectly situate the plane for photos, chasing the best light. There is only one company that is allowed to fly over the national parks, as helicopters are too loud! You can book a flight here.

27. Needles Overlook

Canyonlands covers a large area, with many hikes and districts. We could talk for hours just about the options in Canyonlands alone, but for those who love a gorgeous view for minimal effort, I recommend the Needles Overlook. Because sometimes you just don’t want to hike, amiright? This one provides sweeping views in nearly every direction.

26. Hite Overlook

In the more accessible part of Glen Canyon National Recreation Area, you’ll find the Hite Overlook. This is one of my favorite drive-up views in Utah, looking out over the Colorado River. Note that this is included on the list here because of how you’d logically access it, after Capitol Reef and via Hanksville.

25. Goosenecks State Park

You could be forgiven if you’re confused by how many things are named “goosenecks” in the American Southwest, but this state park provides yet another wonderful, drive-up overlook of a unique, winding canyon. You can also camp in the area.

24. Valley of the Gods

The Valley of the Gods isn’t in a national or state park. It’s not even on most itineraries of Utah, and I wouldn’t have ever known much about it unless I had decided to go explore it when I saw the sign on my way to Monument Valley — and I am so glad that I did! The road is probably not always perfectly accessible, as it is dirt and gravel, but it provides gorgeous views and red buttes.

There are also plenty of dispersed camping spots. As always when dispersed camping, there will be no services, and you are responsible for leaving absolutely no trace.

23. Forrest Gump Point

For lovers of the movie, this is where Forrest Gump famously finishes his long run. But it’s not just for the movie buffs out there. This gorgeous stretch of highway provides beautiful views all the way to Monument Valley in Arizona.

You can find the perfect spot to snap a photo of this iconic point just outside of Monument Valley, in Mexican Hat County along Highway 163 Scenic Drive, also known as Forrest Gump Road.

22. Utah Lake

Utah Lake is the largest freshwater lake in the state, at 148 square miles in size. The lake and surrounding areas are part of Utah Lake State Park, which hosts a variety of recreational activities, including swimming, boating, paddleboarding, kayaking, and fishing.

The lake’s location in the middle of the desert definitely gives it an oasis feel, which is the perfect refreshing break after a desert hike.

21. Uinta-Wasatch-Cache National Forest

The United States Department of Agriculture says this national forest is “free from modern human control or manipulation, is undeveloped, and provides outstanding opportunities for solitude or a primitive and unconfined type of recreation.” If that’s not a good enough reason to go there and completely unplug from modern society, I don’t know what is.

The Uinta-Wasatch-Cache National Forest encompasses nearly 2.1 million acres of land featuring scenic byways, recreation areas, cabins, and epic hikes.

20. Uinta Mountains

Whether you’re looking for a day hike, a full-on backpacking trip, or an equestrian adventure, the Uinta Mountains are an awesome destination. The scenery in this part of Utah is sure to make your jaw drop, and there are a variety of trails that all have something special to offer.

19. Mount Timpanogos

On the northeast side of Utah Valley sits Mount Timpanogos. This 11,749-foot monstrosity of a mountain is one of Utah’s most popular hiking destinations. Two trails are available to hike to the summit : the 8.3-mile Aspen Grove Trail and the 7.5-mile Timpooneke Trail. Each of them provides a different hiking experience, but both promise incredible views, wildlife settings, and plenty of wildflowers to admire.

18. Wasatch backcountry skiing

Get ready to immerse yourself in a winter wonderland in the Wasatch Mountains. Here skiers of all levels can hit the slopes and spend the entire day in the fresh, powdery snow. This is one of the best places in the state for backcountry skiing, and this guided tour provides a professional skiing guide who can show you the ropes.

17. Utah Olympic Park

In 2002 when Salt Lake City hosted the Winter Olympics, Park City was the site of five events: bobsled, skeleton, luge, and the Nordic combined events. Nowadays, the Utah Olympic Park is open to the public and has plenty of activities available, including a zip line tour . This is a great place for solo travelers, small groups, and families alike.

16. Hot-air ballooning

If you want to get your hot-air balloon fix while visiting Utah, Park City is the perfect place to do it! From a thousand feet above the gorgeous landscape surrounding the city, you’ll be able to see the Kamas Valley and the Wasatch Mountains. Each season offers a different kind of beauty: bright blue skies with lush green hills in the summer, red- and orange-speckled mountains in the fall, snow-capped peaks in the winter, and colorful wildflower blossoms in the spring.

15. The Park City Mountain Resort Alpine Coaster

This roller coaster is nothing like the mega-industrial ones you’d find at Six Flags. With over a mile of loops and turns, the Park City Mountain Resort’s Mountain Coaster offers a breezy mountain atmosphere while moving at speeds of up to 25 miles per hour. It’s a must-visit if you like your gorgeous views served up with a side of adrenaline.

14. Salt Lake City

As Utah’s state capital, Salt Lake City is a hub for arts, culture, entertainment, gastronomy, and much more. The city has a unique and fascinating history worth exploring . Its proximity to so many state and national parks makes it another wonderful launching point for your outdoor adventures.

13. Great Salt Lake

No visit to Salt Lake City is complete without checking out Great Salt Lake. As the largest saltwater lake in the Western Hemisphere, it’s truly an amazing site to marvel at. Consider taking a road trip on Interstate 80, along the southern coastline of the lake, for some stellar views.

There are several beaches along Great Salt Lake’s shores that are ideal for boating , swimming, kayaking, SUP-boarding, and fishing. You’ll also find plenty of hiking trails at nearby parks that showcase the area’s wildlife and flora. Make sure not to miss one of the lake’s iconic colorful sunsets! You can take it all in with a guided bus tour .

12. Antelope Island

Antelope Island is easily one of the most popular places to enjoy Great Salt Lake. It’s a small peninsula that features soft, white-sand beaches ideal for swimming and sunbathing. At Antelope Island State Park , you can explore backcountry trails on foot, horseback, or mountain bike while admiring the natural beauty all around. This is also a highly popular camping spot and great for viewing local wildlife.

11. Ensign Peak

This lookout point is one of the best ways to see Great Salt Lake from above. You can find the trailhead in Salt Lake City behind the capitol building. From there, make the upward hike to the top and catch an amazing view of the city and the lake all in one. It’s only about a mile round-trip but definitely best to do early in the morning or late in the afternoon, as the scorching temperatures of Utah summers are not ideal for a midday hike.

10. Salt Lake Trolley Tours

If you want to see the sights of Salt Lake City in the most theatrical way possible, consider a trolley tour. This “show-tour” features historical tales told by an eccentric crew of entertainers, which is bound to have you laughing the entire ride. You can make your reservation here .

9. Natural History Museum of Utah

If you go to any museum in Utah during your visit, make sure it’s this one. The Natural History Museum of Utah features an impressive collection of dinosaur bones, anthropological artifacts, and fossils dating back millions of years. You could spend hours exploring the treasures inside! Reservations are required and can be made here .

8. Temple Square

The entirety of Salt Lake City was built around Temple Square, indicating that this point is the city’s origin. In fact, the gridded street system designates addresses according to how many blocks to the north, south, east, or west a particular place is in relation to Temple Square.

Where the temple stands today was once the epicenter of the city, but it now encompasses 35 acres and several city blocks full of landmarks. You’ll find the temple, tabernacle, assembly hall, and visitor centers here, along with other important buildings.

7. Red Butte Garden

Created by the University of Utah, the Red Butte Garden is easily one of the most beautiful botanical treasures in Salt Lake City. This 100-acre property contains 21 acres of developed gardens that feature a variety of plant species, five miles of hiking trails, and loads of community events year round. The garden is known for its outdoor summer concert series , which hosts big-name artists as well as local favorites.

6. Salt Lake Public Library

You might be thinking, why is she telling me to visit the library? I get it — it’s not exactly your typical tourist destination, but hear me out. The Salt Lake Public Library is one of the coolest buildings in town and has some stunning modern architecture to admire. It’s completely free to visit, too! After all of the outdoor adventures, this could be a welcome change of scenery and an excellent place to relax with a good book.

Ogden is the ultimate gateway to northern Utah’s ski resorts. This charming city is brimming with delicious eateries, hip breweries, and fresh outdoor spaces. It also makes a great central point for adventures to the Uinta-Wasatch-Cache National Forest and other natural areas.

4. Nordic Valley

Nordic Valley is the perfect place to visit during the wintertime. This ski resort is known to be the best for all levels out of the three resorts close to Ogden. It has well-groomed slopes, of which 35% are suitable for beginners. For intermediate skiers and snowboarders, 45% of the slopes are ideal and 20% for advanced skill levels. You can even go night skiing here, as all of the slopes are lit up at night!

3. Fort Buenaventura

This historic park is a popular community gathering place. Here you can camp, fish, play disc golf, check out the visitors center, canoe, or catch an event at the pavilion. It’s only about a mile from downtown Ogden and is the ideal place to spend a relaxing afternoon.

2. Bear River Migratory Bird Refuge

If you’re a birding enthusiast, the Bear River Migratory Bird Refuge is about to become your new favorite place. The refuge is a habitat for over 250 species of migrating birds, with different ones passing through with every season. It’s a wetlands area that is beautiful and serene to visit any time of the year and has plenty of opportunities to see wildlife.

1. Bonneville Salt Flats

If you’ve ever wondered what it’s like to walk on a landscape that looks like snow in July, head to the dreamy Bonneville Salt Flats!

The best way to access this lake bed covered in salt deposits is to navigate to the Racetrack Playa, where in the late summer months, cars go out to race and set land speed records.

That said, don’t just drive on any part of the flats, and keep time of year in mind: it is not always dry, and people are constantly having to be towed out. Since there’s only one company that tows out there, prepare to shell out hundreds of dollars for the service. It’s really only the summer months that it is dry enough to drive on. That’s why it’s best to head to the Racetrack Playa, where the salt is patted down.

It’s also located on BLM (Bureau of Land Management) land, and although you cannot camp directly on the flats, there is plenty of dispersed camping nearby!

With this list, your options for things to do in Utah are truly limitless. It’s one of the most beautiful states in the USA because of its diverse and otherworldly landscapes, but it also has some lovely mountain towns that are worth visiting as well.

Have you been to Utah? Let us know what your favorite thing to do there is!

About Kristin Addis

Kristin Addis is the founder and CEO of Be My Travel Muse, a resource for female travelers all around the world since 2012. She's traveled solo to over 65 countries and has brought over 150 women on her all-female adventure tours from Botswana to the Alaskan tundra.

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Xin Li says

05/06/2022 at 1:28 pm

It would be very helpful if you could post each spot with a GPS coordinate.

Kristin says

05/07/2022 at 8:27 pm

They’re all findable on google maps!

• Places To Go
• Cities & Towns
• Salt Lake City
• Things To Do in Salt Lake City

Things To Do In Salt Lake City

In order for something to float it needs to be less dense than the water (or air) surrounding it. It’s part of the reason a piece of driftwood floats down a river and helium-filled balloons rise. It also explains one of Great Salt Lake’s most famous phenomena, the fact that swimmers float with little to no effort because the lake is so dense with salt.

In a way, that’s what Salt Lake City is all about — an effortless balance between nature and city living. The Capital City lies in between Great Salt Lake and the Wasatch Mountain Range, and is growing into a vibrant blend of culture and heritage. Take a hike, find a new favorite restaurant, explore the state’s heritage or enjoy a lively night out. It’s all available to you in Salt Lake City, but just in case you aren’t sure where to start, here are a few of the city’s most popular things to do.

Explore Salt Lake City Support Local

Breweries and Distilleries

When you imagine Utah, breweries and distilleries may not be the first thing that come to mind. After all, Utah has historically ranked as the state with the lowest alcohol consumption on average. With that said, there is certainly no shortage of locally brewed favorites. Wasatch Brewery and High West Distillery were among the first of many to open-shop in the beehive state.

The dining scene in Salt Lake City is booming. Cultures from around the world are represented by authentic eateries, many of which are locally owned. From breakfast to late-night food truck stops, you’ll always be able to find a great bite to eat. Also, fun fact: there are a handful of restaurants in Utah that serve fresh seafood that is flown in daily.

Nestled at the base of the Wasatch Mountain Range, you’re never far from great hiking when you’re in Salt Lake City. The foothills where neighborhoods meet mountain-sides are covered in trail networks, perfect for a morning or afternoon hike. Ensign Peak, The Living Room and Mount Olympus are a few local favorites of varying intensity, but there are plenty more worth exploring while you’re here.

Rock Climbing

Salt Lake City is host to some of the most renowned climbing on planet Earth. From granite boulders and cliffs in the Cottonwood Canyons, to the plastic holds of world-class climbing gyms, beginner and advanced climbers are sure to find what they're looking for in Utah's capital city.

If you enjoy shopping, then you know that sometimes it is more about the experience than what you end up buying. After all, locally owned stores tend to exude a sense of their city’s culture. Sure, you can easily find the most common stores when you need them, but the most enjoyable shopping might just be in the local boutiques and shops throughout the city. Plus, as you’re browsing the stores you might just pick up a few tips from the locals about what to do while you’re visiting.

Utah is home to The Greatest Snow on Earth® and there are 10 ski resorts less than an hour away from downtown Salt Lake City waiting to be explored. For many, it's the unmatched access to world-class skiing that spurs a trip to Salt Lake City. Beginner-friendly slopes, Olympic terrain parks and knee-deep powder await in the winter. During the summer months, many of the resorts are open for hiking, mountain biking and family fun.

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Salt Lake City Inspiration

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11 Family-Friendly Activities Near SLC

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From roller coasters to ski slopes, discover 11 fun family activities in and around Salt Lake City.

'Bad' Brad: A Story of Blues, Blood and Legendary Jazz

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Salt Lake City’s Rainbow Colors Fly Year Round

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Step Into an Artistic Vision

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The columns of Simmons Pioneer Memorial Theatre slowly appear as you climb to its perch above downtown Salt Lake City. The theatre sits on the campus of the state’s flagship university with metropolitan lights below and mountains behind that rise several thousand feet off the valley floor to provide a backdrop to the east and south.

The Hands That Shape Temple Square

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If you visit Salt Lake City, you should visit Temple Square. Breathtaking architecture and landscaping will awe and inspire you. Learn more!

The Salt of Sound: Live Music in Salt Lake City

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The Spice of (a New) Life

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Some of the best food in Salt Lake City is served in the Spice Incubator Kitchen. Come visit this international culinary kitchen for a treat to your taste buds.

Utah’s Women Make History

Walk in the footsteps of Utah’s earliest women’s suffrage leaders at sites throughout downtown Salt Lake City. Along the way, view public art installations commemorating voting rights and stop at trail-adjacent local women-owned businesses.

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Where to See Women's Art in Utah

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Where’s the Meat?

Taking the blue highways, finding a local diner or picking up fresh fruit from a family-run farm store gets us that much more in touch with the flow of seasons and feeling grounded in our sense of place as we travel. And shrinking the circle of our food sourcing has become a priority for many people even, and especially, while on the road.

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Ave Maria mural by El Mac & Retna in downtown Salt Lake City.

Photo: Jim Urquhart

The Eccles Theater is easily recognized by its spectacular five-story glass lobby and distinctive chandeliers.

Photo: Steve Greenwood

The Living Room Trail offers scenic views of Salt Lake City.

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More Activities

Bonneville salt flats.

As the ancient Lake Bonneville dwindled into what is now Great Salt Lake, it left behind the Bonneville Salt Flats — vast stretches of nearly perfectly flat desert floors. The Salt Flats are best known as the location where landspeed world records have been set numerous times, but they are also a serene backdrop for photo opportunities and art exhibits. They cover much of the stretch between Salt Lake City and Wendover, Nevada. If you’re going to visit, be sure to stay on public lands and travel responsibly.

Eccles Theater

The Eccles Theater hosts popular touring Broadway shows and concerts in downtown Salt Lake City.

Great Salt Lake

There’s a lot to do at Great Salt Lake. As you know, it is a one-of-a-kind opportunity for swimming and floating. It’s also a great place to see wildlife, being that the lake is one of the largest (and saltiest) inland bodies of water in the Western Hemisphere. Herds of bison roam Antelope Island State Park, and hundreds of uncommon bird species can be seen at Bear River Migratory Bird Refuge. A quick half-hour drive from downtown Salt Lake City, Great Salt Lake is an idyllic place to spend a mellow day experiencing one of Utah’s most famous natural spaces.

Hale Center Theatre

Housed at the Mountain America Performing Arts Centre in Sandy, the Hale Center Theatre performs many well known live stage plays and musicals throughout the year.

Hogle Zoo has long been one of Utah’s favorite attractions, dating back to 1931. It’s truly a world-class zoo with 42 acres nestled in a canyon setting and hosting over 800 animals. It has received accreditation by the Association of Zoos and Aquariums for its excellence. It’s only 15 minutes from downtown Salt Lake City in Emigration Canyon, right across the street from This Is The Place Heritage Park, a great spot to experience Utah’s pioneer history.

Natural History Museum of Utah

The Natural History Museum of Utah boasts the largest collection of horned dinosaur fossils in the world, and is packed with other fascinating and engaging exhibits to orient you to Utah’s unique geology and ancient history.

Red Butte Garden

Sharing the same property as the Natural History Museum of Utah, Red Butte Garden is a perfectly calm follow-up to the museum. Expect to learn about the state’s natural vegetation and see plenty of exquisite garden arrangements.

Temple Square

As you may know, Utah was settled by Brigham Young and pioneers from the Church of Jesus Christ of Latter-day Saints (popularly known as Mormons) in 1847. In the years that followed, Salt Lake City’s streets and buildings were built to follow a grid system, at the heart of which is Temple Square. The gardens in the square and Salt Lake Temple’s architecture are magnificent. Regardless of religion, Temple Square is a beautiful cornerstone of Utah’s heritage that is well-worth visiting and access to the grounds, museums and visitor centers outside the temple are free to visitors.

Well-prepared travel is responsible travel.

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• State Parks
• Cities & Towns
• National Monuments
• National Parks

Utah Destinations

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Utah doesn’t have something for everyone. That would be impossible. But almost.

You know that kid in class who was good at everything? Smart, beautiful, athletic and shredded the guitar like Eddie Van Halen? So annoying. Well, Utah’s sorry, but it’s not gonna downplay its talents just so California doesn’t feel bad about itself.

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Alpine lakes with trophy-sized rainbows. Great big little  cities  with world-class ballet and plenty of parking. Red-rock slot canyons and other geologic oddities. Performance-enhancing powder at bucket-list  ski resorts , 45 minutes from the airport. Plus we brag about it. Ugh. We’re the worst.

National Parks →

The Colorado Plateau is the big, beautiful orangey blotch centered at Four Corners, millions of years and layers of stone laced with canyon-cutting rivers and unlikely art rock. The feds found five different spots in Utah’s quadrant weird and wild enough to designate and protect. If you’ve only got a week, these should top your list of places to see in Utah.

National Monuments & Landmarks →

These are like National Parks Express. Not quite as extensive, but still briefly intensive. And they’re packed tightly enough between national parks and lots of other Utah attractions that it’s not an either/or situation.

State Parks →

Sand dunes, petrified forests, pioneer heritage and Native American sites: half a hundred dots on the map with dozens of kinds of low-traffic attractions. Disregard the occasional side-eye from a local. Once you see the sights, you’ll forgive them for not wanting to share.

Natural Areas →

Some things aren’t so easily classified. These Utah points of interest are generally outdoors, typically remote and unanimously awesome. If your map only shows the big, obvious Utah attractions, get a new map, because mind-blowing can’t be categorized.

Cities & Towns →

Let’s be honest: You don’t book a trip to Utah to see what a big city feels like. But first of all, we do small-town right, with the proverbial Mom & Pop cooking, cleaning and making sure you’re comfortable. Then there are the resort towns, with all the outfitters and outposts you need to go (into the) wild. And lastly, the biggish cities you do find in Utah punch way above their weight class — the Wasatch Front has things to do, see and eat on par with the world’s much larger, much less convenient metropolises.

Ski Resorts →

These Utah destinations show you a corner of the state without skimping on the luxury — the kind of all-inclusive experiences that make leaving the campus optional.

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• 7 Cozy Towns to Visit in Utah

A key component of the Western United States, the “Beehive State” of Utah is a splendid cultural and geographical place. With a rich history containing stories of indigenous peoples, the settlement of the West, and Mormon pioneers, Utah’s unique historical background is only rivaled by its beautiful mountainous landscapes and desert plateaus. A great destination to spend a vacation, Utah’s welcoming, smaller, and cozy towns are awesome places to get better acquainted with the state and its most special character.

So whether one is looking for a unique cultural experience or a majestic natural panorama, Utah and its towns are just the right places to discover firsthand. Hit the road and come see the most wonderful place, which is the “Beehive State”!

Spring City

Formally established in the 1850s, Spring City, like many towns in Utah, was founded by Mormon pioneers, and its unique cultural heritage continues to be evident for all those who visit. Home to a modest population of just over 1,000 inhabitants, this historic community is a great place to immerse oneself in the 19th century, and in fact, the town in its entirety is listed on the National Register of Historic Places.

Visit the Historic District and marvel at landmarks like the Spring City Chapel and Schoolhouse (1899), amongst others that display a special style of architecture that includes the use of large stones. Add in a cute assortment of local businesses and restaurants, and Spring City truly is a nice and cozy place to spend a day or weekend trip. By mixing the elements of small-town USA with a most special Mormon cultural character, Spring City is one of the finest places to discover on any Utah road trip.

A beautifully scenic place, the town of Moab offers its guests and residents alike some of the best in desert landscapes. The seat of Grand County, home to a population of just over 5,000 inhabitants, Moab can trace its modern history to the 1870s when it was settled by Mormon pioneers. For those looking for dramatic and breathtaking vistas and chances to spend time in a desert ambiance, then Moab is the place to be. Visit the famed Arches and Canyonlands National Park , where such structures as mesas, canyons, and buttes can be admired in all their splendor. Meanwhile, the athletically minded tourist can even go mountain biking and hiking at the nearby Slickrock Trails, where one can totally immerse oneself in this raw desert setting.

Meanwhile, Moab hosts a number of inviting cultural events throughout the year, including music festivals, folk festivals, and LGBT pride parades. Add in hot weather, a charming array of local businesses, and unique Mormon-style buildings, and Moab truly is a destination that anyone visiting Utah cannot miss.

Kanab, the seat of Kane County, is located very near the northern border with Arizona. Kanab is another desert wonderland that those traveling in Southern Utah will not want to pass by. Affectionately known as “Utah’s Little Hollywood”, over the decades many films and television shows set in the Wild West have been filmed in the Kanab area, particularly in the 50s and 60s. A veritably hot summer destination, this charming community of just under 4,700 residents offers some of the best in desert landscapes, and guests can enjoy easy access to such sites as the Coral Spring Sand Dunes, Bryce Canyon National Park, and Zion National Park.

Take advantage of fun opportunities to go biking and hiking and explore some of the region’s most spectacular canyons, valleys, and other rock formations. Finally, in the town itself, a welcoming assortment of friendly restaurants, shops, and other businesses dot the landscape, while charming accommodations like the Parry Lodge (1930) make Kanab fit for all ages.

Mount Pleasant

The town of Mount Pleasant was established by the Mormons in the 1860s, and today, it is the home of just over 3,600 residents. A charming and old-fashioned place, guests can really get a sense of the 19th century here and admire its historic Mormon-style architecture. Spend an afternoon on Main Street and admire landmarks like the Blacksmith Shop and the Wasatch Academy School Museum while a cute assortment of shops, restaurants, and other historic sites fill in the surroundings.

Just a 90-minute drive from Salt Lake City, Mount Pleasant is a nice place for a weekend getaway where the best of Mormon history and small-town charm come together nicely. Add in several annual cultural events, including Fourth of July Celebrations and the summer Hub City Days Rodeo, and the young and old can truly have a memorable experience in this lovely and cozy Utah town.

Panguitch serves as the seat of Garfield County and derives its name from an indigenous word meaning “Big Fish.” Established by Mormon settlers in the 1860s, today, the town maintains a very modest population of just over 1,700 inhabitants. Scenically located within the Sevier River Valley, where splendid mountain and lake vistas abound, Panguitch is a wonderful place for outdoors lovers to visit. Well known as an angler’s hot spot, those who love to fish can find healthy populations of rainbow trout and other species in the lakes and rivers in the surrounding area.

In addition, even history aficionados can appreciate Panguitch, and an exploration of the town’s Historic District brings tourists back to the tumultuous years of the 1800s. Marvel at numerous Mormon-style buildings in a neighborhood that was added in its entirety to the National Register of Historic Places! And like many small towns, Panguitch offers a charming, friendly atmosphere where local businesses, shops, and restaurants are ready to greet all those who visit.

As with many towns in Utah, Farmington can trace its modern history to the mid-19th century when it was founded by the Mormons. Today, this seat of Davis County is home to nearly 25,000 inhabitants, and visitors can enjoy a unique cultural setting within the beautiful natural framing of northern Utah. Known for its hot summer and cool winter temperatures, Farmington is surrounded by the Wasatch Mountains and the Great Salt Lake, where outdoor activities in all seasons are always popular.

Enjoy swimming, hiking, and cycling in the most scenic ambiance. Meanwhile, the town’s Mormon heritage is most evident through its assortment of buildings and landmarks reflecting an architectural style of the 1800s. And for the whole family, do not forget to visit the truly entertaining Lagoon Amusement Park, which was first opened back in 1886! Whether it's enjoying the outdoors, marveling at the historic town center, or riding a roller coaster, Farmington is one Utah community that people of all backgrounds can truly appreciate.

Brigham City

Brigham City was named for the prominent Mormon religious leader Brigham Young and was formally established in the 1850s. Today, the home of a population of nearly 20,000 inhabitants, this seat of Box Elder County remains a splendid place to enjoy a cozy and scenic Utah getaway. Situated within the picturesque Westville Mountains, this historic town boasts beautiful green spaces, mountain vistas, and loads of spectacular Mormon architecture, making it one of the most photogenic places in the State. Spending time on Main Street and admiring the buildings while having an afternoon at the Golden Spike National Historical Park is a great way to learn more about the famed Transcontinental Railroad that was completed in 1869. And with an array of year-round festivals held, there is always something exciting happening in Brigham City.

Of particular note is the Peach Days Festival in September. The town which is known for its production of sweet and succulent preaches, goes all out for this festival and guests can enjoy parades, live music, carnival acts, and naturally plenty of opportunities to indulge in this most wonderful fruit!

Whether it is its natural geographic beauty or splendid cultural uniqueness, the “Beehive State” of Utah continues to be one of America’s most alluring destinations. An exploration of the State and its cozy, smaller towns make for great holiday memories. Outside of such major urban centers like Provo and Salt Lake City, Utah’s smaller communities are also great reflections of the great diversity to be found in the Western United States. From the desert wonder of Moab and Kanab to the cultural wonder of Brigham City and Mount Pleasant, these and other wonderfully inviting Utah towns are the perfect destinations to experience a special version of the typical small-town USA. Do not wait then and begin planning a most special holiday getaway in this gem of a place called Utah, where the richest experience awaits all ages of travelers.

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'Planet parade' 2024: How to view the astronomical event

Get ready skywatchers, another astronomical event will take place on June 3.

A planetary alignment, or a "planet parade" according to the internet, where we'll see six planets – Jupiter, Mercury, Uranus, Mars, Neptune and Saturn – grace our sky in the predawn hours, according to StarWalk.space , a stargazing and astronomical website.

How does the alignment happen?

The planets orbit the sun continuously in the solar system . The planets will slowly catch up to one another over time. Because they are all traveling along the same path, the ecliptic , as they pass Earth, it appears as though they are aligned, according to NASA . However, the alignment formation will be short-lived since each planet moves at different speeds, depending on its distance from the sun.

Where to look for the planet alignment

Looking in the eastern sky the planetary alignment will be visible almost everywhere in the Northern Hemisphere, weather permitting.

You'll need high-powered binoculars to view the majority of the planets – Mercury and Jupiter will be extremely low in the sky. Uranus will be fairly dim and Neptune will appear star-like with binoculars due to its distance from Earth. But Mars and Saturn should be visible with the naked eye.

Planet alignments aren't extremely rare, especially with two to four planets. They do occur several times each year. With five or more planets aligning, it is less common.

The last planetary alignment seen in the Northern Hemisphere was on April 8.

Profiles of the six planets on parade

With eight planets in our solar system, they all have some very interesting traits. Here's a quick look at the planets aligning on June 3:

When will the planets align again?

Here's when StarWalk.space predicts the next six- and 7-planetary alignments will happen:

◾ June 3: Six planets – Mercury, Mars, Jupiter, Saturn, Uranus and Neptune.

◾ Aug. 28: Six planets – Mercury, Mars, Jupiter, Saturn, Uranus and Neptune.

◾ Jan. 18: Six planets – Mercury, Mars, Jupiter, Saturn, Uranus and Neptune

◾ Feb. 28: Seven planets – Mercury, Venus, Mars, Jupiter, Saturn, Uranus and Neptune. (The last time all seven planets aligned was on April 8 during the total solar eclipse).

◾ Aug. 29, 2025: Six planets – Mercury, Venus, Jupiter, Saturn, Uranus and Neptune.

SOUCRE StarWalk.space, NASA, Astronomy.com and USA TODAY research

The 10 Best Places to Live in Utah in 2024

Reading Time: 12 minutes

If you’re planning on moving to Utah, add these cities to your list.

Utah is a haven of rugged mountain ranges, high desert plains, and boundless outdoor activities. With its three unique regions , the state provides a mix of charming towns, rich history, and convenient amenities, making it a great place to call home. People are taking advantage of this, too; Utah was the fastest-growing state in the country from 2010-2020.

Natural beauty is one of Utah’s defining factors. The beautiful Uinta Mountains dominate much of northeastern Utah, providing ample opportunities for skiing, hiking, and fishing. In the southwest, the awe-inspiring canyons of Zion National Park draw visitors from around the world. 

Utah’s climate is also fairly pleasant. The nearby mountain ranges shield Utah from most extreme weather, especially heat and cold. As such, dry, mild weather is fairly common. Precipitation is more likely the higher and farther north you go, with most falling in the winter and spring .

Over 80% of Utah’s population lives in the Wasatch Front , a 150-mile valley home to cities like Salt Lake City, Provo, and Ogden. The valley is bordered by the steep Wasatch Mountains to the east, and the Great Salt Lake, Oquirrh Mountains, and Utah Lake to the west. Here, urban amenities blend seamlessly with outdoor recreation, offering the best of both worlds. 

But which cities in the Beehive State are right for you? In this Redfin article, we’ve uncovered the best places to live in Utah, ranking them on qualities such as affordability, navigability, and number of amenities. You can find more information about our methodology here or at the bottom of the article.

1. Salt Lake City, UT

Salt Lake City (SLC), Utah’s capital and largest city, tops our list as the best place to live in Utah. Ample access to the outdoors, a relatively affordable cost of living, and competitive housing market all contributed to its high ranking. The city is located in the heart of the Wasatch Front just west of the Wasatch Mountains and is known for its dramatic vistas, year-round outdoor recreation, and long history. 

Living in SLC means you’re never far from fun. The Utah Arts Festival and Downtown Farmers Market are popular options during the warmer months, while skiing is a local winter favorite. Alta, Brighton, Snowbird, and Solitude resorts are all within an hour from downtown SLC. 

Salt Lake City also has hundreds of local shops and eateries. The King’s English Bookshop is a beloved independent bookstore, while Eva’s Bakery and Caputo’s Market & Deli serve up delicious fare in the heart of the city. Historic Salt Lake City neighborhoods like The Avenues and 9th and 9th boast charming hotspots, including the iconic Tower Theatre and rustic Pizza Nono.

However, the region’s air quality and water security are important issues to know about if you’re moving to the area. Due to the region’s rapid growth, demand for water has skyrocketed. With the majority of the state facing long-term drought conditions , a growing portion of the water has come from the Great Salt Lake, whose water levels recently fell to its lowest recorded levels . This has had compounding effects on the region’s already poor air quality.

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Just south of Salt Lake City, South Salt Lake is the second city on our list of the best places to live in Utah. What used to be a fairly undeveloped part of the Salt Lake City metropolitan area is now a hip, bustling city with its own character and attractions. The city’s affordability is one of its main selling points; house prices in South Salt Lake are $200,000 less than Salt Lake City proper. And while the city has historically been fairly industrial, this can be a benefit for some.

South Salt Lake is also very convenient for commuters into downtown Salt Lake City. TRAX , UTA’s light rail system , offers three lines into and out of South Salt Lake: the Red Line, Blue Line, and Green Line. Trains run every 15 minutes and provide access throughout the SLC metro area. Commuting by car might take a while, though, especially along Interstate 15. 

South Salt Lake is home to quite a few local hotspots, including the Old Bridge Cafe, Pie Pizzeria, and King Buffet of Salt Lake. Chinatown Supermarket is especially popular among locals, with 30,000 square feet of authentic and unique Asian goods. And for people who want to spend a day on the greens, six golf clubs are within two miles of the city center. 

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3. Orem, UT

Orem comes in as the third-best place to live in Utah. A suburb of Provo about 40 miles south of Salt Lake City, Orem is known for being a fairly affordable college town. Rentals in particular are quite affordable, with rent prices $600 below the national median . Utah Lake borders the city to the west, while 10,000-foot mountain peaks are just two miles to the east. The scenic Provo Canyon is located in the easternmost part of the city limits. 

You can find most of what you’ll need in Orem along State Street (SR 89), which runs through the center of town. Restaurants like Pitada Brazil and Lomito’s, shopping destinations like Orem Plaza and Asian Market, and local attractions like the Hale Center Theater and Scera Park can all be found along a one-mile stretch of the road. Walking around State Street can be difficult, but the city government is working to transform the boulevard into a haven for pedestrians and cyclists. 

Commuting into Salt Lake City may be a challenge if you don’t use public transportation. For example, driving into Downtown SLC using Interstate 15 can take well over 40 minutes, longer depending on traffic and weather. On the other hand, The FrontRunner , UTA’s regional commuter rail, runs straight through Orem into SLC and can be a stress-free way to commute. This route takes around an hour, but the time is much more reliable.

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4. Midvale, UT

Next on our list is Midvale, a small suburb 12 miles south of Salt Lake City. Similar to many suburbs in the region, Midvale boasts a more affordable cost of living than SLC, along with a more relaxed feel. Midvale developed separately from SLC and retains its own historic, old-school downtown while also providing plenty of new housing both east and west of Interstate 15. 

Like Orem, most of what you need can be found along Main Street in the center of town. Midvale Plaza is a popular shopping mall, while Moochie’s Meatballs and More and the Midvale Mining Company Cafe are beloved local restaurants. Main Street is also being renovated and updated to better serve pedestrians and cyclists. Other Midvale hotspots include The Shops at Fort Union, and Gardner Village. 

One of the benefits of living in Midvale is that you’re right in the middle of the SLC metro area. You’re within five miles from most of what the area has to offer, including renowned outdoor recreation and local shops and amenities. It’s easy to drive out to the Bear Canyon Suspension Bridge Trailhead, Heughs Canyon Trail, or Great Salt Lake State Park for a fun day outside. You can also easily head into downtown SLC for a night on the town using the TRAX Blue Line, or drive 17 miles south to the Outlets at Traverse Mountain.

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5. Murray, UT

Located just north of Midvale in the center of the Wasatch Front, Murray ( formally Murray City ) comes in at number five on our list of the best places to live in Idaho. Murray is a historic city with roots in mining and smelting, specifically gold, silver, and lead, and still retains a rustic industrial feel today. Historic attractions include the 170-year old Wheeler Historic Farm , which provides education and summer camps, and the Carlisle Family Monument.

Despite its close proximity to the city center, Murray retains a distinct sense of tranquility. Tree-lined streets and spacious parks offer residents ample opportunities to unwind and enjoy the gorgeous Utah scenery. One of the most popular outdoor spots is the Jordan River Parkway Trail , which parallels the Jordan River for 45 miles and provides a paved and equestrian trail. Murray Park is another local favorite, with athletic fields, an ice skating rink, and an amphitheater. 

As with most suburbs in the Salt Lake Valley , most amenities are on or near State Street. The Desert Star Playhouse and the Paradise Buffet are fun spots to visit. The Ivy Place Shopping Village in the northeast has some other amenities as well. 

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6. St. George, UT

A historic Mormon farming town turned outdoor paradise, St. George is the seventh-best place to live in Utah. Located on the Colorado Plateau in southeastern Utah, St. George is home to renowned natural beauty, historic architecture, and abundant outdoor recreation . Due to its pleasant climate and location near public lands, it’s also one of the fastest-growing cities in the nation . The cost of living is fairly high, however, and wages sit well below the national average. 

Layers of red rock, narrow canyons, mesas, and volcanic lava flows dominate the landscape, while 300 days of sunshine makes it easy to get up and explore. St. George’s proximity to iconic natural wonders like Zion National Park, Snow Canyon State Park, and the Red Cliffs National Conservation Area provides residents with endless opportunities for hiking, climbing, mountain biking, and more. 

Another plus about St. George is that it has relatively good air quality, especially compared to the SLC area. In fact, the city has the 10th-cleanest air in the nation for year-round particle pollution.

St. George’s climate is markedly warmer and drier than cities further north, with average summer temperatures reaching 100°F and very little winter snowfall. Its climate is generally dry year-round, with most rain falling in the winter and late summer. Due to this dryness, water insecurity is a major issue in the region, especially as its population grows.

St. George homes for sale | St. George houses for rent | St. George apartments for rent  

7. Provo, UT

Home to Brigham Young University (BYU) and a rich Mormon history, Provo is the seventh-best place to live in Utah on our list. Situated along Utah Lake 45 miles south of Salt Lake City, Provo is known for its college town vibes, active outdoor culture, and close-knit community. A big plus is the city’s affordability compared to SLC, especially for renters. However, many renters still spend more than 30% of their income on rent. The government has been working to improve the situation. 

Four-season recreation is around every corner and within minutes from the city. The Y, Provo Peak, and Rock Canyon trailheads are all a mile from downtown and offer stunning views of the valley and surrounding mountains. To the west, Utah Lake provides space for boating, swimming, canoeing, and paddleboarding, although the water quality is variable. The Provo River Trail, Paul Ream Wilderness Park, and Provo Recreation Center are popular spots in the center of town. 

It’s also easy to learn about the region’s Mormon roots. The Museum of Mormon Mexican History and Museum of Mormon History of the Americas showcase the religion’s history, while BYU hosts events and talks year-round. Numerous sacred temples are scattered throughout the city, too. 

Restaurants, shops, and other amenities are located throughout the city, too. Communal, Black Sheep Cafe, and Tucanos Brazilian Grill are especially popular. Orem Plaza is a good spot for getting together with friends, too. 

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8. Taylorsville, UT

Just west of Murray, Taylorsville comes in at number eight on our list. Affordability is one of the top selling points of Taylorsville, with median sale and rent prices 16% and 7% lower than Salt Lake City, respectively. Commuting can be a challenge, though, and most errands require a car . TRAX doesn’t operate in Taylorsville, but numerous bus routes run throughout the city. The Taylorsville Temple is a regional landmark.

Taylorsville is laid out on a grid bisected by Redwood Road, the Taylorsville Expressway, and 5400 S, which is where a majority of the city’s amenities are located. These hotspots provide a lot to do, including dining at local restaurants to visiting one of dozens of parks. Red Maple Chinese and Great Harvest Bread Co. Bakery & Cafe are popular eateries, while Vista Park, Gary C. Swenson Valley Regional Park, and two golf courses provide space for a fun day out. 

Further outside the city, the Utah First Credit Union Amphitheatre provides space for large-scale concerts and comedy shows. The Mid-Valley Performing Arts Center is great for more intimate performances. 

Taylorsville homes for sale | Taylorsville houses for rent | Taylorsville apartments for rent

9. Millcreek, UT

Located southeast of Salt Lake City and north of Murray, Millcreek is a relatively expensive suburb known for its quiet streets, mountain views, and gorgeous parks. Eastern Millcreek extends into the Wasatch Mountains, providing ample opportunities for exploration and fun. The Mount Olympus neighborhood, for example, is within one mile from Millcreek Canyon, Neffs Canyon, and the Mount Olympus Trailhead.

The Big Cottonwood Regional Park, Parleys Historic Nature Park, and Scott Avenue Park are outdoor hotspots within city limits. After spending a day outside, locals love to eat at restaurants like Provisions, Roots Cafe, and Eggs in the City. 

One of the latest and greatest attractions to open in Millcreek is Millcreek Common , the new heart of the city. The Common is home to the New Americans International Market, the brand new Millcreek Farmers Market , and dozens of events throughout the year. There’s also a climbing wall, ice skating rink, splash pad, and coffee shop. 

Like many cities in the Western United States, especially around Salt Lake City, most neighborhoods are managed by a Homeowners Association (HOA) . HOAs can heavily regulate your home’s maintenance and appearance and influence your quality of life. Take this into account if you’re planning on buying a house in the area. Luckily, they can no longer require you to maintain a lush, green lawn. 

Millcreek homes for sale | Millcreek houses for rent | Millcreek apartments for rent

10. Sandy, UT

Sandy, UT rounds out our list as the tenth-best place to live in Utah. Just south of Murray in the southeastern edge of the SLC metro area, Sandy is a fairly expensive suburb surrounded by mountains, parks, and wide open streets. Traditional cape cod and farmhouse homes line the quiet roads, along with well-paved sidewalks and large trees. And no matter where you live, you’ll have views of Lone Peak, White Baldy, and even Flat Top Mountain to the west on a clear day. 

There is no main avenue in Sandy, with most shops and amenities instead situated in mini-malls scattered throughout the city. Little Cottonwood Center, Union Square, and High Point Center are popular. The largest park in the area is Dimple Dell Regional Park, which offers miles of trails, including one that runs through a gully. Stopping at Sunrise Point on a brisk sunny morning is a favorite pastime among locals. 

Commuting into SLC from Sandy can be a challenge, though. The TRAX Blue Line stops in west Sandy, but because local public transportation is limited, you will likely have to use a car to get to the station. If this isn’t an option, you can drive into the big city along I-15 or State Street, but this can take upwards of an hour depending on traffic and weather. In general, Sandy is very spread out, and it can be hard to get around without a car. However, improvements are underway to help promote pedestrian safety and navigability.

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Methodology.

Redfin’s Best Places to Live rankings are meant to help home searchers make an informed decision when choosing where to live. To attempt to measure the overall quality of a metro area, each ranking takes into account several key factors, including access to healthcare, open outdoor space, navigability, housing trends, employment statistics, income, and travel time to work. Only metros with a population of 20,000 or greater were considered for our Utah list. More information about our methodology can be found here .

Data valid April 2024. This article is for informational and educational purposes only.

Jamie is part of the content marketing team and is passtionate about climate change, housing affordability, and housing market trends. His dream home is a small, modern, and minimalist forested home where he can hear the wind blowing at night.

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The 14 Peaks

Hours updated 3 weeks ago

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1446 S State St

Salt Lake City, UT 84115

Ballpark, Peoples Freeway

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At The 14 Peaks Restaurant, our uniqueness is in our commitment to elevating dining experiences. We blend innovative cuisine with unparalleled service, creating a culinary journey that transcends expectations. Our dedication to sustainability and community engagement sets us apart, ensuring every visit is not just a meal, but a memorable celebration of flavor and connection. …

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Dengue fever, once confined to the tropics, now threatens the U.S.

Meg Norris was traveling in Argentina in April when the first signs of dengue fever hit her. The weather in Salta, just south of the Bolivian border, was warm, but Norris, a 33-year-old from Boulder, Colorado, zipped a fleece sweatshirt around her body to stop herself from shivering.

“I thought it was sun poisoning,” she said. 

She woke that night in a sweat and spent the hours alternately burning up then freezing. In the morning, her eyes were sore and her lymph nodes were swollen. For the following week, there was nothing to do but sleep, stay hydrated and wait for the body aches that give the illness the moniker “break-bone fever” to pass.

Latin America is experiencing its worst dengue fever outbreak on record. Case numbers in the first 4 ½ months of 2024 are already 238% higher than they were by this time last year, which itself ended with a record 4.1 million cases, according to the Pan American Health Organization . Cases are more than 400% higher than the five-year average.

An unusually wet and warm summer season brought by the El Niño weather pattern has created ideal conditions for the mosquitoes that spread dengue to hatch en masse and carry higher amounts of the virus.

Experts warn this could be a preview of what dengue fever will look like in the future. Climate change is creating unusually balmy conditions, which are already expanding the range of mosquito-borne diseases.

“That’s concerning for places where dengue hasn’t occurred before in recent history: North America and Europe,” said Dr. Albert Ko, a professor of epidemiology of microbial diseases at the Yale School of Public Health.

Dengue is a viral fever caused by four different viruses and spread through mosquito bites. It’s common in many tropical regions across the globe, but has begun to appear in more temperate climates. The mosquitoes that carry dengue fever, Aedes aegypti are now regularly found in the southern parts of the U.S., but recently, the insects have been found as far north as the Bay Area and Washington, D.C. One 2019 study predicted an additional 2 billion people will be at risk for dengue fever by 2080.

“We are definitely worried,” Ko said.

Why are dengue cases rising around the world?

Dengue outbreaks have historically occurred in the Americas every three to four years, said Dr. Gabriela Paz-Bailey, dengue branch chief in the division of vector-borne diseases at the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention. “But now we are seeing them every year,” she said.

Part of the reason for that is tied to climate change.

A warming climate expands the mosquitoes’ habitat and allows them to breed all year long, rather than only in the warmer months. The hotter temperatures also cause the viruses to replicate faster, meaning mosquitoes end up carrying many more viral copies, increasing the likelihood that a person will become infected if bitten.

“We are also seeing dengue cause outbreaks at times when they usually don’t occur,” Ko said.

South America’s dengue cases weren’t just unusually high this year, but they also came unusually early in the season. Similarly, Puerto Rico, a place where dengue outbreaks can occur in the summer and fall, declared a public health emergency in late March after the U.S. territory was overtaken by dengue fever cases and more than 400 people were hospitalized .

In recent years, the epidemic has spread to parts of southern Brazil and northern Argentina, where dengue hasn’t previously been a big problem, Ko said.

“That gives us a snapshot of what we may see here in North America in the coming decades,” Ko said.

How would dengue get a foothold in the U.S.?

The fact that Aedes aegypti mosquitoes are found in places outside their normal range doesn’t mean the mosquitoes are carrying dengue viruses, but those first insects are a warning of what may be to come, Ko added

Locally transmitted dengue fever infections — meaning the infected person didn’t get sick abroad — are still rare in the continental U.S., but have recently been seen for the first time in some states. Last October, California health officials reported the state’s first case of locally transmitted dengue in Pasadena. Local transmission has also occurred in Arizona, Florida and the southern coast of Texas. Last summer brought record-breaking heat waves to Europe, where cases of local dengue transmission were seen in France, Italy and Spain.

“I think this means dengue will become more common,” said Paz-Bailey, adding that the main concern is still the significant increase in cases where the virus is already endemic.

This summer, she does not expect to see significant dengue outbreaks on the U.S. mainland, but she said there is likely to be some people who travel to regions that have higher-than-usual cases and bring the virus back home.

“Travel-associated cases do result in small chains of outbreaks,” Paz-Bailey said.

Humans are reservoirs for dengue, so in order to have widespread transmission, enough people must be infected for the mosquitoes to reliably bite someone with the virus so that they can spread it to another person.

“That’s why we’re seeing an outbreak of dengue in Puerto Rico right now,” said Michael von Fricken, director of the One Health Center of Excellence at the University of Florida in Gainesville. “They’ve reached this tipping point where there are enough infected humans that they’re subsequently infecting other mosquitoes that are continuing to transmit disease.”

Florida has logged 176 dengue cases so far this year, the vast majority in people who were infected in other countries, most frequently Brazil or Cuba. The Florida Health Department has recorded only seven cases of locally transmitted dengue transmission in the state so far this year. In all of 2023, the department documented 173 locally transmitted cases, most of them in Miami-Dade County.

What are the symptoms of dengue fever?

Dengue fever is caused by four viruses, so a person can be infected four times in their lifetime. Only about 1 in 4 people are symptomatic the first time they’re infected, according to the CDC.

Ko said a person’s initial symptoms are usually a fever and headaches. Fatigue, nausea, vomiting, a rash that looks like measles, as well as the extremely painful body aches.

Most people recover in a week or two, but about 1 in 20 people develop severe dengue, which can be fatal. The more times a person is infected with dengue, the higher risk they are for complications.

“After you’ve had your first exposure, your risk of having dengue hemorrhagic fever or severe symptoms increases exponentially,” Von Fricken said. Dengue also becomes deadlier with each infection.

While the U.S. does have a dengue vaccine, it’s approved only for children ages 9 to 16 who live in places where dengue is endemic, including Puerto Rico, American Samoa or the U.S. Virgin Islands.

What’s more, children can get the vaccine only if they’ve previously had a dengue infection. That’s because if a person were to get vaccinated and then get their first dengue infection, they still run the risk of getting very sick, just as someone gets sicker from their second infection. Since most Americans have not had dengue, “that vaccine is not very useful” for most, Ko said.

There’s no specific drug to treat dengue. Instead, doctors just aim to treat the symptoms and keep the patient comfortable until the virus runs its course. That means resting and drinking a lot of fluids. Ko said people should try to take acetaminophen (Tylenol) for pain and fever if they can, since nonsteroidal anti-inflammatory drugs (NSAIDs), which include ibuprofen and aspirin, can make bleeding worse if someone develops hemorrhagic dengue, in which their blood vessels are damaged and become leaky.

Paz-Bailey said it’s important for people traveling to places with dengue to stay in places with air conditioning when possible, use insect-repellant and wear long sleeves and pants to avoid mosquito bites.

Bed nets can be helpful, but the mosquitoes that carry dengue typically bite during the day, so they may be less helpful than they are at preventing other mosquito-borne diseases like malaria, Ko said.

At home, people can make their yards less appealing to mosquitos by reducing the amount of standing water, especially after a bout of rain.

“It’s difficult to control the mosquito population, so we need to hit it with all we have and layer our strategies,” Paz-Bailey said. “No single strategy will be good enough.”

Kaitlin Sullivan is a contributor for NBCNews.com who has worked with NBC News Investigations. She reports on health, science and the environment and is a graduate of the Craig Newmark Graduate School of Journalism at City University of New York.

Anne Thompson is NBC News’ chief environmental affairs correspondent. 

Patrick Martin is a producer in the NBC News Health & Medical Unit.