Utah won’t look like the obvious selection when considering of locations to go to in the US, however that’d be mistaken! There are such a lot of completely epic and greatest locations in Utah which might be dotted all throughout the state and nicely value visiting while on a highway journey.
Sure, Utah could be overshadowed by its well-known siblings like California, Florida or New York (to call a number of). Although, that doesn’t imply it’s best to simply brush previous Utah with out giving it a second look. It’s probably the greatest states to go to in the US for those who’re a nature-lover like us!
Belief me, Utah is a gold mine of unimaginable locations and historical past that you simply actually can’t miss. Plus, it’s so numerous, too. Simply be ready for some fairly huge rambles across the state… your toes shall be sore!
With that in thoughts, take somewhat gander at a few of the greatest locations in Utah that we love (and hopefully you’ll too). Have the very best time exploring.
1.) Zion Nationwide Park
Nestled inside the southwest of the state, you possibly can simply spot a heap of the very best locations in Utah proper inside this beautiful nationwide park. In actual fact, I’d go so far as saying it’s one of many easiest nationwide parks within the US, too!
After rocking up, head on over to discover the paths across the Narrows, or take the tougher (and steeper) hikes to Angels Touchdown. Additionally, for those who do love a superb hike, observe the Observation Point Trail that’ll lead you to a few of the greatest canyon views round Zion Nationwide Park. Simply be prepped for a tricky hike!
In case your toes are begging for a break, hop within the shuttle (which could be cumbersome to organise on the Zion NP app) and observe the Zion Canyon Scenic Drive that’s round 25-miles lengthy. This route will take you thru some attractive scenic spots.
Lastly, you should definitely cease for the views over to the watchman and go to Fort Zion (Virgin Buying and selling Put up) for a few of their tasty gelatos!
Being shy of the Veterans Memorial Freeway, it’s very easy to incorporate as a part of a wider highway journey between Saltlake Metropolis and Las Vegas.
2.) Bryce Canyon Nationwide Park
For me, one of many issues that make Utah so particular is its entry to unimaginable parks and reserves; with Bryce Canyon being one other gem you possibly can’t miss.
For probably the greatest sunrises pop over to Sunrise Point (or Sunset Point for, you guessed it, sundown) that’s completely attractive. Plus, it’s not too removed from Tower Bridge (rock formation) and could be simply included as a part of a ramble throughout the Rim Path.
Oh, and don’t neglect the Navajo Loop Path and Wall Street that’s completely stunning.
3.) Arches Nationwide Park
On the jap fringes of the state, Arches Nationwide Park is likely one of the greatest locations in Utah to go to (particularly for those who’re heading over from Colorado.
So, first off, you’re gonna see lots of arches… they usually’re epic!
After arriving, jump over to the 50-foot excessive Delicate Arch, spot the Panorama Arch (which is a comparatively easy hike from the trailhead) and finish your day exploring the Double Arch, too.
The entire area right here is beautiful.
Should you fancy stretching your legs, head out on the Satan’s Backyard Trailhead or the Primitive Path which could be higher signposted and simpler to observe. Plus, the North Window Arch is closeby so it’s a win-win.
4.) Canyonlands Nationwide Park
Round 30-miles from the border of Arches Nationwide Park, Canyonlands is fairly straightforward to go to while on this space of Utah.
As you head across the area, you should definitely spend a while inside the Needles District that’s a straightforward hike to see the towering pinnacles. Additionally, you’ve received to take a while to seek out the Mesa Arch (through the Mesa Arch trailhead), too. It’s very easy to go to as you journey south from Arches NP to the Needles District.
Oh, and don’t neglect to Lifeless Horse Level State Park that’s proper on the border. Plus, the views from Dead Horse Point are unimaginable. Lastly, for those who’re driving from the south (through Arizona, say), be certain that to observe the Indian Creek Scenic Byway, too.
5.) Grand Staircase-Escalante Nationwide Monument
This completely huge space in Utah is, truthfully, too huge to see in a single journey alone. It’s ginormous! This implies you’re actually gonna should prioritise while heading across the space.
Relying on the place you go to, you’ll be capable to see the beautiful; Willis Creek, the Jacob Hamblin Arch, Decrease Calf Creek Falls or the Peek-a-boo slot Canyon. The latter is a number of miles north-west of the Pink Effectively Trailhead, making it a straightforward cease after a morning ramble.
6.) Snow Canyon State Park
Simply shy of St George, within the south of Utah, Snow Canyon is a superb place to go to for those who’re considering geological historical past. You see, right here you possibly can really see Lava Tubes and big petrified sand dunes (particularly close to the Higher Galoot parking space).
Afterwards, head on over to the Tuacahn Heart Amphitheatre that hosts concert events, occasions and performances in essentially the most magical setting.
Learn extra: Finest hikes within the USA
7.) The Wave
Sure, sure… technically Arizona however hear me out!
Only a few hundred metres over the border in Arizona, you kinda can’t miss the Wave when visiting the southerly factors of Utah. You see, you entry it through Utah’s Wave Trailhead (beginning here).
In my view, the hike is nearly as unimaginable as The Wave itself as the entire route is attractive. Simply be ready for intense warmth at sure occasions of the yr. This place could be past toasty!
Lastly, don’t neglect to get your allow earlier than heading right here and plan months upfront! You’ll discover all the small print on acquiring the allow, here. Now, they do have a number of permits accessible on the day, however it’s one thing like 10 in complete! So plan, plan, plan upfront.
8.) Bonneville Salt Flats
Nestled inside the arid mountains, the Bonneville Salt Flats are probably the greatest locations in Utah to go to if you wish to see a completely completely different kind of panorama. In actual fact, it kinda jogs my memory of the salt flats in Bolivia.
Created after the final Ice Age, the salt flats are such a singular a part of Utah and stretches for miles. Oh, and for those who fancy a problem, there are Salt Flat Endurance Runs that happen yearly. It’s a toughie!
Only one be aware, by no means drive on the salt flats when they’re moist! This may be harmful and you will get stranded.
9.) Goosenecks State Park
Round 20-30 miles north of Monument Valley, Goosenecks State Park is a superb little cease to make in your journey by means of Utah.
Following the San Juan River, you’ll get some unimaginable views from the end of the road. From this level, you’ll be capable to see all throughout the canyon and it’s just a few minutes from the primary freeway.
Additionally, close by, you’ll come throughout Forrest Gump Hill, the place Forest decides to finish his run! It’s a couple of 20-minute drive from Goosenecks State Park and a 5-minute picture cease.
Learn extra: Finest hikes within the USA
10.) Monument Valley
Monument Valley Navajo Tribal Park is perched proper on the Utah and Arizona border and might’t be missed when exploring the realm. It’s completely beautiful and simply probably the greatest locations in Utah you could simply discover by automotive or keep in a single day, too.
You see, there’s a 17-mile unpaved highway that goes by means of Monument Valley to see a few of the details. Alongside the best way, you should definitely be careful for the Three Sisters, the North Window, the Totem Pole and masses extra. It’s all very easy to navigate (which suggests you possibly can completely give attention to having the very best time).
Simply remember, you’re not allowed off the unpaved observe in your viechle.
Learn extra: Issues to know earlier than visiting Monument Valley
11.) Salt Lake Metropolis
Being the capital, Salt Lake Metropolis is likely one of the greatest locations in Utah to go to for those who’re fancying somewhat metropolis break. You see, its received a mixture of sights, spots and foodie joints which might be too good to overlook; particularly on the weekend!
After checking into your lodge, you should definitely go to the enduring Temple Sq., the capitol constructing and head contained in the Pure Historical past Museum, too. It’s large!
For probably the greatest bites to eat, head over to Red Iguana. This pleasant and unpretentious spot is so scrumptious and simply the tastiest spot for Mexican meals within the metropolis. It’s nothing fancy however so so good! Make sure that to strive their smothered burritos and the shrimp quesadilla.
12.) Lake Powell
Lake Powell is a reasonably huge lake that’s perched proper inside the south of Utah. This implies it’s one of many comparatively straightforward and greatest locations in Utah to go to when travelling alongside Freeway 89 (from Web page, Arizona).
Better of all, you possibly can lease essentially the most epic houseboats to sail Lake Powell and meander all its little bays.
Not too distant is the Rainbow Bridge National Monument, which is likely one of the largest pure arches in the entire world! Plus, you’ve received the Pure Bridges Nationwide Monument simply off freeway 95 close to Fry Canyon.
Learn extra: Finest nationwide parks within the USA
10 Finest Nationwide Parks In The USA To Go to
