Think Salt Lake City is just a bustling urban center? Think again.
Nestled in its backyard are some of the most stunning national parks you’ll ever lay eyes on. From towering mountains to sweeping deserts, these parks offer wild landscapes that will leave you speechless.
Whether you’re into epic hikes or peaceful stargazing, there’s something for every adventurer. Grab your gear, lace up your boots, and let’s hit the road.
These 20 parks aren’t just destinations—they’re gateways to unforgettable experiences. Are you ready to explore the natural wonders that surround Salt Lake City?
The adventure of a lifetime is just around the corner.
Zion National Park
Zion National Park offers breathtaking canyon views that captivate every visitor. The red rock formations stand tall against the clear blue sky, creating a stunning contrast.
Hiking enthusiasts can enjoy trails like the Narrows, where walking through the river is part of the adventure.
Visitors can also explore the scenic drive, which offers plenty of spots for photography. As you journey through the park, the diverse flora and fauna add an extra layer of intrigue.
It’s a destination where natural beauty and adventure go hand in hand.
Arches National Park
Home to over 2,000 natural stone arches, this park is a marvel of geological formations. Delicate Arch, standing proudly, is a must-see icon.
The park’s landscape, shaped by erosion, offers both awe and inspiration.
Early mornings or late afternoons provide the best lighting for photographers seeking to capture the park’s essence. Visitors can enjoy short hikes to view these incredible structures up close, creating memories that last a lifetime.
Bryce Canyon National Park
Known for its unique hoodoos, Bryce Canyon presents a fairy-tale landscape. These towering spires, formed by frost weathering and stream erosion, create a mystical atmosphere.
Stargazing here is an experience in itself, as the park’s elevation and remote location offer clear night skies. Hiking trails like the Rim Trail provide close encounters with the park’s geological wonders.
Capitol Reef National Park
Capitol Reef is a hidden gem featuring the Waterpocket Fold, a geologic monocline that extends nearly 100 miles. This park is less crowded yet equally captivating with its colorful rock layers.
Scenic drives and hikes reveal fruit orchards and historic sites, offering a glimpse into the region’s past. Spring and fall provide ideal weather for exploration.
Canyonlands National Park
Canyonlands is a haven for those looking to escape into the wilderness. Divided into four districts, each offers its own unique landscapes and opportunities for adventure.
The Island in the Sky district provides panoramic views that are easily accessible, while the Needles district offers rugged trails for the more adventurous. The park’s vastness and beauty leave a lasting impression.
Great Basin National Park
Great Basin boasts diverse ecosystems from desert valleys to alpine peaks. Wheeler Peak, standing at over 13,000 feet, is the park’s crown jewel.
Visitors can explore Lehman Caves with their dazzling formations, or hike among ancient bristlecone pines. The park also offers some of the darkest night skies in the U.
S. , perfect for stargazing.
Grand Teton National Park
The majestic Teton Range defines this park, where rugged peaks rise sharply from the valley floor. The Snake River winds through offering serene vistas and recreational activities like kayaking.
Wildlife is abundant here, and visitors might spot elk, moose, or even a grizzly bear. Photographers find endless inspiration in the park’s pristine landscapes.
Yellowstone National Park
Yellowstone, the world’s first national park, is renowned for its geothermal features. Old Faithful, with predictable eruptions, draws crowds eager to witness its power.
Beyond geysers, the park boasts diverse wildlife including bison and wolves. Hiking trails and scenic drives reveal waterfalls and vibrant hot springs, making every visit unforgettable.
Rocky Mountain National Park
Rocky Mountain National Park offers a tapestry of ecosystems, from montane forests to alpine tundra. Trail Ridge Road provides breathtaking views and is one of the highest paved roads in North America.
Summer hikes reveal fields of wildflowers, while autumn showcases vibrant foliage. Wildlife enthusiasts can spot elk or bighorn sheep along the trails.
Black Canyon of the Gunnison National Park
This park features some of the steepest cliffs and craggiest spires in North America. The Gunnison River carved this canyon, creating a landscape that’s both dramatic and awe-inspiring.
Visitors can enjoy the South Rim drive, which offers multiple scenic overlooks. The park’s rugged beauty provides a sense of solitude and connection with nature.
Mesa Verde National Park
Mesa Verde is a testament to the ingenuity of the Ancestral Pueblo people. The park preserves cliff dwellings and artifacts, offering a window into ancient civilizations.
Guided tours allow visitors to explore these remarkable structures, gaining insight into the lives of the people who once called this area home. It’s an educational journey through history.
Grand Staircase-Escalante National Monument
This monument is a vast and rugged wilderness with colorful slot canyons and arches. It’s a dream destination for hikers and photographers alike.
The area offers a sense of discovery with its hidden waterfalls and natural bridges. Each visit can unveil something new, making it a place where adventure and beauty converge.
Dinosaur National Monument
Known for its dinosaur fossils and petroglyphs, this monument excites both history buffs and nature lovers. The Quarry Exhibit Hall houses fascinating dinosaur bones.
Rafting on the Green River provides a unique perspective of the monument’s rugged beauty. It’s a place where past and present blend, offering educational and recreational opportunities.
Timpanogos Cave National Monument
Timpanogos Cave offers a subterranean adventure with its intricate limestone formations and stunning colors. Guided tours lead visitors through a series of caverns.
The hike to the cave entrance is invigorating and rewards with panoramic views of the surrounding valleys. It’s a unique experience that combines physical activity with natural wonder.
Hovenweep National Monument
Hovenweep is renowned for its ancient stone towers and structures built by the Ancestral Puebloans. These ruins evoke a sense of mystery and history.
The monument offers trails that guide visitors through this archaeological treasure. It’s a peaceful site where history is palpable, and the desert landscape adds to its allure.
Natural Bridges National Monument
This monument showcases the power of erosion with its massive natural stone bridges. These impressive formations attract both photographers and nature enthusiasts.
Hiking trails offer close-up views and opportunities to explore the surrounding canyons. It’s a destination that highlights the beauty and power of nature’s artistry.
Cedar Breaks National Monument
Cedar Breaks is a natural amphitheater filled with vibrant red rock formations. The park’s high elevation offers cool summer temperatures and stunning vistas.
Wildflower displays in the summer add a splash of color, while autumn reveals a tapestry of fall foliage. It’s a place where nature’s palette is on full display.
Flaming Gorge National Recreation Area
Flaming Gorge is a paradise for water sports enthusiasts. The reservoir, surrounded by dramatic cliffs, offers opportunities for fishing, boating, and kayaking.
Scenic drives around the gorge provide breathtaking views and picnic spots. It’s a recreational haven where water and land adventures await.
Golden Spike National Historical Park
This park commemorates the completion of the Transcontinental Railroad. Visitors can witness reenactments of the Golden Spike ceremony.
The site offers a glimpse into America’s industrial past with exhibits and replica locomotives. It’s an educational experience celebrating a pivotal moment in history.
Antelope Island State Park
Antelope Island is the largest island in the Great Salt Lake and home to a thriving bison population. The island offers hiking and wildlife viewing opportunities.
Its unique setting provides panoramic views of the lake and surrounding mountains. It’s a place where wildlife and natural beauty coexist, offering a tranquil escape from city life.