Utah doesn’t do ordinary. This is a state where red rock arches defy gravity, salt flats stretch to infinity, and canyons glow like fire at sunset.
One minute, you’re hiking through a prehistoric-looking desert, and the next, you’re standing on a snow-capped peak with views that make your heart race. Whether you’re chasing adventure, jaw-dropping scenery, or a little bit of both, Utah delivers.
National parks? Five of them.
Hidden gems? More than you can count.
Views that make your phone run out of storage? Guaranteed.
So, pack your bags, charge your camera, and get ready for 20 places that will make you wonder why you didn’t visit sooner.
Zion National Park
In southwestern Utah, Zion National Park stands out with its majestic red rock cliffs and diverse ecosystems. Explore varied trails that cater to both casual walkers and experienced hikers.
Hidden gems within the park, like the Emerald Pools, offer serene reflections. Adventure seekers can tackle the famous Angels Landing, but remember, the views are the true reward.
For a more relaxed visit, the Zion Canyon Scenic Drive provides incredible vistas from your vehicle. No matter your preference, Zion’s grandeur captivates every visitor, making it a must-see destination.
Bryce Canyon National Park
Bryce Canyon, known for its distinctive hoodoos, offers a landscape that feels almost otherworldly. These spire-like formations, created by years of erosion, change hues with the shifting light.
Early risers witness stunning sunrises that paint the canyon in warm tones. For a closer look, the Queen’s Garden Trail provides an intimate experience with these natural sculptures.
Stargazing here is unparalleled, thanks to the park’s remote location and clear skies. Whether marveling at geological wonders or the night sky, Bryce Canyon is a place of breathtaking beauty.
Arches National Park
Home to over 2,000 natural stone arches, Arches National Park is a testament to nature’s artistry. Delicate Arch, the park’s most iconic structure, is a must-see at sunset.
Trails vary in difficulty, allowing access to both well-known formations and hidden arches alike. Photography enthusiasts find endless inspiration amid the contrasting colors and shapes.
Beyond the arches, the park offers sweeping desert vistas and a chance to experience Utah’s rugged beauty. Whether exploring on foot or capturing the landscapes through a lens, Arches never disappoints.
Salt Lake City
Utah’s vibrant capital, Salt Lake City, is a hub of culture and history. Discover the architectural beauty of the Salt Lake Temple and the surrounding Temple Square.
The city’s museums and galleries offer insights into both local and international art. For nature lovers, the nearby Wasatch Range provides opportunities for hiking and skiing.
Downtown’s culinary scene, featuring a mix of traditional and modern flavors, is a treat for food enthusiasts. Whether exploring its historical sites or savoring its diverse cuisine, Salt Lake City offers something for everyone.
Monument Valley
Monument Valley, with its towering sandstone buttes, creates a striking silhouette against the horizon. This iconic landscape, often used in films, embodies the spirit of the American West.
Guided tours, led by Navajo guides, provide deeper insights into the area’s cultural significance. Sunset brings a special magic, as the colors of the rock formations intensify.
Driving along the scenic route offers spectacular vistas, but for a more personal experience, consider a horseback ride. Each view in Monument Valley tells a story, making it an unforgettable cultural journey.
Antelope Island State Park
Antelope Island, the largest island in the Great Salt Lake, is a haven for wildlife enthusiasts. This state park is home to a thriving bison herd, offering visitors a chance to see these majestic creatures up close.
Hiking trails crisscross the island, providing panoramic views of the lake and distant mountains. The island’s beaches are perfect for a serene picnic or a leisurely stroll.
Birdwatchers will delight in the diverse avian species found here. Whether observing bison or enjoying a sunset over the lake, Antelope Island offers a unique natural escape.
Park City
Known for its world-class ski resorts, Park City is a winter wonderland for snow enthusiasts. The town’s charming Main Street offers boutique shopping and gourmet dining.
During the Sundance Film Festival, visitors may even spot a celebrity or two. In the warmer months, hiking and mountain biking trails reveal the area’s natural beauty.
The town’s rich mining history is preserved in local museums. Whether skiing down powdery slopes or exploring its historic streets, Park City provides a perfect blend of adventure and culture.
Canyonlands National Park
Canyonlands National Park, carved by the Colorado and Green Rivers, showcases a landscape of deep canyons and towering mesas. The park’s vastness offers a sense of solitude and wonder.
Island in the Sky, one of its districts, provides breathtaking vistas from its elevated overlooks. Adventurers can explore the Maze, a remote and rugged area that challenges even seasoned explorers.
Whether driving the scenic routes or embarking on backcountry trails, Canyonlands reveals a world of geological marvels and endless exploration opportunities.
The Great Salt Lake
The Great Salt Lake, one of the largest saltwater lakes in the Western Hemisphere, offers a unique natural experience. Its high salinity allows for effortless floating, an experience unlike any other.
The lake’s vastness is best appreciated at sunset, when the sky and water merge in a palette of colors. Kayaking and sailing are popular activities, providing a different perspective of this remarkable body of water.
Birdwatchers flock to its shores, home to numerous migratory species. Whether floating, boating, or birding, the Great Salt Lake offers a distinctive adventure.
Capitol Reef National Park
Capitol Reef National Park, with its striking red rock formations and historic orchards, offers a glimpse into Utah’s natural and cultural history. The Waterpocket Fold, a geologic monocline, extends nearly 100 miles through the park.
Visitors can enjoy fresh fruit from the orchards in Fruita, a historic Mormon settlement. Scenic drives and hiking trails reveal the park’s diverse landscapes and geological wonders.
Ancient petroglyphs, left by the Fremont people, add a historical dimension. Whether admiring natural beauty or exploring cultural heritage, Capitol Reef captivates all who visit.
The Narrows at Zion
The Narrows, a section of Zion National Park, offers an immersive adventure through a water-filled canyon. Hikers wade through the Virgin River, surrounded by towering walls of rock.
This unique hike requires special gear, available for rent nearby. Bright ribbons of light and secluded pools create a magical atmosphere.
Each twist and turn reveals new vistas, making every step an exploration. For those seeking a challenge, the deeper sections offer a rewarding trek.
Whether experienced all in one day or spread out over a longer journey, the Narrows provides a memorable experience.
Goblin Valley State Park
Goblin Valley State Park is a playground of peculiar rock formations, resembling goblins frozen in time. These mushroom-shaped hoodoos create an otherworldly landscape.
Ideal for families, the park encourages exploration and imagination. Children and adults alike delight in naming the whimsical structures.
Star gazing is exceptional here, with clear desert skies revealing a blanket of stars. Photographers find endless opportunities for unique shots, both day and night.
Whether exploring under the sun or the stars, Goblin Valley invites visitors to discover its enchanting formations.
Flaming Gorge National Recreation Area
Flaming Gorge, with its vivid red cliffs and expansive reservoir, offers a striking contrast to the surrounding wilderness. Boating and fishing are popular activities on the clear waters.
The scenic byway provides breathtaking views and access to numerous overlooks. Hiking trails wind through diverse ecosystems, from desert landscapes to lush forests.
Wildlife enthusiasts may spot bighorn sheep or bald eagles. Whether on the water or exploring the trails, Flaming Gorge offers a refreshing escape into nature’s beauty.
The area’s dramatic scenery and recreational opportunities make it a favorite destination.
Snow Canyon State Park
Snow Canyon State Park, with its vibrant red and white sandstone cliffs, offers a stunning backdrop for outdoor adventures. Hiking and biking trails provide access to hidden canyons and unique geological formations.
The park’s history includes its use as a filming location for several classic movies. Wildlife such as desert tortoises and peregrine falcons add to the park’s appeal.
Whether climbing the dunes or exploring the lava tubes, visitors find a diverse landscape waiting to be discovered. The park’s beauty and accessibility make it a cherished spot for locals and tourists alike.
Natural Bridges National Monument
Natural Bridges National Monument features some of the world’s largest natural stone bridges. These impressive formations, carved by the power of water, offer a glimpse into the earth’s geological history.
Trails lead to each of the three main bridges, providing stunning views and a sense of the monument’s grandeur. The area is designated a Dark Sky Park, making it a prime location for stargazing.
Whether visiting during the day or under a canopy of stars, Natural Bridges inspires awe with its majestic structures and serene setting.
Horseshoe Bend
Horseshoe Bend presents a breathtaking view where the Colorado River gracefully curves around a striking rock formation. Accessible via a short hike, the overlook offers stunning panoramic vistas.
The vista is particularly captivating at dawn or dusk, when the light plays off the canyon walls. Photographers capture its beauty from various angles, each unique.
Care should be taken near the edge, as the cliffs are steep. Whether enjoying the view or capturing it through a lens, Horseshoe Bend is a testament to nature’s artistic prowess and a must-see for visitors.
Bonneville Salt Flats
The Bonneville Salt Flats, a remnant of an ancient lake, stretch over 30,000 acres of shimmering white salt. Known for land speed records, it’s a haven for auto enthusiasts.
The flats’ vast openness creates optical illusions, making them a photographer’s dream. During specific times, the surface mirrors the sky, enhancing its surreal quality.
Visitors can drive on designated areas, adding a thrill to the experience. Whether witnessing a speed event or simply taking in the otherworldly scenery, the Bonneville Salt Flats offer a unique adventure unlike any other in Utah.
Timpanogos Cave National Monument
Timpanogos Cave National Monument, nestled in the Wasatch Mountains, offers an intriguing underground adventure. Guided tours lead visitors through a series of caves adorned with intricate formations.
Stalactites, stalagmites, and helictites create a subterranean wonderland. The hike to the cave entrance provides panoramic views of American Fork Canyon.
This journey requires a moderate trek, but the rewards are worth every step. Whether marveling at the cave’s natural beauty or enjoying the surrounding landscapes, Timpanogos Cave provides a captivating experience.
It’s a hidden gem that reveals Utah’s geological diversity.
Coral Pink Sand Dunes State Park
Coral Pink Sand Dunes State Park offers a unique landscape of soft, coral-colored sand dunes. These shifting sands, created by wind and erosion, invite exploration.
Off-road enthusiasts enjoy the thrill of riding across the dunes, while photographers capture the contrasting colors. The park is also home to diverse wildlife, including the rare Coral Pink Sand Dunes tiger beetle.
Whether climbing the dunes or enjoying a picnic, visitors find tranquility in this desert oasis. Beyond its beauty, the park provides a playground for adventure and a space for quiet reflection.
Temple Square
Temple Square, in the heart of Salt Lake City, is a historical and spiritual center. The impressive Salt Lake Temple, with its granite spires, dominates the square.
Visitors can explore the surrounding gardens, which offer a peaceful retreat from the city’s bustle. The square hosts various cultural events, from concerts to art exhibits, reflecting its vibrant community.
Guided tours provide insight into the history and significance of the site. Whether attending a performance or simply enjoying the tranquil surroundings, Temple Square is a must-visit for anyone in the city.