If you’re looking for epic landscapes, famous national parks, and nonstop outdoor adventure, I honestly can’t think of a better place than Utah. When I first drove through those red-rock deserts, I felt like you could reach out and touch another planet. I know you’ll feel that same thrill winding through canyons or standing beneath towering arches.
I spent one day hiking the rim of Bryce Canyon and the next carving fresh powder in the Wasatch—Utah makes it easy for you to switch gears, no matter the season. You can watch flaming sunsets mirror off the Great Salt Lake, and I promise the colors will stick in your memory long after you leave. I also took time to wander pioneer sites, and you might find those stories add a rich layer to every mile you cover.
Whether you’re here for The Mighty 5, chasing powder turns, or simply craving big-sky silence, I think Utah will give you an adventure you’ll talk about for years. I left feeling humbled and alive, and I bet you will too.
Utah Highlights:
- For National Park Explorers: Visit the Mighty 5 – Arches, Zion, Bryce Canyon, Capitol Reef, and Canyonlands each offer stunning rock formations and unforgettable hikes.
- For Skiers: Hit the slopes in Park City or Snowbird – World-class skiing and snowboarding in the Wasatch Range near Salt Lake City.
- For Adventurers: Go off-roading in Moab – Rent a Jeep or ATV and explore the red rock trails of Hell’s Revenge and beyond.
- For History Buffs: Explore Temple Square in Salt Lake City – Discover the roots of Utah’s pioneer past and tour beautiful architecture and gardens.
- For Photographers: Marvel at Bonneville Salt Flats – Take surreal photos and walk across the otherworldly salt crust near the Nevada border.
Best Time to Visit Utah
The best time to visit Utah depends on your interests: spring and fall (April–May, September–October) offer ideal weather for hiking and sightseeing in southern Utah, while winter (December–March) is best for skiing in the north. Summer brings heat but is great for high-elevation escapes and national park road trips.
How to Get to Utah
- By Air: Salt Lake City International Airport (SLC) is the state’s main hub and well connected to other cities. Regional airports include St. George, Moab (CNY), and Provo.
- By Car: Major highways like I-15, I-70, and I-80 connect Utah to neighboring states like Nevada, Arizona, and Colorado.
- By Train: Amtrak’s California Zephyr route stops in Salt Lake City and Helper, offering scenic views from the Rockies to the desert.
Where to Stay in Utah
- Recommended for National Park Access: Zion Ponderosa Ranch Resort – Rustic lodging and glamping near Zion’s east entrance with guided tours available.
- For Ski Vacations: Stein Eriksen Lodge, Deer Valley – Luxurious ski-in/ski-out resort near Park City with a spa, fine dining, and slopeside views.
- For Urban Comfort: Grand America Hotel, Salt Lake City – Elegant downtown hotel with upscale rooms, restaurants, and walkable access to city sights.
Best Things to Do in Utah
Hit the Slopes or Trails at Park City Mountain Resort for Year-Round Adventure - Ski fresh powder or hike mountain trails on an exciting, year-round adventure trip.
Unearth Fascinating Discoveries at the Natural History Museum of Utah - Explore dinosaur fossils and interactive exhibits during an educational, fun family outing.
Explore Aviation History and Heroics at Hill Aerospace Museum - See vintage aircraft and explore aviation history on an exciting, affordable weekend trip.
If You’re Passionate About Animals, Visit Best Friends Animal Sanctuary for a Heartwarming Experience - Tour peaceful grounds and volunteer with rescued animals on a meaningful, quiet retreat.
Dive Into Biodiversity and Wonder at Bean Life Science Museum - Discover animals and ecosystems through hands-on exhibits during an educational visit with kids.
Travel the Cosmos at Clark Planetarium for a Stellar Journey - Watch star shows and explore space science on a fun, exciting family outing.
Immerse Yourself in Contemporary Creativity at Utah MOCA - Admire contemporary art and explore bold exhibits on a quiet, cultural weekend trip.
If You Crave World-Class Music, Enjoy a Performance by the Utah Symphony - Hear world-class musicians and enjoy a romantic, inspiring evening in downtown Salt Lake.
Step Into Pioneer Life at Gifford Homestead for a Taste of History - Tour pioneer buildings and taste fresh-baked goods on a relaxing, educational trip.
Wander Through Frontier History at Bluff Fort Historic Site - Explore cabins and handcarts and discover early settler life on an affordable history trip.
In Summary...
(and if you want to revisit my photo journey)- • Hit the Slopes or Trails at Park City Mountain Resort for Year-Round Adventure
- • Unearth Fascinating Discoveries at the Natural History Museum of Utah
- • Explore Aviation History and Heroics at Hill Aerospace Museum
- • If You’re Passionate About Animals, Visit Best Friends Animal Sanctuary for a Heartwarming Experience
- • Dive Into Biodiversity and Wonder at Bean Life Science Museum
- • Travel the Cosmos at Clark Planetarium for a Stellar Journey
- • Immerse Yourself in Contemporary Creativity at Utah MOCA
- • If You Crave World-Class Music, Enjoy a Performance by the Utah Symphony
- • Step Into Pioneer Life at Gifford Homestead for a Taste of History
- • Wander Through Frontier History at Bluff Fort Historic Site