12 TOP Utah Adventures
If you’re anything like me, you likely had no idea what was in Utah before Googling.
When I finally visited Utah, my jaw was on the floor half of the time. There’s a lot of nothingness, but it’s sprinkled with TONS of incredible, jaw-dropping, and mesmerizing alien landscapes. Sometimes, you don’t even need to get out of your car when road tripping Utah to get good views.
Here are just a few choices of crazy cool spots and Utah adventures to have around the state!
Table of Contents
- 1. Bryce Canyon National Park
- 2. Capitol Reef National Park
- 3. Canyonlands National Park
- 4. Monument Valley
- 5. Arches National Park
- 6. Lake Powell
- 7. Zion National Park
- 8. Dinosaur National Monument
- 9. Flaming Gorge National Recreation Area
- 10. Grand Staircase-Escalante National Monument
- 11. Coral Pink Sand Dunes State Park
- 12. Snow Canyon State Park
- More Road Trip Resources:
1. Bryce Canyon National Park
Bryce Canyon National Park is a jaw-dropping landscape in southern Utah, famous for its towering hoodoos—the largest collection in the world. These natural amphitheaters, particularly Bryce Amphitheater, showcase rock spires that seem otherworldly.
Visitors can hike trails like the Navajo Loop or enjoy a paved walk to Sunset Point for stellar views. It’s also a fantastic spot for stargazing due to its remote location. Whether you hike, camp, or cycle, Bryce Canyon is an unforgettable part of any Utah road trip.
2. Capitol Reef National Park
Capitol Reef National Park is a geological marvel with its Waterpocket Fold, a dramatic 100-mile-long monocline. This serene park features domes, cliffs, and natural bridges, offering visitors a glimpse into Earth’s untouched past.
Hike to iconic spots like Hickman Bridge or explore Cathedral Valley’s towering stone monoliths. Scenic drives reveal stunning landscapes without leaving your car. With fewer crowds than Utah’s other parks, Capitol Reef provides a peaceful and scenic escape.
3. Canyonlands National Park
Canyonlands National Park is a maze of canyons carved by the Colorado and Green Rivers, offering distinct districts to explore. The Island in the Sky provides breathtaking overlooks accessible by scenic drive, while The Needles is perfect for off-road adventurers.
Hike iconic trails like Mesa Arch or Grand View Overlook for unforgettable vistas. This park is a haven for climbers, mountain bikers, and backpackers. Its remote beauty ensures a memorable adventure for any visitor.
4. Monument Valley
Monument Valley is an iconic Utah landmark, famous for its striking red rock buttes and endless desert views. Visitors can explore by scenic drive or join a guided Jeep tour with a Navajo guide for deeper insights.
Hiking trails like Wildcat Trail offer intimate encounters with this unique landscape. For campers, The View Campground provides unforgettable sunrise and sunset views. Monument Valley is a must-visit destination steeped in natural and cultural history.
5. Arches National Park
Arches National Park boasts over 2,000 natural stone arches, making it a paradise for photographers and adventurers. Delicate Arch and Landscape Arch are two standout formations that highlight the park’s surreal beauty. Trails like the Fiery Furnace provide challenging yet rewarding hikes through unique rock formations.
Visitors can camp at Devils Garden or explore by bike on designated roads. Arches National Park is a magical blend of nature’s artistry and adventure.
6. Lake Powell
Lake Powell, a man-made reservoir on the Arizona border, offers endless recreational opportunities amidst stunning desert scenery. Boating, kayaking, and paddleboarding are popular ways to explore its vast blue waters and hidden canyons.
Nearby hiking trails like Rainbow Bridge South Trail lead to incredible landmarks. Campers can enjoy unique shoreline camping experiences at spots like Lone Rock Beach. Lake Powell is an adventure lover’s paradise blending water sports with desert charm.
7. Zion National Park
Zion National Park is a treasure trove of red rock cliffs, lush vegetation, and dramatic canyons. Hikes like Angels Landing and The Narrows challenge adventurers with incredible views as the reward.
Camping options like Watchman Campground allow visitors to immerse themselves in Zion’s beauty. For a gentler experience, take the scenic drive or hike shorter trails like Emerald Pools. Zion is an iconic stop that perfectly showcases Utah’s natural wonders.
8. Dinosaur National Monument
Dinosaur National Monument is a fascinating blend of history and nature, featuring over 1,500 fossils embedded in the cliff face at the Quarry Exhibit Hall. Visitors can hike trails like Fossil Discovery to uncover more prehistoric treasures.
The Green and Yampa Rivers offer thrilling rafting opportunities through remote canyons. Six campgrounds provide options for overnight stays under starry skies. This monument is a must-visit for history buffs and outdoor enthusiasts alike.
9. Flaming Gorge National Recreation Area
Flaming Gorge National Recreation Area is a hidden gem offering solitude and water-based adventures. The massive reservoir is perfect for kayaking, boating, and fishing, with three full-service marinas. Hikers can explore trails like the Canyon Rim Trail for breathtaking views.
Below the Flaming Gorge Dam, the Green River offers rapids ideal for rafting. This underrated destination is a peaceful escape filled with natural beauty and outdoor activities.
10. Grand Staircase-Escalante National Monument
Grand Staircase-Escalante is a sprawling monument known for its diverse landscapes and hiking opportunities. The Escalante Canyons feature waterfalls, slickrock, and slot canyons like Spooky Gulch, while the remote Kaiparowits Plateau offers solitude.
Camping options like Calf Creek Campground let you sleep under the stars. Scenic drives like Burr Trail showcase the monument’s stunning terrain. This vast area is perfect for adventurers seeking raw, untouched wilderness.
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11. Coral Pink Sand Dunes State Park
Coral Pink Sand Dunes State Park is a unique destination with vibrant pink sand dunes shaped by wind and time. Visitors can hike, build sandcastles, or try off-roading on designated trails.
The dunes shift up to 50 feet annually, ensuring no two visits are the same. This quiet, picturesque park offers a serene escape from busier destinations. Its distinctive beauty makes it a worthwhile stop on any Utah adventure.
12. Snow Canyon State Park
Snow Canyon State Park features red and white sandstone cliffs and black lava rock caps, creating a dramatic and photogenic landscape. With over 38 miles of hiking trails, it’s perfect for exploring on foot, by bike, or even on horseback.
Campers can stay overnight surrounded by breathtaking scenery. The park offers both adventure and serenity, making it a must-visit on a Utah road trip.
More Road Trip Resources:
