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17 Amazing Things to Do in Southern Utah

As one of my favorite destinations in the West for unparalleled landscapes, southern Utah is a mecca when it comes to incredible things to do, especially if what you’re looking for is desert scenery at its best. These are the best things to do in southern Utah.

If you’re currently planning your trip to southern Utah, chances are you’re wondering what are the best things to see and do in that part of the state.

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Zion National Park

If you’re yearning for a desert-filled adventure, Zion National Park has you covered. Located in southwestern Utah, Zion is one of the most beautiful and popular national parks in the US.

Zion National Park is a perfect go-to for hiking trails, contrasting landscapes, and wildlife spotting. Most of the best views at Zion can be found along the Zion Canyon Scenic Drive and the Zion-Mount Carmel Highway, making it easy as pie to explore in a short time.

For unique hikes, try The Narrows, Emerald Pools, and a hike up the world-famous trail that leads to Angel’s Landing (if you’re not afraid of heights).

You might enjoy this guided hike of The Narrows , one of the most popular hikes in U.S. National Parks. Equipment provided.

On a quest to visit all 63 U.S. National Parks?  Grab your own copy of the  printable national parks tracker  to check off your progress as you visit each park.

Arches National Park

Arches National Park is famous for its eye-popping natural arches (of course!), other-worldly rock formations, and beautiful desert vistas. It is much smaller than other national parks, so you can cover it in a day or two.

Hike along Arches’ wonderful trails to take in as many of its fantastic landscapes and viewpoints as you can.

Highlights include quirky rock formations and arches scattered throughout the park, like the famous Delicate Arch plus Double O, Turret Arch, Landscape, and Sand Dune arches.

If you prefer a guided experience, try this full-day tour of both Arches National Park and Canyonlands National Park.

See the best of Utah’s National Parks with the  GuideAlong Utah Mighty 5 Audio driving tour bundle . No data connection is needed. No recurring charges. Just the best and most flexible audio tour available.

Bryce Canyon National Park

Bryce Canyon is all about peculiar needle-shaped hoodoos, bizarre rock formations, and sandstone pillars. One day should be enough to explore the park if you start out early because it is relatively small compared to the other Mighty Five parks.

Despite its size, Bryce Canyon does not lack natural wonders. Highlights include Fairyland Canyon, Silent City, Mossy Cave Waterfalls, and Queen’s Garden Trail.

Canyonlands National Park

Canyonlands is one of the best national parks to visit if you want to take a deep dive into the desert.

Deep canyons, rivers, sandstone cliffs, sheer red rock formations, tons of hiking trails, and spectacular views make Canyonlands one of the most scenic national parks in the United States.

Spanning 330,000 acres of nature, Canyonlands is divided into different sections: Island in the Sky, The Needles, and The Maze. 

It would be impossible to explore everything in one visit, but a few highlights you shouldn’t miss are Grand View Point, Mesa Arch, Shafer Canyon, Grand View Point Trail, Upheaval Dome, and Buck Canyon Overlook, all within Island in the Sky, the easiest section to explore.

Capitol Reef National Park

A lesser-known of the Mighty Five Utah national parks, Capitol Reef features cliffs, canyons, and domes in a geologic monocline known as the Waterpocket Fold, which, put simply, is a big 100-mile wrinkle on the earth.

Must-dos at Capitol Reef include driving Highway 24 scenic road through the park, Panorama Point and Sunset Point, hiking to Hickman Bridge and Cassidy Arch, walking along Grand Wash, and shopping for goodies at the Gifford Homestead.

For more information, read my post about Utah’s “Mighty 5” National Parks (including tips for where to stay).

Goblin Valley State Park

Located between Capitol Reef National Park and Canyonlands National Park, Goblin Valley will make you feel like you’ve somehow traveled to another world (maybe to Mars?), one made up of eerie-looking hoodoos and rock formations. 

While here, the ultimate way to explore the valley is by hiking the Goblin’s Lair Trail, a 2.3-mile out-and-back trail that will take you through clusters of hoodoos, several canyons, and cavernous formations. Or try a guided 4-hour canyoneering adventure.

Goblin Valley State Park is also a certified International Dark Sky Park. Stargazing anyone?

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Grand Staircase—Escalante National Monument and Lower Calf Creek Falls

Spanning 1.87 million acres in southern Utah, Escalante National Monument is home to tons of natural treasures, including its amazing Grand Staircase of cliffs and terraces, monoliths, slot canyons, natural bridges, arches, the Escalante River, and Lower Calf Creek Falls, a set of waterfalls with a natural pool below where you can take a dip and cool off.

The Lower Falls hike is quite popular and a relatively flat 6-mile out-and-back hike.

Monument Valley Navajo Tribal Park

Monument Valley is a sort of trilogy when it comes to getting the best of Utah: The Old West, Native American culture, and stunning desert landscapes.

The entire Monument Valley region is known for its stunning scenery, mesmerizing hiking trails, and glorious striking red sandstone buttes, making it one of the most emblematic landmarks not only in Utah but also in the entire United States.

Hike the Wildcat Trail, check out Mexican Hat, or do the highly popular 17-mile scenic drive.

You might enjoy this extended Monument Valley tour with backcountry access.

Or try this 3-hour sunset tour with a Navajo guide. According to the tour operators, you’ll “see the famous West and East Mitten Buttes, John Ford Point, the Three Sisters, Moccasin Arch, the Totem Pole and more.”

If Monument Valley looks familiar to you, it may be because it has made appearances in many movies, including films like Sergio Leone’s 1968 film ‘Once Upon a Time in the West’, 2001: A Space Odyssey, Forrest Gump, Lone Star Ranger, Mission: Impossible 2, and many, many more.

Red Cliffs Desert Reserve

Set in a transition zone between the Colorado Plateau, the Great Basin, and the Mojave Desert, Red Cliffs Desert Reserve is a convergence of different ecosystems, which makes it a mecca for gorgeous desert landscapes and mixtures of flora and fauna, many of which you won’t find anywhere else in the world.

Red Cliffs Desert Reserve actually became protected in order to provide the desert tortoise, a threatened species, a safe place to live. Moreover, many other endangered reptiles, mammals, and birds also call the reserve their home.

During your time here, you’ll get the chance to go on plenty of fun hikes, ranging from easy strolls to tougher desert challenges. The reserve includes Snow Canyon State Park (see below).

Snow Canyon State Park

Located at the exact intersection of the Colorado Plateau, the Great Basin, and the Mojave Desert, Snow Canyon State Park mixes completely different ecosystems that together create a fascinating landscape.

Personally, I think the canyon scenery looks quite a bit like Zion National Park.

Known for its Navajo sandstone cliffs, petrified sand dunes, and extensive lava fields, Snow Canyon is a mecca for fun adventures. A few of the best things to do at Snow Canyon include hiking, scenic driving, sliding down sand dunes, spotting desert fauna, and rock climbing.

Dead Horse Point State Park

This beautiful state park offers exceptional views of expansive canyons, stunning Colorado River overlooks, and outdoor adventures that will make you feel as though you’re walking over Mars—all without the crowds you’ll usually find at Arches and Canyonlands.

Start at the visitor center to access the miles of hiking and single-track mountain bike trails. There are eight miles of hiking trails leading to various overlooks. All are considered easy hikes. Dead Horse Park has been an officially designated International Dark Sky Park since 2016.

TIP: Keep track of all of your important travel details with a digital travel planner like this .

Located close to the border with Arizona, Kanab has been dubbed “Little Hollywood” because of the fact that it has served as a natural stage for many films and series, including John Wayne’s Stagecoach, The Lone Ranger, and Planet of the Apes.

Check out the Little Hollywood Museum, if you’re interested in learning more about the area’s film history.

Kanab is a great base from which to explore some of the area’s most unique natural destinations, including the Buckskin Gulch slot canyon, Thin Wire Pass, Coyote Buttes, and The Wave.

Try a guided hiking tour of Peek-a-Boo Slot Canyon , less crowded than some of the other popular sites in Utah and Arizona. 

Visit Panguitch, Utah

This quaint historic town was founded by Mormon pioneers in a remarkable location. 

Located just 20 minutes from Bryce Canyon National Park, towering mountains and lovely lakes enfold distinctive buildings, making the scenery at Panguitch look as though it came straight out of a painting.

As you stroll its streets, you’ll stumble across plenty of antique shops, local art galleries, and craft shops. As a fun fact, Panguitch means “Big Fish”, and the town is host to the Panguitch Valley Balloon Rally and the Annual Quilt Walk Festival.

St. George, Utah

More than just a gateway town to Zion National Park, St. George, Utah, offers plenty of wonderful things to do all year round. Don’t miss the historic Main Street and Ancestor Square in historic downtown St. George for great dining, shopping, and more.

Other top things to do in St. George include:

• Top-rated golf courses
• ​Pioneer Park (don’t miss the view from Dixie Rock)
• Important historical sites such as Brigham Young’s Winter Home and Mountain Meadow Massacre Memorial 

Sand Hollow State Park

Sand Hollow State Park is one of the newest state parks in Utah, but it’s also one of the most popular. Known for its lovely blue water surrounded by stunning red sandstone scenery, Sand Hollow draws OHV enthusiasts from all over the area.

Sand Hollow State Park is also a great place for:

Dixie National Forest

At almost 2 million acres, Dixie National Forest offers visitors a ton of things to do. Outdoor enthusiasts will enjoy hiking, camping, mountain biking, ATV-ing, skiing, horseback riding, and more.

Don’t miss the forest’s scenic byway Highway 12, Highway 14, and Patchwork Parkway to see more of South Utah’s amazing scenery. The name of the forest comes from the way that this area was called Utah’s Dixie because of the settlers who traveled there from the Southeastern United States.​

Cedar Breaks National Monument

Cedar Breaks is a natural amphitheater that draws visitors in to look at the beautiful red rocks scenery and enjoy outdoor activities such as hiking, camping, snowshoeing, and snowmobiling. ​

Hikers of all skill levels will find a trail at Cedar Breaks they will enjoy. Cedar Breaks is also known for its stargazing. The dark sky views are among the things that Cedar Breaks National Monument was created to protect. ​ ​

The bottom line

There’s no doubt that southern Utah is a truly remarkable place to visit in the United States, especially if scenery and stunning desert landscapes are what you’re yearning for.

Once you visit, it will kind of get under your skin and you’ll discover that one visit just isn’t enough. Utah, especially southern Utah is not a “one-and-done” kind of travel destination.

More articles to help you plan your trip to southern Utah

• The best national parks in Utah
• Utah bucket list of the top places to see in the state
• Essential travel planning resources
• How to plan a travel itinerary

Pin this post!  

Darcy Vierow is a busy professional and travel planning expert with years of experience maximizing travel with limited time and on a less-than-average salary. Her tips have been published by Forbes, MSN.com, Yahoo! News, Yahoo! Finance, Aol, Newsbreak and GOBankingRates. Read more about Darcy Vierow .

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The Best Things to do in Southern Utah

By: Author Insider's Utah

Posted on Last updated: December 1, 2022

Categories Southwestern Utah

Home » The Best Things to do in Southern Utah

Southern Utah’s vast landscapes, canyons, and red rock formations are some of the most beautiful sights in the western United States. Looking for the best things to do in Southern Utah? Here are the things you shouldn’t miss. 

The region has been a popular destination for travelers since the 1860s when explorer John Wesley Powell first descended the Colorado River through the Grand Canyon and into Utah ’s Glen Canyon. 

Today, Southern Utah is home to five national parks – Zion , Bryce , Capitol Reef National Park , Arches , and Canyonlands – as well as several state parks and monuments. 

Ready to explore the must-see spots in southern Utah? Let’s go! 

Top 5 Things to Do in Southern Utah

Explore arches national park.

Arches National Park is one of Southern Utah’s most popular tourist destinations. The park is home to over 2,000 natural sandstone arches and many other unique geological features. 

Visitors can hike, climb, and camp in the park, and it also abounds with various hiking trails, ranging from easy walks to challenging hikes. 

Popular trails include the Delicate Arch Trail, which leads to the iconic Delicate Arch, and the Devil’s Garden Trail, a longer hike with several different arches to see along the way. 

Climbing is also popular in the park, with several routes ranging from easy to difficult, depending on your experience level.

Top Tip: Explore Arches and Canyonlands National Park on this thrilling 4×4 Driving Tour 

See The Hoodoos at Bryce Canyon National Park

The hoodoos at Bryce Canyon National Park are some of the most popular attractions in Southern Utah. 

Wind and water erosion created these unique rock formations over millions of years. Bryce Canyon National Park is located in southwestern Utah near the town of Bryce. The park is open all year round, but the ideal time to visit is when the weather is cooler.

Several hiking trails wind through the hoodoos, and visitors can also take horseback rides or Jeep tours. The views from the canyon are breathtaking, so be sure to bring your camera!

Top Tip: Discover the best of Bryce’s hoodoos on this national park hiking experience

Hike Angel’s Landing at Zion National Park

Zion National Park is a must-see for any traveler in Southern Utah. 

The park is famous for the white-knuckle Angel’s Landing hike , which offers stunning views of Zion Canyon and the Great White Throne Mountain Range. The park also features a variety of other attractions, like the Temple of Sinawava and The Narrows .

Another great thing to do in Zion National Park is to hike along the Zion Canyon Trail. This trail offers a challenging but rewarding hike through some of the most beautiful scenery in Utah.

Grand Staircase Escalante National Monument

The Grand Staircase-Escalante National Monument is a 1.9 million-acre stretch of land in southern Utah that was designated a National Monument by President Bill Clinton in 1996. 

The monument is known for its unique geology, including the Grand Staircase, a series of cliffs and plateaus descending from Bryce Canyon National Park all the way to the Grand Canyon. 

Other features include the Canyons of the Escalante, an intricate network of canyons and gorges, and the Kaiparowits Plateau, a vast expanse of wilderness.

The monument is popular with hikers and backpackers who explore the many trails and backcountry camping opportunities including the Escalante River Trail – a popular multi-day hike that follows the river through the canyons.

Other popular trails include Spooky Gulch, Zebra Slot Canyon, and Peekaboo Loop. With its remote location and limited services, visitors should be prepared for a backcountry experience.

Tackle The Hell’s Revenge Trail

The Hell’s Revenge Trail is one of the most popular trails in Southern Utah. The trail is located in the Moab area and is a great place to hike or mountain bike. 

Why’s it so popular? The views from the trail are incredible and include Arches National Park, Canyonlands National Park , and the Colorado River. 

The trail is 6.5 miles long and has an elevation gain of 1,000 feet. Many different sections of the trail offer different challenges. Ready to go? Just beware that the trail is rated as difficult due to its rocky and uneven terrain.

Brilliant Things to See & Do in Southern Utah 

From picturesque mountains and awe-inspiring red rock formations to bustling cities and small towns, this southern region has something for everyone. 

Let’s explore more brilliant things to see and do in Southern Utah!

Stargazing in Bryce Canyon National Park

Bryce Canyon National Park is one of the best places in the world to stargaze – not to mention one of the places in Utah that you simply have to visit. 

Still, while so many people flock to the canyon during the day, plan to spend some time at night in Bryce Canyon and you’ll be richly rewarded. The night skies are incredibly clear and full of stars. The Milky Way is often visible, and you might even see a shooting star!

There are several great spots for stargazing in Bryce Canyon National Park. One of the best is the Inspiration Point overlook. This spot offers stunning night sky views and is also a great place to watch the sunrise or sunset.

Another excellent spot for stargazing is Sunset Point. This overlook provides panoramic views of the canyon and is a great place to watch the sunset. 

Mountain Biking in Moab

Mountain biking is a great way to see Moab. There are many different trails to choose from, so you can find one that’s right for your skill level. 

Be sure to wear proper safety gear, including a helmet and protective pads, and follow all trail signs. Some of the best mountain biking trails in Moab include:

Slickrock Trail: This 10-mile trail is considered one of the best mountain biking trails in the world. It’s challenging, but the views are worth it.

Amasa Back Trail: This trail is shorter than Slickrock, but it’s just as scenic. It’s an excellent option for a less strenuous ride.

Magnolia Lane Trail: This trail is perfect for beginner mountain bikers. It’s gentle and has beautiful views of Arches National Park.

Top Tip: Book onto this mountain bike half-day tour to tackle some of Moab’s stunning trails

White Water Adventures on the Colorado River

Few rivers are as mighty as the Colorado River. Wending its way through Southern Utah, it’s known for its challenging whitewater rafting and kayaking, as well as its beautiful scenery. 

Ready to tackle some rapids? Head to Westwater Canyon – a 17-mile stretch of river punctuated by some of the most exciting rapids in the state. 

The canyon offers Class III, IV and V rapids, so there is plenty of excitement and challenge for even the most experienced rafters or kayakers. It’s not possible to do Westwater Canyon independently, so you’ll need to book onto a tour. 

Take a Peek at the Emerald Pools

The Emerald Pools are among the best things to see in Southern Utah. They are located in Zion National Park and offer a stunning view of the surrounding area. 

There are three different pools to choose from, each with unique features. The Upper Emerald Pool is the largest and most popular, offering a beautiful view of the canyon below.

The Middle Emerald Pool is smaller and more intimate, surrounded by cliffs that make it feel like you’re in your own little world. The Lower Emerald Pool is the smallest – and still very pretty – though often the busiest of the three. 

Unique Things to See & Do in Southern Utah: Hidden Gems That are Off the Beaten Track

Let us take you through some of our favorite hidden gems in Southern Utah!

Warrior’s Walk

In the heart of Southern Utah’s red rock country lies a hidden gem known as Warrior’s Walk. This secluded spot is located in the town of Kanab and is the perfect place to explore the area’s natural beauty.

The trailhead for Warrior’s Walk is located just off Highway 89 and is marked by a small sign. The trail is only about a mile long, but it packs a lot of punch in the scenery. 

The trail winds through towering red cliffs and provides breathtaking views of the desert landscape. Along the way, you’ll also have the chance to see some petroglyphs carved centuries ago by the area’s Native American inhabitants.

If you’re looking for an adventure that will take you off the beaten path, look no further than Warrior’s Walk. This hidden gem will leave you with lasting memories of Southern Utah’s stunning red rock country.

Natural Bridges National Monument

Natural Bridges National Monument is home to three natural bridges, all formed by the erosion of rivers.

The first bridge, Kachina Bridge, is named after the Native American kachina dolls found near the bridge. The second bridge, Owachomo Bridge, is the thinnest of the three bridges and spans 275 feet. 

The third and final bridge, Sipapu Bridge, is the largest of the three bridges, spanning 290 feet.

All three bridges are accessible via hiking trails and offer breathtaking views. If you’re looking for a fun and adventurous way to spend a day in Southern Utah, check out Natural Bridges National Monument!

Goblin Valley State Park 

Goblin Valley State Park is located in Emery County and is known for its unique rock formations. The goblin-like rock formations result from years of erosion and are popular for hikers and photographers.

The park also has a variety of other activities to offer visitors, including camping, picnicking, fishing, and exploring the many hiking trails. 

Goblin Valley State Park is a great place to get away from it all and enjoy the beauty of Southern Utah. 

Capitol Reef National Park

Southern Utah is home to some of the country’s most beautiful and unique national parks. Capitol Reef National Park is one of these hidden gems. Capitol Reef is a nature lover’s paradise in the heart of red rock country.

The park has incredible hiking trails , stunning views, and fantastic wildlife. The park is home to various landscapes, including canyons, cliffs, and desert terrain. 

Visitors can explore the park on foot, by bicycle, or by car. There are also plenty of opportunities for wildlife viewing, camping, and picnicking.

Like all of Utah’s national parks , Capitol Reef National Park has minimal light pollution, making it the perfect place to stargaze. The Milky Way can often stretch across the sky on clear nights.

One of the most popular attractions in Capitol Reef National Park is Chimney Rock. This towering rock formation is a great place to hike and climb. 

There are also several petroglyphs (ancient rock art) near Chimney Rock that are worth checking out!

Things to Do in Southern Utah: Practical Tips for Your Trip

As you plan your trip to Southern Utah, remember that the region is full of natural beauty and adventure. Here are some practical tips to help you make the most of your time in this amazing place:

• Southern Utah can have extreme temperatures, so pack clothes for hot and cold weather.
• Be prepared for hiking and other activities by bringing comfortable shoes and clothing, sunscreen, hats, and sunglasses.
• Don’t forget your camera! Southern Utah is full of photo-worthy landscapes.

How Long to Visit Southern Utah?

There is no definitive answer to this question as it depends on several factors, including your interests, the time of year you plan to visit, and how much time you have available.

However, we typically recommend spending at least 5-6 days in Southern Utah to get a good sense of the region. 

Best Time to Visit Southern Utah

There are a few things to consider when deciding what time of year to visit Southern Utah. 

Southern Utah is known for having sweltering summers and cold winters. If you are not a fan of either extreme, you may want to consider visiting during the spring or fall when the temperatures are more moderate.

The second thing to think about is the crowds. Southern Utah is a popular destination for both national and international tourists. If you would like to avoid the crowds, you may want to visit during the shoulder seasons (April-May and September-October). 

However, if you don’t mind the crowds and are looking for the best deals, visiting during the off-season (November-March) may be a better option.

Where Should I Stay in Southern Utah?

There are many great hotels to stay in for a while visiting Southern Utah. Depending on your budget and preferences, there are plenty of options.

Quality Inn & Suites in St. George (Mid-Range)

The Quality Inn & Suites in St George, UT is an affordable but great option. This hotel offers comfortable accommodations at a great price, making it a perfect option for budget-minded travelers. 

Check Rates and Availability for Qual ity Inn & Suites in St. George on Booking.com.

Lake Powell Luxury Home (Luxury)

If you’re looking for a luxurious place to stay in Southern Utah, look no further than the Lake Powell Luxury Home. This five-star resort is nestled in a remote canyon and offers stunning views of the desert landscape. 

Check Rates and Availability for Lake Powell Luxury Home on Booking.com.

Recommended Tours in Southern Utah

Some other recommended tours in Southern Utah are:

• Sand Hollow State Park ATV Adventure
• Private 4×4 Tour of Arches and Canyonlands National Park
• Full Day Canyoneering Experience from Moab
• Hiking Tour of The Narrows, Zion National Park

Things to do in Southern Utah: Map

Places to Visit in Southern Utah: Read Next

• Incredible Things to do in Utah
• Time to Explore: Bryce Canyon National Park
• Time to Explore: Zion National Park
• Time to Explore: Arches National Park
• Time to Explore: Canyonlands National Park
• Time to Explore: Capitol Reef National Park

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The Top 15 Amazing Southern Utah Attractions You Must See

LAST UPDATED: 3/12/24 – Top 15 Amazing Southern Utah Attractions

Southern Utah is one of the most breathtaking regions of the United States. With five beautiful national parks, many national monuments, and incredible state parks, it’s full of beauty. In fact, there are so many incredible things to see that it is hard to know where to start. That is why I have put together this list of the top 15 most amazing Southern Utah attractions that visitors should plan to see. By using this list to plan your trip, you can be sure not to miss any of Southern Utah’s top sights.

Before I start laying out my list of the top Southern Utah attractions, here is a map that outlines where to find each attraction. It may be difficult to visit each spot on one trip, but with some good planning, you can hit many in one visit. For those interested in a Southern Utah road trip itinerary, I would suggest checking out one of my itineraries below. Both of these itineraries include stops at many of the spots on my list of the top Southern Utah attractions.

V iew Larger Map

Monument Valley

If you like old western movies, then Monument Valley should look very familiar to you. This iconic destination was featured in such movies as Stagecoach (1939), Billy the Kid (1940), and Laramie (1949). It has also been featured in more recent films such as Jurassic World: Fallen Kingdom (2018) and Transformers: Age of Extinction (2014). However, my favorite use of this beautiful landscape in the film was undoubtedly in the movie Forest Gump. With its ruggedly beautiful desert buttes and mesas, it isn’t hard to see why.

Monument Valley isn’t a US national parkland but instead is part of the Navajo Nation in Southern Utah and Northern Arizona. While you can see some of the most famous parts of the valley from a car, many hidden treasures require you to hike to see. If you are interested in visiting Monument Valley during your next trip to Southern Utah, then I have provided a guide you can use for planning below.

Don’t Miss When You’re There

Stopping at Forrest Gump Point

For those who have seen the movie, Forrest Gump, then you are probably very familiar with which spot I am referring to. Forrest Gump Point is the spot where Forrest Gump stops on his cross-country run and decides to stop. In the background, there is a long, straight road through the desert with the mesas of Monument Valley in the distance. It is arguably the most famous roadway view in the entire American Southwest.

Natural Bridges National Monument

Southern Utah is famous for its natural rock formations and one of the most popular with visitors are natural bridges. These rock formations are created when water erodes the bottom area of the rock, leaving an arch with an opening underneath. While these natural bridges vary in size, the really big ones are a spectacular sight to behold. One of my favorite of the top Southern Utah attractions to visit is the Natural Bridges National Monument .

With three incredible natural bridges to see in one small area, it is a great place to check out some of Mother Nature’s most beautiful rock sculpting. At 220 feet tall and spanning 268 feet, the Sipapu Bridge is the monument’s largest bridge. Although it is the oldest, the Owachomo Bridge is also the smallest at 106 feet tall and spanning 180 feet. The last of the monument’s natural bridges, the Kachina Bridge stands at 210 feet tall and spans 204 feet across.

While the hikes to the bridges themselves are classified as moderate, it is a relatively easy 10-minute walk to viewpoints where you can see each of the monument’s natural bridges. If you’d like to hike to more than one of the bridges, several loop trails in the national monument will take you to different combinations of the natural bridges on 5 to 10-mile hikes.

NEARBY BEARS EARS NATIONAL MONUMENT

While you are in the area of the National Bridges National Monument, I would also strongly suggest that you check out the nearby Bears Ears National Monument. In addition to being a stunning landscape, this area is renowned for its rock art sites, pueblo homes, and rock climbing areas. In addition to the well-preserved Puebloan sites, the area is also a great place to hike and do some star gazing at night.

Rainbow Bridge National Monument

There are some truly spectacular rock formations in Southern Utah, but the many natural rock archways and bridges are my favorite. While Arches National Park near Moab is famous for having the highest concentration of arches, there are some spectacular ones outside the park. One of the prettiest of these archways is the incredible Rainbow Bridge National Monument near the Glen Canyon National Recreation Area.

Rising 290 feet over the dry bed of Bridge Creek, the Rainbow Bridge National Monument is the sixth longest natural bridge in the world. The easiest way to access Rainbow Bridge is by taking a boat ride across Lake Powell in the Glen Canyon National Recreation Area. There is a dock on the other side of the lake and the Rainbow Bridge is less than a mile from the dock. If you don’t want to take a boat, several other trails will take you to the Rainbow Bridge, but each of these hikes is over 15 miles long.

NEARBY Reflection Canyon

While you are visiting the Glen Canyon National Recreation Area, I would also suggest checking out the beautiful Reflection Canyon . It’s not easy to get to, but the views you will see at the canyon are among the most stunning you will find in Southern Utah. It’s a roughly 18-mile out-and-back hike to the canyon, so make sure you start your hike early if you want to visit. Most people who visit Reflection Canyon spend the night by the canyon and do the hike over two days. This also allows you to see the canyon at both sunrise and sunset.

Glen Canyon National Recreation Area

While a majority of Southern Utah is dominated by desert, canyons, and red sandstone rock formations, they aren’t the only landscapes. One of the top Southern Utah attractions is Lake Powell, which is a large, manmade lake. Lake Powell is the primary focal point of the Glen Canyon National Recreation Area , which also includes the area around the lake. In addition to the Rainbow Bridge and Reflection Canyon, which I covered earlier in this guide, Glen Canyon is also a popular hiking, fishing, and outdoor recreation destination.

One of the most popular things for tourists to do at Glen Canyon National Recreation Area is to go boating. Whether by pontoon, fishing boat, kayak, or canoe, there are plenty of incredible things to explore on Lake Powell. While you are there, I would also strongly recommend checking out the Glen Canyon Dam . It is an amazing feat of engineering and getting to see it up close on a tour is a fun experience.

The Views From Alstrom Point

While there is a seemingly endless number of spectacular viewpoints in which to enjoy the beauty of Lake Powell, my favorite spot is undoubtedly Alstrom Point . While it is accessible by vehicle, the road to get there is not paved and can be very rough in spots. For those who wish to make the drive, I would strongly suggest bringing a 4WD vehicle and going slowly. Believe me, the effort to get there will be well worth it when you see views like the one below.

Goosenecks State Park

One thing that Southern Utah certainly is not in short supply of is incredible canyons. Carved by rivers that run through the soft red sandstone that makes up most of the high desert plateaus of the area. The sandstone is carried away by the rivers, leaving behind some of the most spectacular canyons. Most travelers are familiar with the Grand Canyon, which was formed this same way, but Southern Utah’s canyons are less well known.

One of the top Southern Utah attractions that travelers must see when visiting is one of the area’s lesser-known, but incredibly beautiful, canyons. Goosenecks State Park, which sits very near the city of Mexican Hat, features the steep meander of the San Juan River. In many ways, the river bend and the canyon it formed resemble the infamous Horseshoe Bend in Northern Arizona. This spectacular horseshoe turn of the San Juan River has created one of Southern Utah’s most incredible vistas.

M exican Hat Rock

While in the area, I would strongly recommend stopping to see one of Southern Utah’s most interesting rock formations. Mexican Hat Rock , featured below, is an incredible balancing rock that looks much like its namesake. Located just outside the city of Mexican Hat, it is an easy stop when you are visiting Goosenecks State Park.

Cedar Breaks National Monument

There are quite a few canyons and amphitheaters among the top Southern Utah attractions, and each one of them is unique. The Native Americans used to call Cedar Breaks National Monument the “Circle of Painted Cliffs” because of its incredibly beautiful colored cliff sides that drop over two thousand feet to the canyon floor. While Bryce Canyon and its hoodoos get most of the glory, Cedar Breaks is every bit as beautiful.

One thing that you need to keep in mind when visiting Cedar Breaks National Monument is that it is at a very high altitude. You might not realize it when you are there because it isn’t a mountain destination, but it is high up. In fact, at over 10,000 feet above sea level, it is the third-highest national monument in the United States. Only the Sand to Snow and Santa Rosa & San Jacinto Mountains National Monuments in California are higher.

The Views From the RampartS Overlook

There are a lot of breathtaking views at Cedar Breaks National Monument, but I think the views from the Ramparts Overlook are the best. From this viewpoint, you can see just how incredible the canyon is. The beautiful colors of the canyon walls really shine in the light from this spot. From here, it is easy to see why Cedar Breaks is considered one of the top Southern Utah attractions.

Dead Horse Point State Park

Several incredible state parks are among the top Southern Utah attractions, but Dead Horse Point State Park is undoubtedly the most popular. The park got its name back in the 19th century when cowboys used the park to round up wild mustangs who roamed the mesa. The cowboys would drive the horses down the neck of the peninsula, using the two-thousand-foot cliffs as a natural corral. Unfortunately, some horses would be driven off, giving the spot the name “Dead Horse Point”.

There isn’t any horse wrangling going on in the park these days, but the breathtaking canyon and its sheer cliff walls are still there to be admired. If you are into mountain biking, Dead Horse Point State Park is one of the top mountain biking destinations in Southern Utah. It also has many incredible hiking paths and viewpoints for visitors to enjoy. The park is located just outside the Islands in the Sky entrance to Canyonlands National Park, so it is a convenient stop before heading into Canyonlands.

The Views from Dead Horse Point

With some of the most incredible canyon views in Southern Utah, Dead Horse Point is a must-see. While you are there, I would strongly suggest checking out the views from Dead Horse Point. This is the iconic spot that gave the park its name and offers stunning views of the canyon. Legend has it, if you listen closely, you can still hear the horses from here.

The Corona Arch

In many circles, the city of Moab, Utah is considered to be the outdoor adventure capital of the United States. It is the equivalent in America to what Queenstown is to New Zealand. Located near two of the country’s most popular national parks, it’s easy to see why. However, with so much to see and do in the Moab area, it is easy to overlook some attractions. One such attraction that doesn’t get nearly the acclaim it should be is the beautiful Corona Arch . This stunning arch is as beautiful as any you will find inside Arches National Park.

Located just outside the city limits of Moab, Corona Arch requires a short hike for visitors to see. The trail isn’t very difficult and takes you to see the Bowtie Arch as well. While the hike isn’t very long or difficult, there is a lack of shade on the trail. If you are going to hike to Corona Arch, I would suggest doing it either early or late in the day and bringing lots of water.

Seeing the Corona Arch at Sunset

If you think the pictures of the Corona Arch taken at midday are beautiful, wait until you see the arch at sunrise or sunset. It is an absolutely magical thing to see in the soft light of the golden hours. If you plan on hiking to see the arch at sunset, I would recommend making sure you have a headlamp and proper navigation equipment with you. It is a fairly marked trail, but it can be tricky to navigate in low light.

Goblin Valley State Park

For travelers who are a fan of the hoodoos of Bryce Canyon or the Needles of Canyonlands, you will love the lesser-known Goblin Valley State Park . Known for its incredible rock formations that fill several valleys within the park, Goblin Valley is one of the best-kept secrets of Southern Utah attractions. It is only about a 1.5-hour drive from Moab, which makes it a convenient side excursion if you are visiting the area’s national parks. However, if you plan on visiting, I would do the park justice and spend a full day exploring it.

In addition to several great observation points where you can view the beautiful rock-filled valleys, there are some great hiking trails in the park as well. It is hard to appreciate just how beautiful these rock spires are until you are up close. It will feel as though you are hiking on a whole other planet.

Camping Under the Stars

A great way to fully appreciate the remoteness of Southern Utah is to spend a night under the stars camping. I can think of few places better for camping than Goblin Valley State Park . The silhouettes of the beautiful rock spires and a sky full of bright stars will be an experience you will cherish for a lifetime. For those who have camped beneath the stars at Joshua Tree National Park in California, the experience is just as great in my opinion.

Capitol Reef National Park

In my opinion, Capitol Reef National Park may be one of the most underrated national parks in the American park system. Often overshadowed by the other national parks in Southern Utah, it is often skipped by travelers in a rush. It doesn’t help that some of the best features of this park are not as easy to get to as the popular features in the other parks. Don’t get me wrong, there are incredible things to see in Capitol Reef National Park that don’t require long hikes. The Hickman Bridge and Cassidy Arch are great examples.

However, there isn’t the extensive park road system in Capitol Reef that you see in some of the other parks. This means that a lot of the park is backcountry or accessible only by rough road. If you have the time and are willing to put in the work, the views in the backcountry are breathtaking. For more information on what to see when you visit Capitol Reef National Park, please review the visitor guide that I linked to below.

Seeing the Cathedral Valley

One of my absolute favorite areas within Capitol Reef National Park is Cathedral Valley. This stunning valley contains several incredible rock monoliths that rise above the valley floor. In addition to their beauty, they have incredible names. The Temple of the Sun and Temple of the Moon do look like majestic temples rising from the sand in this gorgeous landscape. If you would like to see the Cathedral Valley, be aware that it requires a lengthy drive on a rough road, so you will need the right vehicle.

Grand Staircase National Monument

In many ways, the remoteness of the Grand Staircase-Escalante National Monument is a double-edged sword. Because it is so remote and isolated, it has become one of the most popular destinations for outdoor adventurists. However, this same remoteness means it is less accessible to less experienced hikers, so its incredible sights are less well known. In essence, it is one of the last remaining areas in the continental United States where you really have to work to explore the region.

This is why I am absolutely in love with the Grand Staircase and think it is one of the top Southern Utah attractions. It’s the explorer’s destination in Southern Utah. The land is rugged, the trails are long and unmarked, and the destinations are mind-bogglingly beautiful. Whether you are hiking to see one of the many incredible slot canyons or to the infamous “Hole in the Rock”, it’s always an adventure in the Grand Staircase.

However, because of its remoteness and lack of paved roads and marked trails, it does take more effort to plan a trip to see. Before you start planning your trip to the Grand Staircase, I would strongly recommend researching your hikes, printing topographical maps, and making sure you have the right gear. I have individual guides for many of the incredible sights within the Grand Staircase on my blog that you can use.

Hiking to the Zebra Slot Canyon

One of my favorite hikes within the Grand Staircase-Escalante National Monument is the hike to the Zebra Slot Canyon. It is an unmarked trail, so it does take some navigation ability to get to, but the hike isn’t incredibly long or difficult. This makes it a fairly accessible landmark to see, even if you aren’t an avid backcountry hiker. If you would like to hike to the Zebra Slot Canyon, I have included my guide for you to review below.

Bryce Canyon National Park

You will be very hard-pressed to find a more beautiful destination among the Southern Utah attractions than the incredible Bryce Canyon National Park . Unlike the steep canyons that you will find at Canyonlands National Park or the Grand Canyon, Bryce Canyon is renowned for being filled with beautiful, thin rock spires that are called “hoodoos”. These hoodoos give Bryce Canyon a fairytale-like look and are absolutely breathtaking to behold in person.

There are remote backpacking trails that you can take within Bryce Canyon, and the area was infamously used by Butch Cassidy to hide out back in his time. However, the park is extremely popular with tourists because of its accessibility. There are many wonderful viewpoints in which to enjoy the beauty of Bryce Canyon located just off the park road. You can see most of this incredible park without having to walk very far at all.

Viewing the Hoodoos From Inspiration Point Viewpoint

One of my favorite viewpoints inside of Bryce Canyon National Park is the amazing Inspiration Point . I can see why they named this viewpoint what they did because every time I visit the views truly inspire me. In my opinion, there is no better place in Bryce Canyon to view the incredible hoodoo-filled canyon than from Inspiration Point. When you visit the viewpoint, make sure your camera is out because you will want a lot of photos.

Arches National Park

There is a lot of debate about whether the eastern or western half of Southern Utah is the best to visit. To be honest, both are incredibly beautiful and filled with some of the top Southern Utah attractions. What most people do agree on is that the city of Moab, Utah is one of the capitals for outdoor adventure in the United States. Located in southeast Utah near the border with Colorado, Moab is near two of America’s most popular national parks.

The first of these two parks is the Legendary Arches National Park . Natural sandstone arches are common in Southern Utah, but Arches National Park has over 2,000 arches for you to see. These arches come in all shapes and sizes, with some that are as tall as a building. Though most of the arches can be seen from the park road, there are some great hikes in the park as well.

If you plan to visit Arches National Park, I would strongly suggest planning ahead and arriving early. It is one of the busiest parks in the US National Park System. It is not unusual to see a several-hour wait to get in during peak season. In addition, the campgrounds inside the park and hotels in Moab book up very quick. For more information on how to plan your trip, refer to my Arches National Park Guide linked below.

H iking to See the Delicate Arch

One of the most impressive arches in the park is undoubtedly the Delicate Arch . It is one of the top Southern Utah attractions for good reason. At 52 feet tall, it is one of the largest free-standing arches in Southern Utah. In fact, it is so popular that it is featured on the state license plate of Utah.

The hike to Delicate Arch is a 3.2-mile out-and-back that is heavily trafficked. It isn’t a very technical hike, but it can be challenging for some people in the heat. If you are going to pick one hike while visiting the park, this is definitely the one I would recommend.

Canyonlands National Park

The second of the big national parks in the Moab, Utah area is the incredible Canyonlands National Park . Known for its breathtaking vistas and incredible slot canyons, it is an absolute must-see. If you don’t count the rivers themselves, the park is divided into three distinct districts, which are separated by the Colorado and Green Rivers. These districts include the Needles, the Island in the Sky, and the Maze districts.

The Needles District is located in the southeast corner of the park and is the most accessible. The district was named for the colorful spires of Cedar Mesa Sandstone that dominate the area. There are several wonderful hikes historical sites and petroglyphs for visitors to enjoy in the district.

Conversely, the Maze District of Canyonlands National Park is the least accessible of the park’s districts. Because of the remoteness and the roughness of the roads, the Maze District requires more planning to visit. However, if you put in the work to plan, the reward is very high. The spectacular maze of slot canyons in the area is absolutely incredible to explore.

The Mesa Arch Viewpoint at Sunrise

The Mesa Arch viewpoint is located on the Island in the Sky District of Canyonlands National Park, which is my favorite. This district features some of the most spectacular canyon vistas that you will find in the park. In addition to the Green River Overlook, Grand View Point Overlook, and the Buck Canyon Overlook, there is the Mesa Arch viewpoint. Mesa Arch is a beautiful arch that faces the perfect spot to view the sunrise over a stunning canyon. When you visit, you can expect incredible views like the one below.

Zion National Park

Without any doubt, Zion National Park is my favorite of the Southern Utah attractions. This breathtaking canyon is home to two of the most epic hikes that you will find in the park system of the United States. My favorite is the Angel’s Landing hike, which gives visitors a bird’s eye view down the canyon and some of the most beautiful vistas you will find anywhere in the world.

The other hike that visitors absolutely must try when visiting Zion National Park is the incredible Narrows Hike, which takes hikers down the Virgin River and through the slot canyons. With a vast majority of the trail being in the river, it is one of the most unique hikes that you will find in America’s national parks. You will be absolutely blown away by the beauty of the sheer rock cliffs that surround the river as you follow it through the maze of canyons.

These incredible hikes are just some of the many things that make Zion National Park one of the most amazing places in North America, if not the world. However, if you plan to visit, you need to plan ahead. In addition to being one of America’s prettiest national parks, it is also one of the nation’s busiest. For more information on how to plan a trip to see Zion, please refer to my Zion National Park Visitor Guide linked below.

Hiking to Angel’s Landing

When it comes to incredible hikes in America’s national parks system, there aren’t many that can compete with the Angel’s Landing hike in Zion National Park. The views from the perch of Angel’s Landing are nothing short of spectacular. However, in addition to being beautiful, it is also one of the most challenging and dangerous hikes in the park system.

The trail follows the spine of a 1,488-foot-tall rock formation that has sheer drops on both sides. There is a chain for hikers to hold in the precarious spots, but it can get crowded during peak season. The traffic also goes two ways on the trail. However, for those who make it to Angel’s Landing, the views are out of this world.

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Published by Josh Hewitt

Avid traveler and photographer who loves to see new places, meet new people, and experience new things. There is so much this world can teach us, we just need to explore! View all posts by Josh Hewitt

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9 comments ›.

Photos are awesome!!

Thank you so much!!

You are welcome

This makes me want to return to Utah.

I know, right? I just can’t stay away. It’s incredible!

Oh, this makes me long for Utah! I’ve been to many of these places over several trips, but not all. Didn’t know about Reflection Canyon, but now I do and it just went on the list. Thank you!

You are very welcome! I am doing the reflection canyon hike in October. Will let you know how it goes.

• On Our Way - An Overview of My Southern Utah Road Trip October 8, 2021 • 10:01 am
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Best Time to Visit Utah National Parks

Planning a trip to Utah’s Mighty 5 National Parks? Here’s the lowdown on the best times to visit.

I’ve lived in Utah for 10 years, and I cringe anytime someone tells me they are planning a summer trip to Utah’s National Parks. Don’t you know how hot it gets here?!?

Southern Utah’s National Parks are some of the most iconic and breathtaking of all our public lands. Whether you’re coming to see the mesmerizing red rocks, hike slot canyons, or take in the otherworldly qualities of Utah’s Mighty 5, it will be a trip you won’t forget. But, if you shouldn’t come in summer, now you might be wondering, when is the best time to visit Utah’s National Parks?

If summer is your only option, there are certainly ways to make it work, but spring and fall are far better choices as far as weather, and if you really want to beat the crowds, Utah’s National Parks have the least number of visitors in winter.

In this post, I give you the low down on what the different seasons are like in Southern Utah and how to best prepare.

This post may contain affiliate links.

Visiting Southern Utah in Winter

When you visit Southern Utah in the winter be prepared for temps between 25-50 degrees during the day and below freezing at night. If you’re willing and able to brave the cold, you will get to enjoy the parks without crowds and there might even be snow on the ground, which makes your photos even better in my opinion. Be prepared by bringing along warm winter layers that are also waterproof (it can rain or snow), and check with the National Park Service on current hazards. An icy layer on Utah’s slickrock can be extremely slippery, so if hiking is your goal, bring microspikes at a minimum or snowshoes depending on the weather.

Visiting Southern Utah in winter can also mean lower rates on accommodations in popular destinations like Moab, although services in some of the more remote parks like Capitol Reef can be limited. Bryce Canyon is the highest in elevation, so there you will have the greatest chance for snow and the coldest temperatures.

The downside of winter is certain trailheads are inaccessible – such as Lava Point in Zion which closes in winter – and roads to access dispersed camping can also be impassable. Some of Utah’s campgrounds close for the winter as well so be sure to check before heading out. As long as you are flexible and don’t have your heart set on a specific trail, winter can be a beautifully quiet time to visit Southern Utah.

Things to do in Winter in Southern Utah National Parks:

• Hike the Zion Narrows in a dry suit – I haven’t done this, but it’s on my Utah bucket list! If you plan to hike the Narrows, I recommend using trekking poles to help keep your balance hiking through the water in the canyon
• Photograph Bryce Canyon in snow and hike into the canyon if you have the right gear
• Drive Cathedral Valley in Capitol Reef National Park (check with a ranger on road conditions first as they can be impassable after wet weather)
• Enjoy crowd-free trails in Arches National Park
• Photograph and enjoy a late sunrise at Mesa Arch in Canyonlands

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Visiting Southern Utah in Spring

From April to May the Southern Utah parks are the busiest due to milder temps, spring blooms, and beautiful scenery. While Spring is undoubtedly the most pleasant season in Southern Utah, I personally like to avoid peak travel times like Spring Break, Memorial Day, and the weeks following graduation. Be prepared to deal with large crowds on iconic trails and plan to visit other less crowded areas as well. Check out this list of my favorite hikes in Utah to help you plan . Also, pay attention to event dates – like Jeep Week in Moab – which draws a big crowd around April every year.

Expect Spring weather in Utah to be slightly unpredictable, so pack accordingly. The daytime temperatures range from 60-80 degrees with lows around 40-60 overnight. Higher elevation trails and dirt roads can still be icy and snow covered or muddy due to snow melt.

If you are trying to snag a permit for a popular trail, like Arches National Park’s Fiery Furnace, make sure to plan in advance.

Things to Do in Spring in Utah’s National Parks

• Explore the depths of Canyonlands before it gets too hot – During the spring, you can explore Horseshoe Canyon Unit, a part of the remote area called The Maze, or for more beginner-friendly trails, visit The Needles Section for great backpacking and hiking. See the best Canyonlands hikes here .
• Beat the crowds on Angel’s Landing – Get up early or bring a headlamp and hike late in the day for the least amount of people on the trail. Read my complete guide to Zion National Park for details.
• See blooming wildflowers – In Zion and Southwest Utah, spot colorful blooms from late March to early May. In Canyonlands, Arches, and Southeast Utah, wildflowers peak a little later from late April to mid-May.

>> Read Next: What To Wear Hiking in The Desert

Visiting Southern Utah in Summer

Since the weather is harsh and daytime temps can reach over 100 degrees, summer is not the best time to visit Utah National Parks. With that said, tons of people visit in summer, and there are still plenty of ways to enjoy the parks if you’re there anytime from June to August. The good news is, sunset in mid-summer isn’t until almost 9pm. The best way to enjoy the summer is to tackle the toughest part of your hikes very early and/or late in the day and spend the hottest part of the day relaxing in the shade or swimming.

You’ll want to load up on sunscreen, wear a hat and other sun protection , and drink more water than you are used to. I also like to supplement our water with electrolytes in the summer since the sun can literally zap the energy right out of you. Permits are also hard to come by in the summer, so plan in advance.

Things to Do in Summer in Utah’s National Parks

• Hike the Zion Narrows – This world-famous hike is awesome to do in summer, as long as you can deal with crowds. The shade of the canyon walls and the refreshing water temps will keep you comfortable all day. Just make sure to check the weather forecast and make alternative plans if rain is possible due to flash flood potential. Want to get away from all the people? Do the Narrows from the top-down on an overnight backpacking trip, where a permit is required.
• Hike to Delicate Arch for sunset. Spend your day around Moab swimming or whitewater rafting.
• Explore Lake Powell – While not a National Park, Lake Powell offers awesome boating and kayaking in the summer months and is a welcome reprieve from Southern Utah’s summer heat. Check out our guide to planning an overnight kayaking trip on Lake Powell .

Visiting Southern Utah in Fall

Much like the spring, fall is a popular and busy season. It is one of the best times to visit Utah National Parks thanks to the mild weather and beautiful Fall foliage. Just be prepared to deal with crowds on popular trails. Our solution? Get off the beaten path and explore some lesser-known trails.

Be prepared with this Southern Utah packing list – we also recommend bringing a rain jacket and layers just in case. As winter approaches, weather can be erratic with chilly evening temps.

Things to Do in Fall in Utah’s National Parks

• Backpack the 14-mile West Rim Trail in Zion National Park . A permit is required which helps to keep the crowds at bay.
• Visit Grand Staircase-Escalante National Monument – Although it isn’t a National Park, the Grand Staircase-Escalante National Monument is close to many of Southern Utah’s parks and is a great stop if you’re on a road trip. It’s also got some of the best hikes in Southern Utah for catching the fall foliage down near the Escalante River. While there are some cool hikes right off the highway, you’ll want a 4×4 or high clearance for exploring the slot canyons and more secluded hikes off of Hole in the Rock Road.

My Favorite Utah Travel Resources

With cell service being limited in Southern Utah, it’s not a bad idea to invest in a hiking book or map for your trip. Here are the Utah hiking resources I’ve found to be most helpful over the years:

• Hiking from Here to WOW : Utah Canyon Country – this is hands-down the best book for finding Southern Utah hiking trails. It covers all of the Mighty 5 National Parks and more.
• Utah National Parks National Geographic Map Pack – this bundle includes Nat Geo topo maps for all 5 of Utah’s National Parks. These maps will give you the lay of the land, show you where the Park campgrounds are located, and feature all of the major hiking trails in the Parks.
• Utah Benchmark Road and Recreation Atlas – if you want to get off the beaten path and explore Utah’s dirt roads, this is a great atlas to have on your road trip.
• 60 Hikes Within 60 Miles: Salt Lake City  – consider this your trail guide for the best hikes around Salt Lake City

Have you been to Southern Utah’s National Parks? In your opinion, what is the best time to visit Utah? Leave a comment below.

With two decades of hiking and seven years of van life under her belt, Kristen has dedicated her life to helping people experience the positive effects of nature. As a pioneer in the outdoor blogging space, she founded Bearfoot Theory in 2014 and has since authored more than 350 blog posts about outdoor travel, hiking, camping, and van life. Her work has been featured in National Geographic, Outside Magazine, and Backpacker, and when she’s not on the road, she lives in Park City, Utah with her partner Ryan, their son, and two adventure pups.

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14 Comments

I have a good experience of Arches National Park because I have not been there in my whole life to enjoyed its outdoor activities and every time had huge fun there.

I would like to have information on maps to just go on scenic road trips in Sothern Utah. We are to old for hiking. We like back roads and old towns. We are staying in ST. George from the 3rd to the 8th of May. We will be driving a 4wheel drive truck. Any help would be apricated.

The Utah Road and Recreation Atlas is a great resource. It has information on camping, backroads, interesting stops, historic sites, and more.

We would like to visit Utah around May of 2022 would that be a good time to hike the narrows or would it be to cold,

May is usually a good time to hike the Narrows. You can read more about the Narrows and the best months to hike it in this blog post https://bearfoottheory.com/hiking-the-narrows-permits-and-planning/

Hi I’d like to plan a wedding. Nothing big just my fiancé and another couple. We are older but still enjoy hiking, biking, prefer something a little nicer for overnight. Do you have any suggestions? We are thinking May 2022. We also enjoy live music and if we can find a festival or concert going on at the same time that would just be a bonus! Thanks for any suggestions you might have. Lisette

Hi Lisette! There are a few glamping resorts near Zion and Moab that would be a nice option. Also my friend Kat Carney is an elopement photographer who specializes in the southwest and provides her clients suggestions so she might be worth reaching out to if you are also looking for a photographer: https://www.swellandstone.com/

Zion is pretty close to Vegas, about 2 hours, you could catch a show (maybe get married there) and head out to the trails before/after. If everything goes according to my dreams, this year I hope Phish is going to play Vegas Halloween shows and then my husband and I backpacking in Zion afterward.

Can you recommend places for hiking in Utah with a dog? I suspect a lot of parks aren’t pet-friendly..? We intend to stop for a short visit early September with our 1-year old Shiba 🙂 Many thanks in advance!

There are lots of great places to hike in Utah with a dog! It really depends on what part of the state you will be visiting.

My husband and I have flights booked to SLC mid September for 10 days. We’d loved to rent a camper van and go exploring but have heard that its impossible to get campsites in the national parks. If we arent able to stay in the national parks, will we have trouble finding alternative campsites? We’re hesitant to rent the van if we can’t secure places to go. Any suggestions on how we could find out? TIA

National Park campgrounds do tend to sell out about six months or more in advance. If you want to rent a campervan (which is a great way to see the parks!) I recommend reserving your National Park campsites as soon as possible. You can do this on Recreation.gov. This will make your trip less flexible, but you’ll be able to stay inside the Parks. There are also some independent campgrounds outside the parks if you want more flexibility, but again, availability isn’t guaranteed. September can be a busy time, so it’s best to book campsites in advance.

We are debating early March (first or second week) or late October (last week or two). Which one is best? Or any pro/con to consider?

Hi Scott, either of those are a great time to visit with nice daytime temps for exploring, but you may still run into snow on the ground in early March, and freezing temperatures at night. Late October could see the occasional snow shower but there wouldn’t be anything already on the ground like early spring. Temperatures would also be chilly at night then. Lastly, you may see early spring break crowds the second week of March. Be sure to pack layers no matter which shoulder-season month you end up visiting!

The best time to go to Utah: from ski season to hot summer hikes

Mar 17, 2022 • 5 min read

This month-by-month guide to what's happening in Utah can help you choose the best time for your visit © FatCamera / Getty Images

With five national parks , more than two dozen national landmarks, and award-winning skiing , Utah is one of the most beloved adventure states in America. With four distinct seasons, however, your mileage will vary depending on the timing of your visit. Whether hiking, off-roading, or playing in its snow or desert waters, we can help you choose the best time for your visit.

High season, June to August, is the b est time for water sports and alpine hiking

Thanks to summer vacation and so much to see, Utah crowds are at their highest in summer, where the days are hot but the nights are cool. In July and August, national parks are inundated with both international and local visitors on holiday. In addition to Lake Powell, one of America’s most fun-loving lakes , Utah is home to many other recreational reservoirs such as Flaming Gorge that are ideal for both boating and fishing. What’s more, it’s home to the High Uinta Wilderness, one of the state’s best-kept secrets and great way to beat the summer heat. This is truly the best time to enjoy two of Utah’s greatest, water-filled hikes: The Narrows at Zion National Park and Lower Calf Creek Falls at Grand Staircase–Escalante National Monument . To avoid hot, crowded trails and get better pictures, time your national park visits in the mornings and evenings.

Shoulder season in March to May is perfect for hiking

Although it’s not as toasty as other deserts, Utah’s climate can get dangerously hot in the dead of summer, especially in the southern half of the state. Because of this, a lot of hikers and outdoor enthusiasts head for Arches, Bryce Canyon, Canyonlands, Capitol Reef, and Zion in the shoulder season. If you're looking to hike the best of the best , spring is the time to go, so don't be surprised to see crowds of other well-informed visitors. Waterfalls are better at this time, and the costs of hotels and rental cars are more affordable when compared to summer.

Low season in September to November is best for budget travelers

All things considered, this is the best time to visit Utah – when prices, crowds, and extreme weather are all at their lowest. You won’t get the beautiful runoff as in spring, and temperatures will likely be too cold to enjoy the water. But if you want to see the most the state has to offer and can only visit during one season, make it this one. As a bonus, hotel rates are up to 40% off peak season prices, you’ll see some beautiful fall foliage in the higher elevations as trees start to hunker down for winter, and you’ll likely be hiking in pants and short-sleeves during the middle of the (although you’ll need a jacket at night).

In Northern Utah, ski season runs December through February

Northern Utah gets an average of over 500 inches of the driest, fluffiest snow every year. Which is why the US Ski Team trains here, and why there are over a dozen top-ranked resorts (including Park City , the largest in North America) that welcome people from all over the world. Although both prices and crowds for snow sports are at their highest in winter, they’re also undeniably worth it. Whereas other states require a half-day drive to more costly resorts – with sometimes inferior snow – over half a dozen resorts can be reached from Salt Lake City airport in under an hour . For better powder, wait until Christmas break or beyond.

January is all about the snow

In January, winter is in full swing, which means it's all about quality snowfall, skiing, and snowboarding. Sundance Film Festival, held in Park City, is a chance to see tomorrow’s best indie movies before they hit theaters. Key event: Sundance Film Festival .

February is a cheaper time to ski

February is probably the best (and most affordable) time to ski when the mountains get pounded with powder. Key event: Ice Castles in Midway.

March marks the start of hiking season in Southern Utah

Snow usually begins to melt in the valleys. Hiking begins in earnest in Southern Utah, although it’s usually a little too soggy to enjoy in Northern Utah. Key event: Skinny Tire Festival .

Enjoy Utah's blooms in April

April is the wettest period in Utah, when grasses and flowers are at their peak. It's the perfect time for a spot of stargazing. Key event: Moab Jeep Safari.

Hiking conditions are excellent in May

May is a great time to hike statewide and enjoy waterfalls before the summer heat takes over. Key events: Tulip Festival at Thanksgiving Point, Great Salt Lake Birding Festival.

June is hot, but not yet unbearable

June is about the only decent month of summer before the heat and crowds take over. Key events: Fruit Harvest begins at Capitol Reef National Park (through September), Utah Arts Festival, Utah Pride .

Stay cool out on the water in July

It's hot during the day in July, and the conditions for boating and canyoneering are ideal. The weather is bearable in the mornings and evenings, so time your exertions carefully. Key events: Freedom Festival, Pioneer Day Parade.

Witness new land speed records in August

August is hot but never humid. Watch speed demons set land speed records on the otherworldly landscape of Bonneville Salt Flats. Key event: Bonneville Speed Week.

It's starting to cool down in September

The weather starts to cool down in September, but it’s still nice. Take a drive along the Mirror Lake Scenic Highway and enjoy its many viewpoints. This is the time to buy the best peaches in the nation at any of the roadside fruit stands. Key events: Utah State Fair.

Utah's fall colors are stunning in October

Temperatures are cooler in October and there are fewer crowds. Enjoy the Alpine Loop Scenic Byway, be dazzled by fall colors (they peak in Zion's higher elevations in early to mid-October), and watch out for an ungodly amount of trick-or-treaters during Halloween. Key events: Halloween, tours reopen at Timpanogos Cave National Monument .

Southern Utah still has pleasant temperatures in November

November arguably has the lightest crowds of the year and is the last chance for pleasant day temperatures in Southern Utah. Key events: Thanksgiving, Dickens' Festival .

December brings chills and many twinkling Christmas lights

Baby it’s cold outside! Enjoy millions of Christmas lights and The Tabernacle Choir at Temple Square in one of the most religious states in the country. Key events: Christmas celebrations.

You might also like: Introducing Utah's national parks 11 free and fun things to do in Utah Take a dip in the high desert at Utah’s best swimming holes

This article was first published Jun 21, 2021 and updated Mar 17, 2022.

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Little Blue Backpack

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Destinations , Vacations , West Coast · June 18, 2021

The Ultimate 7-Day Southern Utah Road Trip Itinerary: Zion, Bryce, Escalante

Southern Utah is full of stunning scenery. It makes for memorable hikes, lookouts that make your jaw drop, and long, beautiful drives that seem much quicker than they really are. One of the top destinations in the United States, a southern Utah road trip will not disappoint.

Disclosure: This post contains affiliate links that earn a small commission at no extra cost to you.

Who Should Go on a Southern Utah Road Trip?

Everyone! Take a solo trip. Make it a girl’s trip. Head out for a getaway with your significant other. Take the whole family! There is something for everyone that will make it impossible to regret.

If you’re a hiker, you definitely don’t want to miss out. If exploration for you means scenic drives, you will love it just as much!

As long as you love beautiful places and getting outside, you’re all set.

Note: the itinerary provided below will resonate most with those who want to do a lot of hiking mixed with grabbing drinks and eating good food. While hikes range from moderate to difficult, there are no 16-mile days or backpacking excursions! But you will get out and move every day!

When is the Best Time to Take a Southern Utah Road Trip?

The sweet spot for visiting Utah is in the spring and the fall when crowds dwindle (somewhat) and the weather is a comfortable temperature. Summer months definitely get crazy with both people and hot weather. And the winter months, though unique and beautiful in their own right, obviously come with snow and cold temperatures!

Keep in mind, besides the dead of winter, these places are busy all of the time. Go when it works for you, and be prepared for crowds.

Where Does This Southern Utah Road Trip Itinerary Take Me?

Many Utah itineraries you find are going to be based around the “Mighty 5,” which includes Zion National Park, Bryce Canyon National Park, Arches National Park, Canyonlands National Park, and Capitol Reef National Park.

In my opinion, to do “The Mighty 5” right, your trip should be two weeks total—10 days at the very least. Anything under that and you will be doing a lot more driving than exploring.

Since this trip is only one week (including travel days), it’s two national parks and a national monument.

There are notes and tips about substituting different places on certain days so, obviously, you are not locked in. That said, it is a place to start and I highly recommend this itinerary for a week that includes a range of experiences!

How Can I Spend 7 Days in Utah?

• Travel Day : Arrive in Southern Utah with options to stop along the way
• Start with 1 Day in Zion National Park (East Side—aka the “secret side”)
• 1 Day in Bryce Canyon National Park
• 1 Day at Grand Staircase-Escalante National Monument
• 2 Days back at Zion National Park (South End)
• Travel Day : Back home on Day 7

The trip includes three different places to stay, so while you do hotel-hop (Airbnb), it’s not a daily switch. All of the details on that are below.

The Best Southern Utah Road Trip Itinerary: One Week

A southern Utah road trip takes a little more pre-planning than a lot of vacations, but the adventures are totally worth it. Let’s get started!

Before Your Southern Utah Road Trip

Do your research.

Google. Read blogs. Browse Instagram. Ask your friends. Whatever you need to do, soak up as much information as possible! Everyone’s experience is different but I guarantee a better time if you have a plan together and a good idea about what you’re getting into!

Additional, HIGHLY-DETAILED blog posts of mine are linked throughout the post so make sure to visit those for even more tips.

I highly recommend a quality SUV for this trip. You spend a lot of time in the car, one day involves dirt roads, there are switchbacks through Zion, and you will need enough space for all of your passengers and luggage. My group went with a Chevy Equinox and it was perfect.

Annual Park Pass

If you are planning to visit more than three national parks in the next 12 months, grab an America the Beautiful Pass for $79.99 . It’s $35 at each park (for 7 consecutive days) so you make up your money in just three NP visits.

This pass twice is used twice on this trip so if you have another national park planned (or find it likely—you’ll only be out $10 if you don’t) then definitely grab one of these! If you don’t want to go that route, you can grab week-long passes at the entrances.

What to Pack for a Southern Utah Road Trip

Water Bottle: You need a big one that keeps liquids cold. This 32 oz. water bottle is my absolute favorite (still had ice in it after a day at Zion in 80+ degrees!) It has an easy-to-carry handle and I love the mouthpiece.

Hiking Shoes: Don’t forget your hiking shoes! If you don’t have a pair, invest in some. A few of these hikes will be difficult without them. The REI Outlet is a great place if you want to keep things affordable.

Layers: A few mornings you will get started early and temperatures are much, much cooler than they will be in the day. Make sure to have a jacket, long sleeves, leggings, and shorts, as well as a warm hat if you are going between late September-May.

Snacks: Between long hikes and busy areas with restaurant wait times, you will want snacks! My favorite are these Chomps Beef Sticks (all clean ingredients and lots of protein), and Trader Joe’s Simply the Best Nuts (individually packaged which makes everything easy). They easily fit in a suitcase and can be in your carry-on.

Sunscreen: No matter what time of year! If you are on the hunt for a clean product, the best out there is Cocokind . It’s not a weird texture or sticky on your face. I love it, plus it’s a great size for travel.

And with that, let’s get into the official southern Utah road trip itinerary!

Day 1: Travel Day

Where do i fly into for a southern utah road trip.

McCarran International Airport in Las Vegas, Nevada , is the closest airport to southern Utah. It’s 170 miles away from Springdale, Utah (Zion National Park), and is a major hub where you can typically find cheap flights.  This itinerary will start in Sin City!

Note: Salt Lake City International Airport is the next closest and is 311 miles from the park. This is a good option if you prefer to road trip through Utah from north to south.

Pick Up Your Rental Car

Grab your rental and be on your way! Your first day of travel will have you on a scenic drive as you make your way from Vegas, through Arizona, and finally, into Utah. It’s a fairly easy drive that will find you on curvy stretches every now and then and takes a total of 160 miles (2 hours, 35 minutes.)

KEEP IN MIND: there is a time change between Las Vegas (PDT) and Utah (MT)! Your clocks will move ahead one hour.

Places to Stop between Las Vegas and Springdale

• Valley of the Fire State Park : this can be your first stop if you’d like to do a short hike and check it off your list! Located under an hour from Vegas and still in Nevada, is beautiful desert land and red sandstone formations.
• St. George : is a city a couple of miles north of the Arizona and Nevada border in the very southwestern corner of Utah. It’s one of the bigger towns on your drive and perfect for a gas and food stop.
• Other than that, it’s mountains, small towns, and jackalopes! Lol

Depending on what time you arrive, check in to your place, explore Springdale, Utah, or better yet, just relax! You have a big week ahead. (Note: there are a few Springdale restaurant recommendations later in the post.)

Where to Stay in Springdale, Utah

Best western plus (night 1/1).

Springdale, Utah accommodations are not cheap given the high demand! One of the more affordable places is the Best Western PLUS , located right downtown and near a shuttle stop—more on that below.

The rooms are very spacious, clean, and complete with a view. Plus, they offer an (actually delicious) continental breakfast that is the perfect pre-hike meal. And lessens the blow of the bill.

Options: There are plenty more places to choose from in Springdale, Utah including the Zion Lodge inside the park (need to book early), camping, and additional hotels and Airbnb’s. Check out How to Spend Two Days at Zion National Park: What You Need to Know for more options.

Day 2: Zion National Park (East)

Hike: observation point via east mesa trail.

Observation Point is one of the most beautiful spots in Zion and you will want this hike on your list. More specifically, the version of this hike that is done via the East Mesa Trail. The more popular version of the hike to Observation Point is from the south end of the park—bottom-up. This requires a shuttle bus and there are an endless amount of people.

Luckily, there is an alternative route if you drive to the east side of Zion—top-out. Bonus: the scenic drive there (via UT-9) is one to remember!

Note: the popular, south-end version of the hike to Observation Point is currently closed due to rockfall. (That said, I’d still choose East Mesa Trail, even when it’s reopened.)

The East Mesa Trail hike is not one you need an early start for which makes it a good option after a travel day. Wake up, grab breakfast, and be on your way at a leisurely pace. Plan to leave Springdale between 11:00-12:00 PM.

Plug “East Mesa Trailhead/Observation Point Trailhead” into your Google Maps and you will be all set for a 52-minute journey. It’s only 23 miles, but given the switchbacks and drive through the mountains and tunnels (awesome!), it takes longer. There is a bathroom as you approach the east-side entrance. And a few miles from the trailhead, you hit a dirt road which is where your SUV comes in handy.

Note: you will not return to Springdale tonight and this is bringing you in the right direction once your hike is over.

Park at the trailhead (we arrived at 1:00 PM and found parking, no problem) and you will find where the 6.8 miles, out-and-back trail begins. 

* This Hike Takes 3-4 Hours *

You are led through a woodsy setting with mountains in the distance and amazing views once you make it to your destination. The best in the park, in fact! Though the hike is a bit longer, it’s not strenuous in terms of incline. A less than a mile or so stretch on your way back will be the toughest part on your booty!

Your destination (Observation Point) gives you not only a great hike but one of Utah’s best views . It includes a birds-eye view of both Angels Landing and The Narrows. Tip: it’s very windy at the top!

After your hike, you will make your way to Hatch, Utah (54 miles—1 hour, 10 minutes) which is very well-positioned between both Zion National Park and Bryce Canyon National Park. Tomorrow, you’ll tackle Bryce. But don’t worry, you will return to Zion in a couple of days!

Survive on snacks until you arrive. There is an awesome (and a bit unassuming) place to eat called Outlaw Saloon – Western Bar and Steakhouse . PRO TIP: Get the ribs. The meat falls off at the touch of a knife.

Where to Stay in Hatch, Utah

Mountain ridge cabins and lodging (night 1/3).

Mountains Ridge Cabins and Lodging is the perfect place to stay in Hatch, Utah. They are adorable and affordable with a restaurant/bar, convenience store, and coffee shop right nearby. The cabins are very clean (with daily housekeeping available) and include a shower, TV, and free drip coffees at the coffee shop.

Day 3: Bryce Canyon National Park

Hike: the figure 8.

All right, people. Get ready. Because this is going to be a day to remember. Everybody raves about Zion National Park (which, of course, is beautiful) but the real winner in my book is Bryce Canyon National Park. The rock formations, known as hoodoos, will take your breath away!

Day 3 is going to require an earlier start. Leave Hatch, Utah absolutely no later than 8:30 AM ; I would recommend between 7:30-8:15 AM and potentially earlier in peak season.

Sip your coffee on the 30-minute drive over and park in the Sunset Point parking lot after showing (or purchasing) your pass at the park entrance. Note: we got one of the very last spots in the lot at 9:02 AM. And if it’s summer, it will fill up earlier than that.

Sunset Point parking lot will connect you to Rim Trail and one of the most beautiful overlooks at the top of the canyon. You will be hiking down into it—and back up! And trust me, the views will be worth it.

Hike the Figure 8 Hike

The best and most rewarding 6-7 mile hike (depending which route you choose) in Bryce Canyon National Park consists of three hikes looped together into a Figure 8. Always remember, STAY RIGHT.

*This Hike Takes 3-4 Hours*

• Wall Street : a series of switchbacks that lead you down onto the canyon floor. (Left side image once I reached the bottom.)
• Peekaboo Loop Trail : an up and down 3-mile loop inside the canyon that offers the most INCREDIBLE non-stop views of the rock formations.
• Navajo Loop Trail OR Queens Garden : The way back up to the parking lot which is a tough, but worth it, journey! Navajo is shorter yet steeper and brings you to Sunset Point. (Right side image. Phew!) And Queens Garden takes some extra time but is less of an incline and brings you to Sunrise Point parking lot.

You can find EVERY SINGLE DETAIL on this hike here: The Best Day in Bryce Canyon National Park . You will have the BEST time!

After the Figure 8 hike, which I cannot recommend enough, you still have an entire afternoon ahead of you. Choose one of these great options:

• Walk Rim Trail and check out all of the viewpoints. This brings you along the edge and does not get down into the canyon. You can park at Sunset Point OR Sunrise Point. There are no inclines so it can be a very casual walk while getting some great pictures.
• Drive the Scenic Byway known as Route 63 . If you’d rather drive, this will bring you to a TON of great views. (You can easily make this a full day as well.)

It has been a DAY! Find a restaurant in Bryce or make your way back to Hatch and hit Outlaw Saloon – Western Bar and Steakhouse again. This time, get the steak. It melts in your mouth!

Where to Stay: Hatch, Utah (Night 2/3)

Return to your little cabin for another night’s stay! Option: if you’d like to stay inside the park, Bryce Canyon Lodge is the only option and must be booked far in advance!

Day 4: Grand Staircase-Escalante National Monument

Hike: peekaboo gulch & spooky gulch slot canyons.

Ready for a mini road trip from Hatch to Escalante, Utah? If slot canyons are on your list, then your going to love this day! It’s such a fun experience.

67 miles (1 hour, 15 minutes) east of Hatch, and through Bryce, is Escalante, Utah. It is in the heart of Grand Staircase-Escalante National Monument on Scenic Byway 12 and home to a few different slot canyon hikes that will blow your mind!

Use this as a day to sleep in a bit (this is by far the least populated area of your trip so you won’t need to worry so much about crowds) and leave Hatch, Utah by about 10:30 AM. This will put you in the town of Escalante by around NOON assuming you stop once. Once you get there, check out the little town, grab some coffee if need be, and be on your way.

Hike Peekaboo Gulch + Spooky Gulch

The plan is to hike Peekaboo Gulch and Spooky Gulch which are located about 40 minutes down a dirt road from Escalante. I know, more driving. But it’s all an adventure and the beautiful drives make them seem quick! Make sure you have an SUV for this trip.

*This Hike Takes 2-3 Hours*

This 3.5-mile lollipop loop hike will have you start at the trailhead, walk around the rim and down into the lower desert, and arrive at Peekaboo Gulch, the first of two slot canyons. From here you have a couple of options:

• Climb into Peekaboo Gulch (that’s the toughest part), and hike through the narrow canyon walls about .25 miles. This one is really fun and a pretty easy hike to maneuver. And the afternoon sun hits the walls perfectly for pictures.
• When you come out the other side, you can hike over to Spooky Gulch, which is only about half a mile or so. Or go back through Peekaboo the way you came. Spooky Gulch is much more narrow (like 10 inches in some spots.) If you had a tough time with Peekaboo or are just nervous to give it a go, turn around. If you’re ready and excited (and just a little nervous), do Spooky! It’s really a unique experience.
• If you end up doing Spooky Gulch, you’ll loop right back around to Peekaboo once you come out of the slot canyon (this one is also about .25 miles) and stay right.
• Of course, you can always reverse it and start with Spooky Gulch and make your way over to Peekaboo second. This is said to be tougher.

This hike is outlined in FULL details (including the drive) over on The Best Grand Staircase-Escalante, Utah Slot Canyons to Hike . Definitely read the details if you are headed that way!

Once you finish your hike and make your way back to the small town of Escalante via the dirt roads, it will be about 5:00-6:00 PM which makes it the perfect time for a beer! Stop for just that and a bite to eat at one of the restaurants/bars. I recommend:

Circle D Eatery

Right off the main road is a great hiking reward!  Circle D Eatery  is a part of an independently-run motel and serves some delicious food and drinks in a casual environment. There is plenty of space inside, as well as an outdoor seating area. I recommend the  Jalapeno Cream Ale  beer that I am still thinking about. And the BBQ Brisket Nachos.

After you eat, it’s time get some rest! Or just keep drinking 🙂 You’ve earned it!

Where to Stay: Hatch, Utah (Night 3/3)

It’s your last night in the tiny cabin! I recommend making your way back just because it gets you much closer to Zion National Park, where you will make your way back to tomorrow. But…

Options: There are actually quite a few places to stay in Escalante, Utah. Click for  all of the lodging choices , including motels and camping if you’d rather not drive more. There are also plenty of places to stay in Bryce, Utah which you drive through and puts you closer to Zion for the morning.

Day 5: Zion National Park (South)

Hike: rest day or your choice.

Sidenote: Zion National Park requires a LOT of details. Please don’t miss How to Spend Two Days at Zion National Park: What You Need to Know where nearly every single detail is outlined. This post will give you a lot of great high-level information, but we really go in-depth over there.

Back to Zion, it is! I like the idea of starting with Zion and looping back around to end with it to give you a shorter distance to and from the airport.

At this point, you will want to check off one (or two!) more hikes in the next two days. Depending on how you feel, you might need a rest day, which Day 5 is perfect for. Zion National Park is crazy busy and in order to have the best experience, you need to wake up EARLY. Being that you’ll wake up in Hatch, Utah, that will be difficult. A few options:

• Rest Day: Go at a leisurely pace today, explore Springdale, Utah and get ready for a big day tomorrow. This is the choice this itinerary covers!
• Hike Watchman Trail or Canyon Overlook Trail: these hikes don’t require the shuttle which makes it way easier to work into the day. Watchman is 3 miles from inside the south entrance and Canyon Overlook is 1 mile and off of UT-9.
• Hike Angel’s Landing: this is the most popular hike at Zion National Park and a later-in-the-day start might not be the best experience. That said, it’s your vacation!

Grab a delicious breakfast at Hatch Station. They have omelets that will hit the spot! Plan to take off and make your way back to Springdale (60 miles—1 hour, 20 minutes, and a beautiful drive) by about 11:00 AM.

Make a road trip stop at Belly of the Dragon. It’s right off UT-89 and is a quick, fun, and unique stop through a cave. There aren’t a lot of people and it’s perfect for kids—or just a couple of cool pictures! Plus, a chance to get out and walk around.

This is your chance to explore the town of Springdale, Utah! You might not be able to check into your hotel or Airbnb (my recommendation below!) until late afternoon so just find a parking spot and meander around the town. Recommendations:

• Go Shopping: This tourist town is, of course, full of shops that line the block towards Zion National Park. Souvenirs, crystals, sweet treats, boutique-style clothes, and gifts.
• Coffee/Drinks: FeelLove Coffee Zion is the cutest place and it is not just coffee, there are dinner and cocktail menus as well.
• Beer: Definitely plan to have a beer or five at  Zion Brew Pub where there is both indoor seating as well as an awesome outdoor beer garden. It’s right near the entrance to Zion National Park.
• Eat: Whiptail Grill , a converted gas station, is a great place for lunch! Grab anything from steak tacos to chicken sandwiches on their Mexican fusion cuisine menu. They do have beer and wine.
• Visitor Center: go talk to park rangers and grab maps for tomorrow.

After your day of exploring, it’s time to grab dinner and then call it a night. (Note: if you are doing The Narrows hike tomorrow, grab your gear from Zion Outfitters . More information below.)

Zion Pizza & Noodle Co

Dine-in (there’s a beer garden) at  Zion Pizza & Noodle Co . or order your food from the counter and bring it to your hotel or Airbnb.  The European Trail  was a delicious pizza option.

Townhouse Airbnb (Night 1/2)

I stayed in the  most perfect townhouse  in the heart of Springdale and it was perfect! Very clean, modern, and has two bedrooms plus comfy living space, laundry machines, and a TV.  And the outdoor patio space (pictured below) makes it worth every penny.

You are only a short walk from the Springdale Shuttle that will bring you to the park (more on that below.) And there is a marketplace across the street that’s perfect for grabbing meals to prep at the place and snacks for your hikes. We stayed two nights and weren’t quite ready to leave! Highly recommend.

Options: Visit How to Spend 2 Days at Zion National Park for more places to stay.

Day 6: Zion National Park (South)

Hike: the narrows.

Today is a big day and a check-off of the Bucket List! If you didn’t get a major hike done yesterday, you’ll need to pick between The Narrows and Angels Landing—two of the most popular hikes.

This itinerary will walk you through The Narrows , a fun and unique experience that isn’t quite as close to death as Angels Landing. (LOL I’m kidding. Sort of…)

Note: if neither of these sounds appealing, check out the list of other popular Zion National Park hikes .

Early. Start early. It cannot be stressed enough. As I mentioned, Zion is a very popular place. And between the number of people and the shuttle bus(es) requirement, it’s best to get going. We’re talking like, be in line for the Zion Canyon Shuttle at 6:00 AM. EEK! Don’t worry, it’s worth it. First things first:

Zion Shuttle Buses

The most popular hikes in Zion National Park REQUIRE taking the Zion Canyon Shuttle Bus. There are TWO separate shuttles in the area.

• The Springdale Shuttle : connects the town of Springdale (stops near your hotel or Airbnb) to the South Entrance of the park where you catch the Zion Canyon Shuttle. Note: this runs April-October. This is not required, you can also walk.
• Zion Canyon Shuttle : This gives you access from inside the park to the upper canyon (most popular hikes) since  private vehicles are prohibited along Zion Canyon Scenic Drive between March and November. It is first-come, first-serve. Don’t forget your park pass or purchase at the entrance.

Hike The Narrows

Shuttle bus stop 9: temple of sinawava.

One of the most unique hiking experiences in the United States  is through the Virgin River inside one of Zion’s canyons. After taking the Zion Canyon Shuttle to the last stop (#9) and making a mile or so hike on the Riverside Walk paved trail, you’ll enter the river with high canyon walls on either side.

*This Hike Takes as Long as You’d Like! Likely at least 4 hours*

Once you enter the water, you can go as far as 8 miles, but you can turn around and come back whenever you choose.  The scenery doesn’t change a ton, so we went about 1.5 hours or so before we made the trek back.

As far as gear, I recommend the boots, neoprene socks, and a walking stick from Zion Outfitters . You can find WAY more details in this post . Note: this is not required!

• Pick another shorter hike inside Zion National Park such as Emerald Pools or Weeping Rock.
• Head back out to Springdale to drink beer and eat; you’ve done enough hiking for one day!

Townhouse Airbnb (Night 2/2)

Back to the perfect townhouse in Springdale where you can enjoy your outdoor patio, maybe do some laundry before you head out, and relax!

Day 7: Travel Day

That’s it! You have reached Day 7 of your southern Utah road trip experience and it’s time to make you way back to the airport. You are 2 hours and 40 minutes from Las Vegas so depending on when you flight is, make sure you are packed and ready to roll!

Mix-and-Match + Additions

When you only have one week, including travel days, there is simply too many places to squeeze in on a southern Utah road trip. Here are other destinations in the area that you can replace in your itinerary, or add extra days for:

• Capitol Reef National Park: if you’re focused solely on national parks, you could potentially swap “Day 4: Escalante Slot Canyons” with this park which is also east of Bryce. It is more driving and you’ll likely need to stay the night.
• Canyonlands National Park: even farther east than Capitol Reef, you will probably need more days to work this in.
• Arches National Park: a tad more east from Canyonlands, these three national parks are pretty close in proximity. As I said, 10-14 days for “The Mighty Five” is what you’ll need. I plan to do these 3 as a separate trip.
• Dead Horse Point State Park: one of Utah’s state parks with views of the Colorado River. It’s near the three national parks above and the city of Moab, Utah.
• Cedar City + Cedar Breaks National Monument: a town north of Zion. You could choose to loop from Zion to Cedar City to Bryce and back around.
• Northern Arizona: PACKED with places to check out, this can easily be a vacation on its own! The Grand Canyon, Antelope Canyon (popular slot canyons that are currently closed), and Horseshoe Bend are all highlights.

One Last Thought…

It’s tough to come by in Utah! Lol. Here’s the skinny: You can get 5% or less at gas stations, marketplaces, etc. Anything percentage above that, and you have to go to a liquor store. The kicker? There aren’t many liquor stores! Ha. Definitely scope it out during your travels and figure out your option to stop and grab some booze.

As far as restaurants, many (not all) only have beer and wine. And many (not all) places don’t have an actual bar to sit at.

This was my least favorite part of Utah and thought you should know! Lol.

You will LOVE this trip! And you will come out of it with so many amazing pictures and incredible memories. Comment your favorite spot on this trip! Or one I may have missed.

Happy travel! 🙂

Did this post help you out? Support the work and pass along $5 for a Coors Light 😉 VENMO: @Amber-LBB or PAYPAL: [email protected]. THANK YOU.

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51 Incredible Things to do in Southern Utah

Published by sarah vaughan on march 14, 2023 march 14, 2023.

Something about the bright orange sandstone, unique textures and shapes, and the rugged remoteness of southern Utah keeps drawing us back. From narrow slot canyons to towering spires and deep canyons, there’s an awe-inspiring natural wonder waiting around every corner and no shortage of incredible things to do in Southern Utah.

We’ve spent months living in various small towns throughout southern Utah, exploring all the ins and outs of this amazing landscape. In this mega-article, we’ve rounded 51 of the best things to do in Southern Utah!

We hope this list will spark your adventurous spirit and help you plan an epic southern Utah road trip.

51 best things to do in southern Utah

Here’s an overview of our mega-list of the best things to do in Southern Utah. You can use the links below to jump around the article.

• Road trip through Utah’s Mighty 5
• Explore a slot canyon
• Tackle Utah’s most thrilling hike: Angel’s Landing
• Go rock climbing in Moab
• Take a backpacking trip through Coyote Gulch
• Hike the Figure 8 Loop in Bryce Canyon
• Try a fresh baked apple pie in Fruita
• Take a guided canyoneering trip in Capitol Reef
• Watch a sunrise at Sunrise Point and a Sunset at Sunset Point
• Camp in one of the most remote protected areas of the United States
• Go glamping at Yonder Escalante
• Drive the Scenic Highway 12
• Hike the Zion Narrows
• Go horseback riding at Kodachrome Basin State Park
• Take a guided fly-fishing trip
• Explore the Toadstool Hoodoos
• Hike through a slot canyon to Kanarra Falls
• Explore the otherworldly landscapes of Grand Staircase Escalante National Monument
• Backpack the Boulder Mail Trail
• Hike through the world’s largest slot canyon: Buckskin Gulch
• Go on a backpacking trip through Paria Canyon
• Watch the sunset from Coral Pink Sand Dunes
• Climb through Peekaboo and Spooky Slot Canyons
• Eat at a James Beard award winning restaurant
• Visit the Moqui Caverns & Belly of the Dragon off Highway 89
• Try to score permits for the famous Wave
• Explore the otherworldly landscape of Coyote Buttes South
• Hike to Druid Arch in Canyonlands’ Needles District
• Climb through a narrow slot canyon to see the striped walls of Zebra Slot Canyon
• Backpack the West Rim Trail in Zion
• Catch a sunrise at Delicate Arch
• Visit Snow Canyon State Park: a mini-Zion
• Embark on a epic adventure to Golden Cathedral
• Find as many arches as you can in Arches National Park
• Explore the Waterpocket Fold in Capitol Reef
• Visit Zion’s Kolob Canyon
• Watch the sunrise at Zion Canyon Overlook
• (Respectfully) admire ancient petroglyphs
• Go on a backpacking trip in the Needles District
• Drive the Cathedral Valley Loop
• Go off roading in the Maze
• See a sunrise at Mesa Arch
• Cool off in a desert oasis at Lower Calf Creek Falls
• Visit Cedar Breaks National Monument: a mini-Bryce Canyon
• See petrified wood at the Escalante Petrified Forest State Park
• Feel like a kid again exploring nature’s playground: Devil’s Garden
• Explore the Red Cliffs
• Drive through Monument Valley
• Visit Dead Horse Point
• Explore the Dixie National Forest
• Go skiing in Brian Head

Remember to Leave No Trace . Pack out what you pack in, stay on trail, be well-prepared, leave nothing behind, take only photos and memories with you, treat the area with respect and help preserve this beautiful spot for generations to come.

Map of the best things to do in Southern Utah

The map below displays the locations of the best things to do in Southern Utah that we will cover in this article, including trailheads, national and state parks, camping areas, scenic drives, viewpoints and more!

• To view more details about each location, click on the marker on the map.
• To save this map for future use, click the star next to the title. From your phone, open the Google Maps app and click the “saved” tab, followed by the “Maps” icon. From your Gmail account, navigate to Maps –> “Saved” –> “My Maps” –> “Maps” tab.
• To email this map to yourself, click the three dots in the upper right corner.

1. Road trip Utah’s Mighty 5

Without a doubt, one of the best things to do in Southern Utah is to embark on a road trip through the state’s “Mighty 5” National Parks :

• Bryce Canyon National Park | Bryce Canyon is an amphitheater known for its towering spires of pink and orange rock, known as “hoodoos”, that give the park a fairyland-vibe.
• Zion National Park | Zion is Utah’s most popular National Park, but experiencing its famous landmarks, like the Narrows and Angel’s Landing, is well worth battling the crowds.
• Capitol Reef National Park | Utah’s least visited and most remote national park, Capitol Reef is full of sandstone arches, colorful badlands, canyons, natural bridges, domes, and the 100-mile long Waterpocket Fold.
• Canyonlands National Park | Made up of four distinct districts, Canyonlands is home to a unique assortment of orange sandstone canyons.
• Arches National Park | Home to over 2000 sandstone arches of every shape and size, the park rightfully earns its name!

If you have at least one week in Utah, you can see all 5 national parks. If you have more time, we’d recommend planning for 10 days or even 2 weeks to really experience the parks.

2. Explore a slot canyon

Utah has the highest concentration of slot canyons in the United States, if not the entire world, boasting more than 1,000 narrow passageways of every shape and size! Slot canyons are tall, narrow channels carved by rushing water over millions of years, typically through sandstone or limestone.

Some slot canyons in Utah require technical skills and canyoneering equipment to access, while others can be reached with hiking and mild rock scrambling. Either way, exploring at least one slot canyon should be at the top of your bucket list of things to do in southern Utah!

13 Stunning Utah Slot Canyons

Utah is full of hidden gems and otherworldly landscapes, but there is something especially captivating about the rippling orange walls of Utah’s many slot canyons! Not only are slot canyons one of the most unique and beautiful geological formations you will find, but they also allow you to feel like a kid again, romping around…

3. Tackle Utah’s most thrilling hike: Angel’s Landing

• Hiking distance | 4.4 miles
• Elevation gain | 1,600 feet
• Difficulty | Hard
• Estimated time | 2 – 3 hours

Sometimes referred to as the “most dangerous hike in America”, Angel’s Landing is an (in)famous hike in Zion National Park.

The hike is known for a series of 21 winding switchbacks, appropriately called Walter’s Wiggles, and the steep climb up a very narrow, exposed ridge to reach the summit.

Sure, the final stretch is exposed and can be a bit scary but the views from Angel’s Landing looking down Zion Canyon are worth the challenge! If you have a serious fear of heights, you can always turn back at Scout Lookout , just before the narrow section.

Angel’s Landing is one of the best things to do in southern Utah and a very popular way to spend a day in Zion National Park . Permits are required to climb up the final ridge starting in April of 2022.

You can find more information about how to get permits on the Zion NPS website .

4. Go rock climbing in Moab

• Cost | $220 per person for full day of climbing
• Book your Moab rockclimbing adventure here!

Moab may be best known as the central hub for exploring Arches and Canyonlands National Parks, but it’s also one of the most popular rock climbing destinations in the United States.

With massive sandstone towers and red cliffs that stretch as far as the eye can see, we can’t think of a more beautiful location to rock climb! Popular climbing areas include Fisher’s Tower, Castle Valley, and Indian Creek.

There are many local guide companies that offer full or half-day guided climbs. Red River Adventures offers a variety of guided tours and rock climbing classes for climbers of all skill levels.

5. Go on a backpacking trip through Coyote Gulch

• Distance | 14 miles
• Elevation gain | 550 feet
• Estimated time | 6 – 9 hours

An entire world hidden below the otherwise barren crust of the desert, Coyote Gulch is an oasis of lush green trees, otherworldly rock formations, and a variety of wildlife located in Grand Staircase Escalante National Monument.

If you want to get into the backcountry, backpacking through Coyote Gulch is one of the best things to do in southern Utah!

There are several different trailheads and routes you could take into Coyote Gulch for a total trip distance between 6 and 27 miles.

The most notable landmark inside Coyote Gulch is ​​Jacob Hamblin Arch , a stunning 150-foot wide and 100-foot tall arch that towers over the gulch. If you aren’t up for backpacking, you can also visit Jacob Hamblin via a 14-mile round trip day hike from the Hurricane Wash trailhead.

Coyote Gulch, Utah: Hike & Backpacking Guide

An entire world hidden below the otherwise barren crust of the Utah desert, Coyote Gulch is a lush oasis carved into the orange sandstone filled with hidden arches, swimming holes, waterfalls, and more! In the article below, we have outlined everything you need to know to plan your own epic Coyote Gulch backpacking trip.…

6. Hike the Figure 8 Loop in Bryce Canyon

• Hiking distance | 6.3 miles
• Estimated time | 3 – 4 hours
• Difficulty | Moderate

The Figure 8 Loop is the most comprehensive hike in Bryce Canyon, giving you a nearly full tour of the park over the course of 6 breathtaking miles. Of all the national parks in Utah, Bryce Canyon is the smallest and you can see most of the park’s highlights on this loop.

The Figure 8 Loop combines several popular shorter trails, including the Navajo Loop and the famous “Wall Street” area, Queen’s Garden and Queen Victoria, and the Peekaboo Loop. 

Each section of the trail offers views that are a little different. With everything from massive hoodoos to natural arches and window views, you can’t possibly get bored on this trail! We think it’s the best hike in Bryce Canyon and certainly one of the best things to do in southern Utah. 

7. Try a fresh baked apple pie at the Gifford Homestead in Fruita

Nestled below the Waterpocket Fold in the heart of Capitol Reef National Park lies a little desert oasis known as the Fruita Valley. Since the early 1900’s the Fruita Valley has been used as farmland, producing a range of fruits including apples, peaches, and cherries.

Today the Gifford Homestead continues to bake fresh pies, homemade ice cream, jellies, and jams. The pies are particularly delicious, and the Gifford Homestead’s convenient location in the heart of Capitol Reef makes it easy to stop by for a tasty bite.

We picked up an apple pie from Giffords after backpacking the Lower Spring Canyon, and we have to say, it was the perfect treat after spending a night in the backcountry.

8. Take a guided canyoneering trip

• Cost | $180 to $350 per person for a half to full day trip
• Book your Canyonlands canyoneering trip here!

Looking to take your slot canyon adventure to the next level and explore even deeper into southern Utah’s canyon country? Canyoneering will get your adrenaline pumping while exploring some of the more beautiful and rarely visited areas of the state.

Guided canyoneering trips are available in many places around southern Utah, including Moab, Zion, Canyonlands, and Capitol Reef. It’s one of the best things to do in southern Utah if you’re up for a real adventure!

9. Watch a sunrise at Sunrise Point and a Sunset at Sunset Point

Seeing the sun light up the hoodoos in Bryce Canyon is a can’t miss experience in southern Utah! The park is home to two famous viewpoints, aptly named Sunrise Point and Sunset Point.

While in Bryce Canyon, we spent a very frigid 15-degree morning at Sunrise Point, but it was well worth the chattering teeth and frozen fingers to watch the sun slowly illuminate the hoodoos. There may be no more iconic viewpoint in southern Utah than Bryce Canyon’s Sunrise and Sunset points!

10. Camp in one of the most remote protected areas of the United States

Dispersed camping is one of our favorite things to do in southern Utah. You can often find free spots to camp with amazing views!

While there is an abundance of free dispersed camping areas in southern Utah, these spots can be a bit difficult to find and are often located down rough dirt roads. You can use apps like the Dyrt and Campendium to find dispersed camping areas in southern Utah.

Perhaps our favorite spot to dispersed camp in southern Utah is Hole in the Rock Road. Unlike many dispersed camping areas, awesome spots are not hard to come by here.

Although there are no amenities along Hole in the Rock Road (ie. no bathrooms, running water, RV hookups), you’ll have a front row view to the beautiful sunsets and star-filled night skies and likely won’t have any neighbors (besides cows) for several miles.

Hole in the Rock Road: Camping, Logistics & Things to Do

Interested in hiking and camping on Hole in the Rock Road in Grand Staircase Escalante but having trouble deciding what to do or if you are prepared to take on this off-road adventure? We’ve got you covered! In the article below, we have created a complete guide to Hole in the Rock Road in Grand…

11. Go glamping at Yonder Escalante

If you want to get the southern Utah camping experience without having to sleep on the ground, look no further than Yonder Escalante !

Yonder Escalante is a luxury RV park and campground located in Escalante, Utah, offering small modern cabins and beautifully renovated Airstreams in addition to RV hookups and tent campsites. Cabins sleep 2 for $260 per night and Airstreams sleep 3 for $330 per night. 

One of the coolest things about staying Yonder Escalante is the drive-in movie theater. Grab a seat in an antique automobile and prepare to be transported back in time! Yonder’s drive-in theater gives you a little taste of the classic American West.

Movies are played every night just after dark and free popcorn is available at the concession stand.

If the outdoor showers, resort-style restrooms, onsite food truck, stunning modern cabins, and renovated Airstreams don’t entice you, the drive-in movie at Yonder may be reason enough to stay for a night (especially if you have kids!). 

12. Drive the Scenic Highway 12

Designated as an “All-American Road”, Scenic Highway 12 stretches nearly 123 miles starting in Panguitch, UT and ending in Torrey, Utah, with stunning hoodoos, red rock vistas, swirling petrified dunes, and mountain views.

Scenic Highway 12 passes directly past many of Utah’s treasures, including Bryce Canyon, the Dixie National Forest, Kodachrome Basin State Park, Grand Staircase Escalante, Capitol Reef, and more! Driving Scenic Highway 12 offers many opportunities to tick off some of the best things to do in southern Utah.

One of the most beautiful sections of Scenic Highway 12 is the 29 mile stretch from Escalante to Boulder, which features incredible views overlooking Grand Staircase Escalante. A particularly nail-biting stretch of road runs atop a narrow ridge, surrounded on all sides by stunning views.

13. Hike the Zion Narrows

• Hiking distance | 9 miles
• Elevation gain | 700 feet
• Estimated time | 4 – 6 hours
• Difficulty | hard

We have a love-hate relationship with this hike, but there is no way we could have a list of the best things to do in southern Utah without the Narrows!

The picturesque river flowing through the towering orange canyon walls is one of the most beautiful places we’ve ever seen!

But keep in mind that the water in the Narrows can be very cold! If you’re hiking in the spring or fall, the water is freezing and the canyon is so narrow that it doesn’t get much sun. Additionally, its almost always very crowded. You’re unlikely to find a spot where you can’t see another group of humans, even if you start early. 

Lastly, hiking the Narrows takes a lot of planning . You will need to rent a dry bib, water shoes, neoprene socks, and hiking stick to hike the Narrows, especially if attempting earlier in the spring season.

14. Go horseback riding at Kodachrome Basin State Park

• Cost | 1 hour rides for $54 per person or 2 hour rides for $75 per person.
• Book your Kodachrome Basin trail ride here!

If your feet are aching from too much hiking, give them a rest and explore the area by horseback! Kodachrome Basin State Park offers guided horseback rides along the Panorama Trail, one of the best hikes in the park with awesome views of the backside of Bryce Canyon.

Horseback riding is also available in and near Bryce Canyon National Park and Zion National Park. Canyon Trail Rides is the only company that offers rides inside Bryce Canyon, so we’d recommend booking with them for the best experience.

15. Take a guided fly-fishing trip

Although it might seem counterintuitive due to the hot desert climate, there are actually many great fly fishing spots throughout Southern Utah.

This guided fly fishing trip in East Zion is an awesome option if you’re looking for an experienced guide to show you the waters in a picturesque part of Zion away from the crowds!

16. Explore the Toadstool Hoodoos

• Hiking distance | 1.8 miles
• Elevation gain | 150 feet
• Estimated time | 1 – 2 hours
• Difficulty | Easy

Located in the southern section of Grand Staircase Escalante, about 40 minutes east of Kanab, visiting the Toadstool Hoodoos is a surreal experience.

Many places in Utah are described as “otherworldly,” but these odd rock formations truly deserve that title! Thin needles of sandstone in every shape, size, and color are topped with a layer of dark rock, perfectly balanced to withstand the test of time.

From serious photographers to small children, the Toadstool Hoodoos are sure to please any crowd! The short hike to the Toadstool Hoodoos makes for a great quick thing to do in southern Utah if you have just a few hours to kill.

Toadstool Hoodoos: an Underrated Adventure

Toadstool Hoodoos | Hike Overview Visiting the Toadstool Hoodoos in southern Utah is a surreal experience. Thin needles of sandstone in every shape, size, and color are topped with a layer of dark rock, perfectly balanced to withstand the test of time. Wandering through the Toadstool Hoodoos, it’s hard to believe these wild rock formations…

17. Hike through a slot canyon to Kanarra Falls

• Hiking distance | 4 miles
• Elevation gain | 800 feet
• Fees | $12 permit required, permits often sell out in advance

In many ways, Kanarra Falls reminds us a bit of the Zion Narrows, on a smaller scale. The hike to Kanarra Falls is located just an hour from Zion National Park and under two hours from Bryce Canyon, and is a great chance to escape the crowds and explore a lesser-known gem in Utah.

This 4 mile round trip hike follows Kanarra Creek upstream into a beautiful slot canyon with two waterfalls, and includes some moderate rock scrambling, a climb up a ladder and hiking through ankle-deep water. 

Ultimate Guide to the Kanarra Falls Hike

Kanarra Falls reminds us of a mini-version of the Zion Narrows, and involves hiking through a stream into a beautiful slot canyon.

18. Explore Grand Staircase Escalante National Monument

Grand Staircase Escalante National Monument is one of the largest areas of protected land in the United States, filled with many of the best things to do in southern Utah.

We’ll be honest, Grand Staircase is our absolute favorite area of southern Utah. It’s remote, rugged, and mind-blowing. From afar, the landscape may look like an endless expanse of barren red hills. But take a peek below the surface, and there are countless hidden gems to explore.

Slot canyons, beautiful gulches, waterfalls, arches and unique rock formations await those who come to hike in Grand Staircase Escalante.

19. Backpack the Boulder Mail Trail

• Hiking distance | 15.4 miles (one way)
• Elevation gain | 2,800 feet
• Total time | 2 days/1 night or 10 – 12 hour day hike
• Permits/fees | Free permit required for overnight backpacking (available at trailhead)

Traversing over 15 miles through Grand Staircase Escalante, the Boulder Mail Trail connects the town of Boulder to Escalante and makes an epic 1-night backpacking trip, or very ambitious day hike.

Before Highway 12 was paved back in the 1970s, the route was used to deliver mail via mule between Escalante and Boulder, hence where the trail gets its name!

Tackling the Boulder Mail Trail isn’t easy, with about 2,700 feet of total elevation gain including an extremely steep drop into and climb out of Death Hollow, a stunning canyon with crystal clear blue water flowing through. It’s hard to imagine trusting a mule’s footing to carry you safely across this rugged terrain!

20. Hike through the world’s largest slot canyon

• Hiking distance | 5.6 miles (plus option to continue farther into Buckskin Gulch)
• Elevation gain | 600 feet
• Cost | Day use permit required, $6 per person

Often considered the longest slot canyon in the world, Buckskin Gulch stretches for nearly 16 miles with walls that reach a height of over 400 feet. Many people skip right over Buckskin Gulch but we think that hiking through the stunning orange walls is one of the top things to do in southern Utah.

The most popular way to access Buckskin Gulch is via a smaller slot canyon called Wire Pass. Hiking through Wire Pass is a great way to see two awesome Utah slot canyons in one hike, and provides the most direct access to Buckskin Gulch.

In addition to being the longest slot canyon in the world, Buckskin Gulch is also known as one of the most dangerous hikes due to extreme flash flood risk. Do not attempt this hike if there is any precipitation in the forecast!

Wire Pass to Buckskin Gulch Trail Guide

Southern Utah is known for its vast array of magnificent desert hikes, but no trek is comparable to the journey through Wire Pass to Buckskin Gulch. Commonly considered the “longest slot canyon in the world”, Buckskin Gulch stretches roughly 16 miles in the Vermilion Cliffs National Monument in southern Utah near Kanab. Reaching up to…

21. Go on a backpacking trip through Paria Canyon

• Hiking distance | 40 miles
• Elevation gain | 900 feet
• Total time | 3 – 5 days
• Difficulty | Hard (involves hiking in sand and many river crossings)

Located near Kanab , Paria Canyon stretches for 40 miles from Utah into northern Arizona. For a shorter taste of the canyon, you can hike roughly 14 miles out and back from the White House Trailhead to the Paria Canyon-Buckskin Gulch confluence.

However, to see the canyon in all its glory, start from White House Trailhead and hike the full 40 miles down to the Lee’s Ferry trailhead, typically done as a 3-night, 4-day backpacking trip.

The entire hike is incredibly beautiful and backpacking the full 40 miles is absolutely one of the best things to do in southern Utah.

22. Watch the sunset from Coral Pink Sand Dunes

• Hiking distance | 1 mile
• Elevation gain | 100 feet
• Estimated time | 1 hour

While Utah’s “Mighty 5” National Parks draw the biggest crowds, we think its state parks deserve a little attention too. Like the Coral Pink Sand Dunes State Park, located in southern Utah between Hurricane and Kanab .

This little state park is home to bright pink rolling sand dunes that truly live up to the name, nestled at the base of a red sandstone ridge.

There is no defined trail through the sand dunes – simply head out and wander as far as you’d like. That being said, be sure to remember where you entered, as it’s easy to get turned around once you’re further into the dunes.

The sand dunes are also used for driving ATVs, so you’ll need to walk a little way to find the undisturbed dunes. Pack a snack and cold drink and head out to Coral Pink Sands at sunset for one of the best things to do in southern Utah during the evening!

23. Climb through Peekaboo and Spooky Slot Canyons

• Hiking distance | 4.2 miles (+0.8 miles including Dry Fork Narrows)
• Elevation gain | About 600 feet
• Difficulty | hard (requires some challenging rock scrambling)

With some minor rock scrambling, a remote location on the iconic Hole-in-the-Rock road, and extremely narrow passages – sometimes down to 10 inches – the Peekaboo and Spooky Slot Canyons hike is one of the top things to do in southern Utah for those seeking an adventure!

This one-of-a-kind experience will take you through two incredible slot canyons as part of an epic 4.2-mile hike. While the hike is relatively short with minimal elevation gain, the rock scrambling and tight squeezes required to navigate the canyon certainly make for a challenging adventure!

The unique striped walls and beautiful colors of Peekaboo and Spooky slot canyons make the hike 100% worth the effort.

Peekaboo and Spooky Slot Canyons: a Unique Grand Staircase Adventure

If you are visiting Grand Staircase Escalante, you can’t miss the one-of-a-kind hike through Peekaboo and Spooky slot canyons!

24. Eat at a James Beard semifinalist restaurant

You certainly don’t visit southern Utah for its culinary prowess, but if you’re interested in a taste of luxury to break up your week of adventuring, hear us out.

Located just 30 minutes from Escalante , in the tiny town of Boulder, lies Hell’s Backbone Grill and Farm , a James Beard-nominated restaurant known for taking farm-to-table quite literally (they operate a farm that provides the ingredients for the restaurant).

A James Beard award-winning restaurant in a remote town of 200 in southern Utah? It sounds as unbelievable as the delicious melt-in-your-mouth biscuits this family-owned restaurant serves.

At Hell’s Backbone, you’ll find a selection of wines, craft cocktails and delicious dishes with farm-fresh ingredients – a luxury that’s tough to find in southern Utah.

25. Visit the Moqui Caverns off Highway 89

The Moqui Caverns, a.k.a. Kanab Sand Caves , are conveniently located just 7 minutes outside of Kanab, right off Highway 89. Originally, the Moqui Caverns were created as a sand mine, but today they offer a fun, short adventure with nice views looking through the “windows” to the rocky, orange cliffs in the distance.

The name “Moqui” refers to the Hopi tribe of Native Americans (previously known as the Moqui Native Americans) who inhabited the area centuries ago.

The hike to the Moqui Caverns is one of the most popular quick things to do in southern Utah between Zion and Kanab, requiring just a short half-mile round trip hike. That being said, the hike is fairly steep and requires a short scramble to reach the caves.

26. Try to score permits for the famous Wave

The elusive “Wave” is one of southern Utah’s most picturesque landscapes, a view you’re likely to have seen on a computer background or screen saver.

Visiting the unique wave-like formation is a bucket list worthy experience, but will require some patience to check off. Permits to visit the “Wave” are given out via a lottery system and are notoriously difficult to obtain!

To get permits for the Wave, you have two chances: an advance lottery that opens 4 months in advance of your hike, or a day-of lottery. We have personally entered the lottery at least 6 times, to no avail!

Nonetheless, we feel a spot on this list of the best things to do in southern Utah is well-deserved, and we wish you better luck than we’ve had in snagging a coveted permit!

27. Explore the otherworldly landscape of Coyote Buttes South

If you weren’t able to get permits for the Wave, don’t fret! Because there’s an epic alternative right next door at Coyote Buttes South .

There are only 20 daily permits to this incredibly remote area, located deep in the Vermillion Cliffs National Monument, so you’re likely to find solitude in one of the few truly untouched areas in the Southwest.

Located just south of the Coyote Buttes North, home to the Instagram-popular “Wave”, Coyote Buttes South gets much less attention. Coyote Buttes South is home to the same swirling rock formations and breath-taking color spectrum. And yet, permits are way easier to get!

Getting to this very remote area requires a 4WD vehicle and preparation to ensure a safe visit.

28. Hike to Druid Arch in Canyonlands Needles District

• Location | Canyonlands National Park
• Hiking distance | 10.5 miles
• Total time | 5 – 7 hours
• Epic-ness rating | 9
• Difficulty | moderate-hard

Even in southern Utah, where the landscapes are incredibly diverse, the hike to Druid Arch in the Needles District of Canyonlands National Park is unlike anything you’ve seen before.

We were completely blown away by the sheer size of Druid Arch , and perhaps more so, the stunning view looking down Elephant Canyon from the base of the massive stone monolith.  

If you are up for it, you can take an optional detour from Druid Arch to hike through some of Chesler Park, which will add 3.1 miles round trip.

A Complete Guide to Druid Arch: Canyonlands National Park

Located in the often-overlooked Needles District, the hike to Druid Arch in Canyonlands is amazing and one of the best in the park!

29. Climb a narrow slot canyon to see the striped walls of Zebra Slot Canyon

• Hiking distance | 5.2 miles (+1.4 miles for Tunnel Canyon)
• Elevation gain | 400 feet
• Difficulty | moderate (requires some challenging rock scrambling)

Southern Utah is home to some of the most amazing slot canyons in the entire world and Zebra Slot Canyon is probably our all-time favorite. 

Named after the stripes that line its walls, visiting Zebra Slot Canyon involves a 5 mile hike that can be tricky to follow and a challenging climb through a very narrow canyon, which is often filled with ankle to waist deep, freezing cold water.

While the entrance to the canyon doesn’t look like anything special, deep in the canyon you will reach the “zebra” section that makes this canyon so beautiful! 

When we visited Zebra Slot Canyon, we started the hike at the crack of dawn on a Sunday morning and made it to the canyon before anyone else.

We had the place entirely to ourselves for a solid 30 minutes, and exploring this narrow slot canyon alone was one of the coolest (and also most terrifyingly claustrophobic) experiences of my life! 

Zebra Slot Canyon: Hike Guide

Named after the vivid stripes that line its walls, Zebra Slot Canyon is one of the most unique rock formations in Southern Utah.

30. Backpack the West Rim Trail in Zion

• Hiking distance | 15.5 miles
• Elevation gain | 4,400 feet
• Estimated time | 9 – 12 hours

While most hikers who climb to Angel’s Landing turn back after completing the iconic narrow ridge, the trail actually continues towards the West Rim of Zion Canyon . Of course, nothing compares to Angel’s Landing but the reminder of the West Rim Trail isn’t too far behind!

To complete the West Rim trail, you will continue on after passing Angel’s Landing, where you will leave the crowds behind as the trail continues to climb for another 2,000 feet up. From the West Rim, you’ll be treated to expansive views of jagged ridges, swirling honeycomb rock formations, and striped canyon walls. 

The full West Rim Trail is 15 miles one way, but the best sections of the trail can be hiked as a 15.5 mile loop via the Grotto Trailhead . If this sounds like too much to squeeze into one day, the West Rim Trail is also a great one night backpacking trip. 

West Rim Trail Zion National Park: Ultimate Backpacking Guide

Backpacking the West Rim Trail in Zion National Park is the perfect adventure for those seeking solitude and mind-blowing views in southern Utah.

31. Catch a sunrise at Delicate Arch

• Hiking distance | 3.2 miles
• Elevation gain | 630 feet
• Estimated time | 2 hours
• Difficulty | moderate

The most popular hike in Arches National Park, if not all of Utah, Delicate Arch is an icon of the American Southwest and is featured on the Utah license plate and several of the “Welcome to Utah” signs on the highway!

You’ve almost surely seen photos of the massive arch, standing ever so precariously on an orange rock that a strong wind gust would seemingly knock it over.

Visiting Delicate Arch up close requires a 3.2 mile round trip hike. As you can imagine, this is a very popular hike so come prepared to circle the parking lot looking for a spot and to wait in line for a photo up close with the arch.

We thought we would beat the crowds by getting up early and hiking to Delicate Arch for sunrise but that was not the case! There must have been 50 other hikers there even at 6am.

But don’t let the crowds deter you! Seeing this magnificent arch with your own eyes is an incredible experience and one of the best things to do in southern Utah, as long as you go into the hike with the right expectations. 

32. Visit Snow Canyon State Park: a mini-Zion

Interested in getting away from the crowds of southern Utah’s National Parks to explore a lesser-known spot? Snow Canyon State Park near St. George in southern Utah is full of unique gems and reminds us of a “mini” Zion in many ways!

What makes Snow Canyon so cool is the contrast of orange Navajo sandstone canyons with black basalt lava rocks, leftover from volcanoes that erupted between 1.4 million and 27,000 years ago.

The best trail in the park is the Snow Canyon Loop , a 3.5-mile hike that gives you a taste of the several unique landscapes found in the park, including lava tubes and swirly petrified sand dunes.

Another great option is Scout Cave , a unique teardrop-shaped cave carved out of the red rock cliffs, that is accessible via a moderate 3.6-mile round trip hike. For a family-friendly slot canyon hike, check out the short hike to Jenny’s Canyon !

33. Embark on a epic adventure to Golden Cathedral

• Elevation gain | 1500 feet
• Total time | 6 – 8 hours

Golden Cathedral is one of those iconic spots in southern Utah, but getting there is no easy feat!

First, the hike begins from Egypt Trailhead (yes, the name feels fitting) which is located 17 miles down Hole in the Rock road, plus 9 miles down Egypt Road. Egypt Road starts out in fairly good condition but deteriorates the further you drive.

Furthermore, the trail to Golden Cathedral is not well marked, requires hiking through sections of deep sand and 5 river crossings, which are frequently knee to hip deep.

If this sounds like the type of adventure you’re up for, the payoff upon reaching Golden Cathedral is well worth the effort! If you are looking for off-the-beaten-path things to do in Southern Utah, add this hike to your bucket list.

34. Find as many arches as you can in Arches National Park

Did you know that there are over 2000 natural arches in Arches National Park?! Home to sandstone arches of every shape and size, the park rightfully earns its name. And while you won’t be able to see all 2000 arches, you can see quite a few even with just one day in Arches .

Many arches are easily accessible via short hikes, such as the Window Arch, Double Arch, Sand Dune Arch, and Broken Arch. For a longer hike that feels sort of like a treasure hunt for arches, check out the Devil’s Garden/Primitive Trail loop.

In 2021, Arches National Park broke all-time visitation records, often drawing long lines of cars waiting to get in and having to turn away visitors due to exceeded capacity.

Starting in 2022, Arches will implement a timed entrance ticket system in hopes to alleviate overcrowding, protect the park’s precious resources and give visitors a better experience.

35. Explore the Waterpocket Fold in Capitol Reef

While Capitol Reef is the least visited of Utah’s national parks, that does not mean that it’s not worth visiting. In fact, most people skip over Capitol Reef because it is more remote than the other parks, meaning it’s a good chance to leave some of the crowds behind.

Below are a few great hikes in the park:

• Cassidy Arch: 3.1 mile round trip hike that gains 700 feet of elevation and leads to a massive sandstone arch with stunning views of the Waterpocket Fold.
• Hickman Bridge: 1.5 mile round trip hike to a natural bridge with 400 feet of elevation gain This is one of the most popular hikes in Capitol Reef, although personally we think it’s overrated. We’d choose the Rim Overlook, Chimney Rock or Cassidy Arch over Hickman Bridge.
• Rim Overlook: 4 mile round trip hike with 1,000 feet of elevation gain, which includes an overlook with views of Hickman Bridge and ends at a beautiful viewpoint overlooking Fruita.
• Navajo Knobs: A challenging 9.1 mile round trip hike with 2,250 feet of elevation gain, featuring the best views in Capitol Reef (includes Rim Overlook and shares a trailhead with Hickman Bridge).
• Chimney Rock Loop : 3.3 mile round trip hike with 300 feet of elevation gain that gets you up close to the unique Chimney Rock and features stunning views.

36. Visit Zion’s Kolob Canyons

Speaking of leaving the crowds behind, there is an entire section of Zion National Park that most visitors never see: Kolob Canyons!

The Kolob Canyons are located northwest of the main section of Zion towards Cedar City. It’s about a 45-minute drive from Springdale.

The Kolob Canyons feature beautiful red rock walls similar to those you’ll see in Zion Canyon and has several shorter hike options, including Timbercreek Overlook (1 mile), Taylor Creek Trail (5 miles), and La Verkin Creek Trail (14 miles).

Although these trails are not quite as stunning as Zion’s more famous trails like Angel’s Landing, Observation Point, and the Narrows, if you’re interested in leaving the crowds behind, definitely check out this hidden gem.

37. Watch the sunrise at Zion Canyon Overlook

• Elevation gain | 200 feet

Of all the hikes in Zion National Park, Zion Canyon Overlook offers the biggest bang for your buck! This 1-mile roundtrip hike leads to a stunning viewpoint looking over Zion Canyon and is only about 45 minutes from Kanab.

In addition to Observation Point, it’s one of the few trails in Zion that can be accessed with your personal vehicle, rather than the Zion Park Shuttle.

The hike to Canyon Overlook starts out with a steep climb up the canyon wall and then leads along the edge of a cliff, through a cave, and over a short footbridge until reaching the stunning viewpoint.

Due to its short length, Zion Canyon Overlook is one of the best things to do in southern Utah for sunrise or sunset. You can’t beat watching the sun light up the vibrant canyon walls!

38. (Respectfully) admire ancient petroglyphs

Long before the area was settled by Europeans, native tribes first called the southern Utah area home. Ancient petroglyphs and pictographs created by these Native American tribes may be found all across southern Utah.

A few famous locations include Newspaper Rock in Canyonlands, Dinosour Rock National Monument, and Capitol Reef. Read more about petroglyphs in Utah here.

In addition to these more famous spots, petroglyphs may be found on many hikes throughout southern Utah. In order to respect these ancient symbols, we won’t share specific locations here, but always keep an eye out as your hiking. If you’re interested in learning more, be sure to talk to the park rangers.

Remember that petroglyphs and pictographs are rare archeological treasures that give us unique insight into cultures of the past. Be respectful and look, appreciate, but NEVER touch or deface these treasures.

Fun Fact | Petroglyphs are images carved into a rock face, while pictographs are painted.

39. Go on a backpacking trip in the Needles District

Canyonlands National Park is composed of 4 distinct districts: Island in the Sky, the Needles, the Maze and the Rivers.

While Island in the Sky is the most popular (located within 30 minutes of Arches and Moab), we think the often overlooked and more remote Needles district is the best spot to go backpacking.

Within the Needles District, the Chesler Park area offers the best views of the pointy spires, or “needles” for which the district is named. You can also choose to tack on the out-and-back hike to Druid Arch to your Needles backpacking adventure.

Backpacking the Needles District is one of the best things to do in southern Utah for the adventurous souls!

40. Drive the Cathedral Valley Loop

The Cathedral Valley Loop is a 57.6 mile drive showing off some of the most unique landscapes of Capitol Reef National Park, including the Temple of the Moon, the Bentonite Hills, Glass Mountain and more! The scenic drive includes several stunning viewpoints, short hikes, and awesome dispersed camping.

The Cathedral Valley Loop is located in a very remote part of southern Utah, requiring a high clearance 4WD vehicle. Depending on the time of year, a river ford may be necessary. Make sure that you have an appropriate vehicle and are properly prepared before setting off on this epic adventure.

41. Go off roading in the Maze

The Maze is the most remote section of Canyonlands National Park, accessible only via rough dirt roads requiring 4WD. If you want to explore one of the most remote areas of the park and get away from the crowds, going off-roading in the Maze is one of the best things to do in southern Utah!

You will need a 4WD vehicle, proper preparation, and experience off-roading to safely venture into the Maze. As the area is so remote and not regularly patrolled, you’ll need to be fully self-sufficient and prepared to self-rescue.

Because the area is so remote, you’ll want a few days to explore the Maze. Backcountry campsites are available for both hikers and 4WD vehicles. Permits are required.

42. See a sunrise at Mesa Arch

Mesa Arch in Canyonlands Island in the Sky is one of those Instagram famous photo spots that we have to include on this list but frankly find to be a bit overrated.

Let us start by saying, the view from Mesa Arch really is stunning , there’s no denying that. When the sun hits just right, the entire arch is briefly illuminated in a vibrant shade of orange. It’s spectacular!

But. The problem with Mesa Arch is that it’s easy to get to, requiring less than one mile of hiking, which means it gets incredibly overcrowded!

If you visit at sunrise (especially during the busy season), there will be a line of photographers with their tripods in position spanning the entire length of the arch. You’ll have to put elbows and stand on tippy-toes to even catch a glimpse of that beautiful sunrise.

Our recommendation would be to at sunrise but keep your expectations in check. If at all possible, visit during the week or off-season (December through February)

43. Cool off in a desert oasis

Through the seemingly barren, rocky landscape of Grand Staircase flows Calf Creek, a small oasis from the desert heat. Over thousands of years, the creek has carved a beautiful canyon, and flows from north to south, cascading over two waterfalls before joining the Escalante River.

The two falls, Upper Calf Creek Falls and Lower Calf Creek Falls , are located just a few miles from each other and can be accessed via 2 separate hikes. 

Of the two waterfalls along Calf Creek, the Lower Falls are certainly more popular and definitely a bit more impressive. However, the Upper Falls come pretty close in terms of beauty, are significantly less crowded, and the trail features more stunning views of Grand Staircase along the way.

44. Go snowshoeing in Cedar Breaks National Monument

An amphitheater of tall orange hoodoos speckled with pine trees, Cedar Breaks National Monument looks just like a mini Bryce Canyon!

Because the park sits at an elevation of 10,000 feet, it gets a ton of snow and remains snow-covered much longer than nearby areas in southern Utah. Snow typically begins accumulating in October and sticks around through May.

As such, going snowshoeing in Cedar Breaks is one of the best things to do in southern Utah if you’re visiting in the late fall, early spring, or winter months. Of course, in the summer the snow clears and several trails are available to explore the park on foot.

45. See petrified wood at the Escalante Petrified Forest State Park

Escalante Petrified Forest State Park is located just a few minutes from Escalante, Utah and is worth a quick stop.

There is only one trail in the park: the Escalante Petrified Forest Nature Trail , a 2-mile roundtrip loop that gains nearly 500 feet of elevation with nice views over the Wide Hollow Reservoir and the chance to see petrified wood.

The “Sleeping Rainbows” section of the trail features the most concentrated and beautiful petrified wood along the hike, as well as a cool view looking over the town of Escalante.

The Wide Hollow Reservoir in Escalante Petrified Forest State Park is also a great spot to hang out and cool off from the desert heat. During the summer, you can rent kayaks, canoes, and paddleboards from the park visitor center.

46. Feel like a kid again exploring nature’s playground: Devil’s Garden

• Hiking distance | 1 miles
• Elevation gain | 90 feet
• Estimated time |1 hours
• Difficulty | easy

With countless hoodoos, arches, and other odd rock formations, Devil’s Garden makes for a quick but unforgettable experience. Located about 12 miles down Hole in the Rock Road, just a few miles from the Zebra Slot Canyon trailhead, Devil’s Garden is a great pit stop before or after tackling other Grand Staircase hikes.

The entire trail is only 1 mile, but you will want to spend time climbing around the various rock formations. In fact, we didn’t even bother with the trail. The entire place felt more like a playground so we spent our time climbing and scrambling over the many formations.

Even if you just stop for 30 minutes, you will not regret visiting Devil’s Garden!

47. Explore the Red Cliffs

• Hiking distance | 2.2 miles
• Elevation gain | 223 feet
• Estimated time | 1.5-2 hours

If you’re looking for a unique stop near St. George, check out the Red Cliffs National Conservation Area.

The Red Reef Trail is a great adventure for families and those looking for a short hike that comes with plenty of cool sites! This 2.2 mile hike follows along a babbling creek, snaking its way through narrow canyons, past a set of pictographs drawn onto the walls of a cave, and culminating with a picturesque waterfall.

To continue beyond the waterfall, there is a set of Moki Steps (alternating hand and footholds) carved into the canyon wall beside the waterfall, along with a rope to help you climb. If you are feeling adventurous, you can scramble up the Moki Steps and continue a bit farther into the canyon.

48. Drive through Monument Valley

Straddling the Arizona border in the far eastern corner of Utah, Monument Valley is one of the most photographed spots in southern Utah, if not the entire United States. The area is located within the Navajo Nation and features towering red sandstone buttes that reach up to 1000 feet above the desert floor.

You may recognize the iconic landscape as the backdrop for many famous Western movies, including Stagecoach, She Wore a Yellow Ribbon, Once Upon a Time in the West, and the Lone Ranger.

The best way to explore Monument Valley is by driving the 17-mile scenic loop. It’s also possible to hike or backpack in Monument Valley, but a backcountry permit is required.

49. Catch a sunset from Dead Horse Point

Dead Horse Point State Park neighbors Canyonlands National Park near Moab in southwestern Utah. The park gets its name from a narrow peninsula that sits atop a sheer cliff known as Dead Horse Point.

While the origin of the name is not known with certainty, it is believed that cowboys herded wild horses onto this narrow peninsula, as the sheer drop-off created a natural corral. Legend has it that the horses were left corralled on the point for some unknown reason, and died from thirst within sight of the Colorado River below.

We’d recommend visiting Dead Horse Point at sunset for an incredible show as the sun dips behind the deep red sandstone canyon. There is also a trail that leads along the rim of Dead Horse Point.

50. Explore the Dixie National Forest

The Dixie National Forest spans nearly 2 million acres over 4 distinct districts across southern Utah! Because of its vast size, the Dixie National Forest includes a wide variety of landscapes, from red sandstone spires and canyons to high alpine forests.

One of the most popular sections of Dixie National Forest is the Red Cliffs, located just outside of Bryce Canyon National Park. It offers a nice reprieve from the crowds at Bryce Canyon, with similar landscapes. A few great hikes in Red Canyon include the Pink Ledges , the Arches Trail , and the Golden Wall Trail.

51. Go skiing in Brian Head

When you think of southern Utah, you probably picture red rock cliffs and canyon country (and rightfully so). But did you know that southern Utah is home to the highest-elevation town in the state: Brian Head?

This little ski town is perched high above Zion National Park and adjacent to the Dixie National Forest. Although it’s only about 1.5 hours from Springdale, Utah, temperatures tend to stay about 20 to 30 degrees cooler, making it a haven for skiers and a great spot to escape the intense desert heat.

Skiing or snow tubing at Brian Head Resort is one of the best things to do in southern Utah during the late fall through early spring!

Other Utah Resources

Planning a trip to Utah? Check out these resources for more great hikes and outdoor adventures in Idaho!

How to Hike the Epic Figure 8 Loop in Bryce Canyon

Jacob Hamblin Arch Hike Guide

Coyote Buttes South: An Epic Alternative to the Wave

How to Kayak Horseshoe Bend on the Colorado River

Phipps Arch in Escalante, Utah: Hike Guide

Cosmic Ashtray in Escalante, Utah: Trail Guide

Devil’s Garden in Escalante: A Complete Guide

Golden Cathedral & Neon Canyon: An Epic Adventure

What amazing things to do in southern Utah would you add to this list? Have questions about planning your trip? Drop us a comment below!

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Sarah Vaughan

Hello! I'm Sarah, one half of the couple behind Two Outliers! In 2023, I quit my job as a Data Scientist to travel around the world on an epic 15-month journey in search of the world's greatest hikes and outdoor adventures. Matt and I started Two Outliers in 2021 as a place for visitors to find concise, accurate, and honest information to plan their own adventures. We hope our experiences inspire you to hit the trail! Happy Hiking! Sarah

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The Best Southern Utah Road Trip Itinerary You Will Find

This article will prepare you for an epic southern Utah road trip, one of the most fascinating landscapes on the planet. I lived in the desert Southwest for a few years and explored this incredible region up and down. 

What makes southern Utah so special? You’ll find out in this post, but it’s really the openness of the land and beauty of the colorful rock formations that form the desert floor. Barely anyone actually lives there, a testament to the harshness of the desert. 

Sandstone rocks of all shapes and sizes dominate the landscape and there are more canyons than humans in some parts. So buckle up and hit the road for one of the best road trips the USA has to offer!

Why Should I Listen to You? 

The main sites you will hit, southern utah road trip – the basics , day 1: las vegas to bryce canyon national park, day 2: bryce canyon to capitol reef national park, day 3: capitol reef to moab, day 4: arches national park , day 5: canyonlands national park, day 6: moab to monument valley , day 7: monument valley to page, az, day 8: page to zion national park, day 9: zion national park, day 10: zion to las vegas, southern utah road trip: faqs, southern utah road trip: the end.

Note: this article contains affiliate links, which means that should you purchase something or get a quote through them I may make a small commission at no additional cost to you. This helps keep the site running with up to date information. I do not represent GetYourGuide, Insubuy, Booking.com, or Rentalcars.com. This is information only and not a recommendation to buy the product mentioned in this article.

Anybody can write anything these days. Especially with travel blogs, where you can be an “expert” in something after one visit. But I lived in Las Vegas and extensively explored the desert southwest, so you can be sure you’re getting tips from a local.

While I no longer live in Vegas, my experiences during my time there led me to fall in love with southern Utah. I’ve been to all seven continents, over 60 countries, and southern Utah still remains one of my favorite places on earth. You will fall in love with it too after this road trip!

We will go through all the sites in detail in the itinerary below but let’s start with an outline of all the amazing places you’re going to see. On top of Utah’s 5 incredible national parks, you’ll be exploring some state parks and other landmarks. You’ll also dip into Arizona for a bit to see some of the most Instagrammable places in the US. 

National Parks:

• Bryce Canyon
• Capitol Reef
• Canyonlands
• Glen Canyon National Recreation Area

State Parks:

• Dead Horse 
• Valley of Fire (NV)

Other main attractions:

Monument Valley

• Valley of the Gods
• Antelope Canyon
• Horseshoe Bend (part of Glen Canyon National Recreation Area)

This road trip assumes you will start and end in fabulous Las Vegas, Nevada . Las Vegas is the gateway to the southwest and has some amazing natural wonders in its immediate vicinity. You could also start from Salt Lake City, UT or Flagstaff, AZ with a little extra driving. 

To car of campervan? That is the question! 

You will need your own vehicle for this road trip. It’s very easy to do the trip in a normal, 2-wheel-drive car. However, if you want to do some of the more difficult unpaved roads in Canyonlands or some of the other places you’ll need a 4×4. That being said, there’s really not a lot of time for off-road driving in this itinerary so a regular car is just fine. 

You can find the best deals on rental cars from Las Vegas here at rentalcars.com . 

You can also rent a campervan from one of the many providers in Las Vegas that cater to travelers like you.  Most of Utah allows freedom camping, meaning you can park really anywhere that is off the road and spend the night. So it’s a great place to drive a campervan around. The developed campsites in the national and state parks have excellent services though, so car camping is fairly easy. 

The landscape of southern Utah 

Southern Utah and Northern Arizona are classified as high desert. This means that you’re in the desert, but the elevation is actually pretty high. Most of this trip you’ll be over 4000 feet and you’ll get above 8000 in some places.

The landscape is barren and inhospitable. Red sandstone rocks are everywhere and vegetation is few and far between. The earth cracks here and there forming giant canyons every way you look, and distant snow-capped mountains form the background of many of your views.

It’s quite unlike anything else on earth. Not even Petra in Jordan or the Australian Outback can quite compare. 

Total mileage covered on the road trip

This road trip covers about 1200 miles and takes 20 hours over the course of 10 days. But that doesn’t count any side trips or any driving around the parks themselves. All in all plan on spending an average of about 2-3 hours a day in the car. 

Cost of the road trip 

How much does this southern Utah road trip cost? Well that’s entirely up to you and depends on where you want to stay and where you live. If you’re from Southern California you can avoid the flight to Vegas and the rental car by adding a few hundred miles to your road trip. If you’re from New York you’ve gotta fly and rent a car. 

This trip can also be really, really cheap if you camp instead of staying in hotels. Standard tent campsites at national and state parks in Utah will run you $20-$30 per night.

Want to stay in a hotel? Good luck finding something less than $200/night outside the national parks. And I mean like a La Quinta will cost you $200. If you want to stay somewhere nice, well, I hope you have a good job and make good money.

Airbnb has some options between these two extremes. If you’re looking for more like $100/night Airbnb can be a good option in Utah. 

Best time of year for a southern Utah road trip

You will ideally want to make this road trip in either spring or fall. Summer is possible, but southern Utah can get pretty damn hot in the summer and that can make camping uncomfortable.

Winter is also possible – and hotels will be much cheaper – but it can get pretty cold in the high desert in the middle of winter. Spring and fall offer great weather, long days (spring better than fall for that), and ideal conditions all around.  

National Park Pass

You will want the America the Beautiful Interagency Pass for this trip. This pass is more commonly known as the “national park pass” and gets you into any national park, monument, historical site, etc in the US for one year.

The pass, amazingly, still costs only $80 and seems to be inflation-proof. It’s been $80 since the 2000s (and for senior citizens it’s free!). The pass will pay for itself after visiting just three of the five national parks on this itinerary. 

The national park pass will not get you into state parks or parks on Navajo Nation land (i.e. Antelope Canyon and Monument Valley Tribal Park). Be sure to order it well over a month in advance of your trip, as it can take a while to arrive in the mail. 

Popularity and crowds

Make no mistake, the national parks in Utah are incredibly popular with Americans and international tourists alike. Zion and Arches are two of the most visited parks in the US, and you can reasonably expect to encounter massive crowds unless you go in the winter. If you plan on camping within the parks, you will have to reserve campsites months – possibly even up to a year – in advance. 

Of the parks you’ll visit, only Arches requires timed entry permits. This means you have to pre-book entry into the park and is done to control crowds and traffic. But there can still be major backups to get into the other parks. 

Capitol Reef is the anomaly, being much less visited than the other four. Outside the national parks, you probably won’t encounter too many crowds, though the other destinations on this itinerary are becoming more and more popular these days.  

Where to stay

As mentioned before, the cost of the trip varies greatly on whether you plan on camping or staying in hotels. If you do plan on camping, it’s best to download the Campendium app. It has every campsite in Utah mapped and tells you what type of campsite it is.

On top of the campsites in the national parks, there are tons of privately run campsites all over Utah as well as basic campsites in national forests. It even will tell you all the locations of dispersed camping, which is essentially just a flat area with no services that it’s free to camp. The app is vital for this road trip if you’re going to camp. 

If you’re staying in hotels there are quite a lot of options in Moab, Springdale, and Page, AZ but far less options between these main towns. You will want to book hotels in advance, but you don’t need to book months out like a national park campground. Each day of the itinerary below has detailed recommendations for hotels each night.

Travel insurance

Americans, you can skip this section. But if you are an international visitor it is vital that you have travel insurance for your trip to the States. The insurance must cover medical expenses.

If you don’t have medical insurance for your trip, you are putting yourself at risk of great financial consequences should you suffer an accident or have a medical emergency. We don’t have universal healthcare here in the US and an overnight hospital stay can easily cost $100,000 that you probably don’t have. 

Insubuy provides medical travel insurance for international visitors to the US. You can get a quote for travel insurance and book your coverage using the link below.

Get a great deal on travel insurance for the USA here .

The Perfect Southern Utah Desert Road Trip 

Without further ado let’s get into it! You can see a visual of the southern Utah road trip itinerary in the Google Maps view below to follow along with the text.

After an epic buffet breakfast at your Las Vegas hotel, it’s time to say goodbye to that hangover and hit the road. It’s about a four hour drive to Bryce Canyon National Park. Most of the 260 miles are on I-15, so you’ll be moving quickly today. Though once you exit just after Parowan, UT, you’ll wave goodbye to interstate highways. Other than a brief stint near Moab, you won’t see one again till you’re almost back to Las Vegas.

Bryce Canyon National Park is one of the most unique landscapes in the world. Sharp columns of red sandstone rocks – known as “hoodoos” – protrude from the earth like giant needles as the canyon descends from the cliff above.

Bryce Canyon itself is quite small, and if you arrive early in the afternoon you’ll have plenty of time for a hike down into the canyon to admire the hoodoos up close. But first, start with a short stop at the Visitor’s Center to learn a little more about the crazy geology of the area.

There are a few observation points along the canyon rim that are connected by a series of roads. Start by hitting all the viewpoints to find your favorite view of the canyon. When you’re satisfied with the incredible views, it’s time to hike into the canyon.

Park at the end of Sunrise Point Road and embark on a leisurely hike down into the canyons known as the Wall Street and Queen’s Garden Loop Trail. The hike is only a little more than 3 miles, but you’ll stop so many times to admire the hoodoos that it will take a while. 

End your day with dinner in the nearby village of Bryce to celebrate a great first day of the road trip.

Where to stay in Bryce

Camping: There are two campgrounds within the park, North Campground and Sunset Campground. North requires reservations from May 19 – Oct 7 and Sunset is always first come first served, but closed in winter. Tent sites are $20 per night per site. 

Mid Range: There are not a lot of options for hotels outside the park that are not expensive and not downright awful at the same time. Consider the Best Western PLUS Ruby’s Inn or Bryce Canyon Pines . 

High End: For the most comfortable stay, opt for a room at the Lodge at Bryce Canyon in the park. Don’t expect to find a room for under $300 though. Book well in advance. 

If you’re not too tired, wake up for sunrise over Bryce Canyon. Head back to the same sunrise viewpoint you were at yesterday and bask in the beauty. If you’re up for a morning hike, head into the canyon again to catch the morning sun on the hoodoos. 

It’s about a 2.5 hour drive on Utah’s back roads to Capitol Reef National Park with no stops, so allow about 3 hours. Plan to arrive in time for lunch at the Wild Rabbit Cafe just before the entrance to the park.  

Capitol Reef is by far the least visited of Utah’s five national parks. But while it doesn’t hold the same grandeur as the others, it’s still a beautiful region of red sandstone mountains and desolate canyons. If you’ve been to Petra in Jordan, the rock formations are pretty similar, just without the ancient Nabatean buildings carved into the cliffsides. 

There is one scenic drive in the park and it takes you about 10 miles off the main road to the south. It ends at Capital Gorge trailhead, the start of one of the most popular hikes in the park. It’s an easy walk through a gorge so plan on doing the full out and back Capitol Gorge hike in the afternoon. The rocks will help protect you from that desert sun if it’s a hot day. 

If you have time and you’re up for it you can also do the short Cassidy Arch trail on your way back to the main road. After catching the sunset, enjoy a relaxing night in one of the most underrated places in Utah. 

Where to stay at Capitol Reef

Camping: The Fruita campground in the park has 71 sites. The sites are $25/night and must be reserved in advance. 

Mid Range: The nearby town of Torrey has a few lodging options. The Broken Spur is your best bet for affordability if you want a bed to sleep in. 

High End: Cougar Ridge is where you want to stay if you’re looking for a little luxury. 

Take it easy this morning and sleep in. Take your time packing up and hit the road for Moab, Utah’s desert playground. It’s another 2.5 hours drive to Moab.

Spend the afternoon exploring the little city of Moab, which is full of shops where you can buy local arts and crafts. As much as you’re itching to get to Arches, don’t even bother in the middle of the afternoon. It will just be too crowded. 

If you want an afternoon adventure consider a river rafting tour with Moab Adventure Center . If not, take it easy and check into your hotel or campground. 

As evening sets in, the day trippers to Arches leave. This is when you’ll enter. Between April and October Arches requires timed entry passes – since it can get so ridiculously busy – but those are only required between 7 AM and 4 PM. Following this plan here, you won’t need to get a timed entry pass, as you’ll enter after 4 PM today and before 7 AM tomorrow. 

Depending on what time of year it is and when sunset is, you might want to grab dinner in the city first. Make sure to get to the park at least an hour before sunset. Golden Hour in Arches National Park is simply stunning.

The rocks appear shades of orange and red that you didn’t even know existed. Watch the sunset over this magical landscape of giant rock bridges, but don’t stay up too late, because you have an early morning tomorrow. 

Set your alarm for 2 hours before sunrise – yes that’s right 2 hours before sunrise. If you’re visiting in June that’s 4 AM. So better get to bed. 

Where to stay in Moab

Camping: There are literally dozens of independent campsites in and around Moab. There is one campground in Arches National Park and two small campgrounds in Canyonlands. All sites require reservations, however for the campsites outside the parks it’s possible to just show up and book something.  

Mid Range: There are many options in Moab for motels and mid-range hotels, like the Red Stone Inn . 

High End: At the north end of town you’ll find the Springhill Suites by Marriott and the Hyatt Place Moab . I stayed at the Hyatt Place on my most recent trip to Moab and had a lovely stay. 

You’ll awake well before the crack of dawn for one reason and that is to be the first person at Delicate Arch, the most iconic landmark in the park and one of the most iconic places in the United States. 

The Delicate Arch Trail parking lot is about a 30-minute drive from central Moab. Get to the parking lot no later than one hour before sunrise. It will be dark and you’ll need a headlamp or a flashlight for the hike. The Delicate Arch hike itself is pretty relaxed, about 1.6 miles with a mild elevation gain. It should take no more than 45 minutes but a half hour or so if you’re fit. 

You’ll arrive at Delicate Arch right as the sky starts to get light. Relax and watch the sunrise over the arch, one of the highlights of your trip! Just note that to get the famous photo under Delicate Arch, you will have to wait in line. 

Spend the rest of the day exploring Arches National Park. There are many other trails to hike and viewpoints to observe. It’s one of America’s treasures and you’ll want to soak up every last bit of it that you can. 

Spend the night in Moab again. If you like Thai food, be sure to check out Arches Thai just off the main road. 

Today is for canyons. Start the morning by driving about 45 minutes into the northern unit of Canyonlands National Park (there are three separate sections of the park), known as Island in the Sky. 

Canyonlands is mostly known for its collection of epic canyons, mesas, buttes, arches and other rock formations, as well as endless miles of hiking trails and 4×4 roads.

Depending on how much hiking you want to do, getting down to the bottom of one of the canyons can be your goal for the day. A great trail to get into the canyons is the Gooseberry Trail, which drops you about 1500 feet into the canyon before you climb your way back out. 

Be sure to drive the entire length of the paved road down to Grand View Point, stopping at all the other viewpoints on the way. Many viewpoints require short walks along the canyon rim to get to, so you’ll have plenty of time outside the car. 

There are no restaurants or shops in the park so be sure to pack your lunch with you. On your way back to Moab stop at Dead Horse State Park for some epic views – some would say even better than Canyonlands – of the Colorado river as it snakes through the canyons.

Since Dead Horse is a Utah state park you’ll have to pay $20 per vehicle for access. The park is considerably smaller than Canyonlands and there are not many trails, so you really only need less than an hour in Dead Horse to appreciate it. 

Last night in Moab. If you’re a fan of craft beer check out the Moab Brewery on the south side of town. The food is nothing to rave about, but decent pub fare for the middle of the desert.

Today is a choose your own adventure day. There is a lot of good stuff to see between Moab and Monument Valley and it depends on how ambitious you want to be. If you want to hit the Needles District of Canyonlands (the south unit), you’ll want to leave Moab before 7 AM. It’s about a 2-hour drive to the best part of the Needles District, and over an hour of that is off the highway – I.e. out of your way. 

If you do go there though, you’ll be oohed and aahed by the needle-like rock formations. They are different from the hoodoos in Bryce Canyon, more pancake-like with different layers. This part of Canyonlands looks nothing like the Island in the Sky district you were at yesterday. 

Valley of the Gods and Goosenecks State Park

If going out of the way like that is a bit too much then your first stop of the day will be Valley of the Gods, about 2.5 hours south of Moab between Bluff and Mexican Hat. Valley of the Gods is a small valley between high plateaus that has some buttes and other interesting rocks. It’s kind of like a baby Monument Valley. 

There’s a dirt road that forms a loop that spits you out on a side road. The drive will take you about an hour total, including stops. A 2WD drive vehicle is adequate, so long as you don’t mind the car getting a bit dirty. The best thing about Valley of the Gods is that it is not super popular so you will have some solitude. 

Just south of Valley of the Gods you’ll stop by Goosenecks State Park. This is another Utah state park that is worth visiting just to look at the San Juan river “gooseneck” though the canyon. Visiting the park will take no more than a half hour and can literally be done in a few minutes. Admire the views from above the canyon, then continue your drive south. 

After you pass Mexican Hat, a town named after a rock that looks like a sombrero, you’re officially in Monument Valley, one of the most unique places on the planet. The region is essentially a relatively flat high desert with giant sandstone rock buttes that stick out of the desert floor. 

For fans of the movie Forrest Gump, it’s important to stop by Forrest Gump Point to take a photo of yourself running on the road like Forrest did in the movie. From there you’ll head south into Oljato-Monument Valley, what can only be described as a tiny village of a few houses and a grocery store. You’re in Navajo Nation here, a sovereign Native American land. 

The Navajo Nation owns and operates Monument Valley Tribal Park, which is just across the state border in Arizona and contains the most spectacular collection of rock formations in Monument Valley. If you’re there early enough, hit the tribal park before the day is over. If not, you can do it in the morning before heading out. 

There’s only one restaurant in Monument Valley and that’s the Stagecoach Restaurant at Goulding’s Lodge. Many accommodations will come with a kitchen for you to cook yourself though. 

WHERE TO STAY IN MONUMENT VALLEY

Camping: Monument Valley KOA has plenty of sites for your camping needs. Tent sites are not cheap though, at about $60 per night per night. Goulding’s – the only hotel in town – also operates a campsite near their hotel. 

Mid Range: There are only two hotels in town, Gouldings and The View Hotel , the latter which is run by the Navajo Nation at the entrance to Monument Valley Tribal Park. They are no frills accommodations, but they’re not exactly cheap. 

High End: There are various other cabins and Airbnbs available in the region, but nothing really “luxury.”

If you didn’t make it to Monument Valley Tribal Park yesterday, time to hit it this morning. If you did, then you can get going and head towards Page, Arizona, home to some of the most famous sites in the Southwest. You’ll actually be in Arizona all day today, so technically this road trip is not entirely in southern Utah. 

It’s a two hour drive to Page, home to Antelope Canyon and Horseshoe Bend. Antelope Canyon is a narrow slot canyon with beautiful red colors that has become famous in the Instagram Age. In order to visit Antelope Canyon you must book an organized tour. It is not possible to visit on your own, as the Navajo Nation forbids that.

There are numerous tour operators and you can check out various Antelope Canyon tours on getyourguide here .

After lunch in Page, head to Horseshoe Bend just outside of town. Horseshoe Bend is one of the most iconic locations on the Colorado River and is located in Glen Canyon Recreation Area, which is managed by the National Park Service.

Your national park pass covers Glen Canyon, but the city of Page charges extra for parking at Horseshoe Bend. It’s only about a 20-minute walk from the parking lot to the canyon, so you don’t need too much time there. Horseshoe Bend is an amazing place to watch the sunset though, should you wish to come here for that instead.  

With the rest of your afternoon you can check out Wahweap Bay in Glen Canyon National Recreation Area, though you probably won’t have time to get out on a boat. There are also some neat views of the Glen Canyon Dam on the bridge over the river. End the day with some excellent Mexican food at Fiesta Mexicana. 

Where to stay in Page, AZ

Camping: There are numerous campsites in and around Page. Within Glen Canyon National Recreation Area the biggest campsite is Lake Powell Wahweap Marina RV Park and Campground .

Mid Range: There are plenty of mid-range hotels in Page, as the town is really catered to tourists. The Best Western View of Lake Powell is a good option, and where we stayed when we were in town.  

High End: There is a Hyatt Place and a Courtyard by Marriott in Page, but nothing that is overly luxurious. 

Today you’ll head back into Utah to visit Zion National Park, one of the most beautiful places in the United States. It’s only about a 2.5 hour drive from Page, but you also have the option today to catch a glimpse of the Grand Canyon.

If you don’t think you’ll be coming back to the American Southwest any time soon, it’s worth it to add three hours onto your day to see the Grand Canyon. 

The North Rim of the Grand Canyon is far less visited than the South Rim, where just about everyone goes. This makes it less crowded, but it’s also much less developed and there is only one viewpoint. It’s also closed yearly from Dec 1 to May 15, so don’t drive all the way there just for it to be closed. 

If you choose the Grand Canyon option, you won’t get to Zion till late in the afternoon most likely. If you’re heading straight from Page, however, you can be there before lunch. With nearly two day in the park you’ll have sufficient time to explore the entire region and go on numerous hikes.

You’ll enter the park from the east entrance, which takes you on a stunning scenic drive through insane red, orange, and white rock formations. This is the only part of the park that you can drive yourself, with the exception of Kolob Canyons, which is a completely separate section of the park not connected by road to the main park. 

The main park road is limited to the Zion shuttle service. You’ll park your car at the visitors center in Springdale and hop on the shuttle from there. It’s first come, first served, and on busy summer days you can expect to have to wait to board the shuttle. 

What to do in Zion

There are endless things to do in Zion National Park and we can’t describe them all in detail here. Spend the afternoon hitting some of the main spots on the Zion Canyon Road and stopping for a few short hikes. Some short hikes to consider:

• Zion Narrows Riverside Walk 
• Emerald Pools Trail
• Lower Emerald Pools Trail
• Kayenta Trail
• Court of the Patriarchs

There are many other viewpoints you’ll see on the side of the road so it never hurts to hop off the shuttle and explore. For sunset, head to Zion Canyon Overlooks Trail on the road leading back to the east entrance. It’s only about a half mile to the viewpoint and it’s mostly flat.

Where to stay in Zion National Park

Camping: There are three designated campsites within Zion National Park. Reserve campsites well in advance. 

Mid Range: There are mid-range holes in Springdale, UT, but they don’t have mid-range prices. Hope you don’t mind paying $300/night for a Holiday Inn Express . If that sounds crazy to you, check options in nearby Hurricane, UT .  

High End: Unlike most of the other stops on this road trip, you can really live in luxury outside of Zion if you want to. Check out LaFave Luxury Rentals , the Cable Mountain Lodge , or the Cliffrose Springdale by Hilton . 

Another day in Zion National Park. If you’re an avid hiker today is your day. And if you’re not an avid hiker, today is the day you become one. There are a few famous hikes in the park. The most notable is the Angels Landing hike, with the Zion Narrows hike being a close second. Both of these hikes require planning. Angels Landing requires permits , as it got so popular in recent years that it became unsafe. 

Zion Narrows is a hike through a narrow gorge with thousand-foot cliffs on either side. The catch here is that most of the hike is on a riverbed and you’re pretty much guaranteed to get your feet wet at some point. It takes careful planning, as after heavy rains the water level can be too high. 

If all that sounds a little daunting then you can opt for my personal favorite hike in the park: Observation Point. Unfortunately the main trail to Observation Point has been closed since 2019 due to a major rockfall.

To reach the viewpoint, you’ll have to drive about 45 minutes to the East Mesa Trailhead and hike about 9 miles round trip from there. It’s worth it, though. The view from up Observation Point is the best view in Utah. 

Your big hike will take up most of the day. Spend the rest of your day stopping at any other viewpoints you want to hit. If a big, strenuous hike doesn’t sound too appealing after a week of desert hiking, consider checking out the other region of Zion, Kolob Canyons, which is about an hour drive from Springdale. 

The final day of the road trip. You’ve seen plenty of Zion National Park and now it’s time to head back to Las Vegas. It’s only about a 2.5 hour drive back to Vegas, but you’ll be stopping in Nevada’s Valley of Fire State Park along the way. 

Valley of Fire is one of the most underrated places in the desert Southwest. The park contains a collection of unique sandstone rock formations. By now you’ve seen a ton of red rocks, but Valley of Fire is special.

While it is certainly loaded with fabulous red rocks, the park contains some of the most colorful sandstone rocks you’ll ever see. Shades of pink, purple, yellow, green, and white rocks dot the landscape. It’s something that you really have to see to believe. 

Spend a solid 4-5 hours in Valley of Fire, stopping at all the viewpoints and doing a few short walks. The best hike in the park is the White Domes Fire Wave trail at the end of the park road. This hike covers about 3 miles through slot canyons and over the colorful rocks I just mentioned. The trail is a bit hard to follow so it’s useful to have AllTrails or Maps.me loaded on your phone for the hike.

Before leaving, be sure to stop at this spot along Mouse Tank Road for the most famous mountain view in Nevada. The road winding through the red rock cliffs with the mountains in the background is truly a sight to behold! From the viewpoint it’s about a 75-minute drive back to Las Vegas, where you can indulge in whatever sort of debauchery your heart desires to celebrate an amazing road trip through southern Utah!

You can read more about Valley of Fire in my guide to the natural side of Las Vegas here .

If you have more time in Vegas consider adding on a day trip to Death Valley National Park in Southern California. Death Valley is a whole different landscape than you’ll see in Utah and one of the most underrated national parks in the US . It’s a 2 hour drive from Las Vegas and east to see the highlights in one day. 

What is the best time of year to visit southern Utah?

The best time of year to visit southern Utah is either spring or fall. This allows for pleasant days while avoiding the summer heat and crowds. Winter can be nice too, but the Moab Desert is often covered in snow and higher elevation places like Bryce Canyon can be difficult to access due to heavy snowfall.

What is the prettiest area of Utah?

The prettiest area of Utah is open to interpretation and could be just about anywhere! The entire state is stunning, from the alpine mountains in the north to the Moab Desert in the south. For many people, the uniqueness of the landscapes in the national parks like Zion and Arches make those the prettiest.

What is the most beautiful park in Utah?

The most beautiful part in Utah from top to bottom is open to debate. Most consider either Zion or Bryce Canyon the most beautiful parks, with Arches and Canyonlands trailing close behind. Capitol Reef is often the afterthought, though in any other state it would be possibly the most beautiful place in the state.

Should I go on a road trip through Utah?

Yes, you absolutely should go on a road trip through Utah! From top to bottom Utah is one of the most, if not the most, beautiful states in the United States and features some of the most impressive and unique landscapes on the planet. Anyone who loves nature and the outdoors will love Utah.

How to see all 5 national parks in Utah?

The easiest way to see all 5 of Utah’s national parks is to drive between them. The closest major airports are Las Vegas or Salt Lake City. Though it’s also possible from Phoenix and a few other smaller regional airports in Utah, Colorado, and Arizona.

That was an epic trip, wasn’t it? You’ve seen the very best that the southwestern United States has to offer on this epic southern Utah road trip. The only downside of this trip is that you’re going to have such an amazing time that returning to your everyday life might be too difficult to handle! 

Chris Heckmann

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Incredible article with all the details I was seeking for planning our trip to Utah from Canada. I can’t thank you enough sharing! We’ve been wondering about driving or camping, where to start, what’s the best stops, etc. and you covered it all. Amazing!

Thanks Candice! Hope you guys enjoy Utah, it really is the best. Feel free to contact me if you have more questions.

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Best Time to Visit Utah? (When to Go in 2023 from a local 📅 )

By: Author Laura Coor

Posted on Last updated: October 8, 2023

Home » Utah travel guides » Best Time to Visit Utah? (When to Go in 2023 from a local 📅 )

It is normal to ask when is the best time to visit Utah before you book your trip. Travel is expensive so you really want to get the most out of your stay with your hard earned cash!

From its towering sandstone spires, hoodoos, and pinnacles, to its high-desert pine forests and steep mountain slopes, Utah is an extravagantly diverse state with a beauty that will strike you speechless, regardless of when you choose to travel to Utah.

Whether you are visiting for a hardcore adventure like rock-climbing 100-foot routes, bombing down backcountry ski terrain, or want to do a National Park tour and simply enjoy the breathtaking views, the state of Utah provides.

All over the state, the landscapes are picturesque, and there are thrills waiting for everybody regardless of what you want to do.

BUT, in saying that, you really need to know the right time to go to make the most of it 😉

As a local of St George Utah, I have traveled extensively around the State in all different seasons so I know when to do what in the Beehive State.

In this extensive guide, I will guide to you through what season and month to go to Utah based on what you want to do.

Arches National Park in November

Quick Answers if you are low on time:

Here are some quick answers for you if you are short on time and you can of course read more of our in depth reasonings and tips below:

• Overall best time to visit Utah = April
• Cheapest Time to Visit Utah = Summer months of June, July, or August
• What is the Worst Time = July
• When is high season in Utah = Winter
• Best time to visit Utah for desert activities = Spring
• When to Visit Utah for Skiing? = January or April
• When to Visit Utah for Families with Kids?  = Fall or Spring
• Best time to go to Utah for couples? = Fall, Winter or Spring
• Best Time to Visit Salt Lake City? = Winter or Spring depending if you want to ski
• Best Time to Visit Utah National Parks? = September
• Best Time to Visit Moab? = Spring or early Fall
• Best time to Visit Park City? = Winter

No matter the season, it’s always advisable to plan/book your trip to Utah in advance: 🏨 Get the best rates on your hotels with Booking.com 🚵 Book your tours with Viator ⛷️ Check out the best ranked Ski Resorts 🚗 Book your rental car here

Overall Best Time to Visit Utah (What is the best month to visit Utah?) 

Wondering when is the best time to visit Utah? We think the overall best month to travel to Utah is around April .

While the major ski resorts in Utah are still open and the high-elevation sites still have snow in April, the low-elevation locations are sunny and pleasant enough for daytime exploration without a winter coat.

The temperature will vary depending if you are in the north or south of Utah, but on average, you would expect a daily temperature of around 62.6°F (17°C) in April with around 13 hours of sunlight per day.

In April, you can choose to either stay near the mountains to hit the slopes (whether that be to ski or to just adventure in the snow), or stay somewhere where the snow has already melted and the sun is out (like St. George, Utah ). Tru by Hilton St George always has great rates and is somewhere we have stayed in the past.

If you want to enjoy both atmospheres in one trip, that’s an option too. By car, it only takes about four hours to drive from Salt Lake City where the snow is, to southern Utah where it is not.

However, if you wish to move between the two climates more quickly, there are options for that too. If you stay somewhere like St. George or Santa Clara, Utah, you can take day trips up to Brian Head Ski Resort or Cedar Breaks National Monument in Cedar City, Utah.

Pine Valley Utah

Cheapest Time to Visit Utah?

The cheapest time to visit Utah is in the summer months of June, July, or August . This is because regardless of where you go (north or south), the weather can be brutally hot.

You can find some relief in super high-elevation destinations that have shade, but Utah summers are known for temperatures reaching up to 110 degrees . This means that fewer tourists are coming to town (which generally jacks up prices), and fewer events are happening across the state.

In turn, rental options and hotels are cheaper over the summer, and there’s less happening that could cause you to spend extra cash.

If you want to save your money and travel to Utah in the summer, it’s recommended to stay somewhere with a pool (here are some great hotels in St George with a pool ), get up early for adventures, and have a car with an air conditioning system that works well on full blast.

Hiking is one of the best things to do in Utah and it can be simply too hot to enjoy it in summer

Least Busy Time to Visit Utah (To avoid crowds)?

If you want to avoid the crowds in Utah, the time to visit depends on where you are deciding to travel and what you want to do. In the higher elevation destinations with large ski resorts, like Salt Lake City or Park City, the crowds are peaking in the Winter and they don’t settle down until summer.

So, the ideal time to travel to destinations with big ski resorts without having to elbow your way through the streets is the summertime, but once again the weather can be very hot.

By Fall, more tourists tend to trickle in, but it’s still less busy than the Winter.

However, if you plan to visit Zion National Park , then the best time to go to avoid the crowds but not boil in the heat is the month of September.

In September, the weather is starting to cool off but the Snowbirds who move down to spend the winter in the sun have not quite arrived.

On top of Red Mountain outside of St George, Utah

What is the Worst Time?

The best and worst time to visit Utah is in the summer months. This is because Utah summers are hot, hot, hot, but they are also the least crowded and least expensive… so it’s hard to give a definitive answer.

If you absolutely do not like crowds and you are on a strict budget, then the worst time to visit Utah is in the Winter ; the ski resorts are packed but so are places like St. George, Utah because the sun is still shining and those who love the sun are flocking there.

But, overall, the worst time to visit Utah is in the month of July because it’s too hot to even go outside most days. We would not recommend visiting in July if you want to do activities like hiking as it is just too hot!

When is high season in Utah?

Wintertime is the high season in Utah . Utah is home to some of the nicest ski resorts in the world but is also home to cities that are warm and sunny all year round, like St. George, Utah.

Needless to say, Utah has become a popular destination in the Wintertime for a lot of people. There are also places in Utah where you can receive the sun rays and the snowflakes within a 45-minute drive of one another!

Bear in mind that even in the warmer places, Utah is the high desert and the temperatures begin to plummet after sunset. Dressing in layers is always essential for visiting Utah.

When is the best time to travel to Utah for Desert Activities?

If you want to see desert tortoises or tarantulas in their natural environments or ride down some sand dunes on a sand board , then the best time to visit Utah for desert activities is in the Springtime . Temperates in spring in Utah range from 49°F to 77°F and rarely fall below 37°F or exceed 89°F.

In the Spring, the weather is so pleasant that you can spend all of your days and nights outside without feeling uncomfortable (either by the extreme heat or the cold in Utah). Some of the best desert activities in Utah in spring include camping, rock climbing, sand boarding, mountain biking, and off-roading with motor vehicles.

Keep in mind that if you visit without any gear for any of the outdoor activities, there are plenty of rental shops and independent guiding companies that will hook you up! Even if you have never rock climbed before, you can get out with a professional tour guide who will show you the ropes (literally).

Also, in the Spring, the birds will be chirping, and the rivers will be flowing clear because the muddy winter runoff will be over with (most likely, it does vary year to year).

Spring is a really nice time of year to visit National Parks in Utah as the weather is perfect!

When to Visit Utah for Skiing?  

The best time to visit Utah for skiing is in the month of July. Just kidding!

In actuality, there are two ideal times for visiting Utah to ski: January if you are seeking the maximum snow yield and aren’t afraid of the cold, and April if you’re willing to trade less powder for more pleasant weather .

There are a lot of people who want to ski epic mountain lines that require back-country gear and a lot of snow, and Utah in January definitely provides those things (although you may have to stop at a rental shop if you don’t have your own gear).

Disclaimer from a local: Skiing epic mountain lines in Utah is not for the inexperienced or even the intermediate skiier, it is for experts only.

Weighing up whether to visit in January or April, here is something to consider.

In January, it’s more likely that the entire ski resort will be open because the snow will be plentiful.

In April, there may be a few parts of the mountain that are closed due to not enough snow, but that will only be the more advanced areas of the mountain. But, that means you get to combine skiing with relaxing and even getting a slight tan on your face because you won’t have to completely cover up.

See more: Best Ski Resorts in Utah ranked !

When to Visit Utah for Families with Kids?

Are you planning on visiting Utah with your family and your kids? If so, then the best time to visit is in either the Fall or the Spring .

Both are great times for visiting a variety of National and State parks due to the really pleasant weather. In either season, the sun will be shining on the red rocks or through the tall pine trees.

The Springtime may be slightly more crowded than the Fall since the weather is warmer and the swimming holes will be at a more comfortable temperature.

But the Fall is still a wonderful time to visit too, and if you are dead set on getting in the water, you can visit one or a few of the many hot spring destinations spread throughout Utah .

Utah is known for its variety of walking and hiking trails (like these easy Zion National Park hiking trails ) through beautiful landscapes, and both the Fall and Spring both boast weather that is suitable for getting outside and enjoying the views.

Also, you can participate in desert activities in both of those seasons, such as rock climbing (there are plenty of tour guides you can hire for this ), off-roading, or riding down sand dunes .

Zion National Park is a great place to visit for families

Best time to go to Utah for couples?

If you and your special someone are planning a trip to Utah, the best times to come for couples are in the Fall, Winter, or Spring . The only months you’ll want to avoid are the summer months because the weather is blazing hot in most areas of the state and it will be more difficult to get up and get going on daily adventures.

If you’re looking to experience a winter wonderland-type vacation, then come in the Winter and stay up north around Salt Lake City or Park City if you prefer smaller towns.

There is a plethora of ski lodge-type rentals you can book, or even off-grid cabins if you want seclusion. Plus, you can head into the city at night and enjoy the twinkling lights that line the streets – it is really magical, especially at Christmas.

If you’re looking to escape the cold but Winter is the only time you can come, then head to St. George, Utah, and book a vacation rental or there are even great cheap hotels in St George to enjoy the beautiful year-round sunshine.

If you decide to come in the Spring, you will have a plethora of choices for a date night (in St George) or elsewhere such as taking a guided tour into a slot canyon (or going yourself), boarding down sand dunes , hiking, walking, or off-roading.

Best Time to Visit Salt Lake City?

The best time to visit Salt Lake City is in the Wintertime if you are a ski nerd, or in the late Spring if you want the maximum amount of outdoor options such as hiking, rock climbing, camping, swimming, and sightseeing .

Of course, Salt Lake City is a worldwide destination in the Winter because it is home to some of the best ski resorts in the world i.e. Snowbird, Solitude, Alta, and others.

So if that’s your get-up, then be sure to book a lodge months ahead of time and be prepared to wait in long ski lines. But, it’s well worth it. Plus, there are plenty of options to get out in the backcountry right around Salt Lake City, where there are no lift lines and there’s an abundance of powder.

In the Spring, it will be more comfortable weather for wandering around the city and visiting places like the Tabernacle and the Temples. Also, it’s the best time to take a trip out of the city and into the Wasatch range, where the outdoor activities are abundant.

🏨 Book your stay in Salt Lake City here .

Skiing in Salt Lake City/ Flickr

Best Time to Visit Utah National Parks: The Mighty Five

Utah is home to Arches , Zion, Bryce Canyon , Canyonlands , and National Reef National Parks.  That’s a whopping five National Parks in total! The best time to visit Utah’s National parks is the late Spring or September .

In the late Spring, the weather in Utah is warming up, so it’s very comfortable to walk around without a jacket, but it’s not so hot that you have to take shade breaks every five minutes.

Plus, nature is blossoming and the animals are emerging from their burrows. Be warned though, Utah is a free-range state, meaning there are always cows crossing the back roads and it’s up to you not to hit one (but it’s really not something to worry about)!

In September, nature is turning a beautiful shade of orange and red, mirroring the color of the surrounding rock formations. Utah is a truly picturesque state and you will be amazed at the beauty and vastness of the landscapes.

Best Time to Visit Moab?

Moab, a quintessential Utah destination, is the closest town to Arches National Park. It is the one of the best places to stay near Arches . However, even if you don’t get to the National Park, Moab itself boasts an array of activities and beauty.

The best time to visit Moab is either in late Spring or the early Fall . Both of these seasons offer amazing weather, although the late Spring is the season to go if you want to participate in river sports.

The Colorado River runs through Moab, and water sports such as white water rafting, kayaking, and floating are popular activities. There are many adventure companies that can you get started at any level, whether you have never done a river sport in your life or you are looking for some extreme rapids.

If you are planning on skipping out on dunking in the river, then the early Fall is the best time to go. You’ll miss the crowds of people who do want to run the river, but you’ll still have awesome weather and the nature will be turning a beautiful shade of red and orange. The Fall is also an ideal time to go on rock climbing or hiking adventures too.

🏨 Book your stay in Moab here .

Best time to Visit Park City?

One of the best times to visit Park City, Utah is in the winter, from December to March . Park City is famous for it’s ski resorts and its landscapes dusted in snow.

In winter, the Park City nightlife is bustling, with twinkle lights lining the streets for the perfect ambiance. While it will be chilly and you’ll need a winter coat and a scarf, you’ll experience not only world-class skiing, but you’ll also meet people from all over, eat amazing food, take some of the most beautiful pictures you’ve ever taken, and have an overall amazing vacation.

Additionally, Park City in the winter has more than just skiing. There are also opportunities for hiking in Park City , cross-country skiing, dog sledding, ice skating, sleigh rides, snowmobiling, and much more.

Park City is also home to Woodward Park City , which is a world class sports camp and is one of the safest places to learn action sports. It has indoor and outdoor activities that are meant for learning not only skiing and snowboarding but also skateboarding, BMX, and cheer.

🏨 Book your stay in Park City here .

Image credit: Visit Park City

Summer in Utah

• Months: June to August

Summers in Utah are hot. While there are still many opportunities for outdoor activities and the National Parks are open and ready for visitors, you will be sweating.

However, there are mountain escapes that have cooler weather, but they are more secluded and are suited for camping adventures. Some of these places are the Wasatch range up north, and the outskirts of Cedar City, Utah such as Duck Creek or Pine Valley (which are very remote locations).

Of course, Utah is extremely beautiful in the summer because the sun is shining on the red rocks, but the views are better enjoyed from inside an air-conditioned car, vacation rental or hotel !

Summer Festivals and things to do:

• SummerFest Arts Faire in Logan (June)
• SoJo SummerFest in South Jordan (June)
• Party at the Point in West Point (July 4)
• Harvest Days in Midvale (August)

  Fall in Utah  

• Months: September to November

The Fall in Utah is one of the most beautiful seasons. It’s like an orange and red oasis, where the red rocks are complimented by the changing leaves. The weather is cooling down but the sun is still out, and the outdoor opportunities are ramping up.

The peak rock climbing season is in the Fall, so there will be a lot of out-of-towners who are solely there to get on some rocks.

It’s one of the best seasons to visit the National Parks and to go hiking in the more off-the-beaten-path destinations such as Kolob Canyon .

Fall Festivals and things to do:

• Peach Days in Brigham City (September)
• Sandy Heritage Festival (September)
• Oktoberfest, Snowbird Resort (October)

Winter in Utah

• Months: December to February

Ah, Utah winters. It’s a fact that the winters in Utah are poppin’, as it’s a world class destination for skiing and people travel from all over the world to enjoy places like Snowbird Ski Resort and Park City Mountain .

Just like the summers are brutally hot, the winters in high-elevation locations are very cold. So come with a winter coat, gloves, and a scarf, and be ready to get outside even in low temperatures because the landscapes are absolutely stunning.

Surrounding the cities are big, bellowing mountains dusted with snow. And the towns are lined with twinkly lights and filled with tourists, so there’s always something going on if you visit a town home to a main ski resorts such as Salt Lake City or Park City.

However, you can also escape the snow and get into the sun in places like St. George, Utah, where the weather is warm during the day and the sun is out. It does get cold at night, so don’t leave your jacket behind even if you’re not planning to get into high elevations.

Winter Festivals and things to do:

• Dickens Festival, Sandy (December)
• Snowfest, Park City Resort (December)
• Bear Lake Monster Winterfest (January)

Tip: Winter is also a great time to really enjoy all the epic hot springs Utah has to offer.

Bryce Canyon National Park in November.

Spring in Utah

• Months: March to May

Spring in Utah is a popular time to visit. It’s undeniably beautiful, and since there is a break in people’s school and work schedules, there’s typically a lot of people bustling around the National Parks.

The weather is perfect for spending entire days outside, and it’s even warm enough to go camping.

Also, while the sun is shining bright on the red rocks, the trees and surrounding environment are still green and lush. The temperature is pretty moderate in spring in Utah so it is a nice time to go camping.

Spring Festivals and things to do:

• Thanksgiving Point Tulip Festival, Salt Lake City (April)
• Utah Scottish Festival & Highland Games, Salt Lake City (April)
• Utah Spring Blossom Festival (May)

Tips for Visiting Utah 

If you are planning a trip to Utah, there are a few tips to keep in mind that will enhance your vacation and help maximize your adventures.

1. Know Your Priorities 

The number one tip is to know what your priorities are in terms of adventures. Do you want to ski? Or do you want the sun? That’s a simple question but is very important since it will determine where you go and during what season.

2. Know how many miles you want to cover

Additionally, you’ll need to decide how many miles you want to cover. If you want to stay in one area, that’s great. But if you want to journey from Salt Lake to Bryce Canyon to Arches National Park and then Zion, you’re going to need a rental car . It’s a doable route, but it’s way faster and cheaper to do if you have a rental car instead of booking tour buses.

3. Decide the type of vacation you want to have (budget 💰 and ⛰️ activities) 

The last tip is to decide if you want to go on epic adventures, like rock climbing or mountaineering, or if you want to keep it simple and take hikes and possibly rent off-roading vehicles.

This will determine what type of clothing you bring, and help you get a better idea of your budget. Taking a rock climbing tour will be more expensive than going on hikes in the National Parks.

We hope this guide helps you decide when is the right time for you to visit Utah, and what you want to see and do once you get there!

In our opinion April is overall the best time of year to visit Utah . But when you choose to go really depends on what you ultimately want to do!

Hey there! I’m Laura, and I’ve always been a high-energy, adventurous gal with a natural gift for athletics. I’m originally from the very rainy Olympia, Washington but I now call St George in Southern Utah home. I love exploring the State of Utah and doing activities like SUP.

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• Post published: October 17, 2020
• Post category: USA

The Most Epic Things to Do in Southern Utah

A trip to Southern Utah should be on every nature-lover’s bucket list. There are so many awesome things to do in Southern Utah, most of which involve landscapes that look like a different planet! Keep reading to check out the best hikes in southern Utah + other fun things to do in the area.

This post contains affiliate links, which means that I may receive a small commission if you book through my links, at no extra cost to you.

Before we cover the best things to do in Southern Utah, let’s go over some logisitics:

Southern Utah – Trip Overview

• Nights: 2-3
• I recommend spending at least 3 days in Southern Utah, if not longer. If you go over the weekend, that means you just need to take off at least one day of work (Friday or Monday) to make it a 3-day trip!

How to Get to Southern Utah

I recommend flying into Las Vegas for close proximity to the Southwest Utah area. From here, it’s about a 2.5 hour drive. If you’re wanting to start in the Moab, Utah – the closest major airport is Salt Lake City, which is about a 4 hour drive. When booking your car, I recommend RentalCars.com for the best selection!

Where to Stay in Southern Utah

Campervan/rv.

If you’re up for an adventure, it would be a great idea to rent an RV or a campervan for this trip! That way, you can make your way from the southwest area up to Moab and sleep wherever the road takes you along the way. Check out my blog post on how to get super cheap RV deals . If you get lucky with a one-way rental that fits your itinerary, you can get one for as low as $1/day!

If you want to camp but also want the comforts of home, renting a campervan is a great option! My favorite campervan company is Travellers Autobarn . Their vans have a stove, microwave, fridge and sink, and can sleep 3 people inside of it. Also, they have unlimited miles which is something that most campervan companies don’t offer! You can pick up the van at their location in Los Angeles, San Francisco, or Las Vegas.

Pro tip: Download the Dyrt Pro app to find the best spots to park your RV each night.

Best Place to Stay in Southwest Utah

If you’re starting out at Zion National Park, I definitely recommend staying at Under Canvas Zion for an amazing glamping experience if you have the budget to splurge a bit. These luxury yurts have king size beds and all the comforts of home, except immersed in nature with beautiful views!

After Zion, I recommend staying in Kanab, UT which is central to other spots in Southwest Utah. I’ve stayed at both the Quality Inn Kanab and Travelodge Kanab . Both are in a good location and are affordable. Alternatively, you could stay at a cool VRBO in Kanab such as this cool house with epic views of surrounding red rock formations!

Kanab is also close to the border of Arizona, where there are other amazing spots to check out as well. Check out my Arizona/Utah Road Trip Itinerary for the deets.

Best Place to Stay in Moab, UT

As you make you way up to the Moab area of Southern Utah (near Arches National Park), I recommend staying at either Under Canvas Moab (same company as the one in Zion!) for an awesome glamping experience. I stayed at this one during my 2 days in Moab trip, and it was amazing.

If you’re looking for a more affordable option, try the Rustic Inn located in downtown Moab.

Southern Utah Packing List

Don’t leave home without these items!

• Nano Puff Jacket (packs up small and keeps you warm when it gets chilly at night!)
• The COLDEST Water Bottle (seriously – it stays colder than Hydroflask!)
• Hiking Boots (these are my fave)
• REI Soft Cooler (I have this and love it!)
• Cliff Bar Energy Chews (great to give you a boost of energy on hikes!)
• Sony A6000 (I’m just starting to learn photography, but this is the camera I’ve been using! I love it)
• SmartWool Hiking Socks

Best Things to Do in Southern Utah

Zion national park.

While in southern Utah, you definitely can’t miss Zion National Park. 2 of the best hikes in Southern Utah are located in this park!

The Narrows

The Narrows is hands down one of the best hikes in Southern Utah, but is also one of my favorite hikes of all time. On this hike, you are wading through the river in between two towering red canyon walls. It’s absolutely beautiful, and a super unique hike. It’s also great for all skill-levels!

Pro tip: make sure you bring some close-toed water shoes for this hike. I recommend the Keen water shoes , or if you are on a budget – these ones from Amazon .

Angels Landing

Angels Landing, located in Zion National Park, is one of the most popular hikes in Southern Utah. It’s also one of the most dangerous! On this hike, you start out on some switchbacks until you reach the top section, where you have to use ropes and chains to make your way up narrow rock paths with steep drop-offs on either side of you. If you’re scared of heights, this is not the hike for you!

Check out my full Zion itinerary for more details for this portion of your trip.

Bryce National Park

About 1.5 hours from Zion National Park is Bryce National Park, which is equally as amazing. Bryce National Park is known for their unique “hoodoo” rock formations that look like little red rock towers scattered throughout the park.

Navajo Loop Hike

One of the best hikes in Bryce, (and also one of the best hikes in Southern Utah) is the Navajo Loop Hike. This 1.5 mile hike takes you through the iconic “Wall Street” section of Bryce National Park, with towering red rock canyon walls surrounding the trail. Once you get to the bottom, you have the option to add on the 1.7-mile “Queens Garden” trail, which is known to be the “World’s Best 3-mile Hike”!

Coral Pink Sand Dunes State Park

Only about 30 minutes from Zion National Park lies Coral Pink Sand Dunes State Park, which is definitely worth a stop on your Southern Utah road trip. Here you can ride ATVs through the sand dunes, go sandboarding, or simply take a hike around the dunes and soak in the scenery. It’s beautiful!

The Toadstools

The Toadstools are these mushroom-like rock formations located in Grand Staircase Escalante National Monument. The trailhead is about an hour East from Coral Pink Sand Dunes State Park, and the trail itself is only 1.5 miles round trip. It’s a perfect quick hike in Southern Utah where you can easily bring along kids or dogs!

Lake Powell

Lake Powell is simply amazing! This lake is located on the border of Utah and Arizona, so it technically spans both states. I recommend either renting a kayak or taking one of the 1-hour boat tours to cruise through the lake in between the canyon walls. It’s a very unique experience!

We did the 1-hour boat ride from Antelope Point Marina for $30. It was great!

If you have more time to spend here, consider renting a house boat for a night or two.

Arches National Park

Arches National Park, about 4.5 hours from Lake Powell area, is simply amazing. To explore Arches National Park and the next few spots I recommend, you’ll want to make Moab your home base (preferably at Under Canvas ! It’s awesome!)

Delicate Arch

One of the most iconic hikes in Southern Utah is Delicate Arch. This arch formation is even featured on the Utah license plates! I recommend hiking the 1.5 mile trail at sunrise to beat the crowds, but any time of day the hike is epic.

Devil’s Garden

Devil’s Garden is another super scenic hike in Southern Utah, in Arches National Park. This 7.5 mile flat trail meanders through different rock formations. Even just going about 2 miles you’ll have the chance to see some awesome scenery.

For more details on the best things to do in Arches National Park, check out my 2 Days in Moab post.

Dead Horse Point State Park

Head to Dead Horse Point State Park, about 40 minutes from Arches National Park, and check out the Rim Trail. This short hike offers sweeping aerial views of the Colorado River and Canyonlands National Park.

Canyonlands National Park

The entrance to Canyonlands National Park is just about 15 minutes from Dead Horse Point State Park. Canyonlands National Park is huge, and is made up of 3 districts. I recommend sticking to the ‘Islands in the Sky” area of the park if you don’t have time to explore the whole park. Take the short 0.5 mile hike to Mesa Arch – one of the most iconic spots in Southern Utah!

Want more info on Dead Horse Point and Canyonlands? Check out my post 2 Days in Moab post.

Capitol Reef National Park

Capitol Reef National Park is definitely an underrated Utah national park. At this hidden gem, you’ll find barely any crowds among the epic red rock views, canyons, scenic rivers, and natural bridges. It’s a must-see during your Utah road trip!

Cassidy Arch Trail

This thrilling 3.1 mile out-and-back trail leads you along a cliff-side, rocky trail to the impressive Cassidy Arch. This trail is super scenic but has no shade – make sure to hike it in the morning to make it more bearable!

Hickman Bridge Trail

This 1.7-mile out and back trail is one of the most popular hikes in Capitol Reef National Park. It’s manageable for most skill levels, showcases beautiful scenery, and leads to the Hickman Bridge – a natural arch rock formation.

Want more details on Capitol Reef National Park? Check out my post on how to spend an epic one day in Capitol Reef National Park !

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This post has 2 comments.

The Narrows and Under Canvas Moab sound soooo fun! I wouldn’t mind glamping like that. Thanks for the recommendations!

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24 Best Places to Visit in Utah — Including National Parks, Turquoise Lakes, and Giant Salt Flats

Red sandstone arches, turquoise lakes, and epic skiing are some of the many standout attractions in Utah.

Evie Carrick is a writer and editor who’s lived in five countries and visited well over 50. She now splits her time between Colorado and Paris, ensuring she doesn't have to live without skiing or L'As du Fallafel.

Utah doesn't get as much attention as some of its neighbors (ahem, Colorado), but anyone who's visited the Beehive State knows that it's in a class of its own. Its motto is "Life Elevated," after all. The landscape goes from desert marked with red sandstone arches to giant, snow-covered ski mountains and bright-white salt flats. In fact, the terrain is so stunning and varied that much of the natural landscape is designated national park, national monument, or national forest land.

It's impossible to check out every site the state has to offer in one visit, but certain places stand out. In addition to housing five phenomenal national parks, there are endless ski areas, state parks, hot springs, lakes, and mountain towns that are all worth exploring.

With that in mind, here are 24 of the best places to visit in Utah.

Zion National Park

Don Eim/Travel + Leisure

Utah has five renowned national parks, but Zion was the state's first — and there's a reason why. Hiking below the steep red cliffs surrounding Zion Canyon is truly awe-inspiring, as are the park's slot canyons, emerald-colored pools, and waterfalls with hanging gardens.

Park City is one of those places where you can have it all. It's just over 30 minutes from Salt Lake City, but has a mountain town feel that's complemented by a huge network of biking and hiking trails in the summer and two great ski areas — Deer Valley Resort and Park City Mountain Resort — in the winter.

Goblin Valley State Park

In addition to camping among Goblin Valley State Park 's hoodoos, you can spend the day exploring Little Wild Horse slot canyon, which includes a stretch where the walls are so tight that you have to turn sideways to get through.

Powder Mountain

With the most skiable acreage in North America, Powder Mountain is the place to be when the snow starts flying in Utah. In addition to cruising down the resort's 154 trails, you can go off piste, exploring the mountain's untracked in-bounds terrain. (Oh, and the area receives an average of more than 500 inches of snow annually.)

Paria Canyon

This natural wonder lies on the Utah-Arizona border, but is still on the Utah side. Paria Canyon is one of the longest and deepest slot canyons in the world, found within the wildly beautiful Paria Canyon-Vermilion Cliffs Wilderness.

The 10 Most Scenic Overlooks in U.S. National Parks

Arches national park.

The reddish-orange sandstone arches of this national park feel like they belong in another world. In addition to hiking under or walking over the arches (there are more than 2,000 of them), you'll find other geological wonders, including Balanced Rock, which towers over the desert landscape.

Salt Lake City

Salt Lake City is unlike any other state capital in the U.S. It sits at the base of the Wasatch Range, providing a mountain backdrop to even the most urban downtown area. To see the two sides of the city, you can walk the Temple Square , headquarters for the Church of Jesus Christ of Latter-day Saints, before grabbing lunch at the Mark of the Beastro , a vegan diner with a devil theme.

Unlike other parts of the state, the city of St. George boasts year-round warm weather and easy access to endless recreation — from the dunes and red sandstone cliffs of Snow Canyon State Park to the reservoir of Sand Hollow State Park to the iconic Zion National Park. This destination also has incredible dining and great golfing.

Canyonlands National Park

The desert landscape of Canyonlands National Park is marked with towering rock pinnacles, remote canyons, and Native American rock paintings. Meanwhile, the Colorado River cuts through the dry scenery, providing whitewater rapids sought out by rafters and kayakers.

This city in eastern Utah is a gateway to the red rock wonders of the state — many of which are found within neighboring Arches and Canyonlands national parks. In addition to the parks, Moab is home to myriad petroglyphs and real-life dinosaur tracks.

Grand Staircase-Escalante National Monument

The Grand Staircase-Escalante National Monument is as rugged and remote as it gets, which is why it was one of the last places in the continental U.S. to be mapped. These days, you can view rock art by the ancient Anasazi and Fremont cultures, see dinosaur fossils, and explore the monument's slot canyons, arches, and monoliths.

Dead Horse Point State Park

This state park is as dry as it is immense. With a high-desert landscape of canyons crisscrossed with trails, travelers come to look out over the dramatic Colorado River and Canyonlands National Park. Note: When the sun drops, stick around — Dead Horse Point State Park also has stellar stargazing.

Bonneville Salt Flats

You don't have to travel all the way to South America to see the Uyuni Salt Flat; you just have to get to northwestern Utah, where the Bonneville Salt Flats sprawl over 46 square miles. The flats, which resemble snow, are actually a blinding-white salt crust that's five feet thick in some areas.

Bryce Canyon National Park

Taylor McIntyre/Travel + Leisure

The largest concentration of hoodoos (columns of rock jutting out of the ground) can be found in Bryce Canyon National Park . In addition to the red sandstone wonders, the park provides stunning sunrise and sunset views and dark skies perfect for stargazing.

Coral Pink Sand Dunes State Park

Admiring the sunset on the mounds of red sand in Coral Pink Sand Dunes State Park should be on every travel wish list. Visitors can hike, drive, and even slide down the dunes, which are estimated to be between 10,000 and 15,000 years old. (Sandboards and sleds are available to rent.)

Mystic Hot Springs

This unique take on natural hot springs funnels the mineral water into a series of reclaimed bathtubs and pools where you can soak the day away. For the full experience, stick around for some on-site live music or sleep in one of Mystic Hot Springs ' many buses (including one that followed the Grateful Dead).

Not far from Salt Lake city in the Wasatch Range of the Rocky Mountains lies this ski area that boasts 3,240 feet of vertical terrain and around 500 inches of snow annually (it has the longest ski season in the state). In the summer, you can play on Snowbird 's alpine slide or take the tram to the top.

Dinosaur National Monument

Dinosaurs once roamed much of Utah, and there's no better place to see and learn about it than at Dinosaur National Monument . The remains of these great wonders are still visibly embedded in the rocks, while petroglyphs showcase the area's first human populations.

Fifth Water Hot Springs

It doesn't get much better than hiking to hot springs. After just over two miles on the trail, you'll come upon a waterfall and the Fifth Water Hot Springs or Diamond Fork Hot Springs. Sit back and relax, but keep in mind you have to hike back to your car.

Homestead Crater

One of Utah's lesser-known natural wonders, the Homestead Crater is a geothermal hot spring set in a limestone dome. Inside, under the "natural skylight" created by the dome's opening, you can swim, scuba dive, or snorkel. (Fun fact: This is the only warm-water dive site in the continental U.S.)

Bear Lake State Park

Everything in Bear Lake State Park revolves around the park's shining jewel: Bear Lake. This freshwater spot is nicknamed the "Caribbean of the Rockies" because of its bright turquoise color, which is thanks to an abundance of calcium carbonate deposits in the water. In addition to sunbathing on the sandy shores, fishing, jet skiing, and sailing are popular activities.

Mount Timpanogos

One of Utah's most popular and recognizable mountains, Mount Timpanogos tops out at 11,752 feet above sea level. To summit the mountain — nicknamed "Timp" — it's a 14-mile hike round-trip. Along the way, hikers are treated to views of glacial lakes, waterfalls, and wildflowers.

Capitol Reef National Park

Everything in Capitol Reef National Park revolves around a literal wrinkle on the earth that consists of layered sandstone, canyons, and rock formations. Known as the Waterpocket Fold, the geologic monocline extends almost 100 miles and is surrounded by white sandstone domes, towering monoliths, and otherworldly pillars and arches.

Goosenecks State Park

Goosenecks State Park is tiny, but mighty. It's renowned for its clifftop vistas over the roaring San Juan River. And the views don't stop when night falls — you just have to look up. The park was recently even given an International Dark Sky designation .

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5 Quaint Small Towns To Visit In Southern Utah

• Destinations
• United States

Southern Utah is high on my list of places to get outside. With endless red-rock vistas and deep, scenic canyons, all under a deep blue sky, you’ll be hard-pressed to find anywhere else with such beautiful terrain. There are so many stunning outdoor landscapes to see in Utah that it almost makes the rest of the 49 states seem like underachievers. And much of the wonder is in the southern portion of the state. 

We found quite a few towns that had more than their share of gorgeous scenery and fun things to do. A road trip spent driving the highways of southern Utah is a road trip you’ll remember; just as much for the landscape as for the towns and people you’ll come across. This area is unspoiled, and much of it off the beaten path, so unless you’re going at the height of tourist season, you won’t find places crawling with people.

Southern Utah is almost a year-round destination, although, because I’m not a heat-lover, I don’t think I’d go in July or August. In winter, the temperatures were moderate and the crowds non-existent. Just keep an eye on the snow forecast. Spring and fall are also great times to visit. Here are some of our favorite southern Utah small towns, in no particular order. 

Some of this information was obtained during a press trip. All opinions are my own.

1. St. George

St. George is stunning. This city of about 85,000 may not technically be a small town but has a small-town feel. It’s convenient as a home base to some of Utah’s best national parks and has its own quite fabulous state park. This area of southern Utah is some of the prettiest country I’ve seen in the entire U.S. 

If you’re into visiting national parks like I am, you’ll be pleased to know that St. George is only an hour south of Zion National Park and just a little farther from Bryce Canyon National Park. 

Getting to St. George is fairly easy. Many people take advantage of the St. George Regional Airport, which offers service from major airlines like United, American, and Delta. We decided to fly into Las Vegas and make the 2-hour drive north for our visit. One of the highlights of this drive is passing through the incredible Virgin River Gorge. 

My favorite way to spend time in St. George is outside. Pioneer Park has 52 acres of rock-climbing opportunities just waiting to be explored. After you’re done climbing, take a look around St. George’s historical features. Since the city was founded by members of the Church of Jesus Christ of Latter-Day Saints, you’ll be able to visit many church-related sites. Top of the list is the Brigham Young Winter Residence Historical Site , which is open 7 days a week. Also a must-see is the St. George Tabernacle .

I recently spent an incredible 2 days at Red Mountain Resort in Ivins. This serene wellness retreat has everything for your body, mind, and soul and is set amid a jaw-dropping location in gorgeous Ivins, Utah. Technically a suburb of St. George, Ivins is home to world-class spas and plenty of ways to have fun outdoors. 

Snow Canyon State Park is a jewel and has accessibility right out the back doors of Red Mountain Resort. Snow Canyon easily competes with many of the national parks I’ve been to and might even be a national park itself were it not in a state that already has an incredible collection of five national parks. This 7,000+ acre state park offers miles of hiking trails, biking trails, and popular e-bike rentals located right on the outskirts of the park. Snow Canyon State Park is gloriously beautiful with sights seemingly around every corner. You’ll enjoy the almost 40 miles of hiking trails and 3 miles of paved walking and biking trails.

You may recognize Snow Canyon State Park as it’s been a favorite location for filmmakers. Westerns like Butch Cassidy and the Sundance Kid , The Electric Horseman , and Jeremiah Johnson were all shot at least partly on location here.

Pro Tip: If you book a stay at Red Moutain Resort, ask about the airport shuttle that will take you to the resort so you won’t need a rental car.

3. Springdale

Right outside the west entrance of Zion National Park is the cute town of Springdale. With a population of less than 1,000, Springdale is a small town with a surprising number of good, local restaurants. 

We enjoyed an excellent dinner al fresco at Oscar’s Cafe . With homemade Mexican specialties, indoor and outdoor seating, and a casual vibe, this homey spot is a winner. I tried the salmon filet served on a bed of rice. The simple salmon was cooked to perfection. I could eat the accompanying stuffed poblano pepper daily. The pepper, filled with delicious cheddar mashed potatoes, corn, cilantro, onion, and red pepper mixture, is incredible. 

Another fun restaurant is the Bit and Spur. This restaurant and bar serves inventive southwestern cuisine and specialty margaritas, including my favorite prickly pear, as well as made-in-Utah spirits. Springdale is the perfect place to stay if you’re visiting Zion and the shuttle system in town lets you leave your car at the hotel and let them do the driving.

Pro Tip: The Sol Foods Supermarket has a great deli. Try their soups. 

Kanab isn’t as well-known as some of the neighboring towns, and that’s a good thing. This town, home to about 5,000, is in the heart of some of the best outdoor adventures in the state. For starters, there are three national parks within a 3-hour drive: Zion, Bryce, and the North Rim of the Grand Canyon. Plus, Kanab is known as the gateway to the super popular The Wave . 

But the town also has its attractions including one of the most amazing animal sanctuaries in the U.S. — Best Friends . This organization works to save thousands of animals every year. At their Kanab location, you can participate in tours of the facility or take an adorable pup for a walk. They also have activities for the kids. 

Coral Pink Sand Dunes State Park is an amazing place to explore on foot or by ATV. Almost 90 percent of the dunes are open for riding so you’re sure to find a thrilling area. Kanab is just an hour and a half from St. George Regional Airport or 3 hours from Las Vegas.

5. Escalante

Two hours north of Kanab, tiny Escalante is home to the Grand Staircase-Escalante National Monument . If you’re looking for a vast, rugged, remote area where you can find solitude, this is your place. The monument is not nearly as popular as some of the nearby national parks, so you won’t see as many visitors and you might not see any people for hours, depending on when you go. 

One of the most popular things to do here is to check out Peek-A-Boo Slot Canyon . If you’re into photography, the changing light here makes for incredible shots. The location of the canyon is off the beaten path, so many people prefer to go with a local guide. There are also plenty of hiking trails to explore as well as unique, otherworldly terrain. 

Pro Tips: While there are roads through the park, most are not paved, and many aren’t suitable for two-wheel-drive vehicles or RVs. This is a very large, very remote area with few services and no cell service for the most part. Make sure you’re prepared and stocked up on essentials (and gas). And it’s always a good idea to share your itinerary with friends so someone knows your plan.

Related Reading:

• 10 Reasons To Visit This Charming Mountain Village In Utah During The Summer
• 19 Incredible Places To Explore In Utah For Dinosaur Lovers
• My 8 Favorite Stops Along Utah’s Beautiful Highway 89

SJ is a professional travel writer based in the Midwest. She has a background in credit card points and miles, having spent years working on loyalty campaigns for various financial institutions. She has a B.A. in history and is a member of the North American Travel Journalists Association, the International Food Wine and Travel Writers Association, and the International Travel Writers Alliance. SJ specializes in writing about travel, food, and wine.

Cool Hunting®

Inside Southern Utah’s Best Friends Roadhouse and Mercantile

A hotel for animal lovers, where creature comforts apply to humans and pets

The spectacular landscapes of southern Utah have served as the backdrop for thousands of films since the 1920s—from wild west classics like Butch Cassidy and the Sundance Kid to recent hits like High School Musical . In addition to the movie buffs, the town of Kanab draws adventure-seekers and nature-lovers who come to enjoy the many nearby national and state parks—and Best Friends Roadhouse and Mercantile is the perfect home base to explore it all.

With 40 well-appointed rooms and suites, it’s a surprisingly chic, mid-century modern oasis in the middle of the area’s distinct red canyons. It’s also the sister property to the Best Friends Animal Sanctuary , the nation’s largest no-kill animal shelter. And, if you’re the kind of person who thinks the worst part of vacation is leaving your pet at home, this is the place for you. The Roadhouse is not just pet-friendly, it’s pet-centric.

Continental breakfast is included with your stay and includes fresh-baked goods like banana bread, but don’t think about asking for cow’s milk in your coffee—the Roadhouse is strictly vegan. With each room named after a Best Friends animal alumnus featuring stories and photos to pull on your heart strings, even non-vegans might find themselves converted after spending time among such devoted animal lovers. 

Spacious, wood-paneled rooms, featuring tiled bathrooms and smooth-sliding barn doors, are thoughtfully designed to prioritize pet needs almost as much as yours. Dogs and cats get their own sleeping nooks or beds so you don’t have to share. Outside on the beautifully-gardened grounds, hotel guests gather in communal spaces to trade stories and recommendations. There’s a dog park complete with a splash zone, self-serve pet-washing and laundry stations, café, and mercantile with plenty of cute merch.

If your own pet doesn’t do so well with travel, you can even borrow one: the Sanctuary provides furry friends for those who want to take them for a sleepover. It’s a unique chance to combine your vacation with a vacation for a shelter animal, and gives them some much-appreciated individual attention while you get a snuggle buddy.

Even if you don’t have time to volunteer, head up the road to the Best Friends Animal Sanctuary for a tour. The property boasts stunning views—if you can tear your eyes away from the up to 1,600 rescue horses, pigs, bunnies, birds, cats and dogs enjoying luxurious care on the property. Their vegan lunch buffet is famous—and free for hotel guests.

A little farther afield is the state’s oldest and most-visited national park, Zion. Or, go the dog-friendly route and explore Coral Pink Sand Dunes state park together. On the hottest days, book a guided hike at Peek-a-Boo Slot Canyon with Dreamland Tours. The vibrant red Navajo sandstone walls, towering 80-feet high, act as natural air conditioning—making this the perfect outdoor adventure when you need respite from the sun.

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The future of the Dirty Devil hangs in the balance

Sponsored: proposals are being considered to substantially increase the number of off-road vehicle routes, threatening to forever transform these lands from quiet redrock backcountry into motorized-dominated playgrounds..

The Henry Mountains and Dirty Devil area is a stunning and remote southern Utah landscape. Stretching from Capitol Reef to Canyonlands and down to Glen Canyon National Recreation Area, these rugged public lands are the heart of redrock country. A trip to this corner of the state offers a true escape, complete with star-filled skies, striking sunsets, and blissful quiet.

This expansive area is made up of several distinct regions, ranging from the sinuous redrock canyons leading to the Dirty Devil River to the sweeping badlands surrounding Factory Butte to the lush, alpine peaks of the Henry Mountains. Cultural sites reflect thousands of years of human history. The varied topography provides endless opportunities for hiking, canyoneering, camping, seasonal boating, and exploring with family and friends.

The future of this remarkable place hangs in the balance as the federal Bureau of Land Management (BLM) develops a new travel management plan for the Henry Mountains and Dirty Devil area. This plan will determine where off-road vehicles are allowed on nearly 1.5 million acres of public lands for decades to come.

New balanced plan urgently needed

A new plan that strikes a thoughtful balance between motorized and non-motorized recreation is urgently needed. The use of off-road vehicles in Utah—including all-terrain vehicles, dirt bikes, and side-by-sides—has skyrocketed in the last decade, and these new vehicles are faster and louder than ever before, reaching farther into the backcountry.

These machines can have a big impact on the land and other recreationists. Off-road vehicles harm streams, generate dust, damage cultural sites, and create tremendous noise (you can often hear them coming well before they appear). Because of the damage they often cause, it’s critical that off-road vehicle use is carefully managed and reasonably controlled.

For decades, the BLM prioritized off-road vehicle use, sometimes at the expense of cultural and natural resources. Coupled with lax enforcement of existing travel plans, those practices led to significant and increasing damage throughout much of Utah. Off-road vehicles are driving deeper into remote locations, often creating new routes through fragile soils and desert streams and making it difficult to escape the sight and sound of these vehicles.

Only recently has the BLM finally started to grapple with the overwhelming presence of off-road vehicles by trying to balance motorized and non-motorized use. For example, a travel plan finalized in 2023 for the Labyrinth Canyon and Gemini Bridges area near Moab will help protect cultural sites, riparian habitat, and the experience of non-motorized recreationists while still allowing for motorized recreation on more than 800 miles of dirt trails and routes.

Despite the serious impacts from off-road vehicles, the BLM is under extraordinary pressure to expand their use, even in the remote Henry Mountains and Dirty Devil area. The agency is considering proposals to substantially increase the number and mileage of off-road vehicle routes, threatening to forever transform these lands from quiet redrock backcountry into motorized-dominated playgrounds.

BLM must get the plan right

It’s critical that the BLM get things right in the new travel plan—by ensuring access to trailheads, scenic overlooks, and recreational opportunities, while also protecting the very reason people want to visit such remote places in the first place: to enjoy the unspoiled beauty of Utah’s public lands.

For more information and to submit a public comment on the Henry Mountains and Dirty Devil travel plan, click here . Comments are due Saturday, October 26, 2024. Defend the Dirty Devil!

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Don’t miss these canyons for spectacular fall foliage

American fork and provo canyons offer stunning views from the car or on foot.

By Dennis Romboy

American Fork and Provo canyons offer some of the most spectacular fall foliage on the Wasatch Front and are connected via the Alpine Loop, making for a colorful drive.

But there are areas in the canyons where the leaves can be experienced on foot from a casual walk on a paved path to a strenuous hike on a rugged trail. You could also throw your bikes on the car or start from the valley if you prefer pedaling through the trees.

Both canyons can be accessed off I-15. For American Fork Canyon, take the Timpanogos Highway exit and head east. For Provo Canyon, take the Orem 800 North exit and head east. Both roads lead straight up the canyons.

Here are a few places for a drive-and-walk or drive-and-bike in the the two canyons:

Tibble Fork Reservoir/Silver Lake Flat

These popular outdoor recreation areas offer hiking and mountain biking, trails fishing, camping, ATV roads and horseback riding. Tibble Fork and Silver Lake are managed by the U.S. Forest Service and require a $6 fee to access. To get to the reservoirs, turn left at North Fork junction in American Fork Canyon. Tibble Fork is two miles up. Silver Lake Flat is above Tibble Fork. Before reaching the entrance of Granite Flat Campground, take the dirt road that leads off to the right to get to the lake.

Cascade Springs

This spot is a must-see for those traveling the Alpine loop. It features gurgling springs cascading through limestone terraces and glimmering pools. There are two paths that start from the parking area. One is relatively steep, while the other has an easier incline. The paved and wooded paths allow visitors to explore beautiful waterfalls and ponds. Cascade Springs can be reached from the summit of the Alpine Loop, coming from either Provo or American Fork canyons. A sign points at the top to the seven-mile drive to the springs.

Big Springs Park

The park serves as the trailhead to an easy 4.3-mile hike along a small creek through a broad valley to Big Springs, a natural spring flowing from the mountainside. The path offers stunning mountain views, abundant vegetation and frequent wildlife sightings. The park at the trail head has lots of grass, trees and picnic areas. To reach Big Springs Park , drive to Vivian Park in Provo Canyon and either drive or bike a couple of miles up South Fork.

Bridal Veil Falls

The natural waterfall spills down the rugged mountainside just a few miles up Provo Canyon. A paved path runs along the Provo River below Bridal Veil Falls from the mouth of the canyon to Vivian Park. There are several parking lots near the falls just off the highway that provide access to the path. You can walk or ride the trail in either direction. Going east from the falls, you will find a placid stretch of river where the reflection of the red and yellow trees is stunning — and makes for beautiful photos.

Stewart Falls

On the east side of Mount Timpanogos, Stewart Falls — named after early prominent settlers in the area — cascades in two tiers for more than 200 feet. The trail for the moderate, four-mile out-and-back hike starts at Aspen Grove, just off the Alpine Loop road. There is a $6 fee to park at Aspen Grove. Several trails start in the same spot, including one to the top of Mount Timpanogos, so pay attention to the signs. The trail is well maintained and the falls can be seen from a ridge near the end of the hike but continue down a steep incline to reach its base. The water is frigid.

Luxury glass dome resort now open in southern Utah near Bryce Canyon

Phoenix (AZFamily) — The first luxury glass-dome glamping experience is now open in Utah, just across the Arizona border.

Clear Sky Resorts gives guests a unique way to see the stars just 15 minutes from Bryce Canyon.

Hal Feinberg started Clear Sky Resorts to create a unique travel experience. Several years ago, he opened a similar dome resort in Williams for Grand Canyon travelers.

“Once we discovered Geo domes, we kind of knew that would be a vehicle that would really turn heads and wow people when they walked in,” Feinberg said.

However, these domes are only partially glass, so Feinberg wanted to take the glamping experience to the next level.

“We can make this even more special. With glass domes there’s more ability to see stars. You can even see shooting stars from your bed up at the Bryce Canyon location with the glass,” he said.

The new resort has 25 glass domes but will eventually expand to 62. Feinberg said it’s a comfortable way to connect with nature.

“We can help someone escape reality for a couple of days and see stars that they will never see in a big city or even a small town,” he said. “It just does something to change people.”

Feinberg said it’s not hard to create a breathtaking experience when they are located near national parks in the beautiful southwest.

“Northern Arizona is so special and so is southern Utah. I would say that they’re the prettiest areas in the country,” Feinberg said. “If you’ve never been to Bryce Canyon or the Grand Canyon those views, you can’t describe them.”

Different sizes and models of the domes can fit 2 to 8 people.

Both the resort near the Grand Canyon and in Utah offer different activities, from nightly smores to hiking. Both are near national parks.

You can find out more about the resort here.

See a spelling or grammatical error in our story? Please click here to report it .

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Winter in Southern Utah

National Parks in Winter How to Prepare

Winter Basecamps

Explore the regions, southwestern utah.

Popular base camps of this region include Torrey, St. George, Cedar City and Kanab. Three (of five) of Utah's national parks also find their home in this portion of the state: Zion, Bryce Canyon and Capitol Reef. More experienced off-season travelers might check out Cedar Breaks or Grand Staircase-Escalante national monuments. From snowmobiling  and  snowshoeing  to winter star parties and cozy yurt camping, the rewards of winter's depths are beckoning the well-prepared traveler to  Southwestern Utah.

Southeastern Utah

From base camp, jot down your plan, gear up and set out on your winter expedition in Southeastern Utah . This region includes Arches and Canyonlands national parks, both incredible landmarks, but not the only noteworthy and wonder-filled locations found here.  Bears Ears ,  Natural Bridges and  Hovenweep national monuments are more than ready for your trek across their landscapes. Even  Monument Valley has waited all summer for winter to let loose its magic across its famous views and iconic spots, lately dusted with snow.

Winter Inspiration

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For an extraordinary adventure, plan winter hikes in Utah’s Zion National Park. Winter rewards hikers with stunning sights of stalactites and snow covered mountains.

The Complete Winter Camping Packing List for Staying Warm in Southern Utah

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Yurt Camping in Utah: How To Have a Wintertime Yurt Excursion

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Make a Note

As you travel, bear in mind that nighttime temperatures will dip below freezing and high mountain passes may be closed and/or snowy. Be sure to check local road conditions and weather utilizing webcams and alerts. Plan ahead with these Tips to Pack for a Southern Utah Winter Trip . With the privilege of solitude, of course, comes some responsibility: It’s crucial that visitors to the area follow Forever Mighty principles to keep the locations beautiful year-round.

Explore an Itinerary

A Winter Trip Through the Heart of Utah’s Desert

Experience a world unlike anything you’ve ever imagined in the high desert mountains and plummeting canyons of south-central Utah. You’ll step into two national parks, three state parks, and all the scenic winding roads your heart could desire.

Alpine, Après and Arches

Timed perfectly for winter, this journey takes you to some of the finest mountain resorts in the world, then to the most spectacular vistas of the scarlet-hued desert.

Larger Than Life: Winter in Southwestern Utah

This desert is dramatic. In a really good way. Experience the towering heights of Zion, the depths of Buckskin Gulch, the dunes of Snow Canyon, the sunset over Gooseberry. Southern Utah’s wilds are wearing their winter splendor.

Ski Southern Utah: High Alpine Trails + Red Rock Wonder

Southern Utah is home to two high-elevation ski areas that contain generous helpings of what we call (with authority) The Greatest Snow on Earth®. Things can be a little quieter down here this time of year. Give yourself at least five days to combine the thrills of Southern Utah skiing and boarding with exploring the wintertime wonders to be found in Utah’s red rock country.

Winter Aglow in Southeastern Utah

Find your sense of adventure and awe in the vast yet intricate swaths of desert from Arches National Park to Monument Valley. From delicate river-fed ecosystems to crimson-hued rock buttresses, this magical landscape is awash in history, dating back thousands of years to the original Native American settlers to whom these places were sacred.

Winter's Summits and Rockscapes

There’s no better way to experience a bit of everything Utah offers. Ski its heavenly powder snow, then point your car southward to wind your way through the exquisite Bryce Canyon National Park, Zion National Park and a series of crimson-hued state park gems along the way.

Well-prepared travel is responsible travel.

Do your part by planning ahead

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BLM off-highway vehicle plan in Utah draws scorn

By Scott Streater | 09/27/2024 01:36 PM EDT

The bureau this week released a draft environmental assessment of proposed off-highway vehicle routes that some say are too restrictive.

A view of the Henry Mountains in Utah. Dave Schumaker/Flickr

The Bureau of Land Management is drawing closer to finalizing a plan in remote Utah that seeks to balance the thorny issue of off-highway vehicle use and natural resource protection. But off-highway vehicle advocates remain dug in, saying the proposal is too restrictive.

It’s another in a series of travel management plans from BLM that have been the source of years of litigation and debate.

BLM this week released a draft environmental assessment of proposed off-highway vehicle routes in the Henry Mountains and Fremont Gorge plan covering, collectively, 2,200 miles in parts of remote Garfield and Wayne counties in southern Utah.

There is no preferred alternative in the draft environmental assessment, which is now open for public comment through Oct. 26. But each one of the proposed alternatives would keep more than half the current 1,800 miles of routes designated as open or open with some limited use restrictions.

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1067 E Southern Homestead Blvd,  Enoch, UT 84721

Single Family

Jennifer Davis

ERA Realty Center

435-586-2777

Last updated:

September 26, 2024, 09:37 PM

About This Home

Stunning, better-than-new home in a Quiet Neighborhood! Welcome to your dream home! This beautifully upgraded property boasts a perfect blend of modern design & practical amenities in a serene, quiet neighborhood. Step inside to find gorgeous LVP flooring throughout & a versatile front office or 4th bedroom off the entry, ideal for work or guests. The heart of the home is an open-concept kitchen & living room with a modern touch. Enjoy cooking & entertaining in a stylish kitchen with a tile backsplash, a large farmhouse single-bay sink, & a convenient corner walk-in butler's pantry. CAT 5 Ethernet runs to nearly every room, making it easy to stay connected. The spacious master suite offers a peaceful retreat with charming barn doors, dual vanities, & plenty of space for relaxation. Step outside to discover a fully fenced yard with a block wall on two sides, providing privacy & style. A covered back patio with extra concrete is perfect for outdoor gatherings & comes with the beginnings of an outdoor kitchen. An above-ground pool awaits your finishing touches for endless summer fun. The added turf provides year-round enjoyment without the hassle of maintenance. This home is a true gem with so many extras, ready for you to move in & make it your own! Don't miss the opportunity to see this incredible property schedule your private showing today!

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