Utah is a state in the western part of the United States. It’s known for its stunning natural beauty, with tall mountains, deep canyons, and vast deserts. The capital city is Salt Lake City, famous for the Great Salt Lake, a vast inland sea with salty water.
Utah is also home to several national parks where visitors can see incredible rock formations and enjoy outdoor activities like hiking and camping. The state has a rich history, including its early settlement by Native American tribes and later by Mormon pioneers. Today, Utah is a mix of modern cities and breathtaking wilderness, making it a popular destination for tourists and outdoor enthusiasts.
Here are some of the best things to do on your next trip to this hilly state.
1. Best Cities to Experience
1.1. Salt Lake City
The hub of urban development and the largest populated city in Utah, Salt Lake City is known for its distinguished liberal mindset, in contrast to the rest of this conservative state. With elevations of 4,000 ft above sea level, you will see plenty of hiking trails or paths to take and enjoy the scenery below.
Salt Lake City is also famous for its skiing, religious tourism, and the Utah Pride Fest, which celebrates equal rights and love in supporting LGBTQ community.
1.2. Moab
This city in Utah is home to some of the most dramatic scenery. It hosts many arches, canyons, and national parks. Moab is also a hub for events like the Moab Music Festival and Folk Festival. Moab welcomes all nature lovers, bikers, and off-roaders.
1.3. Park City
Park City is one of the biggest tourist attractions in Utah, with two popular ski resorts, Deer Valley Resort and Park City Mountain Resort. It held the prestige of being a significant ski area at the 2002 Winter Olympics. Apart from this, Park City hosts the United States’ largest independent film festival, the Sundance Film Festival. This festival is a significant event throughout America, and many people come to attend; we hope you are one of them next time!
1.4. Provo City
This city is the second-largest metropolitan area after Salt Lake City. It boasts a plethora of activities and fun-loving people, making it ideal for tourists to visit on their trip to Utah. The Ice Peak arenas in Provo were also privy to the 2002 Winter Olympic events. Apart from these activities, Provo is also a hub for cultural development, with the Church of Jesus Christ of Latter-day Saints taking precedence in this region and technological advancements, with several billion-dollar startups.
1.5. Cedar City
Known for its impressive Shakespearean festival, this charming, picturesque city is surrounded by mountain ranges and passes. It also provides a great path to Zion National Park and various other parks. If you love comfortable, aesthetic places to take great pictures, this is the city for you.
1.6. Ogden
An up-and-coming city 40 miles north of Salt Lake City, Ogden has a brilliant downtown area lined with budget-friendly cafes, galleries, and spots to hang out and a rich history as a railroad town. Another exciting activity is the self-audio tours offered to tourists starting at Union Station at 25th Street and Wall Avenue.
2. Best Places to Visit
2.1. Zion National Park
Zion National Park is one of the most biodiverse habitats of Utah and boasts a staggering number of plants, animals, and bird species. The highest peak stretches to 8,726 ft, and the lowest a staggering 3,666 ft. The inhibited joy of this park is attributed to its beautiful scenery and the reddish-tan hue of the Navajo sandstone that makes up the Zion Canyon. This park has mountains, canyons, rivers, and arches, making it a must on your Utah checklist!
2.2. Arches National Park
Arches National Park gets its name from just that: its arches! The reason for the large number of arches in this region is the fact that it lies over an evaporite salt bed. This predicament has led to some of the strangest yet most incredible geological formations. The most relaxed arch here is termed the delicate arch and creates an unusual loop shape, making it a prime tourist attraction.
2.3. Bryce Canyon National Park
Bryce Canyon National Park was previously inhabited by Mormons in the 1850s and was named after Ebenezer Bryce. The most popular attraction of Bryce Canyon National Park is not its canyons but the large mass of hoodoos found in this region, created by frost weathering and steam erosion. The Bryce Canyon National Park is rich in wildlife, hues, and geological formations, which create an unforgettable experience.
2.4. Capitol Reef National Park
This National Park is known for its arid desert landscape and scenery, though it is not too high on the elevation scale. It still has some of the most beautiful trails and views. This park gets its name from the whitish Navajo sandstone formations and domes. It also holds some impressive petroglyphs on cliffs from 300-1300 CE.
2.5. Canyonlands National Park
In southeastern Utah, Canyonlands National Park has many canyons, buttes, and mesas formed by the Colorado River and its tributaries. If you know trails and rivers, it is one of the most magnificent places to visit. Author Edward Abby described the park as “the most weird, wonderful, magical place on earth—nothing else like it anywhere.” One of the major attractions is the Mesa Arch, which creates an unnatural fold shape and is worth checking out.
2.6. Alta Ski Area
For skiing enthusiasts, this ski resort is a perfect place to visit. As one of the country’s oldest and most successful ski resorts, it boasts eight lifts and more snow than almost any Utah ski resort. People love the Alta ski resort and frequently visit it for its fun-filled snow experience; it constantly improves its facilities and experiences, so visiting this ski resort is a must.
2.7. Coral Pink Sand Dunes State Park
A Park that majorly gets its name from the pink dunes formed due to the erosion of pink Navajo sandstones. Located below red sandstone cliffs, this creative color palette allows for the immense popularity of this park. Photography, snowboarding, hiking, and off-road vehicle driving are also large parts of this scenic park, providing a delightful experience. Coral Pink Sand Dunes State Park is another gem in Utah!
2.8. Park City Mountain Resort
Another brilliant ski resort in Park City is known for its training courses. Park City Mountain Resort hosted the snowboarding men’s and women’s events in the 2022 Winter Olympics. The resort has brilliant race arenas, such as its eagle race arena and slalom courses. A Resort with 7,300 acres, 43 lifts, 341 runs, and six terrain parks is a prime skiing destination and must-visit.
2.9. Angel’s landing
A beautiful rock formation for sunset and hiking lovers, this trail rewards its passersby with a surreal view at the top known as Angels Landing. Zions Canyon from the angels landing at sunset is a view you will not want to miss.
2.10. Joe’s Valley
This significant bouldering climb settled near Orangeville is perfect for rock climbers looking to get into bouldering or simply for boulderers. With an excellent rocky way, this climb requires little to no roping and has three main sections: left fork, right fork, and new joe’s. An estimated 15,000 climbers attempt Joe’s Valley annually, and we hope you will be one of them this year!
2.11. Logan Canyon
Situated in the Wasatch range in northeastern Utah, this canyon is famous for various activities such as camping, fishing, rock climbing, and mountain biking. Logan Canyon also houses Blue Bear Lake, a fun, scenic stop to enjoy beautiful water bodies.
2.12. Bonneville Salt Flats
One of the most extensive salt flats of the Great Salt Lake, it is a densely packed saltland made of 90% table salt. This white landscape will leave you reeling. Compared to heaven on earth, it resembles a snowy wonderland but is a salty wonderland. The sunsets here are also incredibly fabulous.
2.13. Monument Valley Navajo Tribal Park
Although open to the public, this land is very sacred to the Navajo tribe that inhabits it. Thus, it is essential to be respectful and gracious. If you wish to learn more about the native Navajos, you could opt for a formal tour operated by a Navajo local. Apart from cultural importance, this park has many activities, such as hot balloon rides and horseback riding.
2.14. Antelope Island State Park
Like the other national parks, Antelope Island also offers breathtaking views, gorgeous hikes, and an opportunity for wildlife spotting. This park is home to many species of bison, bighorn, deer, sheep, and antelope. For animal lovers, this park is perfect.
2.15. Anasazi State Park Museum
A historically rich must-see, this museum has a blast from the past effect. Filled with traditional Anasazi tools, art, and more, you can visit to see how the Puebloan villages operate. The museum is not too big and takes the perfect time to explore, giving you a little intellectual stimulus from all the extensive scenery.
3. Bakeries, Coffee houses, And Restaurants
3.1. Café Diablo
This restaurant, located 8 miles from Capitol Reef National Park, is a delicacy for meat eaters. Known for its delicious taste and ambiance, this restaurant has everything from steak to fresh trout to even their signature rattlesnake cakes served with anch-rosemary aioli. A rattlesnake cannot be eaten anywhere, so we highly recommend trying this restaurant if you are into exotic foods.
3.2. Prairie Schooner Steak House
Utah and steak go hand in hand here at the Prairie Steak House with their locally sourced steak and out-of-the-box dining experience. At Prairie Steak House, you can wine and dine under the stars in an open wagon next to a prairie campfire and awaken your inner cowboy!
3.3. Communal Restaurant
Located in Provo, this restaurant is an excellent choice for solo travelers looking to make friends. A family-owned farm and chain, Communal Restaurant believes in the goodwill of good food and sharing with the community. Everyone is seated on a long communal table filled with random strangers, so if you are an extrovert, you will probably be leaving with many connections in Utah.
3.4. Stone Ground Kitchen
Located in Salt Lake City, this prime eatery is privy to an incredible ambiance and taste, great waiters, a 5-star average of reviews, and the best Italian food you will ever have. If you are craving a freshly made Italian-style pizza in Utah, this is where you must visit.
3.5. The Capital Grille
Also located in Salt Lake City, the Capital Grille shows you how good steak and wine can be if paired correctly. With an extensive collection of rare and old wines/liquor, The Capital Grille is one place to visit to experience the Flavors of an authentic Utah steak.
3.6. Salt Lake Coffee Break
This cozy and artsy grunge café in Salt Lake City is known for having some of the best coffee around, so for our caffeinated travelers, this might be a sight worth seeing. With an intrinsically unique style, the interior of this coffee house screams the 1800s; it helps that the coffee is excellent, too.
3.7. Encircle Café
If you want your daily caffeine fix and somehow feel like you have done your part for the world on this fine day, Encircle café is the place for you. A non-profit coffee house that contributes all its profits to LGBTQ+ youths and their family to support equal rights for all sexualities, this place is a morality must-visit on your trip to Utah.
3.8. Vosens Bread Paradise
The best thing since sliced bread, Vosens Bread Paradise, is known for its delicious, soft, fluffy, and flavorful bread. From options such as the traditional baguette or loaf bread to sandwiches and Cubans.
3.9. Eva’s Bakery
Located in Salt Lake City and famous for its melt-in-the-mouth cheesecakes, this is one sweet shop you do not want to miss, especially if you have a sweet tooth. With a wide range of desserts and stellar reviews, Eva’s Bakery is rich in taste but also clientele. This bakery will drag you inside by the nose!
3.10. Stein Eriksen Alpenglobes
Another unique dining experience in the middle of the mountains in Deer Valley, Utah, is this strange but enthralling affair centered around enjoying your food around nature in a glass dome. You can see the rich snow-covered terrain in front of you as you enjoy the delicious delicacies prepared by Alpenglobes.
4. Some Water Bodies To See
4.1. The Great Salt Lake
Also known as “America’s Dead Sea,” it is home to millions of brine shrimp, birds, and the largest population of Wilson’s phalaropes worldwide. The Great Salt Lake is the largest lake in the Western Hemisphere and the 8th largest terminal lake globally.
It is famous due to its sheer size and the striking unnatural pinkish hue of its water, which is caused by large amounts of halophiles in the water. Halophiles love salt, and the Great Salt Lake, true to its name, is 6-7 times saltier than the ocean. These pink shores are a must-do in Utah if you wish to enjoy Utah’s biodiversity to its fullest!
4.2. The Narrows
Referring to the narrowest part of Zion Canyon in Zion National Park, this opulent trail is also a waterway to dip your toes in, surrounded by canyons and walking in clear waters. It is one of the most beautiful experiences one can have. You can even hike to the temple of Sinawava to enjoy some spiritual zen time.
4.3. The Colorado River
Specifically, the part of the Colorado River that runs through Moab, Utah. In this opulent waterway, you can enjoy a variety of water sports and river rafting. There is also the option to have a romantic (or not, go solo; we do not judge) dinner cruise with music and a light show. The Colorado River provides the people of Utah with water and entertainment; what more could you ask for?
4.4. Emerald Pools
Another beautiful example of a trail on Zion National Park, these pools have a clear greenish hue, giving them their name, “the emerald pools.” It is a journey to see them, but we promise you every step is worth it.
4.5. Lake Powell
Lake Powell is a strikingly scenic waterbody situated in Utah. It offers an extensive list of water-based activities and sports, such as fishing, kayaking, jet skiing, and boating. Lake Powell is great for recreational activities, with sandy beaches, white skies, and crystal blue water. So, like a seagull, migrate to Lake Powell to enjoy its exceptional environment.
4.6. Kanarra Falls
A waterfall in Kanarraville is part of a moderately strenuous trail that will leave you breathless because of the view! This hike will have you looking at all the colors in the canyon surrounding you in awe, only if you do not mind getting your feet wet. However, this trek is a little slippery, so wear shoes with a good grip and get your cameras ready to enjoy the surreal experience!
5. Activities To Do
5.1. Horse ridding
Utah, with its extensive outback and cowboy lifestyle, is known for its desert and arid environment. And what better way to get around in a landscape like that than on horses? Many popular trails and parks in the state, such as Capitol Reef, Bryce Canyon, and Provo City, offer horseback riding. You will feel like you have been transported to an old Wild West movie, touring the beautiful canyons on horseback.
5.2. Hiking
The main attraction of this state is its beautiful hikes and trails encompassing everything from wildlife to rock formations and waterfalls. Utah is known for its beautiful parks and lakes, so going to Utah and not checking out at least one of the above parks would be a shame.
5.3. Water Sports
Ironically, some of the most incredible things to do in Utah, the desert state, have to do with water bodies. Above, you will find listed some of the best water bodies and rivers to frolic about when the heat gets to you. Along with waterfalls and lakes that change color! Mountain biking and off-roading are great, but kayaking and fishing seem to have their place in Utah.
5.4. Skiing
Although most of Utah seems to be hot, dry, and sandy, there are extreme mountain regions where temperatures drop enough to form snow, making skiing one of Utah’s most prominent attractions. The region has hosted many events in the Winter Olympics over the years. Some popular ski resorts are Alta Ski Arena and Park City Mountain Resort.
5.5. Rock Climbing
In an ode to the bumpy terrain of Utah, rock climbing seems to be quite popular in the mountains and hikes. Of course, rock climbing such extreme terrains is quite risky if you do not have previous training; thus, as a recreational activity, we suggest you choose fewer straining climbs and have all the proper precautions in place.
6. Festivals To Attend
6.1. Sundance Film Festival
Held in Park City, Utah, this annual festival organized by Sundance Institute is the largest independent film festival in the United States. With over 40,000 people attending annually, many films premiering at Sundance have gone on to win Oscars and various acclaimed titles.
6.2. Salt Lake City Pride Event
Usually held around June-July and in many different cities, however, Salt Lake City hosts the largest pride festival. Including parades, guest speakers, and members of every section of society who come together to celebrate the various sexualities and genders of the world. In 2021, a massive arch of 1,000 balloons was made with a 300-foot pride flag, a festival worth coming to Utah for!
6.3. St. George Art Festival
A celebration of the fine arts held in St. George, Utah, this festival has attracted quite the buzz due to its unique out-of-the-box concepts and entertainment. With everything from food, dance, creative art, and a create-your-own art station, this festival is a must-do on your Utah checklist!
7. Conclusion
Although a partial desert state, Utah is quite like a metaphor: simple at first glance but increasingly complex and fun on further inspection. It is worth traveling to and recommending to others if you visit any of the places mentioned in the list and have a fun experience.
Don’t forget to leave a comment letting us know. It is filled with outback activities, food, and some of the best hikes and trails; someone who loves outdoor scenery and wildlife observation would love a trip to good old Utah!
Last Updated on March 5, 2024 by Khushahal Malakar
