Do you want to see long stretches of wilderness, incredible canyons, enormous cliffs, and hot springs? If yes, then Utah is your calling. It is one of the most picturesque states in the US. So, while you pack your bags, we’ll plan the perfect itinerary for your vacation.
Here are the top ten destinations of majestic Utah that you shouldn’t miss.
Bonneville Salt Flats
Have you ever imagined what 147 million tons of salt will look like? If not, head to Bonneville Salt Flats to see the surreal 12 miles of salt stretch. This Hollywood-favorite location is a natural marvel and a perfect spot for fantastic photography.
During the winter, water accumulation on the surface turns the salt flats into an excellent reflecting mirror – a captivating sight to behold! That’s not all because many racing and archery events are held here too.
St. George
If you are craving some man-made fun after all the wilderness, St. George is the perfect place to retreat. Contact climbing, ring skating, golf, bumper cars, laser tag, soccer fields: you name it, St. George has it.
Pioneer Park in the center of St. George has 52 acres of trails if you are still craving some hiking.
Hop into Judd’s store, open since 1911, for some candies and local favorites.
St. George offers luxury and comfortable living facilities in the wilderness. Looking for a spot you’ll love? Desert Color St George is one such place. You can choose from various rental options that suit your requirements.
Arches National Park
Utah’s most iconic monument, the delicate arch, is located in Arches National Park. The park is a natural wonder with more than 2000 red rock arches and stone formations. You can hike or bike on various trails. Horseback riding sessions are also available on the trails.
You can also go canyoning to the deep canyons for adventure, climb a rock to behold nature’s eccentricities, or sit on the Landscape Arch and enjoy a mesmerizing sunset.
Zion National Park
To witness nature’s bounty, head over to Zion National Park. From boating in the Virgin River to hiking and climbing, the park affords all kinds of outdoor activities imaginable. However, if you want an experience to cherish for a lifetime, stay for the sunset and see the mighty cliffs turn orange and deep crimson in the fading sunlight.
How about ending your day with a view of the milky way? Stay longer till nighttime and watch billions of stars in the stunningly clear night sky at the park. You will never forget the purity of Utah’s night sky!
Homestead Crater
Homestead Crater is a rock dome surrounded by a geothermal hot spring popular for scuba diving and snorkeling all year round.
You can go solo or hire a trained diver for a lifetime adventure. You can also snorkel, swim or soak your feet and wonder at a 10,000-year-old natural wonder around you.
Bryce Canyon National Park
Want to see the greatest collection of hoodoos on earth? Head to Bryce Canyon, the ultimate destination for witnessing the rocky side of nature. With the never-ending vistas of hoodoos, cliffs, and a wide array of evergreen trees, Bryce Canyon will have you spellbound!
Visiting the park during the winter is also a fantastic experience. The park holds a winter festival with winter sports for visitors. The park also offers an Astronomy festival and the Annual Geology festival. You can plan your trip around these festivals for either stargazing galas or the guided free tours about the formation of hoodoos.
Monument Valley Navajo Tribal Park
Monument valley is what many people imagine Utah to be, and they aren’t wrong. If you want to see the classic wild west like in a Hollywood movie, you’re at the right place! The enchanting mighty valley will surely take your breath away.
The valley has a 17-miles long loop road where you can find local artisans selling different handicrafts. Don’t forget to get some souvenirs to cherish your trip.
Lake Powell
For the best west sandy beach experience, the 2000-mile shorelines of Powell Lake await your arrival. The magnificent views of the lake are enough entertainment without any sports or activity. But, if you’re looking for some fun in the water, kayaking, a speedboat ride, or jet skiing would be ideal.
Bluff Fort Historic Site
In the middle of Utah’s natural wonders, Bluff Fort is a history enthusiast’s dream. Replete with the original artifacts from the pioneers’ journey, the Hole-in-the-rock trail offers a piece of Mormon history. The site is full of extraordinary views and is open to visitors free of charge all year long.
Sundance Film Festival
A movie buff’s ultimate travel destination is the largest independent film festival held in Utah. With night screenings of the best of the cinema, the Sundance Film Festival runs for two weeks and is a perfect end to a yet more perfect vacation.
Conclusion
Whatever flavor you want your vacation to have, you can’t go wrong with Utah! With five national and state parks, natural wonders, the ancient history of the Americas, you’ll have lots to see and experience.
If you want to marvel at nature’s best, from mighty canyons to dunes to water reservoirs, Utah has you covered! It isn’t one of the most photographed places on earth for no reason, so let’s prepare for a vacation of a lifetime.
If you think we missed a spot, comment below to let us know.
