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29 Amazing Hidden Gems in Utah

A state in the western region of United States of America, Utah derives its name from the Ute tribe, who were the earliest settlers in the region, long before Europeans and Mormons claimed their ownership. The state is known to be the only one of its kind to have a majority of its residents belonging to a single church – approximately 62% of the total population are members of The Church of Jesus Christ of Latter-day Saints (LDS).

Neighbored by Colorado, Wyoming, Idaho, Arizona, and Nevada, Utah is the 13th largest state by area in the nation and has the least income inequality.

Did you know that Utah has 29 counties and that every county in the state contains some part of a national forest? Did you also know that Colonel Sanders of Kentucky Fried Chicken didn’t open his first shop in Kentucky but in Salt Lake City, Utah?

A true western haven, Utah is home to many geological diversities as well as a great range of tourist activities such as snowboarding, hiking, skiing, and rock climbing. Additionally, the state also holds a lot of many secret spots that are yet to be discovered. Let us explore some of the hidden gems in Utah and find out what else the state has in store.

1. Pando the Trembling Giant, Richfield

Second only to the giant mushrooms of Oregon, Pando the Trembling Giant in Richfield, Utah is a group of 47,000 quaking aspens which share a single root system and has spread over 107 acres of land. Reportedly, they are over a million years old, hence, Pando is not only one of the largest organisms in the world but is also among the oldest.

Located within the grounds of Fishlake National Forest, the Trembling Giant was first discovered in the 1960s by botanist Burton Barnes. Pando, Latin for “I Spread,” is a forest in itself and is considered among the most picturesque group of trees found anywhere on earth.

Weighing roughly around 6,500 tons, Pando, like other trees of “his” (according to ecologist Paul Rogers) kind, reproduces asexually, thus, making all the other trees stem out of a large clone.

2. Nellie Pucell Unthank Memorial, Cedar City

Nellie (née Ellie) Pucell Unthank was born in England in 1846. At the age of 9, Nellie, along with her entire family, joined the LDS Church and moved to the Salt Lake Valley, the United States to live close to the community they belonged to.

During their journey from England to Utah, they were hit by an untimed snowstorm. The catastrophe claimed her father’s life and five days later, Nellie and her elder sister lost their mother as well. Nellie walked across the snow barefoot and would have eventually died if Brigham Young didn’t send out for her and her sister. By the time the girls reached Utah, Nellie’s legs suffered majorly due to frostbite.

To save her from further ailments, her legs were amputated with a saw and a butcher knife while she lay conscious without anesthesia. Because of the unprofessional standards of surgery, her stumps never healed.

At 24, Nellie married William Unthank and moved to Cedar City to start her new life. Her injury didn’t stop her from being a hardworking and caring mother. Nellie and her children even took the initiative of cleaning the entire LDS meetinghouse once a year.

She died at the age of 69 and a statue of a smiling, brave Nellie with her legs attached was erected at the site of her former family home (present day Southern Utah University campus).

3. Trilobite Quarry, Delta

Going to a museum and appreciating a million-year-old fossil in a glass showcase is one thing, but the feeling of getting your hands dirty and digging for your own fossil is not just fun but extremely rewarding.

Blessed with one of the richest deposits of trilobites on earth, the U-DIG fossil site offers 500 million-year-old trilobite fossils. And, not only can you dig for your own fossils here, you can also keep the rewards of your own excavation adventure.

Spread over forty acres of land one mile off of the main highway, Trilobite Quarry preserves the fossils in a near-perfect condition which makes digging for fossils extremely easy.

Carry your own tools or rent some at the quarry and go trilobite hunting with the whole family – about ten to twenty fossils can be unearthed in a few hours.

4. The “Up” House, Herriman

Remember that amazing scene from Up (2009 movie) when Carl, tired of all the goons trying to throw him out of his house, tied a bunch of helium balloons and transformed his home into a makeshift airship, and flew away on an adventure? Well, there is good news and bad news – the “Up” house exists in reality, but, it isn’t flying away anywhere (at least not anytime soon).

With permission from Walt Disney Pictures, Bangerter Homes, a custom construction company, created the near-perfect replica of the wonderful house of Carl and Ellie in 2011.

Owned by Clinton and Lynette Hamblin, self-proclaimed die-hard Disney fans and real-life Carl and Ellie, the Disney dream house has been built to resemble the bright home as is shown in the movie.

A white picket fence, a weathervane, and a mailbox on the outside and the living room, nursery, and of course, the armchairs have been added to make the house look as similar to the “Up” house from the movie.

The Hamblins offer photo shoots (for a fee) inside and outside the house and you can bring in your photographer and props.

5. The Spiral Jetty, Corinne

A part of the 1960s sculptural movement known as “Land Art,” the Spiral Jetty was created by Robert Smithson in April 1970, however, it stayed hidden submerged underwater for over 30 years until it resurfaced in 2004.

Constructed during a drought, the Spiral Jetty is made of mud, basalt rocks, and salt crystals and it spreads 1,500-foot in length in an anti-clockwise coil from the shore till far out in the Great Salt Lake.

Donated to Dia Art Foundation in 1999, the Spiral Jetty’s fate depends majorly on the surrounding level of water. Reportedly, the jetty is in the danger of sinking underwater again if the water level surpasses 4,197 feet.

The pink-hued water and the spiral-like dock makes even the most usual sunsets look surreal.

6. The Wahweap Hoodoos, Kanab

A couple of hours north from Grand Canyon’s southern end, the Wahweap Hoodoos, also known as the “white ghosts,” is unlike any other creek formation that you may have seen in your life. They are massive, they are white, and they are definitely worth the five-hour-long, 9.2-mile out-and-back hike.

Considered as one of the most peculiar geological formations on the continent, the Hoodoos hike takes you through the Coyote Creek followed by the Wahweap Creek and the strangely-dubbed Nipple Creek. At the 0.5-mile mark, the ramshackle “Hanging Garden” welcomes you and by the 3.6th mile, you enter the first Wahweap Hoodoo.

A hoodoo, as explained by geologists, is formed when a thin layer of hard rock covers a hard level of soft rock. Sometimes, a crack in the hard layer allows for the soft rock to erode. But, a small, resistant cap of hard rock protects the inner deposit of soft rock and gradually transforms into a vertical pinnacle.

Research shows that the Hoodoos have been in existence since T-Rex roamed the wild valleys of Utah.

7. Mountain Meadows Massacre Memorial, Enterprise

After the death of their founder, Joseph Smith in 1844, the Mormons began fearing for their survival in the hostile environment of Missouri, and hence, the entire community, under the guidance of Brigham Young, Smith’s successor, began traveling west to Utah sometime in 1846-47.

The settlement was just adapting to their new living conditions and surviving the loss of their leader when the Baker-Fancher group of migrants, on their way to California from Arkansas, arrived in Salt Lake City to rest and refill their depleting stocks. However, due to their misplaced fear and irrational xenophobia, the Mormon government acted with despise towards the migrants, who quietly left the area.

Gradually, the emigrant group reached Mountain Meadows, but little did they know of the fate that awaited them. With the help of a few local Paiutes, the militia led an attack on the Baker-Fancher group and after a long struggle, every human being in the group of migrants who were elder than seven years of age was killed.

Though the militia tried to blame it on Paiutes, the truth came out sooner than later and the militia leader was sentenced to death.

Today, the Mountain Meadows Massacre Memorial, established by the Mormons in 1999, stands as a symbol of a giant black patch of shame and disgust in the history of Americans, Westerns, and Mormons.

8. Mystic Hot Springs, Monroe

Mike Ginsburg, a self-proclaimed artist, director and producer, was on his way to Denver in 1995 when he accidentally came across what is now known as Mystic Hot springs.

Though the actual water source that caters to Mystic Hot Springs have been in existence for over a few million years, the modern resort and bathtubs were added around 1996.

Formerly known as the Monroe Hot Springs, the banks of the hot springs were used by the Native American tribes of Ute, Piute, and Shoshone for camping. Mike began with one cabin and soon realized that he needed much more. So, he went on to add more cabins, create designated soaking areas, set up workshops and concerts, and restore many of the pioneer cabins.

The best part – Mystic and its owner allow you to bring your furry friends along, provided they are well-behaved, kept away from the hot tubs, and that you can clean up after them. Also, they are always welcoming new volunteers to help out with restoring and working around the hot springs in exchange for room and board, so go ahead plan your gap year, if you haven’t already!

9. Homestead Crater, Midway

The Homestead Caldera, also known as “The Crater,” is a natural hot spring estimated to be around 10,000 years old. Open year-round, the hot springs are frequently visited by swimmers, divers, and bathers.

The giant hot tub is found nestled within the Homestead Resort, who have taken the initiative of blasting a horizontal tunnel through the area to provide easy access (for a nominal fee, of course).

The 55-feet-high cathedral-like dome that covers the Crater’s brilliantly soothing waters (between 90 to 96-degree Fahrenheit) have been formed naturally over time due to sediment deposit. At 65-feet deep and 400-feet-wide, the Crater is considered the largest mineral dome in the area.

A wooden deck and two designated soaking areas are available for tourists.

10. Museum of Ancient Life, Lehi

Established in 2000, the Museum of Ancient Life is known to house one of the largest collections of mounted dinosaurs in the world, including a 120-foot long Supersaurus specimen – the largest of its kind on earth.

The museum houses approximately sixty complete dinosaur skeletons and more than fifty hands-on exhibitions. A haven for your little scientists, the museum lets your kids dig for their own fossils and serve as a Junior Paleontologist. Alternatively, they can observe the Senior Paleontologists recover a 150-million-year old Barosaurus.

Designed by Cliff Miles, the expert paleontologist and the man behind naming Minotausaurus and Hesperosauras, the Museum of Ancient Life also houses an IMAX 3D movie theatre, correctly known as the Mammoth Screen Theatre, which runs several daily shows educating visitors about various geological and biological spectacles.

11. Victim of the Beast Gravestone, Salt Lake City

Amidst the many graves of Salt Lake City Cemetery, Salt Lake City, Utah lies a gravesite with an unusual tombstone that reads: Lilly E. Gray, Victim of the Beast 666. While a solid theory behind the strange inscription and the cause of Lilly’s death remain unsolved, several speculations have been made over the period of time.

Lilly died on November 14th, 1958 at the age of 77. Her obituary stated that she died of natural causes, but the theory seems far from the truth, at least as per the records of her husband, Elmer Gray’s journal. According to Elmer, he was kidnapped by Democrat officials and was held in Utah State Prison and his wife, Lilly, was murdered by the kidnappers.

Another, more viable story comes from Mike Ellerbeck of Salt Lake Monument, a company that has been making headstones for over a century. Ellerbeck recalled that Lilly’s family despised Elmer and wanted both to keep away from each other. The couple had met at a later stage in life and had an unusual chemistry. He further recounts that Elmer was the one to order the tombstone for Lilly and the “beast” he referred to was the Government.

Yet again, these are all speculations, and nothing has been known for sure, but that hasn’t stopped curious souls to pay a visit to this one-of-a-kind grave.

12. Gilgal Sculpture Garden, Salt Lake City

Located in Salt Lake City, Utah Gilgal Sculpture Garden is a small but interesting public park filled with intriguing figurines and engravings representing Mormonism and its influence on this part of the nation.

Established in the mid-twentieth century by Thomas Battersby Child, Jr., the garden comprises 12 original sculptures and over 70 rock formations engraved with scriptures, poems, and texts honoring the Mormons. The only entitled “visionary art environment” in Utah, the Gilgal Sculpture Garden belonged to Child from 1947 until his death 1963.

Among the many statues such as disembodied heads, grasshoppers, and a sacrificial altar, what stands out the most is a sphinx with the head of Joseph Smith, founder of Mormonism.

There is a life-like statue of Child within the park which is now managed by a group of citizens who call themselves “The Friends of Gilgal Gardens.”

13. Hell’s Backbone Scenic Road, Escalante

Known by its creators as The Poison Road on a craggy terrain called the desert slick rock surrounded by the Box-Death Hollow Wilderness area around the town of Salt Gulch lies Hell’s Backbone Scenic Road!

The towns of Boulder and Escalante are joined by two separate routes – a nice, paved scenic route over Scenic Byway 12 and another, a gravel road which was built before the paved route and is still gravel today. But, the views around the gravel pathway that take you through a winding road that is 9,000 feet above the ground is unsurpassable.

Built by the Civilian Conservation Corps (the CCC) in 1933, Hell’s Backbone may not be the last road on earth, but it is definitely one whose construction is extremely hard to imagine.

Equally beautiful in terms of scenery and landscape, the two roads make for a great drive, but only of the two offers a heart-thumping view of how life looks thousands of feet below.

14. Sri Sri Radha Krishna Temple, Spanish Fork

The religious side of Utah is not unknown to the world, after all, it has the largest (62% of the total state population) community of believers belonging to a single church (LDS). However, the Sri Sri Radha Krishna Temple believers are slightly different than the usual 62%.

Established in 1998, the Temple was built by a group of Hindu devotees who belong to the special religious group known as the Hare Krishnas, worshippers of Hindu Gods, Radha and Krishna. The architecture, unlike the gothic and utilitarian styles of Mormon churches, includes a domed hilltop temple and a large amphitheater where hundreds of worshippers can gather and pray at the same time.

Take a walk among llamas and cows at the natural park, enjoy the Sunday Love Feast, admire the architectural beauty, or simply get involved in the festival of colors aka Holi, one of the largest festivals in the world.

15. Burr Trail Switchbacks, Garfield County

If you think you are a professional hiker and can drive around through the toughest trails in the world, think again! The Burr Trail Switchbacks, since it was first established by John Atlantic Burr in 1876, have challenged the most adventurous travelers from around the world.

John Atlantic Burr was born aboard the SS Brooklyn in 1846, His family lived in Salt Lake City and later established the town of Burrville. Burr established the trail as a cattle trail through the valleys of Waterpocket Fold, Burr Canyon, and lower and upper Muley Twist Canyon trail. The same challenging yet picturesque pathway came to be known as the Burr Trail.

The trail passes through the striking landscapes of Glen Canyon National Recreation Area, Capitol Reef National Park, and Grand Staircase-Escalante National Monument.

Check the weather conditions before you make your way there since the roads are known to get tougher even for 4WDs during winters.

16. Parowan Gap Petroglyphs, Parowan

Located near the Little Salt Lake in the small town of Parowan is a natural gap in the mountains that hides in its belly hundreds of ancient petroglyphs and pictographs.

Assumed to be over a few thousand years old, the Petroglyphs, formally known as the Parowan Gap Petroglyphs, have been interpreted in a lot of different ways. While some researchers argue that the engravings depict a complex calendar system, Hopi and Paiute people state that the inscriptions display different animals and geographic shapes.

Most of the petroglyphs are intact and have been preserved well, but some have been vandalized since the arrival of Anglos. Among the conserved are a few footprints that resemble that of dinosaurs.

A small cave that is believed to be occupied by shamans and used for ritualistic practices hides inside and a well-paved trail takes you along the natural gap.

17. Tintic Standard Reduction Mill, Genola

An ore refinery which once served the nearby gold, silver, lead and copper recovered from Eureka, Tintic Standard Reduction Mill in Genola, Utah is one of the shortest-lived reduction mills in the history of United States.

Surprisingly, the construction of the mill began in 1921 and even though the building was completed and opened for operation, it closed for business by 1925. At the time of its operation, the mill used the “Augustine Process,” an acid-based procedure of ore refinement. However, the technology was deemed inefficient and so, the mill was shut down.

Today, the strong construction still remains where it stood almost a century ago and is now a graffiti-covered hillside fortress. Listed as a National Historic Site, the Tintic Standard Reduction Mill still emits a glow of ruinous beauty.

18. 17 Room Ruin, Bluff

Located right outside the city of Bluff, Utah is a gigantic 100-foot-deep hollow that overlooks the San Juan River. Within the natural alcove lays the 17 Room Ruin, an alleged settlement that was created sometime in the 1200s, and has since remained preserved by the hollow.

The Ruin is known to have between 14 to 18 rooms, though most researchers claim there are 17 and that these single-filed spaces were inhabited by a few Ute families. Access is through a narrow rooftop passageway which connects to one another via a number of internal passages.

Graffiti art covers the back wall of the ruins while handprints of several original residents of the settlement surround the vicinity. Also known as the 16 Room Ruins at times, the site is as great for hiking as it is for catching an insight into the lives of Southwestern Native Americans.

19. Grafton Ghost Town, Rockville

Settled by Mormons under the guidance and supervision of Brigham Young, the town of Grafton was established with an intention to serve as a base for cotton plantation. Located a few miles from the Zion National Park, the town was formed in 1859 by five Mormon families who soon realized it was better to grow food crops here than cotton. Unfortunately, in 1862, the surrounding Virgin River flooded and washed away the entire town.

In 1866, local conflicts led to the abandonment of Grafton (resettled a mile from the original site) but farmers still kept coming back to take care of their crops. A couple of years later, a bunch of settlers returned to the town and established a schoolhouse, which stands to date.

By the 20th century, the town was left abandoned again and today, it stands as a ghost town with a history of on and off settlements.

An annual reunion of the town’s descendants is organized to honor the spirit of the village which has featured in popular movies like Butch Cassidy and the Sundance Kid and In Old Arizona.

20. 109-Year-Old Fruitcake and 70-Year-Old Bacon, Hurricane

In Hurricane, Utah is a small museum known by the name of Pioneer Heritage Museum which has some of the most unique (and old) collection one can ever find, for instance, the remaining slices of a 109-year-old fruitcake and a 70-year-old slab of bacon.

In 1907, Emily Wood and Joe Scow got married, and Mrs. Ballard presented them with a Grafton-baked fruit cake covered in pink flower with dew drops on them. At the time, there was a trend of preserving such cakes as a keepsake and so their family held onto some. While most of the frosting and the dewy pink flowers were consumed over time by the family of the newlyweds, some of the fruitcake was kept on the original mantle for the next 83 years. The mantle, along with the remains of the cake, was donated in 1990 to the museum by the couple’s granddaughter.

The bacon slab, however, belongs to Grace Wright Jepson, a different, unrelated pioneer of the Hurricane Valley, who was known for her a great many talents. She served as a nurse, a midwife, and a cured meat magician. A mother of seven, Grace put away a slab of bacon wrapped in a sackcloth in the family shed sometime in 1945. Unfortunately, she passed away in 1958 and everybody forgot about the bacon lady’s master craft that still remained in the shed. In 1996, Woodrow, one of Grace’s son, rediscovered the slab and donated it to the museum.

The bacon slab still looks really well-preserved, though it most likely isn’t healthy to try anymore.

21. The Pioneer Memorial Museum, Salt Lake City

Between 1846 and 1868, members of The Church of Jesus Christ of Latter-day Saints (LDS) traveled across 1,300 miles of land from Illinois to Utah, covering the states of Iowa, Nebraska, and Wyoming on their way.

The Mormons who participated in the trail carried with them all sorts of daily survival necessities – clothes, bedrolls, quilts, tools, and guns, etc. The Pioneer Memorial Museum in Salt Lake City, Utah is the final resting place of most of those objects that were carried by Mormons during their grand hike through America.

Maintained by the Daughters of Utah Pioneers, the display claims that it has the largest collection dedicated to a specific subject in the world. True or not, the exhibition at the museum definitely throws a bright light into the domestic living habits of Mormon migrants.

Though most of the compilations are quite intriguing, some of the more bizarre-natured objects on display are a petrified potato, an alleged magic-cured bloodstone, and a collection of rattles from the rattlesnakes killed by a woman named “Hilda.”

22. Sun Tunnels, Wendover

Completed in 1976, the Sun Tunnels is a unique art installation by Nancy Holt, the late American artist known for her art installations and art related media work.

Set in an open X configuration, the four eighteen-foot-long and nine-foot diameter tunnels have holes of varying sizes pierced through them. It may seem like nothing to the untrained eye, but, in fact, the holes imitate the constellation of Capricorn, Draco, Columbia, and Perseus.

Located in a remote valley 45 miles north of Wendover, Utah in the Great Basin Desert, the Sun Tunnels have been divided into pairs to align with the setting and rising of the sun during the summer and winter solstice, respectively.

The best way to enjoy the tunnels – fill up your gas tank, charge your camera, pack a picnic lunch, blanket, sunscreen, and a sketchbook if you’d like and make a full day out of it.

23. Metaphor: The Tree of Utah, Wendover

Installed in the 1980s by Karl Momen, a European artist, the Metaphor, often dubbed as the Tree of Utah as well as the Tree of Life, is a psychedelic artwork that has intrigued the interest of passing tourists ever since it was first put in its place.

As the story goes, Karl was on his tour of the Bonneville Salt Flats when he had an epiphany. The result – a 90-foot tall, square-trunk concrete tree with multicolored orbs that looks like the rendition of a user on an acid trip!

In total contrast of the salt lands underneath its feet, the Metaphor is surrounded by spherical objects made of concrete, looking like as if they fell from the tree.

A plaque sits on the bottom that reads: Ode to Joy by Friedrich Schiller – who’s Joy and what’s the connection, you ask? Well, we are hoping you could tell us because we have absolutely no idea.

24. The Cassidy Trail, Panguitch

Within the boundaries of Dixie National Forest, Utah lies the bewitching red sandstone hoodoos of the Red Canyon, formed over a period of a few thousand years of erosion, frost, and rain. Also known as tent rocks and earth pyramids, the red hoodoos comprise Pine trees that adds more flavor to an already-intriguing bunch of rock formations. But, this isn’t all that lies hidden within the geological formations of Red Canyon.

The area, aside from its magnificent beauty, is also known to be related to the famous American robber, Butch Cassidy. It is believed that Cassidy was born close to the area and hence, it’s no surprise that the trail is named after him.

As the story goes, Cassidy got into a fight with another man over a woman in Panguitch. Enraged, the famous outlaw tried to kill his competitor with his bare hands. Believing that he had killed his opponent, Cassidy went into hiding amidst the vast terrain of Rock Canyon. Little did he know that the man survived and chased after him with a gang of his own. Cassidy got word of it and spent the next few days hiding out along the trail until the gang left.

Reportedly, a lot of modern-day criminals (perhaps a fan of Cassidy’s) have followed the same hiding trail to escape conviction after committing crimes out of Utah.

25. Gravesite of Utah’s First Jedi Priest, West Valley City

Within the grounds of Valley View Memorial Park and Funeral Home lies a hidden gravesite marked by an onyx-colored craft that states, “Steven Allan Ford, May The Force Be With You – Always.” You may think of it as a grave of a diehard fan or even a prank, but the grave is as real as graves can be.

Steven Allan Ford, born in 1980, was many things – a father, a brother, a son, an FX artist and a minister. He was also known to cheer people around him with his gifted sense of humor. And, he was also the first ordained Jedi priest of the Temple of the Jedi Order.

Jediism, for those who haven’t watched a single episode of Star Wars (seriously?), is not a strict, separate religion but a combination of one or more religions combined with Code of Chivalry and practice of martial arts. Needless to say, Ford was a true believer, follower, and preacher.

Ford died on September 7th, 2010 of a broken heart and was buried at the Park underneath a plaque that best describes his true self.

26. Fantasy Canyon, Vernal

Canyons, craters, rock formations, and other such natural phenomena are usual in the state of Utah, especially in the northeast. However, no other region is as ethereal as the pertinently named Fantasy Canyon.

Spread over a short stretch of 10 acres of land, Fantasy Canyon has some of the most unusual and intriguing rock formations to be found anywhere in the world. Officially documented for the first time in 1909 by Earl Douglas, a notable paleontologist and explorer, the site comprises rock formations made of quartzose sandstones which are believed to be from Eocene Epoch (about 50 million years ago that is).

While most of the formations look abstractly beautiful, a few distinctively resemble animals such as bears and dinosaurs – maybe that’s why it is called Fantasy Land – a place where you can let your fantasy run wild!

27. First Lady Dolls, Vernal

Uintah County Western Heritage Museum, at first glance, looks like just another usual collection of prehistoric artefacts, objects signifying the state’s history and geography, and tools that represent a part of Vernal’s medical history, but take a closer look and you will be amazed to find three glass cabinets full of doll replicas of every American First Lady till Nancy Reagan.

Situated on the second floor of the museum, the dolls have been arranged chronologically, starting from Martha Washington (1789-1797) to Mary Ann Todd Lincoln (1861-1865) to Eleanor Roosevelt (1933-1945) to Nancy Reagan (1981-1989).

Created by Salt Lake City-based sculptor Phyllis Juhlin Park, the set of 43 porcelain dolls are slightly larger than your usual Barbie and were unveiled to the public on the nation’s bicentennial in 1976. Unfortunately, Park retired after creating the doll replica of Nancy Reagan, so she is the museum’s last First Lady (so far).

While Park has passed away since then, the museum awaits a magician-sculptor to add the remaining five First Ladies since Nancy. Until then, the current collection holds an exquisite display for you to enjoy.

28. This Is The Place Monument, Salt Lake City

Brigham Young, the successor of Joseph Smith after he was killed in 1844, was the second president of the LDS Church who served the Mormon settlers and the Church for three decades until his death in 1877. He is most noted for his outstanding role as a leader during the forced exodus of Mormons from Illinois to the present-day land of Mormons, Utah.

Young arrived at the Salt Lake Valley (then part of Mexico) on July 24th, 1847 and as he stood overlooking the vast basin, he realized that he had found just the place. Reportedly, Young actually uttered the words, “This is the place.”

Located in the eastern region of the city, This Is The Place Monument seizes the day Young decided to establish a new Mormon colony in the heart of Utah. Crafted between 1939 and 1947 by Young’s grandson, Mahonri M. Young, the monument is a historical monument not only dedicated to Mormonism and its great leader but also to the explorers of the American West.

29. Nine Mile Canyon, Carbon County

It’s unsure why they are called the Nine Mile Canyons considering they spread over forty miles, but, there is no doubt that it is the largest art gallery in the world!

Known for its extensive ancient pictographs and petroglyphs, the Canyon dates back to Fremont and Ute people, and the engravings surrounding the canyon were reportedly created between 400 and 1400 CE. Equally popular among tourists and archaeologists, the canyon served as a major transport route during the 1880s.

Many of the rock art creations depict hunting processes and rituals of the tribes as well as animal life such as bison and birds.

Relics of a short-lived town named Harper, a stagecoach stop at the time and a ghost town now, can be found near the Canyon. Though threatened by natural as well as man-made erosion, 63 archaeological sites of the Nine Mile Canyon are listed in the National Register for Historic Places.

29 Amazing Hidden Gems in Utah:

• Pando the Trembling Giant, Richfield
• Nellie Pucell Unthank Memorial, Cedar City
• Trilobite Quarry, Delta
• The "Up" House, Herriman
• The Spiral Jetty, Corinne
• The Wahweap Hoodoos, Kanab
• Mountain Meadows Massacre Memorial, Enterprise
• Mystic Hot Springs, Monroe
• Homestead Crater, Midway
• Museum of Ancient Life, Lehi
• Victim of the Beast Gravestone, Salt Lake City
• Gilgal Sculpture Garden, Salt Lake City
• Hell's Backbone Scenic Road, Escalante
• Sri Sri Radha Krishna Temple, Spanish Fork
• Burr Trail Switchbacks, Garfield County
• Parowan Gap Petroglyphs, Parowan
• Tintic Standard Reduction Mill, Genola
• 17 Room Ruin, Bluff
• Grafton Ghost Town, Rockville
• 109-Year-Old Fruitcake and 70-Year-Old Bacon, Hurricane
• The Pioneer Memorial Museum, Salt Lake City
• Sun Tunnels, Wendover
• Metaphor: The Tree of Utah, Wendover
• The Cassidy Trail, Panguitch
• Gravesite of Utah's First Jedi Priest, West Valley City
• Fantasy Canyon, Vernal
• First Lady Dolls, Vernal
• This Is The Place Monument, Salt Lake City
• Nine Mile Canyon, Carbon County

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27 Amazing Things to Do in Utah that Aren’t National Parks

Utah is home to sooo many amazing things to see, do, and experience that there is obviously no way I can fit all of them into this post. Of course, Utah is known for its five amazing national parks.

However, as a Utah native, I’m going to do my best to fill you in on loads of Utah’s hidden gems that you’ve got to experience. This list of best places to visit in Utah covers the whole state starting in northern, central and then southern Utah.

So many of these places to visit are perfect for families, couples, or solo travelers. Between breathtaking vistas, sandstone hoodoos, spectacular salt flats (and a million other amazing things), everyone will find something they like in Utah!

Map of Unique Things to do in Utah:

*Use this map to create your perfect Utah itinerary with all of Utah’s hidden gems*

Things to do in Northern Utah

1. mantua poppy fields.

 The Mantua Poppy field is a lovely area in a small town called Mantua (pronounced man-away), about one hour north of Salt Lake City. It makes a great stop on your way to Logan, a day trip from Salt Lake, or you can even make a weekend of it by camping at the nearby Box Elder Campground .

The peak time to see the Mantua poppies in bloom is usually the end of May-early June. Around dusk you may find a lot of photographers visiting with you, however, earlier in the day may result in a poppy field a little less crowded. While you’re there, visit Mantua Reservoir for fishing, swimming, and other water activities.

Utah is also home to another poppy field in Alpine. You can find more information about the Alpine poppies here .

2. Snowbasin Resort

When most people think of ski resorts in Utah, their first thought is Park City. However, just a 45-minute drive from Salt Lake City in beautiful Ogden Valley rests a resort called Snowbasin that has not only great skiing but amazing summer activities as well like scenic gondola rides, hiking, mountain biking, mini-golf, and yoga.

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My favorite thing to do at Snowbasin Resort in the summer is to ride the Needles Gondola up the mountain for endless mountain and valley views. Once at the top, you can hike on their variety of trails including the three hiking-only trails that lead to the crest of the ridge for breathtaking views of the valley below. Keep your eyes open for mountain goats, moose, and other wildlife!

You can pick up food from Needles Lodge at the top or pack your own picnic for a scenic lunch overlooking the valley. A great picnic spot is located off the blue Needles Trail above Moonshine Trees on Snowbasin’s Summer Trail Map . This breathtaking area is indicated with a picnic table icon.

Keep your eyes on their website for their summer full moon lift rides as well! It’s an event you’ve got to experience. Ride the Needles Gondola up at dusk for sunset views then you get to admire the moon through telescopes provided at the top. My husband and I did this when we were dating and you can’t ask for a better night out.

Check out this post: 16 Best Hiking Shoes, Boots, and Sandals for Women

3. albion basin.

Hiking and strolling through Albion Basin is one of the best things to do in the summer in Utah. Albion Basin is located at the top of Little Cottonwood Canyon near Salt Lake City above Alta and Snowbird ski resorts resting at 9,500 feet. The drive alone through Little Cottonwood is something you’ve got to do, but then add on Albion Basin and your day will be perfect.

Every July and August, Albion Basin turns into a spectacular wildflower-viewing area where you can go hiking, biking, and camping. An easy hiking trail for all skill levels with gorgeous wildflowers is the Albion Meadows Trail . Or another great trail option, rated as moderate, is the Cecret Lake Trail with both wildflower views and a gorgeous high-mountain lake.

You can find information on Albion Basin Campground here .

check out this post: Summer Camping Gear Essentials for First-Timers

4. antelope island.

  Antelope Island is the largest island in Utah’s Great Salt Lake which is the largest saltwater lake in the western hemisphere. The lake’s salt content is so high that you may be able to float in the water! You can also rent kayaks and stand-up paddleboards on the island. Along with enjoying the water, you can also go hiking, biking and wildlife viewing (with some of the best birding in the country).

A great, easy hike is the Buffalo Point Trail which takes you to the top of a hill with beautiful views and fun rocks to scramble on. If you are looking for a longer, more strenuous trail, the Frary Peak Trail will take you to the peak of the tallest mountain on the island with stunning views along the way.

One of the most unique aspects of Antelope Island (besides the crazy salty water) is that you can see free-roaming bison and antelope herds! Remember, do not approach the bison. And you can learn more about the wildlife of the island at the visitor center.

*Take note that during the warm months, Antelope Island can be crazy buggy. Like you will not have fun because of all the bugs flying around. However, you can call the visitors center to see what the current conditions are.

5. Red Fleet State Park 

Right in the heart of Utah’s Dinosaurland you’ll find beautiful Red Fleet State Park. Red Fleet features a picturesque reservoir where red rocks meet the water plus loads of amazing dinosaur tracks to see! The water is perfect for floating, kayaking, boating and fishing or you can just relax on the rocks and soak up some serious Vitamin D!

The dinosaur tracks at Red Fleet are thought to be more than 200 million years old and are preserved in the Navajo sandstone surrounding the lake! Paleontologists say the dinosaurs were three-toed and walked on two legs and their tracks range from 3 inches-17 inches. Isn’t that nuts to think about these dinos roaming the same area you are now hiking and camping? You can see the tracks on the Dinosaur Trackway Trail or from the lake if you have a kayak or paddle-board to approach the area.

Red Fleet is a 3-hour drive from both Salt Lake City and Provo, Utah. You can either camp at Red Fleet Campground or there are plenty of Airbnbs and hotels in Vernal which is only about 20 minutes away.

related post: Bryce Canyon National Park-Experience the USA’s Most Unique Winter Activity

6. dinosaur national monument.

When in Utah, you must do something dinosaur-related. Dinosaur National Monument is an amazing dinosaur fossil bone quarry located right in the heart of Utah’s Dinosaurland. You can visit the Quarry Visitor Center to learn about the history of the area and the dinosaurs. Then head to the world-famous Quarry Exhibit Hall which showcases over 1,500 dinosaur fossils exposed on a cliff face within a refurbished, comfortable space. It’s an amazing place to see dinosaur bones still within the rock and not yet excavated.

Within Dinosaur National Monument you can also go hiking, see petroglyphs, enjoy river rafting and mountain biking. Camping is available within the park or you can stay just 20 minutes out of the park in Vernal with plenty of hotel and Airbnb options.

7. Stansbury Island

One of the most unique hidden gems in Utah and one of the best places to visit in Utah is Stansbury Island. Stansbury Island is a quiet island that doesn’t see many visitors in the Great Salt Lake.

The best part of Stansbury Island is seeing the Morton salt fields on your way in and viewing and the gorgeous pink-hued water along the shores. The pink-colored water comes from salt-tolerant bacteria and algae that survive in the highly-salinated Great Salt Lake. 

I recommend visiting Stansbury Island in the spring or the fall for ideal chances of seeing the pink water. Take Stansbury Island Road to the north point of the island to find the best viewing point for the pink water. Take note that some areas of the island are private property, however, it is clearly marked. You also may find people target-shooting along the base of the small Stansbury peak.

Experiencing the salt fields and the pink water of the Great Salt Lake from Stansbury Island will be a memorable experience for everyone. 

8. Bonneville Salt Flats

One of the best things to do in Utah and for sure one of the most “Insta-worthy” things to do in Utah is visiting the Bonneville Salt Flats . Did you think you had to travel clear to Bolivia to see some gorgeous salt flats? Think again! Just a two-hour drive from Salt Lake City, you will find about 46 square miles of crystalized, gorgeous, stark-white salt flats.

It’s super fun to walk out on the salt, take photos and enjoy the views. You can also drive on the salt flats. If you choose to drive, you will want to to make sure the flats are dry otherwise they may crack and your vehicle may get stuck.

The Bonneville Salt Flats not only have stunning out-of-this-world views, but they are also an international racing hub! Since 1914 land-speed races have taken place at the salt flats in every kind of vehicle imaginable. We are talking vehicles reaching speeds over 400 miles per hour 😮! The best time to visit Utah’s salt flats to see racing is Speed Week which happens each August.

9. The Sun Tunnels

The Sun Tunnels by Nancy Holt (1973-76) is a unique art installation west of the Bonneville Salt Flats in Utah’s Great Basin Desert. The artwork consists of four concrete cylinders (18-feet long and 9-feet wide) laid out to frame the rising and setting sun each summer and winter solstice.

Not only does the tunnel frame the sun, but each tunnel has holes throughout which cast shadows of various constellations inside the tunnel depending on where the sun sits in the sky. Fun times to visit the Sun Tunnels are during the summer and winter solstice (around June 21 and December 21). Oftentimes a large group will gather to enjoy the art and nature of the solstices at the Sun Tunnels . However, you can enjoy the Sun Tunnels year-round.

Remember, if you do visit the Sun Tunnels , they are basically in the middle of nowhere so you need to make sure you have a full tank of gas (like seriously- coming from the north the last gas station is in Snowville 1.5 hours away, and coming from the south the last gas station is in Wendover also 1.5 hours away). Plus be sure to bring proper weather protection, snacks, plenty of water, and download maps because cell reception may be spotty.

10 Dugway Geode Beds

If you are looking to dig for geodes in the desert… this is your place! The Dugway Geode Beds have got to be one of the most unique outings and interesting things to do in Utah. The geode beds are definitely a long drive out in Utah’s west desert (just less than 3 hours west of both Salt Lake City and Provo actually). However, if you are a rock or crystal lover, this area is the perfect place for you!

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What you get to do here is hunt for geodes, crack them open, and keep what you find! For directions to the beds and tips on the best way to break open the geodes check out this page . You camp anywhere in the area as it is BLM land or a designated campground is available about one hour away at Simpson Springs which is the site of the former Civilian Conservation Corps (CCC) camp in the 1930s and 1940s.

Remember that as this location is out in the middle of nowhere, be prepared. Be sure to take plenty of water, spare tires, full tank and/or extra gas, first aid kit, downloaded maps, extra chargers and plenty of food.

related post: Summer Camping Gear Essentials for First-Timers

11. the spiral jetty .

Another unique art installation you’ve got to see in Utah is the Spiral Jetty . The Spiral Jetty was created in 1970 by artist Robert Smithson using over 6,000 tons of black basalt rocks and earth from the site. He formed a spiral measuring 1,500 feet long and 15 feet wide winding off the shore. Depending on the year and season, the Spiral Jetty may have water over it or it may be completely dry.

You can walk down to the jetty and walk the spiral enjoying its remote destination. Or for a pretty view of the jetty, climb up the hill next to the parking area to look out over the Great Salt Lake. If you’re lucky, you may also find pink water in this area of the lake! However, it does depend on water levels and specific algae levels.

I also recommend exploring the area to the southeast where you will find wooden columns from a pier or dock left over from an oil exploration operation that shut down in the 1980s. For interesting information and questions to think about, The Utah Museum of Fine Art put together a great Spiral Jetty experiential guide that you can find here .

The Spiral Jetty is quite remote on the northeastern shore of the Great Salt Lake and about a two-hour drive from Salt Lake City. The map on our phone was able to get us there just fine, however, I suggest bringing the driving directions you’ll find on this page along with you. A noteworthy stop along the way is Golden Spike Historic Park where the transcontinental railroad was completed in 1869.

12. Uintah Mountains 

The Uintah Mountains are an incredibly beautiful mountain range in north-eastern Utah and one of the only mountain ranges in the country that runs east to west. The Mirror Lake Highway is an amazingly scenic drive through the Uintahs where you will pass gorgeous high-mountain lakes, picnic areas, viewpoints, and campgrounds and summit at over 10,000 feet.

I was lucky enough to grow up camping every summer in the Uintahs and I highly recommend visiting. You can find almost any outdoor activity you are looking for in these mountains. An amazing *almost* 12,000-foot peak to summit in only a 2.7-mile hike is Bald Mountain . This trail rewards you with amazing views and lovely rock formations.

Three gorgeous lakes for camping and exploring are Mirror Lake, Moosehorn Lake, and Trial Lake. Or if you only want to take a scenic drive on the Mirror Lake Highway, it makes a great road for fall foliage peeping!

related post: 12 Gorgeous Northern California Hikes in the Sierra Nevadas

13. kennecott copper mine .

Kennecott Copper Mine (sometimes known as Bingham Copper Mine) is one of the largest open-pit copper mines in the world at almost 4 miles wide and 1 mile deep. It can even be seen from space! This mine is an amazing hidden gem in Utah and many people (locals included) don’t know you can tour it.

The tour includes a shuttle up to Bingham Canyon Overlook where you can learn its history, look over the spectacular mine, and see the huge operational vehicles up close. The trucks have tires over 12-feet tall! The tours are only $5 and you can find reservation information here.

14. Thanksgiving Point 

If you think you need to travel to Amsterdam to see tulips- think again. Thanksgiving Point in Utah has an amazing tulip festival every spring with over 280,000 tulips in bloom in over 150 varieties all imported from The Netherlands. This tulip festival is one of the best things to do in Utah in the spring.

You can spend around 2-3 hours walking through the gorgeous gardens, sculptures and water features of the Thanksgiving Point Gardens. You can even participate in the tulip 5k if you’d like!

Thanksgiving Point has other amazing activities and events along with the Tulip Festival. For example, the Butterfly Biosphere, Museum of Natural Curiosity, Museum of Natural History, Museum of Ancient Life (Dinosaurs), a working farm and special seasonal events.

15. Timpanogos Cave National Monument

One of the best things to do in Utah’s American Fork Canyon is hiking to and exploring Timpanogos Cave National Monument . Three beautiful limestone caves sit at the top of a strenuous 1.5-mile hike with switchbacks to the cave entrance. Because of the steepness of the trail, strollers and other wheeled vehicles aren’t allowed. Within the cave, baby carriers worn on the front are allowed, however, baby carriers worn on your back are not allowed.

The cave-tour experience at the base of the mountain at the visitors center, you then have 1.5 hours to hike to the entrance of the cave where you are met by a ranger to explore the 0.3 mile cave. The winding passageways of the cave are decorated with gravity-defying helictites, and crystals.

For a more extreme experience, you can even participate in an ‘introduction to caving’ tour where you can learn how to cave away from the trails and paths that usual tours take. You will scramble and crawl along the cave floor along unique caving paths.

16. Provo Canyon

Provo Canyon is a stunning and magnificent canyon connecting Provo to Heber City. I may be biased as I lived only a few minutes from Provo Canyon for almost 10 years. I drove through the canyon each day when I worked at Sundance Mountain Resort and even got my engagement photos taken in this canyon. It’s breathtaking.

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The Provo River is a relatively calm river (after the crazy spring runoff is over) with a few small rapids. You can rent tubes or larger rafts from various retailers and they will shuttle you to the top to let you float down. I definitely recommend using a rental company as the tubes they supply will be sturdy enough to not pop on the bushes (I’ve seen it happen) and they supply lifejackets which are required by law. Plus you won’t have to deal with shuttling logistics. The river is cooooold so you’ll definitely want it to be a hot summer’s day when you choose to float!

You can also bike the paved Provo River Trail which begins at the mouth of the canyon , passes Bridal Veil Falls, and ends at Vivian Park (which is a great picnic area). The length of that trail is 6-miles each way, however, there are many parking areas along the way to start or finish. Bridal Veil Falls is a beautiful waterfall where you can feed fish at the small pond at the base or take a short hike up to the second level of the falls. And if you visit in winter-you may see ice climbers on the falls!

17. Sundance Resort 

Sundance Mountain Resort is a hidden gem in Utah among Utah’s many ski resorts. In 1969, the famous actor Robert Redford bought the land now known as Sundance in an effort to create a community of conservation, art and nature. Sundance is located in beautiful Provo Canyon sitting at the base of majestic Mt. Timpanogos at over 11,000 feet (3,500 meters) tall.

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In the summertime, Sundance offers ski lift rides to enjoy the views or you can take the lifts all the way up to Bearclaw for a tasty meal with stunning mountain-peak views. You can also mountain bike, hike, visit the art blowing gallery, and shop at Sundance’s shop which was the start of the Sundance Catalog. Sundance also hosts summer concerts and musicals at their stage in the mountains.

If you have a little money to splurge (summer is much less-expensive than winter) I highly recommend spending a night at Sundance and enjoying breakfast at The Foundry Grill. No matter whether you stay in the summer or winter, two lift tickets are included each day with your lodging accommodations. I worked in lodging reservations at Sundance Resort and I can’t recommend it enough. People travel from all over the world to experience the majesty, tranquility, and peace found at Sundance Resort.

you’ll love this post: 16 Best Hiking Shoes, Boots, and Sandals for Women

18. homestead crater .

If you’ve been dying to visit a cenote in Mexico, but just haven’t gotten there yet… the Homestead Crater may just do the trick. The Homestead Crater is one of Utah’s many hidden gems located between Park City and Provo. The Crater is a uniqe hot spring, located within a 55-foot tall, beehive-shaped limestone rock with a hole in the top. You can float in the water, snorkel, and even scuba dive. It’s actually the only warm scuba destination in the continental US.

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However, if you don’t want to get wet, you can enjoy a self-guided crater tour to see its unique beauty and learn its history. The Homestead Resort (where the crater is located) has created an entrance at ground level with a deck over the water to make the crater easy to access. No matter the time of year or weather, the interior of the crater is always between 90-96° F.

19. Fifth Water (Diamond Fork) Hot Springs 

Fifth Water Hot Springs are a collection of beautiful, soaking hot pots and picturesque waterfalls along Fifth Water Creek located about 40 minutes southeast of Provo. It’s a 4.5-mile easy, roundtrip hike to reach the gorgeous hot springs plus the hike alone is an enjoyable experience.

Like most hot springs, weekends and evenings are likely to be more crowded so I recommend off-times for a quieter experience. Also, like with many hot springs, you may stumble upon a few people folks enjoying the hot springs in the nude.

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Things to do in Central Utah

20. young living lavender farm.

Located just 30 minutes south of Provo in central Utah’s dry and rugged landscape you’ll find the Young Living Lavender Farm and distillery. This peaceful area is has over 1,400 acres of lavender and other herbs, a beautiful reservoir, a pretty garden area and even horse stables.

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You can walk through the lavender fields, take photos and enjoy the serene beauty of the Young Living Lavender Farm. The peak months for lavender blossoms are usually June and July. The visitor center is open year round and you may even be able to pay a small fee to take home some of your own lavender. You can also experience distillery tours, wagon rides, and a small animal farm visit or participate in their annual Lavender Farm 5k!

21. Topaz War Relocation Center and Museum

The Topaz War Relocation Center was a Japanese-American WWII Internment Camp where Americans of Japanese ancestry were forced to live – some for up to four years resulting in one of the biggest violations of civil rights in American history. The American government and the US Army, falsely cited “military necessity,” and removed 120,000 adults and children from their homes on the western coast of the US, and forced them into ten remote camps.

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The Topaz Center was one of those camps and housed around 8,300 Japanese Americans at any given time. The camp was only 42 blocks big, held thousands of people and the main structures included two elementary schools, one junior/senior high school, a gymnasium, and a hospital. Very little is left at the site of the relocation center, however, some signs and scraps are still left and it makes for a good place to reflect and pay your respect.

Before visiting the site, stop by the Topaz Museum in Delta 16 miles from where the relocation center was located. The museum is full of amazing history about the site and beautiful Japanese artwork. Topaz is located about 2.5 hours south of Salt Lake City and makes for a great stop on your way to southern Utah.

22. Little Sahara Sand Dunes

Did you know that Utah is home to 60,000 acres of amazingly beautiful free-moving sand dunes, sagebrush flats, and juniper-covered hills? Who knew right?! Little Sahara Recreation Area is located just under two hours southwest of Salt Lake City and a perfect pit stop on your way to southern Utah.

Little Sahara is a mecca for Off-Highway Vehicles with multiple areas of various levels of difficulty. If ATV and OHVs aren’t your scene, you may want to steer clear of holiday weekends because the park can have as many as 20,000 visitors/riders on a weekend like Easter.

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However, you can also experience Little Sahara on foot! If you are looking for a great photo-op (and a bit of a workout) hike Sand Mountain which is the tallest dune in the park at 700 feet and sandboard down! Or you can fat-bike your way across the dunes. Little Sahara also has two ‘children play areas’ (which are quite large) completely closed to vehicles in White Sands Campground and the Jericho Picnic Area.

Four campgrounds are available at Little Sahara Recreation Area with 255 campsites in all at White Sands, Oasis, Jericho, and Sand Mountain. Dispersed camping is also available outside the designated campgrounds.

23. Pando (The Trembling Giant)

Pando, sometimes known as The Trembling Giant, is a beautiful grove of aspen trees of 40,000 individual trees covering over 106 acres located in Fishlake National Forest. Aspen trees can be found in many areas in Utah, however, Pando is unique because it is a grove of aspen clones that originated from one single seed. Pando is believed to be the largest, most dense organism ever found at nearly 13 million pounds.

The best times to see Pando is in the summer for green leaves or in the fall for gorgeous yellow leaves. Peak color changes are different each year, however, the color change generally occurs mid-September to mid-October each year.

You can pull off the road to walk into the aspen forest, or you can drive up to Fish Lake/Pando Overlook on the opposite side of Fish Lake for great views of Pando.

24. Goblin Valley State Park

Visiting Gob lin Valley is a completely out-of-this-world experience and one of the top things to do in Utah. The actual valley portion of the park is 3 square miles and full of thousands of ‘goblins’ or hoodoos. These amazing rock formations are made of sandstone and created because of the uneven hardness of rock. The softer rock is worn down by wind and water leaving this valley of amazing goblins.

You can freely roam and play in the Valley of Goblins as you wish. You are even allowed to climb on top of the goblins. One of our favorite things to do is to play tag and hide and seek. It’s like nature’s playground for your littles!

Along with playing among the Goblins, Goblin Valley has 6 hiking trails in the park. I recommend hiking The Carmel Canyon Loop. It is only 1.5 miles roundtrip and features a small area of beautiful narrows. A little scrambling is required, but that just makes it more fun :). If you are looking for a more intense outdoor experience, you can go on a guided canyoneering adventure to rappel down into a huge chamber and see Goblin Valley in a new way.

If you have time and energy, just a short drive out of the park is a gorgeous red-rock slot canyon called Little Wild Horse . Little Wild Horse is a long stretch of narrows where the smooth and sculpted red rock walls are so close together you may have to turn sideways. It’s a beautiful experience! Be aware that slot canyons can be extremely dangerous if rain occurs (even if the rain is far away from the slot canyon). So check weather forecasts and steer clear of August because of frequent afternoon rain showers.

Campsites are located in the park along with a beautiful yurt you can reserve.

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Things to do in southern utah, 25. cedar city’s utah shakespeare festival.

The Utah Shakespeare Festival is a famous, Tony Award-winning, professional theatre located in Cedar City on Southern Utah University’s campus. Each June through October the festival presents Shakespeare plays as well as other noteworthy plays in multiple different theaters. The most unique theater is by far The Englestad Shakespeare Theatre which is an outdoor replica of Shakespeare’s Globe Theatre!

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Besides Shakespeare performances, there are many other festive activities to enjoy like multiple seminars about actors, costumes, and props or taking backstage tours. Children must be six years old or older for the festival performances, however, the whole family is invited to The Greenshow each night before the play begins which is a free, fun, and lighthearted event for the entire family.

Not only is Cedar City home to The Shakespeare Festival, but there are also loads of great outdoor activities to enjoy in the area like at Cedar Breaks National Monument .

26. Snow Canyon State Park 

Snow Canyon State Park is a beautiful red rock park located just over an hour from St. George and often overlooked by visitors in southern Utah whose main goal is to see Zion National Park. Snow Canyon features a beautiful canyon carved from the red and white Navajo sandstone, the extinct Santa Clara Volcano, interesting lava tubes, and flowing petrified sand dunes. 

Activities in Snow Canyon include hiking, biking, rock climbing, and horseback riding. Two beautiful and easy trails are the Butterfly Trail and Jenny’s Canyon . Jenny’s Canyon is perfect for families who are looking for a short hike but also want to have the unique experience of exploring a slot canyon. In the heart of the park is the Petrified Dunes trail which is a beautiful area to explore off the trail and take amazing photos.

Camping is available among the red rocks in the park at Snow Canyon Campground or you can stay in a small town called Ivins just a few minutes out of the park. There are some beautiful hotels in the area and some amazing Airbnbs .

27. Tuacahn Amphitheater 

One of Utah’s hidden gems in the art world is Tuacahn Amphitheater . Tuacahn is located just 1 hour outside Zion National Park and 20 minutes outside of St. George. It makes a great place to spend an evening after exploring

Each year they hold multiple concerts and theater productions under the stars and right among the stunning red rocks of Southern Utah.

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Check out these other posts, I know you’ll love them:

Things to do in Bryce Canyon in Winter: The Perfect 1-Day Itinerary

• How to Spend One Perfect Day in Island in the Sky: Canyonlands National Park
• 11 Best Utah State Parks You’ve Got to Visit
• Summer Camping Gear Essentials for First-Timers

And those are your top 27 things you need to do in Utah beyond the national parks!

Let me know if you have any questions about Utah in the comments below. As a Utah-native , I love to talk about all things to do in Utah and beyond.

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Lisa Samelman

Jessica, thanks for the great article. Lots of things on your list that are not on others. I really appreciate that. Planning two trips one in August for speed week and then heading towards Lake Tahoe. Another in the last week of September in southern Utah I am older and really liked things on paper. I wish there was a way to print your article without all of the advertisement and pictures. Anyway, thanks for your research. Love it Lisa.

Hey Lisa, I’m happy to hear you found this helpful:) you could always highlight all of the words on the page, press copy and then paste it into a document to print off. You would just need to delete the photos that it also copies over. Have a great trip!

Really appreciate this list! Was able to find things to do not on every other typical list. Thank you!

So great to hear, Jo! I hope you have a great time in Utah!

Kyle Sullivan

Hi. I don’t know if this will get seen but I enjoyed the list too to bottom. I’m planning a trip in November as I’ve started a new job out here( I live in CT )and can’t get the time off until such a time but I have always wanted to visit Utah. It’s a state that I want to visit and see as much of while I’m there. If I find good reason to move, then I shall highly consider it as it’s one of the states that I’m looking at moving to. But, if there is anything that you can say that you’d advise me to do with my 1 week in this upcoming November, I’d be very grateful! Thank you!

Hey Kyle! How great that you get to visit Utah this fall. Although this article highlights things do to in Utah that aren’t national parks, for a first-time visit I would highly consider visiting 1-2 national parks in Utah (along with any of these other places that interest you.) Southern Utah will have great, cool weather in November which is much better than the heat of the summer. You may want to look into visiting Zion National Park or visiting Moab to see both Arches National Park and Canyonlands National Park (which are right next to each other). Depending on when you visit in November (and mother nature) northern Utah may be getting snow in the mountains come November, but usually ski resorts don’t open until the end of the month. I Hope you have a great trip!

Your post has some of the best information I have found in researching your beautiful state. We are mostly interested in enjoying your beautiful scenery on day trips from either one or two home bases. Also, we would like to find some easy short hikes along the way as we range in age from 11 to 70 years. Since we don’t ski we are thinking about an early October visit. We will probably confine our trip to mostly Northern Utah with maybe one day venturing as far south as the Provo area. Any suggestions on where to make our home base? I love getting first hand information from locals. Thank you!

Hey Joan 🙂 I’m so happy to hear that enjoyed the post. I hope you have a wonderful time in Utah. If you visit around the last week of September-the first week of October you will hopefully be in Utah for the changing of leaves in fall. If you plan to spend any time up in the mountains, this is a beautiful time to visit. I’m not sure what you are planning to do in Utah, but if you want to spend most of your time in the north, Salt Lake would probably make a good home base. You may also want to spend some time in Park City. Another fun thing to do in the fall is to take a ski resort lift ride to see the leaves changing color. Most ski resorts probably do it, but I have personally taken the fall lift ride at Sundance Ski Resort between Park City and Provo. A good hike might be the hike in Albion Basin in Little Cottonwood Canyon in SLC which is listed as ‘easy’ and you can hike as far or as little as you’d like. If you do have time available- I do highly recommend making your way a little further south in Utah to see a little bit of the amazing red rocks. A great place for this is Moab which is one of my favorite cities in Utah with Arches National Park and Canyonlands National Park right nearby. However, that will require a few hours of driving. I hope you have a great trip!

Thank you for your suggestions! I know they will be very helpful in my planning our trip.

I absolutely love this list! I have been to Utah so many times but have never heard of or been to most for the places your recommend. I can’t wait for my trip this April-July to explore everything you mentioned. Thank you!

Hey Desiree 🙂 I’m glad you found this helpful! I hope you have a great trip this spring/summer 🙂

These were great ideas for trip planning ideas other than the National Parks. Do you have recommendations what town to base when visiting Southwest Utah? We will be there 9 days in October.

Hey Amber! I’m so excited for your trip to Utah- I think you will have a great time. It really depends on what you plan on seeing while you are in Southern Utah, but some great cities to look at are Kanab or Springdale (right outside Zion National Park’s entrance). Or if you want a larger city, St. George is also a great option. Since you will be there for 9 days, I would possibly suggest choosing 2 different cities to stay to help you make the most of your driving.

Ashley Sullivan

Such a good list! 😍 thanks for the great spring break ideas!!

Hey Ashley! Thanks for checking it out 🙂 Have an awesome spring break!

so helpful! cant wait to incorp some of this into our trip

I’m glad you found it helpful Chelsea 🙂 Feel free to reach out if you have any questions as you plan!

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14 Beautiful California State Parks You’ve Got to See

7 perfect beaches in los angeles you’ve got to visit.

17 Secret Places in Utah (Off the Beaten Path)

04/26/2022 by Kristin Addis 19 Comments

Utah’s landscape is as varied as it is colorful to describe. Shaped by waves and sediments, the rich colors and shapes are endlessly fascinating as they change from moment to moment.

The clouds turn red, reflecting the ground as they pass overhead. The rocks form into hat and mushroom shapes, and with a dusting of snow, it all turns even more magical.

Parts of Utah, such as  Zion , Bryce Canyon, Arches , and the famed Mesa Arch in Canyonlands, are mega-popular, and it’s almost impossible to get these amazing areas to yourself. However, the great thing about Utah is that the adventure potential is almost endless. There are equally impressive sights all over the state that are just begging to be explored — with almost nobody around.

My friend Kristen and I took her camper van out for a week in February and managed to go for days without seeing any other people in the natural wonders we visited. That’s harder and harder to do these days and is one of the reasons why the American Southwest is so special: there are still plenty of wide-open spaces lacking a cell signal.

If you’re looking for an off-the-beaten-path experience in Utah, here are some of the best:

Table of Contents

1. Mystic Hot Springs

Spend a couple days soaking your sore muscles in the mineral-rich waters at Mystic Hot Springs. This unique spot is certainly off the beaten path, as there isn’t much around it to see. This can be a huge plus if you want to find some peace and quiet.

Mystic Hot Springs is located in Monroe, in the middle of the desert. It has earned the nickname “the best hippie hot springs in the West” because of its counterculture vibe, which includes a thriving permaculture community, a holistic spa, and renovated buses that you can stay in.

Find everything you need to know to plan your stop at Mystic Hot Springs here .

2. Dead Horse Point State Park

Sometimes the easiest way to avoid the crowds is to avoid the national parks. This can be done in Moab, Utah. The area is practically overflowing with rock arches, beautiful canyons, and impressive overlooks, and plenty of them are hidden and uncrowded. My personal favorite is Dead Horse Point at sunset. It’s an easy, drive up to the view and is just as impressive as the Grand Canyon, if you ask me!

There are hiking trails in the park, which you can see in the photo above. It’s also super close to Canyonlands National Park and practically across the street from Arches. The entrance fee is $15.

3. Corona Arch

This arch is quite near Arches National Park but far less crowded. If you venture here for sunrise, you might even have the area to yourself. To get to Corona Arch, it’s an easy three-mile round-trip hike, which will also take you past Bowtie Arch. The area has no shade, so go prepared for the direct sun.

4. Bonneville Salt Flats

If your eyes are confused, wondering why there’s snow on the ground, you’re not alone! The Bonneville Salt Flats features a vast white landscape made of salt, which looks eerily similar to snow. The flats are not always dry enough to walk or drive on, so aim to visit during the summer months to get the full effect. You can camp nearby, but not on the salt flats themselves.

During the late summer, you might find cars racing on the Racetrack Playa. This is a good indication that the salt flats are dry enough to traverse. Otherwise, don’t risk it.

5. Needles Overlook, Canyonlands

Canyonlands is a huge national park, and although it has some very crowded spots, like the Mesa Arch at sunrise, other parts are practically deserted. Heading south out of Moab, you’ll pass by a road offshoot (linked in the map below) that takes you to the Needles Overlook (no hiking required). The drive itself is gorgeous, and the overlook at the end is a large area that allows you to see almost 360°. If you have the time, it’s worth working in a stop here to see the incredible view.

The Needles area also offers  several hiking trails  of varying lengths and difficulty if you can invest the time, and weather permitting.

6. Bears Ears National Monument

This national monument started to appear in the headlines recently due to some conflict over whether it should remain protected land or not. This otherwise unheard-of part of Utah is worth stopping into if you love being able to view ancient cave drawings and ruins without having a barrier between you and history. We did not stop in here, however, but heard great things about some of the hikes. The visitor center is only open in the warmer months.

7. Valley of the Gods

This blink-and-you’ll-miss-it turnoff on the way south into Arizona is one of my favorite parts of Utah, because it’s so beautiful and yet so uncrowded. The Valley of the Gods is Bureau of Land Management (BLM) land, meaning you can camp in any of the road pulloffs, provided you leave no trace.

The rocks in this area look like chimney stacks and sombreros. Though it’s close to Monument Valley and has similar formations, this area is completely free and open to the public. Just be careful if there has been rain or heavy snow, as the road is dirt and can easily turn into mud.

8. Goosenecks State Park

When you get to the end of the road in the Valley of the Gods, take a right toward Goosenecks State Park for an overlook onto the Colorado River weaving through the canyon as far as the eye can see.

If you continue to head north from there, you’ll wind your way up a steep, gravel canyon wall, which is an incredible drive for the views, though not ideal if in an RV or if it’s dumping rain or snow. There’s some awesome BLM camping at the top, too. I considered linking to where we camped here, but I feel that takes so much of the fun and discovery out of finding your own campsite, which was half the fun for Kristen and me.

9. Natural Bridges National Monument

Another under-the-radar and relatively small area, this national monument has three major bridges that can each be done as an out-and-back hike or in a loop, to see all three. Each hike has steps down to its respective bridge — which would be totally fine in the summer, but when I went in the winter, parts of it were icy. Bring along spikes for your shoes if attempting this in the winter months. Be sure to stop by the visitor center to inquire about the conditions of the trails as well.

In the winter months, the trail to Sipapu Bridge can get icy, since it’s is mostly in the shade. However, Kachina was more accessible and brought us to a waterfall as well. When the trail is less icy, the entire loop would be incredible.

From there it’s a gorgeous drive that you won’t be sharing with many people at all through the northeast end of Glen Canyon through Hite.

10. Goblin Valley State Park

This is one of the trippiest parks we visited in terms of landscape. It looks like you’re walking among giant mushrooms at first, and then it feels like you’re passing through a watery underworld of clay that almost looks like coral formations as you progress. This is a pretty small park but absolutely worth taking a walk through to see these unique formations. I’ve never seen anything like it before!

The entrance fee is $15, and there are nice bathrooms at the overlook; the campground costs an extra $10.

11. Little Wild Horse Canyon

This hike is located on BLM land just outside of Goblin Valley. There are some free camping spots nearby that will put you in a perfect position to do the entire loop hike, through two slot canyons. If you’ve always wanted to see  Antelope Canyon  without the crowds, Little Wild Horse delivers a similar experience.

Unfortunately, it looked like rain was possible on the day that Kristen and I wanted to hike it. Please be aware that slot canyon hikes are incredibly dangerous if there is any rain — not just in the area but anywhere upstream. Rain can cause flash floods quickly, and it’s not worth taking the risk. We just ventured into the first canyon partway, which was probably already a stupid move, and then exited and went on our way.

12. Forrest Gump Point

If the image looks familiar, you might recognize this place from the movie Forrest Gump . The long stretch of highway here is called Forrest Gump Road, and it makes for a great scenic drive or a quick photo. This is the spot from the movie when Forrest finishes his cross-country run. Even if you’re not a huge fan of the film, it’s still worth it to check out Forrest Gump Point, as it offers up some incredible views, all the way to Monument Valley in Arizona.

13. Dixie National Forest

Encompassing nearly two million acres of mountain peaks, red sandstone formations, and vast landscapes, Dixie National Forest is an outdoor adventurer’s dream. It’s the largest national forest in Utah and right next to three national parks and two national monuments, making it the perfect addition to your Utah road trip .

Check out this horseback-riding tour through Dixie National Forest , which goes all the way to Bryce Canyon!

14. Capitol Reef National Park

Kristen and I had both seen incredible photos of Capitol Reef and wondered where they were taken, since the more impressive things didn’t appear to be on the popular Scenic Drive. After speaking to a helpful volunteer at the visitor center, we learned that they were up a dirt road that can turn into a peanut buttery consistency when it rains.

We were getting a little bit of snow but decided to go for it — and it ended up being an incredible drive, with nobody else around. The best parts were the Temples of the Sun and the Moon, two sail-like rocks that seem to appear out of nowhere.

Even though this is a national park, this part of it doesn’t receive many visitors, as evidenced by the dirt road. It could become impassible in particularly wet weather, but when it’s dry, a Prius could drive over it. Check what the conditions might be at the visitor center.

15. Coyote Gulch in Grand Staircase-Escalante National Monument

This will be a sizable deviation if you decide to do it, but it’s so worth it! Grand Staircase-Escalante has some of the best adventures in southern Utah, and Coyote Gulch is the crown jewel.

This hike has several access points and can be done as an overnight or single-day trip if you take the sneaker route, which I did last time I passed through. The trail out is mostly washboard dirt and gravel, and could become treacherous if it’s raining or muddy. If you decide to take the route I did, you will need a rope, just in case. You can  read more about the hike here.

16. Uinta-Wasatch-Cache National Forest

Known as one of the most rugged national forests in the US, the Uinta-Wasatch-Cache National Forest is the ideal place to unplug from modern society and connect with nature. Here you’ll find over two million acres with fantastic hikes, scenic byways, recreation areas, and even cabins to stay in. How’s that for off the beaten path?

17. Driving Conditions and Food

Kristen and I did the trip in her 4 x 4 Sprinter van. When I previously drove through the American Southwest , I had a minivan camper that did not have 4 x 4 capabilities, but I could have taken it on most of the roads that we went on. In both cases, I/we camped on BLM land (public land with no facilities) and packed out absolutely all of my/our trash (including toilet paper!) and was/were completely self-sufficient. It’s important that when traveling in this part of Utah, you’re prepared to do the same.

➵  Rent a car in Utah here

You will want to do your grocery shopping in Salt Lake City, or whatever major area you’re departing from. Once you leave Moab, it will be nothing but tiny towns with gas stations for groceries and incredibly limited food selections. Even restaurants will be hard to find.

Your best bet is to either come prepared with a way to cook and store food, like a camper van, or to have an ice chest and stove. If you choose to stop by Page in Arizona, or head out toward Zion, you’ll have a few more food options at that point.

Always be sure to keep your gas tank full as well, and bring an extra tire just in case. Cellphone signals can also be hard to come by out there, so I suggest downloading these stops onto an offline Google or Maps.me map, so that you have them at your disposal before you go:

Even though these off-the-beaten-path gems are fantastic to check out, that’s not to say that other parts of Utah should be skipped just because they’re more popular. Kristen has a fantastic post about  Utah’s best national parks  worth taking a look at.

So pack your sense of adventure, download this map offline, and get ready for an incredible journey through some of the most beautiful landscapes in the world.

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*Some links in this post are affiliate links for products and services we personally use and love. Any purchase you make through them supports us at no extra cost to you. Thanks so much!

About Kristin Addis

Kristin Addis is the founder and CEO of Be My Travel Muse, a resource for female travelers all around the world since 2012. She's traveled solo to over 65 countries and has brought over 150 women on her all-female adventure tours from Botswana to the Alaskan tundra.

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adisson00 says

07/04/2019 at 1:06 am

I really like to share your all these images which looking very fabulous and cool. I also spent a really good time at Capitol Reef National Park during my last journey and came back with unforgettable memories.

Kent H Young says

09/14/2019 at 8:15 pm

The best kept secrets are now known by everyone so they aren’t a secret. I used to love the West until it became a over crowded polluted place thanks to these kind of advertisements.

Kristin says

09/16/2019 at 1:36 am

This isn’t an advertisement, this is talking about State parks, that have existed for years, the same way that they were once talked about in guidebooks. Nature is for everyone.

Kara Laws says

03/11/2020 at 2:59 pm

I totally feel you, Kent. Poor Moab.

Anonymous says

06/03/2022 at 11:46 am

Than why are you reading this stuff?

01/22/2020 at 6:37 am

Hi, Is the 2nd shot under Goosenecks State Park a drone shot ? So helpful blog post and video for my trip next fall, thanks,

01/22/2020 at 8:21 am

It is! That’s in the valley of the gods

Danielle says

05/30/2020 at 4:34 pm

I’m thinking about taking a similar trip. What did you guys do about bathrooms and showers?

05/31/2020 at 8:32 pm

We didn’t actually shower all week, which might sound weird if you’ve never done it but the more you backpack and camp the less of a big deal it is.

Bathrooms you dig a hole and pack out all TP, wipes, associated things in a ziplock. In some areas they prefer you pack out the solid waste too, in which case you use a bag much like a dog bag. It’s REALLY important that you leave no trace in the wilderness.

To me it’s worth giving up bathrooms but I’ve gotten this question a lot this week so I guess that’ll be new for a lot of hikers and campers this year.

05/04/2022 at 5:43 am

“NO Bathrooms or showers and carry it out with you. “ An important piece of information most don’t understand, especially if not accustomed to visiting wilderness areas. Lake Powell was trashed with human waste years ago before being shut off in many areas to protect important Native American land and history. This area is only for those who know how to truly respect it. Most don’t have a clue what that means.

Michael says

08/18/2020 at 12:45 pm

Great pictures and content. I thought our blogppost on this was good, until I saw yours. Great job. I love that we went to so many of the same places. We love to go off-season and get to the lesser known places too.

I look forward to reading more on your site (I just found it).

Again, great job!!

Michael & Melissa

Valentina says

08/27/2020 at 11:53 am

Loved this post! Thank you for sharing with such detail and for the beautiful photos. You mentioned above that without 4×4, you wouldn’t have been able to go on most roads you drove on. I won’t have 4×4 when I go visit next month (end of September) . Are there any of these places that I can still access without four wheel drive? Thank you!

08/31/2020 at 10:36 pm

Yes all of the national and state parks in the area would be accessible!

09/09/2020 at 7:25 am

Thank you Kristin!

10/11/2020 at 6:16 am

Hi. Wonderful view of the Colorado River from Gooseneck State Park! Rivals the view of the Nile from Cape Town.

12/26/2020 at 5:41 pm

Coyote gulch is in glen canyon national recreation area…not grand staircase., So different regs. Also, road is generally in shit shape getting there.

Lucas James says

05/13/2022 at 7:48 pm

Beautiful. I never knew Utah had such sights! Thanks for bringing it out! Plans shall be made! Keep it up.

Liam Smith says

06/14/2022 at 5:55 am

Such a great article! thank you for sharing and keep posting

Tammie says

07/18/2023 at 6:49 pm

Totally loved all the information you provided! Thank you! We are so looking forward to our trip to Utah!

Unearth Utah’s Hidden Gems: Discovering Off-the-Beaten-Path Treasures

By: Author Insider's Utah

Posted on Last updated: July 16, 2023

Categories Utah Travel Tips

Home » Unearth Utah’s Hidden Gems: Discovering Off-the-Beaten-Path Treasures

Ready to explore Utah’s hidden gems? From historic ghost towns to gorgeous mountain resorts, don’t miss these. 

We love finding new and exciting places in Utah , it’s what we do. But what about those hidden hikes, scenic vistas, and places to chill out that fly under the radar? We got you covered. 

Here’s a guide to the absolute best hidden gems Utah offers and some tips and tricks to making the most of your trip to the Beehive State. 

The 5 Best Utah Hidden Gems

See ancient petroglyphs at capitol reef national park.

Ok, so starting with a national park might seem like a bit of a stretch when discussing Utah’s hidden gems, but hear us out. This forgotten member of The Mighty Five gets a fraction of the visitors of Bryce Canyon or Zion – giving you plenty of space to enjoy the park without the crowds. Capitol Reef National Park is famous for its dramatic canyons and natural bridges – but there’s a lot more when you look a little closer. Hike around the park , and you’ll discover ancient petroglyphs etched into the red rocks in the Fruita Rural Historic District. There are also the more recent (but still historic) wall carvings at the Pioneer Register, where settlers left their mark in the 1800s while heading West. Be sure to visit both.

St. George Dinosaur Discovery Site at Johnson Farm

St. George Dinosaur Discovery Site at Johnson Farm is an exciting addition to any St. George itinerary, where you can look at full-size models and actual fossils of dinosaurs. But you can dig a lot deeper than the surface level at this Utah hidden gem. While you’re here, ask plenty of questions, and be sure to watch the trained paleontologists when they’re uncovering more fossils. Highlights at the museum include the famous crouching dinosaur fossil and dinosaur footprints preserved in stone. 

Top Tip: Want to really get into the experience? You can volunteer to help clean the fossils for future guests. How cool is that?

Dive Deep into the Homestead Crater 

Head to the charming Homestead Resort (a bit of a secret Utah gem in itself), and you’ll discover Homestead Crater – a natural hot pool beneath a large cave shaped like a beehive. Being in the Beehive state, you really can’t make this stuff up. 

Because the thermal spring is protected by the cave above, it’s a perfect place to visit year-round, with temperatures averaging around 95°F. Activities include swimming, scuba diving, and snorkeling – and you can rent gear or take lessons. You can also chill out on a customized deck if you want to have a more relaxing afternoon. 

Top Tip: Tickets range from $15 – $20, with scuba and snorkeling access costing extra.

Powder Mountain Resort

How does one of the best ski resorts in Utah remain a relative secret? You have us stumped, but somehow it’s still a Utah hidden gem. Located in Eden, about an hour north of Salt Lake City , you can often find ridiculously fresh powder on the massive ski resort featuring over 150 runs. 

Top Tip: For serious adrenaline seekers, take a guided tour to Wolf Canyon, where you hike up and drop down 3,000 feet on James Peak. 

George Barker River Park

Visiting Zion National Park ? Stop by Springdale and have a leisurely afternoon at George Barker River Park. It’s a beautiful park with well-maintained amenities like picnic tables, bbq grills, and restrooms. The scenery is gorgeous, and there’s even an off-leash area for dogs (perfect if you’re taking a Utah road trip ).

Top Tip: Here’s the best part. If you hike the trails up to the top of the park, you’ll see Zion National Park for free.

Secret Cool Places in Utah

Gilgal sculpture garden.

In the middle of bustling Salt Lake City is a well-kept secret, and it’s not only one of our favorite hidden places in Utah. but it’s also on our list of free things to do . Gilgal Sculpture Garden features 12 sculptures by former owner and artist Thomas Battersby Child. You’ll also find 70+ stones with engravings, poems, and thought-provoking texts. Walk around and admire the gardens and artwork and give each piece some thought, as the artist himself intended. 

Top Tip: Hours vary depending on the season, but it’s open every day except Christmas, New Year’s, and Thanksgiving.

Harrisburg Ghost Town

Looking for unique places to visit in Utah ? That’s why you’re here in the first place, isn’t it? Don’t miss a chance to see a real-life ghost town in Harrisburg. The town was a short-lived enterprise that residents left after grasshopper plagues and floods, made it next to impossible to farm here. You can walk around and check out the abandoned houses (from outside), and it’s worth checking out as a quick stop along I-15.

Top Tip: Hike the nearby Red Reef Trail if you want to make a day out of your visit to this town in Utah off the beaten path.

Antelope Island State Park

If you’re checking out the best lakes in Utah, Salt Lake is likely at the top of your list. It should be. But one area you may not have heard of is Antelope Island. The pristine wilderness area in the middle of Salt Lake can only be reached by boat, and we recommend scheduling a guided tour in advance. Bring your binoculars and a camera, you’ll see bighorn sheep, bison, and numerous species of birds on the island. 

Top Tip: Serious outdoor adventurers can reserve a campsite on the island if you book in advance .

Looking for a ski resort in Southern Utah? You’ll want to pay a visit to Brian Head . Skiers and snowboarders of any level can enjoy the trails and ski runs around this impressive ski resort. Starting at over 9,000 feet, you’ll have plenty of opportunity to look out at the picturesque scenery while carving down the 71 runs from 8 chair lifts. It’s also an excellent location to visit in the summer, with gorgeous hiking trails (try the moderate Hidden Haven Waterfall trail) and plenty to do in the surrounding area.

Cedar Breaks National Monument

Just down the road from Brian Head is Cedar Breaks National Monument . It’s home to some of the best hiking in Utah , and the natural amphitheater rivals Bryce Canyon. Seriously. Hike around the rim (carefully) and take trails through forests, dramatic rock formations, and up to incredible vistas. Bring lots of water and your best hiking shoes. The trails start at over 10,000 feet, so the elevation is a real factor.

Top Tip: You’ll need to arrive early and park at the South Rim Trailhead, as most parking lots are closed for the rest of the year for the construction of a new visitor center. This closure includes the popular Point Supreme Overlook.

Bodega and The Rest

With all the adventure and unique experiences in Utah, you’ll likely work up a thirst. Bodega and The Rest in Salt Lake City is a perfect place to have some cocktails and a snack. If you want to start with a tasty meal, enter Bodega and enjoy many of the delicious offerings at the full-service restaurant (mussels are a popular choice). But downstairs is the real treat. The Rest is the subterranean cocktail bar with unusual decor featuring taxidermy, exposed brick, and a dark (but comfortable) vibe. 

The cocktail menu is impressive and changes from time to time. Ask for the old-fashioned flight, and you won’t be disappointed.

White Pine Lake

Looking for an off-the-beaten-path Utah gem? White Pine Lake is a must-visit in Northern Utah and the perfect addition to your itinerary if you want some unspoiled outdoor adventure. The trails tend to be less crowded than some of the other best hikes in Utah, partially because it’s pretty challenging.

You’ll need to tackle an 11-mile trek with lots of elevation in the remote Utah countryside. But it’s well worth the effort when you reach the crystal blue waters of this Utah hidden gem.

Top Tip: You can camp here if you hike in your supplies, but fires are only allowed in the designated fire rings.

Hidden Gems That Are Off the Beaten Track

Goblin valley state park.

Many visitors head to Utah to see the incredible hoodoos, natural bridges, arches, and other rock formations in The Mighty Five. But between Capitol Reef National Park and Canyonlands is a lesser-known (but no less magnificent) example of natural sandstone sculptures resembling something a bit more frightening… goblins. Goblin Valley State Park contains thousands of rock formations, many of which look like goblins if you peer closely enough and use your imagination.

Top Tip: It’s a fantastic place to take photos, and you can even bring a drone – but you’ll need to purchase a $10 permit if you want to take pictures from a bird’s eye view. 

FamilySearch Library

Want to learn a little more about your ancestry? FamilySearch Library allows you to take classes, browse through the most extensive genealogy records in the world, and really take a good look at your family tree at one of the best-hidden gems in Utah. The library catalog is largely available online, so you can visit this Utah hidden gem from the comforts of your home or in person when you visit Salt Lake City.

Top Tip: You can book library tours and even participate in an escape room experience if you plan ahead .

The Wave isn’t necessarily a secret (social media made this an overnight sensation), but you need to get incredibly lucky to visit. On the border of Arizona, the sandstone rock formations resemble ocean waves and make for a spectacular background for photography. It’s also a pretty intense hike that allows you to explore the desert setting of Southern Utah .

Top Tip : You and your travel companions will want to apply for a permit in the lottery online . You’ll likely strike out once or twice, so be patient and persistent.  

Warrior’s Walk

Spending a few nights in Kanab ? Be sure to check out one of the best hidden gems in Southern Utah. Warrior’s Walk is truly a local secret and hard to find on your own. It’s just a short distance from Highway 89 , but you need to look closely for your turn-off, or you’ll miss it.

The short (but rewarding) hike allows you to travel through a well-established trail with stone on each side guiding you along the way. 

Practical Tips for Exploring the Best Hidden Gems in Utah

• Be sure the hidden gem is open during your visit. Many unique things to do in Utah are seasonal and closed in the winter or spring. 
• Many of the best hidden gems in Utah are outdoors, so you’ll want to pack appropriately for the forecast.
• A lot of the secret, cool places in Utah are also free. Good news for budget-savvy travelers looking for the best activities any time of year.
• You can find many of the Utah hidden gems near the top attractions. Check out the map below to help plan your trip.

Hidden Gems in Utah: Map 

Discover More Utah Hidden Gems

• The Best of Capitol Reef National Park

Hidden Gems: 10 Secret Utah Adventures You Must Try

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You know that pleasant surprise of putting on a pair of pants and finding a $20 in the pocket? Well Utah is cargo pants. With a thousand pockets.

Every state likes to talk about the variety of experiences it offers, but Utah is uniquely qualified to brag.

Three discrete geographical regions (Mojave Desert, Great Basin, Colorado Plateau) + four distinct seasons + a dozen different biomes and climates + thousands of years of human history = diverse adventure tucked into every corner of the state. Here are 10 uniquely Utah sights that out-of-towners — and even lots of in-of-towners — may not have heard of. Ten points for each one you’ve seen, two points for each one you’ve heard of and five points for each one you start making plans to visit.

10. Bonneville Seabase, Grantsville

Near the southern point of the Great Salt Lake sits a weirdly natural inland sea. Spring water rising through the salty bed of the ancient Lake Bonneville reaches the same salinity as the ocean. Add some species of ocean fish and you have a perfect little snorkeling/scuba sanctuary, 600 miles from the coast.

• Features : four distinct diving areas including White Rocks Bay, Habitat Bay, The Trench and The Abyss
• Day Use : $25 (make reservations for the best experience)
• Rentals : scuba gear, snorkel gear and kids snorkel sets
• Location : 1600 UT-138 Grantsville, UT 84029

9. Homestead Crater, Midway

“Here’s what I’m thinking: geothermal spring.”

“With hot tub temperature sapphire-blue water.”

“Inside an adorable mini volcano.”

“I mean, yeah, it sounds great, but where would that even happen?”

“Just like in the middle of a Swiss hamlet in Utah, maybe?”

• Description : 55-foot geothermal spring and the only warm scuba diving destination in the continental U.S.
• Day Use : reservations required
• Pricing : soak only, $15-18; snorkeling equipment rental is $8
• Location : 700 Homestead Dr, Midway, UT 84049

8. Cascade Springs, near Midway

Crystal clear spring water flowing down terraced pools in a mountain forest. One of those places so naturally beautiful you couldn’t possibly paint it without your painting looking cheesy.

• Description : Natural waterfall and springs with paved walking paths that loop through the area. The trail is primarily used for hiking, walking, nature trips and birding and is best used from May until October. Dogs are also able to use this trail but must be kept on leash.
• Location : Located in the Uinta National Forest in the Wasatch Range, east of American Fork Canyon and west of Wasatch Mountain State Park. Also accessible via The Alpine Loop in American Fork Canyon.

7. Fifth Water Hot Springs, Spanish Fork

This is the last natural spring on the list, we swear. This one makes you earn your soak with a 2.2-mile hike up Diamond Fork Canyon that gains 700 feet. Worth it — especially with the three waterfalls you’ll find as a bonus. It’s on the way from the Wasatch Front to Moab, too, if that means anything to you.

• Distance : 4.5-mile round-trip moderate hiking trail
• Location : Diamond Fork Rd, Springville, UT 84663. The trailhead is accessed at Three Forks parking area up Diamond Fork Canyon.
• Pack List : hiking or trail shoes, water, snacks, swimsuit, towel

6. Sand Boarding at Coral Pink Sand Dunes, Kanab

No further description needed. Get on board . (Ha!)

5. House on Fire, near Blanding

One of the more popular and easier to access of the thousands of Ancestral Puebloan ruins in Cedar Mesa. The area is remote but the hike itself is short and flat.

• Distance : 3-mile round-trip easy hiking trail
• Best time to go : spring, fall, winter
• Dogs allowed : yes
• Location : South Fork of Mule Canyon in Cedar Mesa, Bears Ears National Monument

4. Parowan Gap Petroglyphs, Parowan

The permanent collection in a 1,000-year-old art gallery. Park, walk and ponder the signs made by civilizations that explored Utah before you.

3. Singing Canyon, Boulder

You spent $10K at audio engineering and you’ve still got nothing on Mother Nature’s ear for acoustics. Hike a couple minutes on the flat trail off Burr Trail Road and stop when you hear sound the way it was meant to be heard. If you’re lucky, someone talented will be there making a joyful noise.

• Distance : 15-minute round-trip hiking trail
• Getting there : Drive about 11 miles east on the Burr Trail Road from Boulder to a small, unmarked paved pullout on the north (left) side of the road. Parking is free, but space is limited.

2. Valley of the Gods, Mexican Hat

In Greece the Gods live on Mount Olympus. In Utah, they prefer the valley. While you’re in the neighborhood visiting House on Fire, stop by this mini-Monument Valley. If you happen to be there during the hot air balloon festival, lucky you, you just stumbled into the divine.

1. Gilgal Sculpture Garden, Salt Lake City

Most of the sights above are secret because they’re in some remote part of Utah. This one’s hiding in the middle of city block in downtown Salt Lake City. A devout Mormon named Thomas Child, Jr., created deeply personal and mystical sculptures that draw on Mormon theology but resist easy interpretation. Like a sphinx with the head of Joseph Smith, for instance.

• Location : 749 East 500 South in Salt Lake City

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32 Actually Cool Things to Do in Moab, Utah

Posted on January 23, 2024

Moab, Utah is a destination built for adventure! It’s a hiker’s paradise and a nature enthusiast’s playground. There’s no shortage of things to do in Moab, and this guide covers 32 activities you’ll absolutely love.

This post may contain affiliate links. For more info, see my  disclosures .

The town of Moab is relatively small, but packs a punch! It’s a fun desert city that truly begs to be on your bucket list. Families, singles, couples or anything in between, there’s truly something for everyone.

Perhaps the most popular attraction is visiting Arches National Park , which sees more than 1.5 million visitors a year. But there’s so much more to do in Moab!

👉Don’t have time to read the whole article? This is the  best white water rafting tour and the best 4×4 off-roading tour for adventure lovers!

Map of the best things to do in Moab

Get to know your way around the area with this map of all the Moab activities on this list.

So enough chatting already…let’s dive in!

Best things to do in Moab, Utah

Whether you have a day (or two) to spend while on an Utah national parks road trip , or you’re planning to visit this amazing area for a week (or more!), there’s so many activities in Moab you’ll love!

1. Visit Arches National Park

Arches National Park is what drives many people to Moab and southeast Utah. It’s a place unlike any other in the USA!

It’s the home of the most popular arch in the world, Delicate Arch . You’ll see this arch painted on murals, artwork on souvenirs and, of course, on the Utah license plate.

If you want to hike to see the arch, it’s best to go really early as the parking lot is often full. If you’re only planning one day in Arches National Park , this is a must-see!

Delicate Arch is one of the most popular spots in the park, so expect it to be busy. (I got there just after sunrise both times I’ve hiked the trail and the parking lot was nearly full!)

It’s also one of the most challenging hikes in the park with some steep climbs, so make sure to bring water and good hiking shoes !

🎟️ Note: April through October you’ll need a timed entry reservation to enter the park between 7:00am and 4:00pm. Reservations sell out in minutes so plan ahead or go outside the main visiting hours.

While at Arches National Park, you can’t miss the Windows section of the park and Devil’s Garden, where you’ll find the famous Landscape Arch (an easy, great hike).

For a full list of the best spots to explore, check out these Arches National Park hikes .

2. Ken’s Lake

Located just 10 miles south of Moab, this lake is perfect for boating, swimming or fishing. The water is relatively clear and equally as refreshing! Head out there for a midday swim between hiking adventures.

The campground near the lake is rather large, so it’s a good spot to camp for a budget-friendly vacation. Just be sure to reserve your camping spot early if that’s your goal, as it tends to sell out quickly.

Save money on travel with points: Check out the best credit card offers to save big money by using rewards points for flights and hotels. They’re so good; I regularly have 2-3 in my wallet and book most of my travel with points!

3. Hell’s Revenge Moab

This off-road, 4×4 trail will get your heart pumping! It’s a 6.5 mile trail intended for 4×4 vehicles, and only for experienced drivers.

The most popular way to experience Hell’s Revenge is to book a tour. It’s way less stressful that way! Expect spectacular scenery and unforgettable laughs during your tour.

Pro tip: make sure to take a face mask or bandana to prevent dirt from getting in your nose or mouth.

Hell’s Revenge is a thrilling ride, and one for any adventure lover!

4. Moab Giants dinosaur park (one of the best things to do in Moab with kids)

Well if you’re visiting Moab with kids, this has got to be on your list! Moab Giants is all about dinosaurs! Based on the fact that many dinosaurs where found in southeast Utah, this adventure park is full of history and imagination.

It’s a prehistoric aquarium, interactive museum, dinosaur playground, dinosaur trail and more! You can buy a ticket for the full experience, or outdoor-only access.

Visit Moab Giants official site here .

5. Dead Horse Point State Park (one of my favorite things to do in Moab!)

This was one of the unexpected delights during my trip to Moab! Dead Horse Point State Park is nestled right outside of Canyonlands National Park (about 25 minutes from town) and it’s truly an awesome experience.

As I walked up to the lookout over the mighty Colorado River, the sight literally took my breath away! I just marveled at the views of the winding river in the vast canyon.

Dead Horse State Park has far less visitors than either of the national parks nearby , which makes for fewer lines and less packed parking lots! So if you’re wondering what to do in Moab with less crowds, this is it!

Pro tip: hiking along the rim of the canyon is relatively easy and provides expansive views round each curve. Just use caution as there’s no railing.

6. Mountain biking tour

Another fun way to explore Dead Horse Point State Park is by taking a mountain biking tour ! You’ll get unique views you can’t find from the scenic drive or overlooks.

Mountain bikers come to Moab for adventures, and this one is sure to get your heart pumping!

Go on a mountain biking tour , which includes world-class mountain biking trails. You’ll pedal and wind through a gorgeous desert landscape with amazing overlooks, all amongst the La Sal Mountains backdrop. So stunning!

7. Rafting in Moab

Let’s get back on the water! One of the top things to do in Moab is river rafting. In the spring months the water will be very cold, but in the summer and fall it’s refreshing and tolerable.

Experience panoramic views of the canyons on a Moab white water rafting tour. From calm waters to class 3 rapids, there’s a variety of adventure on the river for outdoor enthusiasts!

You can find lots of Moab river rafting tours for either 1/2 day or full day of fun! Make sure to wear sunscreen, sunglasses and bring a water bottle.

Pro tip: You’ll want to plan these in advance, too as they tend to sell out quickly! Book your tour now .

8. Check out the slot canyons near Moab

One of the best places in the world to explore slot canyons is in Utah! So it’s definitely making this list of the top things to do in Moab. 🙂

Created by water and wind, these canyons, like the arches in southeast Utah, are one of nature’s finest displays. And they’re super fun to explore!

There aren’t many slot canyons super close to Moab, but it would make a fun day or 1/2 day trip. Better yet, take a canyoneering tour and skip the stress of navigating the canyons themselves!

Best slot canyons near Moab:

• Entrajo Canyon – 20 minutes south of town
• Furniture Draw – Price Utah
• Little Wild Horse and Bell Canyon Loop – Goblin Valley State Park

Book a tour of Entrajo Canyon here.

9. Horseback riding

See southeast Utah in it’s natural beauty on horseback! Ride the trails made famous in movies or along the Colorado River. The desert landscape is beyond impressive and what a unique way to experience it!

You’ll get to enjoy the quiet away from the traffic of the city and national parks. Most tours are 1.5 – 3 hours, and should be scheduled in advance.

Each time I take a horseback riding tour while on vacation, I find the guides to be knowledgeable and I’ve always felt very safe on the horse.

10. Moab sand hill

Well if you’re looking for unique things to do in Moab with kids, or you’re simply a kid at heart, make sure you check out the sand hill right on the outside of town. It’s right between Arches National Park and the city limits of Moab.

It’s basically a giant sand slide that can be used for sledding or rolling down. Every time I drove past, kids were crawling to the very top and sliding down to the bottom. If you truly want to slide make sure to bring a sand sled.

But it’s not needed and it’s a free activity for the kids!

11. La Sal Mountain Loop Road

Just 20 minutes from the small town of Moab are the La Sal Mountains. Easily seen from various parts of Arches NP and Canyonlands NP, they offer a little different landscape from the red slab rock of southeast Utah.

It’s like you’re stepping into another world when you visit the Manti-La Sal National Forest. The picturesque alpine views of lush forests are a breath-takingly beautiful and a fresh alternative from the traditional sights of the area. It’s actually one of the reasons Moab is one of the best places to visit in September in USA !

The La Sal mountains are the 2nd highest mountain range in Utah. The area offers lots of camping, hiking and fishing, in addition to the views!

Spend a 1/2 day taking soaking in the views on the La Sal Mountain Loop Road. It’s only 60 miles but with scenic overlooks, you’ll want to make stops along the way.

By the way… if you’re planning to rent a car for your Moab vacation, check out the discounted rates on Discover Cars . I typically save 10%-30% on rentals. They search top car carriers to find the best deal at no extra price to you! Check rates now .

What to do in Moab

Only 1/3 of the way done with this epic list of things to do in Moab, Utah, and I’m sure you’re already collecting ideas for your visit. My very favorite is up next…

12. Hiking in Canyonlands National Park

It lives in the shadow of Arches National Park, yet has scenery unmatched to no other. I truly believe it’s one of the most underrated national parks in the United States, too.

With hiking trails and views more spectacular around each corner, it’s a must do when you’re in Moab!

Canyonlands National Park is huge, and the section of the park closest to Moab is called the Island in the Sky District. I’ve been lucky enough to spend several days hiking here across multiple trips to Moab, and I can’t say enough good things about it!

Overlook massive canyon walls from various hikes and scenic overlooks. With expansive views, it’s a smaller, lesser-known version of the Grand Canyon!

Here are the Canyonlands National Park highlights you can’t miss:

• Upheaval Dome
• Grand View Point (best views if you hike to the end)
• Green River Overlook

Looking for more? Check out more of my favorite hikes in this guide for the 10 best hikes in Canyonlands National Park.

Pro tip: make sure to bring plenty of water (regardless of the season) and wear hiking shoes with lots of traction. Hiking on slickrock is no joke. Here are the hiking boots I wore and they were perfect!

A good hiking backpack and trekking poles are helpful when hiking in the parks near Moab, too.

13. Shopping in downtown Moab

This area of southeast Utah is known for outdoor adventures, so you won’t find big-name shopping stores here. But there are some fun spots to shop in downtown Moab. You’ll find boutique shops full of souvenirs, clothing and sports apparel.

Visiting the shops and restaurants in downtown Moab can be a nice break from high-adventure activities.

14. Kayaking or Paddleboarding Moab

There’s plenty of places in the area for water activities, and if you love stand up paddle boarding, you’re in luck!

Catch views of red rock cliff, dunes and breathtaking views while paddleboarding Moab. You can rent paddleboards and find an adventure on your own, or take a guided tour. It’s truly one of the top outdoor activities in the area.

I personally love taking tours like this because the guides know so much about the area and I feel like I learn a lot more than going myself. Also I don’t have to worry about transporting the equipment. One of the best Moab activities on this list, in my opinion. 🙂

Rent paddleboards here. Book a paddleboarding tour here.

15. Find some fun street art

On your way into downtown Moab, it’s easy to spot the Insta-famous Moab mural. Grab a photo with it, and find other fun, artsy spots in the city. 🙂

You can find artwork throughout the streets of the town of Moab. Be on the lookout in unsurprising spots – like the side of a gas station or car wash!

Make a day of it or just keep an eye out as you make your way around town. It’s one of the most unique things to do in Moab, and is perfect, simple fun for any age.

16. See the petroglyphs near Moab

Ancient petroglyphs are just another layer of artifacts that have been found near Moab, Utah. Perhaps some of the most well-known petroglyphs are the ones located near Delicate Arch in Arches National Park.

The park has them guarded – and rightfully so – but they can be seen from a distance. It’s quite incredible to think that these stories, carved into stone are thousands of years old!

Best spots to see petroglyphs near Moab:

• Moonflower Canyon
• Potash Road (you can also see real dinosaur tracks here!)
• Birthing Scene historical landmark
• Jug Handle Arch
• Wolf Ranch (at Delicate Arch trail, Arches NP)

If you want to see multiple petroglyph locations in an off-roading adventure, try a scenic petroglyph tour . You’ll get more info about the area’s history and archeology with a tour.

Book a petroglyph tour here.

17. Arches scenic drive

The Arches scenic drive doesn’t actually show you a lot of arches, ironically! It’s actually the main road in Arches National Park. It’s a must to drive the entire thing, even if you don’t plan to hike or get out of the car much.

In Arches National Park scenic drive, you’ll see magnificent landscapes that seem truly out of this world!

Just past the visitor center, your mind will be blown with the majestic slickrock. Then the courthouse towers (pictured above), Balance Rock, and the Fiery Furnace are beyond impressive! Make sure to make it all the way to the Devil’s Garden Trailhead for the full experience.

Pro tip: time your drive right! The park often fills up before 9am during the peak season of summer, so go early. And I’d highly recommend being out of the park by sunset, unless you want to be driving bumper-to-bumper around winding roads in the pitch black.

Speaking of awesome drives, if you’re up for an adventure, try this drive from Moab to Denver with 16 gorgeous stops along the way. Past the red desert landscape of Moab to the east is the beautiful Rocky Mountains. With gorgeous scenic drives and tons of hiking opportunities across the state, it’s a phenomenal vacation for any road tripper!

18. Moab winery

You might be surprised to hear that Moab has not 1 but 2 wineries! Both are located on the outskirts of town, and are easy to snag a tour and tasting.

Closest to town is Spanish Valley Vineyard and Winery . Bonus: they also have a bed and breakfast to get the whole experience!

About 15 minutes outside of town is Castle Creek Winery . This Moab winery offers picturesque views of the Colorado River that you can’t beat!

I was lucky enough to see both wineries on my first trip to Moab, and I’d highly recommend them. So if you’re wondering what to do in Moab for adults-only or even for a girls’ trip, visiting a winery is a great option!

19. Moab Brewery

Let’s talk about another favorite: local beer! The Moab Brewery is the only microbrewery in the area , and it’s a favorite amongst locals and travelers alike.

So after your long day of adventuring around the area, grab some food and a local beer to wind down from the day. Oh, and be sure to grab a Dead Horse Ale, one of the best brews they make!

20. Eat at the food truck park

For a fabulous, inexpensive meal in town, you need to hit up the local food truck park. You’ll find Southwest flavors as well as local cuisine and simple favorites at the food trucks.

I had the best quesadilla of my life while in Moab . Seriously, writing this makes me want to go back. So obviously my favorite truck is the Quesadilla Mobilla , which happens to also be one of the top rated restaurants in town.

Pro tip: Go early! Trucks shut down for the day when they run out of food as it’s a popular destination for lunch.

21. Air tour of Arches and Canyonlands

Seeing a destination from the air is a unique perspective and a totally different experience than seeing it from the ground. It’s a thrilling new way to experience the natural beauty of the area.

There are several air tours in the area, so if you want to get your adrenaline pumping, choosing which tour is the next step. Usually you’ll need to book a small group tour, like 6 people, depending on the size of the aircraft.

Air tours near Moab:

• Arches National Park air tour
• Canyonlands National Park air tour
• Air tour of both national parks

Just a note about air tours – they can be pricey. I’d recommend putting tours like this in your vacation savings plan and budgeting accordingly. Also, be sure to book them in advance!

More things to do in Moab, Utah

With all the awesomeness that is southeast Utah, can you believe we still have 10 incredible Moab activities to get to?

Lets keep going!

22. White Rim Trail on a 4×4

In Canyonlands National Park, there’s a famous trail called Shafer Trail, or it’s larger counterpart, White Rim Trail. It’s a high adventure trail that can be driven, but isn’t for the faint of heart!

Winding roads along steep cliffs take you deep into the canyon. A vehicle with 4-wheel drive is a must for this road, and it’s suggested to only go if the conditions are dry.

If you’re feeling up to it, make the drive deep into the canyon for spectacular views of the white rim. Or, take some pressure off and go with a guide ! They’ll do the driving and you get to do the sightseeing.

By taking a 4×4 White Rim Trail tour, you’ll see parts of the park often overlooked by visitors! You can book a 4×4 tour here .

Oh, and by the way, visiting Moab in the fall will help avoid the crowds. In fact, Moab is one of the best places to visit in October in the US!

23. Cool down with an ice cream treat

I mean, I’m not sure that there’s ever a wrong time to eat ice cream. But after a long day of hiking, it sure feels like the best time! There are a few spots in town to get ice cream, all of them delicious.

I really enjoyed grabbing ice cream and walking downtown Moab. You’ll get a small-town feeling, even though you’re in a destination that sees millions of travelers each year.

Anyway, grab the ice cream. You won’t regret it. 🙂

24. Faux Falls

Located near Ken’s Lake, Faux Falls is just like it sounds – a man-made waterfall. But it’s beautiful and a fun spot to explore. When I was figuring out what to do in Moab and stumbled upon Faux Falls, I was thrilled!

The cold water is refreshing on a hot summer day in the desert after a full day of hiking. From the campground, the short hike is just a 0.5 mile trail along the stream up to the falls where there’s a small pool (about the size of a hot tub) or explore underneath the waterfall as you cool off from the day.

Faux Falls isn’t a very large waterfall and stream, so if you see a lot of other cars in the parking lot, expect it to be crowded.

Pro tip: bring water shoes for this one! The rocks are very slippery and you’ll have to cross the stream in order to get to this part of the falls.

These are the water shoes I wore and they’ve traveled all over the world with me.

25. Rock climbing Moab

Moab climbing is at the top of any experienced climber’s list! The giant red rocks that jut out of the soil create one giant playground for rock climbers.

And if you’re a newbie, guides can take you out on your first adventure. What a awesome spot to try climbing!

Perfect spots for climbing Moab:

• Fisher Towers, 30 minutes from Moab
• Indian Creek, just south of town
• Trisstin’s Tower, Lockhart Basin
• Washer Woman Tower, Canyonlands NP
• Castle Valley monoliths, Canyonlands NP

If you’re new to rock climbing, here are some tours with knowledgeable guides:

• 1/2 day rock climbing Moab adventure
• Full day rock climbing experience

26. Watch the starry night at the national parks

One of the coolest part of Arches National Park and Canyonlands National Park is how dark they get at night. With very limited light pollution, you’re able to see the Milky Way clearly after sundown.

Both of the national parks near Moab have been named International Dark Sky Parks , which means the nocturnal environment is protected. Not to mention the fact that the unique landscape of the parks is a stunning contrast to the lit up sky.

Pro tip: get to the parking lot of your choice by sunset. I saw tons of people setting up chairs and blankets to catch their perfect view. It’s an unbelievable night sky you’ll never forget!

27. Day trip to Goblin Valley State Park

Situated about 1.5 hours drive from Moab, this is a fun day trip! If you’re traveling to Moab and have an extra day to spare, it’s a must-see, especially if you’re on a family vacation with active kids who want to explore.

Goblin Valley State Park offers a surreal and otherworldly landscape with its unique rock formations. It actually reminds me of Bryce Canyon National Park, and the Queens Garden-Navajo Loop Trail – so stunning.

Anyway, the park has an amazing collection of mushroom-shaped hoodoos and intricately carved sandstone goblins. As you wander through the maze-like formations, you’ll feel like you’ve stepped onto an alien planet, making it a must-visit destination for nature enthusiasts, photographers and families.

Visiting Goblin Valley State Park is definitely one of the top activities in the Moab area, and a surprising one of natural wonders you’ll love.

28. Stay in a yurt

Alright, this one was just too fun to pass up! The Dead Horse Point State Park has a few yurts available for overnight stays. It’s a fun way to spend a night (or more) and experience Utah’s dark sky parks!

There’s only a few available, so make sure to reserve your space really early! If you’re looking to do a lot of activities on this list of the best things to do in Moab, Utah, I’d recommend not staying here the entire trip, as it’s not very conveniently located.

Check yurt availability here.

29. Scenic byway 128

Driving this road was one of the most beautiful roads I saw in Utah. Scenic byway 128 follows the winding Colorado river and then jumps off for more desert scenes. You’ll catch views of the red rock spires of the Fisher Towers and the La Sal Mountain range.

Each curve and turn is a beautiful sight to see on the scenic byway. Take an hour out of your day to drive up and back, or if you’re connecting and heading east out of Moab you could take it to meet up with I-70.

Just before reaching Interstate 70, you’ll see the ghost town of Cisco. It’s eerie and creepy, yet somehow intriguing at the same time!

Just a word of warning, I would not recommend taking this at night as there are hairpin curves, and once and at some point the highway becomes a county road, if you’re heading towards I 70 and so it is less maintained. And there are no services available.

Pro tip: make sure you have plenty of gas, water and snacks as there are no services on this route.

30. Zip lining in Moab

For a high-adventure activity that’s family friendly (for older kids), check out ziplining in Moab! Ziplining is a thrilling adventure, which really just feels like a oversized slide…except with nothing underneath you. 🙂

Part of the fun of ziplining in Moab is climbing the elevation needed to get to the top of the zipline course. Most zipline tours will take you up via an ATV or off-road vehicle, which is exhilarating!

A ziplining adventure is usually a 1/2 day activity, and should be booked in advance to make sure your spot is reserved. It’s one of the most adventurous on this list of Moab activities.

31. Lions Park

Sitting right between the cit limits and Arches National Park, Lions Park is right in the Colorado River valley. It’s actually the only spot in town that I saw green grass growing in the whole area!

Lions Park is a fun spot if you’re looking for things to do in Moab with kids. It has a natural playground and a bridge that spans the Colorado River. There’s an extensive path perfect for walking and biking, too.

With plenty of shade in Lions Park, it’s a perfect place for a picnic or to escape the desert sun.

32. Rent an ATV or UTV and hit the trails

By now you’ve probably noticed that off-road vehicles are a favorite for visitors to this desert town. Well you can rent an ATV or UTV and hit many trails in the area!

White Wash Sand Dunes, Bartlett Wash Road and Monitor and Merrimac Trails are popular spots to go off-roading with an ATV rental in Moab. And of course, if driving isn’t your thing you take a tour with a friendly guide.

ATV tours in Moab:

• Hurrah Pass scenic UTV tour
• 2-hour extreme buggy ride
• Hell’s Revenge off-road UTV tour

Pro tip: be sure to bring a face mask or bandana so you’re not eating the dust!

Things to do in Moab (a recap)

Moab is truly a destination that almost any outdoor enthusiast loves to explore. Between the epic views and the amazing adventure, Moab is full of exciting possibilities waiting for you around every corner.

Here’s a recap!

Moab: things to do

• Arches National Park
• Ken’s Lake
• Hell’s Revenge
• Moab Giants dinosaur park
• Dead Horse Point State Park
• Mountain biking tour
• River rafting
• Slot canyons near Moab
• Horseback riding
• Moab sand hill
• La Sal Mountain Loop Road
• Hiking in Canyonlands National Park
• Shopping in downtown Moab
• Paddleboarding Moab
• Find some fun street art
• See the petroglyphs near Moab
• Arches scenic drive
• Moab winery
• Moab Brewery
• Food truck park
• Air tour of Arches and Canyonlands
• White Rim Trail on a 4×4
• Cool down with an ice cream treat
• Rock climbing Moab
• Watch the starry night at the national parks
• Day trip to Goblin Valley State Park
• Stay in a yurt
• Scenic byway 128
• Zip lining in Moab
• Rent an ATV or UTV

Related content to read next: 10 Best Hikes in Canyonlands National Park that Promise Incredible Views Arches National Park Hikes: 12 Top-rated Trails You’ll Love One Day Itinerary: Best Sights in Arches National Park Discover the Hidden Gem near Moab: Faux Falls

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Christopher

Wednesday 22nd of September 2021

NICE POST! We Never tire of going to MOAB... Countless things to DO thereANY TIME of YEAR. The local-owned Restaurants & Shops are always good on a “down day”. 👌🏻👌🏻👌🏻

Tuesday 5th of September 2023

I have a 22 year old kiddo who is special needs (cannot walk long distances) are there places for her to see and visit considering her limitations? We want to visit Moab in early/mid October. What is the weather like around that timeframe? What do you suggest?

A concerned parent, Maudy

Right on, Christopher! I agree there's so much to do, see and eat in Moab! 🤣

Sunday 4th of April 2021

Great list. Looks like the city of Moab the best place to stay to be in close proximity to some of the "big" activities like Arches, Canyonland - correct? How are the temps in June, July, Aug? cold rafting water? Hot canyons?

Monday 5th of April 2021

Yes, Arches is just a few minutes away from Moab, and Canyonlands is about 25 minutes down the road too. It's a great hub. The summer is hot since it's the desert. I went in late June/early July and it was 85+ easily each day. Wear sun protection and avoid being active from 12-4pm and you'll be fine. The water is refreshing at those temps but not super cold. The canyons are hot but the nature of them attracts the wind to cool you down. If you can find shade to rest, you'll be fine. :)

Saturday 9th of January 2021

Huge list! I'm super keen to visit Arches National Park, so it was awesome to read about that as well as all the other amazing things nearby to do. Hell's Revenge looks so cool - I'd definitely be up for that!

Right?! Both activities are amazing. Sounds like you love a good adventure!

Ashlee Fechino

Awww, I loved seeing the sand hill again! We used to live close to Moab in Grand Junction, Colorado and spent a lot of time out there. What a great memory.

Very cool, Ashlee! Glad I could help you reminisce for a bit today :)

We love Moab, but haven't done all these things! We really want to make it to slot canyon next time we go!

Seems to be an endless amount of slot canyons in Utah, with a few in the area. They're lots of fun!

26 Hidden Gems in Salt Lake City for Off the Beaten Path Exploring

Posted on Last updated: September 12, 2023

Uncovering hidden gems in Salt Lake City is like opening a treasure chest of the best historical, artistic, and natural experiences in Utah. Among the city’s bustling streets and towering mountain backdrop, there are Salt Lake City off-the-beaten-path destinations awaiting you.

Embrace extraordinary nature, explore immersive historical sites, or uncover your family roots at the World’s Largest Genealogical library — all in Salt Lake City! In addition to the best museums, parks, and tours, we’ve included some Salt Lake City Hidden gems to connect with its local and nostalgic sides!

Float on the Great Salt Lake

Discover one of the best hidden gems of Salt Lake City: the Great Salt Lake, just a quick drive from downtown. As its name states, it’s salty, meaning visitors can easily float on top! If you’re looking to take a dip in the lake, Antelope State Park is the best place to do it from.

Being the 8th largest salt lake in the world and the largest in the Western Hemisphere, it’s a  must-visit , whether you want to take a dip or simply enjoy a day in Utah’s natural scenery. And somehow, this is an activity that many visitors to Salt Lake City miss out on.

Get Nostalgic on the Salt Lake City Trolley Tour

Munch on some nostalgic snacks and explore the city in a unique way on the Salt Lake City Trolley Tour. The trolley tour is one of the best ways to see (& learn about) famous landmarks in Salt Lake City in only 90 minutes while being led by the city’s most quirky and fun tour guides!

Fun fact: While the trolleys have a vintage feel, they’re a modern nod to the city’s old streetcar system, which was once the heartbeat of Salt Lake’s transit.

Admire The Sculptures at Gilgal Gardens

Step into the quirky and unique world of Gilgal Gardens, where art and nature merge. This sculpture park showcases original stone sculptures and engraved stones that reflect the personal philosophy and dreams of its creator, Thomas Child.

From a sphinx with Joseph Smith’s face to curious biblical symbols, this garden is truly one of Salt Lake City’s off-the-beaten-path attractions and one of the most unique places in the city. Plus, entry is free!

Browse the Selection at Randy’s Record Shop – a True Salt Lake City Hidden Gem

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Randy’s Record Shop is the best of the hidden gems in Salt Lake City for vinyl collectors — not to mention they carry turntables, CDs, and cassettes. It’s a living throwback to before everything went digital!

Opened in 1978, Randy had a passion for oldies and records, and his shop isn’t only a great place to visit if you have the same passion as Randy, but is a unique place to visit as record shops like his aren’t easy to come by anymore!

Dive Into Local History at the Natural History Museum of Utah

Tucked in the foothills of Salt Lake City, the Natural History Museum of Utah is a treasure trove of the region’s ancient past and natural wonders. The exhibits host over 1.6 million items that span from prehistoric dinosaurs to Utah’s diverse ecosystems.

Fun fact: The museum’s architecture is inspired by the very landscapes its exhibits showcase, blending into its mountainous surroundings. Just a short drive from downtown, this spot is truly a treat for natural history lovers. And for an added bonus for our nature explorers, there are hiking trails just minutes away you can check out before or after your museum visit!

Take a Road Trip to the Bonneville Salt Flats Hidden Gem outside Salt Lake City

If you’ve ever felt fed up with humankind but aren’t quite sure how to blast off to space, a visit to the Bonneville Salt Flats might be the next best option. Stretching over vast expanses, this stark white salt flat offers an ethereal backdrop that feels like stepping onto another planet.

Perfect for photography, contemplative walks, or just marveling at nature’s wonders if you’re up for a mini-road trip, the 1.5-hour drive from Salt Lake City is worth it. The salty ground is also a popular land-speed racing destination, and each year, there’s a  racing event  featuring funky vehicles with a need for speed.

Wind Down with a Movie at the Redwood Drive-In Movie Theater

And once again, with the nostalgia in Salt Lake City — we see you! About a 15-minute drive from downtown, catch a flick the way it was meant to be, under the night sky, cuddled up in your car with a bucket of buttery popcorn in hand at the Redwood Drive-in Movie Theater.

Tickets run at only $10 for adults, and with the  latest movies playing , you can brag to your friends that you got to watch it at the drive-in while they went to ordinary theatres. In addition, there’s a weekly swap meet where you can get to know the locals and buy something you didn’t know you needed from over 300 vendors!

Wander the Architecture of the Salt Lake City Public Library

A striking modern architectural marvel, the Salt Lake City Public Library is more than just a place for books. With its six-story glass walls offering epic city and mountain views, it’s an inviting space for reading, contemplation, and urban sightseeing and an off-the-beaten-path place to visit that isn’t on every itinerary.

Beyond its vast collection of over 500,000 books, the library’s unique design, featuring a walkable wall and curved atrium, is a definite conversation starter. After strolling through the library (or cuddling up with a good book), remember to check out the locally-owned shops just outside to buy some local art or have some food.

Chow Down at Ruth’s Diner: Salt Lake City Secret Spot to Eat

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Salt Lake City once again hits us with nostalgia and brings us Ruth’s Diner, which has been serving hungry patrons since 1930! This diner seemingly takes you back in time with classic dishes, an old juke box, and design that feels like a 50’s diner.

Come along for breakfast or stop by for an evening bite. With dishes like French toast, Rueben sandwiches, and delectable cobbers, you’re in for a classic American diner experience with friendly servers, delicious food, and a charming atmosphere.

Find Your Peace at the Red Butte Botanical Garden

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Tucked away by the mountains is one of the Salt Lake City secret places perfect for a natural escape: the Red Butte Botanical Garden. The 100 acres showcase a variety of plant species and seasonal gardens, plus 22 acres of themed gardens such as the rose and medicinal gardens.

With so much land and five miles of trails, you can find your own slice of peace in the gardens. Plus, with its location right next to the National History Museum of Utah, you can pair these two hidden gems in Salt Lake City together in one trip!

Get Adventurous at the Salt Lake City Utah Olympic Park

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A lasting testament to the 2002 Winter Olympics, Utah Olympic Park is a playground where Olympian dreams once soared. Visitors can explore the Olympic museum or even brave some adventure rides that give a taste of the Olympian experience, including the Comet Bobsled (open year round!).

Just a 30-minute drive from Salt Lake City, it’s a glimpse into the world of elite winter sports. While walking the grounds, visiting the museum, and soaking up the Olympic atmosphere comes at no cost, some attractions such as the Comet Bobsled or Gala night do come at a price, so bring some budget for the adventure!

Take in Epic Views from Ensign Peak Nature Park

One of the hidden gems in Salt Lake City with a GREAT view, Ensign Peak Nature Park is a beautiful trail known and loved by locals. The Park offers panoramic views of the valley and city skyline below, making it perfect for both sunrise and sunset admirers. Heck, you don’t even need to hike the whole trail for a great view!

Located just north of the Capitol, it’s the ideal hike for those who want a quick escape into nature (the trail is about 1 mile long) and be rewarded with stunning views. Be sure to bring snacks and drinks for a picnic at the top!

Catch a Classical Performance at the Utah Symphony

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Found in the elegant Maurice Abravanel Hall, the Utah Symphony brings dazzling performances throughout the year that are an amazing activity in the city that not many tourists get to. With a lineup of classical masterpieces, compositions from our favorite movies, and festive holiday tunes, there’s a classical music performance for everyone’s tastes, including you!

Just a short stroll from many of the city’s main attractions, it’s a no-brainer to  check out their schedule  and grab your tickets for a lesser-known musical night out in Salt Lake.

Visit The “This is the Place Monument” Historical Site

The “This is the Place Monument” is a tall, elegant stone pillar adorned with bronze statues commemorating the Mormon pioneers and their leader, Brigham Young. Here, history was etched when Young declared Salt Lake Valley as the Mormons’ new home.

For a deeper look and experience into the settler’s history, the surrounding  heritage park  features replica settlements, historical buildings, and interactive exhibits. Just a brief drive from downtown Salt Lake City, this spot not only offers a glimpse into the foundations of the region but also a scenic view of the valley.

Delve into the Outdoors at Big Cottonwood Canyon

Escape the city’s hustle and bustle and find yourself amidst the breathtaking beauty of Big Cottonwood Canyon, a canyon carved out by ancient glaciers! This natural Salt Lake City hidden gem is a 45-minute drive from the center and offers outdoor lovers a paradise of hiking, skiing, and rock-climbing opportunities. Don’t forget to bring your gear!

The canyon is not just for adventurers, though — it’s also perfect for those looking to picnic or revel in the beauty of Utah’s outdoors. It’s a place to revel in nature’s beauty that is less crowded than some of Salt Lake’s popular spots.

Hang With Exotic Animals at the Hogle Zoo

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Get ready to embark on a global animal adventure without leaving Salt Lake City at the non-profit Hogle Zoo! From majestic African elephants to playful polar bears, this zoo houses diverse creatures from various continents and prides itself on the highest standards of care for the animals.

Just a few miles from downtown, it’s an easy day trip, and your contribution to the Zoo will support various projects on-site and off to support our globe and its species.

Hunt Down the Best Murals in Salt Lake

One of the best ways to appreciate local art anywhere is by going mural spotting. Murals tell the stories of the local culture, history, and people with their creative and grand appearances (or are simply there just for fun) — and Salt Lake City is no exception with its growing arts scene!

Check out this  article  which features a map of some of the top murals in the city, and make your mural-spotting tour easy! Discover both well-known and hidden gem murals as you explore.

Find a Salt Lake City Hidden Gem at Ken Sanders Rare Books

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Salt Lake City seems to have an appreciation for the past days before everything went digital. First, we had Randy’s Record Shop, and now we’ve got Ken Sander’s Rare Book Store , which homes a collection of antique books you’re unlikely to ever find elsewhere.

With a focus on the region, including Utah history, Mormonism, and the West, you’re bound to see a few unique titles and get a new insight into the local area’s history and perspective. Heck, this is your sign to read a physical book again!

Visit the Attractions at Temple Square and See the Tabernacle Choir

At the heart of downtown Salt Lake City is Temple Square, a nod to the city’s Mormon roots and a place to visit to go a bit deeper into the city’s religious history. Stroll amidst serene gardens, explore the majestic Joseph Smith Memorial Building, and of course, visit the Salt Lake Temple.

You can even see the  Mormon Tabernacle Choir  for free during their rehearsal and radio show times (when they aren’t touring, that is!).

Stroll Through Liberty Park

Liberty Park sprawls across 80 acres and stands as an oasis of green in the heart of Salt Lake City. With serene ponds, vibrant playgrounds, and tennis courts, this park is a favorite among locals and tourists and has plenty of secret spots where you can get away from it all.

It offers plenty of space for picnics, jogging, or relaxing under a tree. If you plan a visit to the Aviary (which we’ll cover later), then a stroll around the park is a must!

Uncover Your Roots at the Family History Library

If you’ve got some floppy disks left behind from your family, remember to bring them on your trip to Salt Lake City with you!

At the Family History Library, you’ll discover the world’s most extensive genealogical research library, where you can explore your roots, learn about mapping your family history, and even transfer data from old technology, such as floppy disks, to FamilySearch. How’s that for a hidden gem that might change your life?

Immerse Yourself in the Night Skies at the Planetarium

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The  Clark Planetarium  in downtown Salt Lake City brings a whole new take on how to enjoy a show. This show at the planetarium is full of unique experiences that bring viewers from the night skies to under the ocean.

With IMAX 3D and Dome experiences, you can catch a show that suits your interests, and regardless of which you choose, you’re bound to be immersed on this unique night time activity in Salt Lake City.

Meet the Birds at Tracy Aviary Park

Tucked away among the green expanses of Liberty Park, Tracy Aviary Park stands as one of the hidden gems in Salt Lake City for bird enthusiasts and families alike.

With over 300 birds from around the globe, some rare and on the verge of extinction, it’s a vibrant world of feathers, chirps, and colors. Apart from the delightful avian displays, you may encounter roaming birds and see an interactive demonstration.

Explore Global & Historical Arts at the Utah Museum of Fine Arts

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The Utah Museum of Fine Arts is one of those more hidden places in Salt Lake City waiting for art and history enthusiasts far and wide to visit. Situated within the University of Utah campus, the museum boasts an impressive collection featuring works from diverse cultures from different times around the globe, such as Mayan and Mesopotamian art. To get there, simply hop on a city bus or drive to the university grounds.

Tour the Utah State Capitol Building

Standing proudly on Capitol Hill, the Utah State Capitol Building has numerous experiences to offer, from tours of the building to picnics on the lawn. Many people view this building when visiting SLC, but not many people take the tine to look inside. And it’s worth it!

Within its grandiose halls, you’ll find stunning architecture and historic murals that narrate the state’s storied past. If you come during spring, the grounds are a must-visit, as during late March or early April, the Cherry Blossoms will be in full swing! Best of all, entrance is free, allowing you to immerse yourself without a cost.

Immerse Yourself in Salt Lake City History at Hidden Gem Place Heritage Park

Step back in time at Place Heritage Park, where the rich tapestry of Utah’s history is unraveled. From Native American life to early pioneers, this park displays the region’s changes and story over time with a beautiful backdrop too.

Visitors can explore reconstructed buildings, engage with living history demonstrations, and even try their hand at gold panning! A visit here is a truly fun and immersive way to experience Utah’s history, so if you have kids (or are just a kid at heart), add this park to your list!

Enjoy your visit and let us know which Salt Lake City hidden Gems we missed! Check these out for further travel:

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The 7 strangest places to visit in Provo, Utah

Provo is full of wonderful, strange and quirky history. get off the beaten path and explore these hidden gems.

By Collin Leonard

Provo, Utah, is a wild town. A college town. If anyone tells you it’s not a wild college town, they’re wrong. While BYU is consistently ranked the No. 1 most sober university in the nation, you can find adventure if you know where to look.

As a Utah transplant, I had to ask around, dig deep into the archives and talk to locals to find the strangest sites to visit. Three sites on this list hold world records, another is a national first. With a surprising amount of unique history, here are Provo’s hidden gems you may not have heard about.

1. Bird Island, Utah Lake

In case you didn’t know, Utah Lake has an island. According to the Utah Lake Commission , it’s a “large travertine structure” created by the deposits from underwater springs. I personally think it could be the crusty skeleton of the infamous Utah Lake Monster. But that’s just one man’s well-informed opinion.

Either way — boy do birds love travertine structures. Paddle your kayak through the mildly toxic waters of Utah Lake to this tiny slice of paradise. Take a pair of binoculars to spot cormorants, herons, cranes, snipes, stilts, grebes and gulls. Be careful, you might be attacked.

Some Google reviews about the mysterious island:

• “Stinky, smelly, the armpit of Utah lake.”
• “Many birds, a must-see.”
• “We have never been there, but looks like heaven on earth.”

2. Bridal Veil Falls

Driving north up Provo Canyon, you might look off to the right and see a 607-foot waterfall cascading gracefully down the stone face, almost like the lace headdress of a blushing bride.

Following the water down the rock, you may see a parking lot at its base, filled with shameless nature lovers snapping pictures of the impressive natural feature. BYU students can be found whispering their nuptial wishes into the rushing current — “ring by spring, O’ my thalassic faerie!”

The area used to contain the Bridal Veil Resort, featuring the Eagle’s Nest Lodge which was constructed at the top of the falls in 1967, according to The Daily Herald . Perched on the edge of a cliff, the lodge functioned as a restaurant, dance hall and event center with possibly the world’s steepest arial tram bringing customers up and down the face of the rock wall.

On New Year’s Day 1996, the tram and restaurant were destroyed by a massive avalanche. In 2008, a fire swept the area , burning the remaining structure and tram house. Remnants of the site were removed in 2017 by Utah County.

In the winter you might be able to catch ice climbers scaling the bluff. In the summer you can cool off in the falls, wondering if you will ever meet someone who likes you enough to don a bridal veil and walk down the aisle to a different kind of waterfall — one filled with salty, happy tears.

You can picnic there too.

3. Ruins of Nunns Provo Power Plant

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After seeing the lovely, lonely Bridal Veils Falls, make sure to stop by Nunns Park (a two-minute drive south). It was built on the ruins of the Nunns Provo Station Power Plant, which at the time, was the first 44,000 volt hydroelectric plant in America.

The plant was constructed in 1897 by Luclen L. Nunn using the Provo River’s current to power the mining town of Mercur, Utah, 32 miles away. When built, this project was almost “three times the voltage of any existing line in the nation at that time, and was by far the longest,” according to Utah County .

To staff his Provo plant, Nunn created a work study program . Upon completion, many graduates received scholarships to Cornell University, where Nunn was deeply connected . Look for remnants of the plant as you explore this bosky glen.

4. The Lakeside Museum at AAA Lakeside Storage

LaVorn “Sparky” Sparks has petrol in his veins. He worked at a gas station as a teen. Back in the 1970s he began restoring antique cars, and learned how to go scrounge for car parts. In the process, Sparky picked up a few old gas pumps, which he got for basically nothing.

In 2013, when Sparky and his wife were getting ready to serve a mission to Guatemala for The Church of Jesus Christ of Latter-Day Saints, they left their Lakeside Storage business under the care of their eldest son.

Sparky’s son suggested they “dress the place up” by restoring some of the antique gas pumps in storage. When the couple returned from their mission, their son was exploring the Utah Valley University annual swap meet, when he realized that gas signs have to go with the pumps. Sparky agreed, and that’s when the real collecting started.

Now the Lakeside Museum at Lakeside Storage boasts what is likely the world’s largest collection of pole signs (215 visible pole signs, with 14 waiting to be installed), generating interest internationally. Sparky told me he believes the second largest collection is in Lubbock, Texas, with around 150 signs.

He didn’t stop there, however. The museum displays a 1942 White brand half track military vehicle that he found in Fairfield, which he claims was in the Battle of the Bulge. Making only right turns from Rutherfordton, North Carolina, to Provo, Sparky also drove a carbon fiber P-51 Mustang fighter jet across the country. He painted the tail red, to celebrate the Tuskegee Airmen, the first Black aviators in the U.S. Armed Forces. “They were awesome pilots — among the best.”

Why did he build this museum? “Kids grow up and are hardly aware of anything. The point is to stimulate questions that enable learning.”

When people see signs for Bay Oil, Frontier or Malco, they have the chance to learn about the young cash-strapped entrepreneurs who started these businesses, not the rich old men everyone imagines — “they had a dream and were willing to do what was necessary.”

Sparky is building an event center across the street that will hold 500 people, housing airplanes (like the tiny BD-5J featured in a “James Bond” movie), antique vehicles and hundreds of signs. He tells me it’s opening this spring.

5. Startup Candy Co. Chimney

In 1894, William, George and Walter Startup (grandfather of LuLaRoe founder DeAnne Startup Brady Stidham ) revived their father’s Provo candy business. Their father, William Daw Startup, had been tragically killed over a decade earlier when he was lifting a sandstone cooling slab in his little candy shop and ruptured a blood vessel in his stomach.

According to family legend , William’s wife Hagar walked into the candy store after her husband’s funeral and found the cooled candy in a cold stove, untouched after the accident. She started a fire, heated the candy and sampled it. It was perfect. In this moment she felt the business would survive.

Despite raising her four children, two more from a second marriage and one baby girl she found abandoned on a train, Hagar managed to keep some semblance of the business afloat until her sons came of age to take over.

The three sons, using the tools their father had taken from England across the plains to Utah, and the recipes remembered by their mother, built a factory at 69 South 300 West. The Startup Candy Company claims to have made the first filled candy bar in the U.S., the Opera Bar, with three flavored layers of cream filling (it sold for 10 cents).

At its peak, the Startup Candy Co. employed “more than 175 people and covered half a city block” according to previous Deseret News reporting. Now, the old factory has been converted into coworking spaces and a wedding venue, but murals and the old factory chimney still remain visible. And the Startup Candy Co. has relocated its storefront to American Fork, where you can still buy the jumbo pops, chocolates and sugar toys.

6. ‘Castle Theatre’ —  Utah State Hospital

On 1300 East Center Street, nestled among the 3-acre grounds of a psychiatric hospital run by the Utah Department of Human Services, you can find a 800-seat, 18-tier stone amphitheater with various medieval battlements and towers scattered about the stone work. This was all built through federal New Deal programs such as Works Progress Administration during the Great Depression.

Unemployed? Eating dusty maize? Try hauling boulders.

The amphitheater was envisioned as “the nucleus around which will be developed play areas, including four tennis courts, a handball court, and many other improvements of the sort,” according to Dr. Garland H. Pace , the superintendent of the hospital during the construction. He said “there will be picturesque paths winding over terraces and into gardens sheltered by retaining walls.” Most of those things never happened, but we have this stony staircase and grounds that have served as the backdrop for many wedding announcement photos of cash-strapped BYU students and the site of local bohemian concerts.

If it’s good enough for the Greeks (Medieval Greeks?), it’s good enough for us.

7. Provo’s Victorian Mansions

In the absence of anything else to do, the Provo City Landmarks Commission suggests a walking tour of historic homes. There are a number of Victorian mansions built by influential early families between 1893 and 1908.

The National Register of Historic Places labels these houses as “the “Entrepreneurial Residences of turn-of-the-century Provo.” The mansions “All derive from the high style popular at then end of the 19th century: Eastlake, Italianate, Shingle, Craftsman, Moorish and the Classical, Romanesque and Colonial Revivals.” In the boom of Western expansions, these business owners used their new money from mining, banking, transportation and finance to construct exotic residences. If you have a keen architectural eye, enjoy the pentagonal fanlight gable windows and tin scalloped roofs, just remember — these are actual people’s houses so don’t be creepy.

The Soap Factory deserves an honorable mention. Squirt a choice of 150-plus essential oils, and into a choice of 400-plus mold shapes to make your own soap. It’s like a blend of “Master Chef” and “Fight Club” except you can’t eat the final product, and you’re not rendering human lard. Take a date, a family or some corporate pals to have good clean fun.

The Provo Beach, which is not a beach but actually a family fun center, draws arcade lovers and laser taggers from all over the state. I’ve heard it’s fun to hang out, snack on popped corn and look for Midwest families with bathing suits and beach towels, who thought it was, in fact, a beach.

If you’re more into looking at metal objects, there is an interesting trail marker at 40° 13.954′ N, 111° 39.493′ W . Two Catholic priests of the Franciscan Order and their attendants, while looking for an overland route to Monterey, California, camped in Provo on Sept. 24, 1776. According to the engraving, they were the first known travelers to leave “a written record of the geography of the country and the character of its people.”

Now you know.

Absolute Best Things to Do in Utah: 14 Bucket List Experiences

By Author Jurga

Posted on Last updated: January 8, 2024

Considering traveling to Utah, USA, and wondering what the top experiences are that you shouldn’t miss on your first visit? In this guide, we share some of the best things to do in Utah for your bucket list . Find out! 

Utah is renowned for its stunning natural beauty. So you likely already heard of “The Mighty 5” – Arches, Bryce Canyon, Canyonlands, Capitol Reef, and Zion National Parks. Indeed, no Utah bucket list would be complete without these places. But there’s so much more to see and do in Utah!

The state’s diverse landscapes extend from the Great Salt Lake to the iconic Monument Valley, known for its sandstone buttes and a rich cultural history influenced by the Navajo Nation. 

With the highest concentration of Dark Sky Parks, Utah is also a prime destination for stargazers. If you are interested in prehistoric life, you can admire ancient art and dinosaur fossils. Winter sports enthusiasts flock here to find the “Greatest Snow on Earth” and speed lovers are drawn to the vast expanse of Bonneville Salt Flats for land speed record attempts…

Utah’s cultural diversity, shaped by Native American tribes, Mormon pioneers, and other settlers, is also reflected in its festivals, architecture, and museums. This cultural influence adds an enriching layer to the state’s natural wonders as well.

With such a wide array of landscapes and activities on offer, you can imagine that no list of the best things to do in Utah could ever do it justice – even if it contains 85 or 379 experiences… Plus, there’s no way you could see it all in one trip.

So in this guide, we showcase only the VERY BEST places and diverse bucket list experiences in Utah that – in our view – are worth it the most. If you are visiting for the first time and want to see the best that Utah has to offer, this list will give you plenty of ideas.

Good to know: This guide is published with the help and tips of Janae McCormick, a full-time travel writer and founder of Adventures With TuckNae . She has spent several months traveling all around Utah and exploring its vast beauty. We hope that this guide and our experience-based tips will help you plan the most memorable trip as well.

Here are some of the best things to do in Utah for your bucket list:

1. Roadtrip Through the “Mighty 5” Utah National Parks 

Let’s start this list with some of the most famous places in Utah!

No trip to the Beehive State would be complete without seeing the famous landscapes of the “Mighty 5” Utah National Parks – Arches, Bryce Canyon, Canyonlands, Capitol Reef, and Zion. Ideally, you plan a road trip that includes at least a few of them. Time permitting, definitely visit them all!

TIP: Driving from west to east, the best order to visit them is starting with Zion and Bryce Canyon, then Capitol Reef, Canyonlands, and Arches. If you are visiting from east to west, reverse the order. 

Here are a few photos and top things to do at each National Park: 

Arches National Park

Arches is famous for its over 2,000 natural stone arches. Key activities include visiting the iconic Delicate Arch, exploring the Windows Section for easily accessible arches, and enjoying spectacular landscapes from the best viewpoints along the Arches’ scenic drive .

LEARN MORE: Best Things to Do in Arches National Park

Canyonlands National Park 

Famous for its dramatic desert landscapes, Canyonlands is known for panoramic views and backcountry adventures. Must-dos include viewing the expansive vistas at Island in the Sky, exploring the Needles District’s unique rock formations, and enjoying stargazing in its remote wilderness.

LEARN MORE: Best Things to Do in Canyonlands National Park

Capitol Reef National Park

Capitol Reef offers a mix of historical and natural attractions. Popular activities include exploring the Waterpocket Fold, a unique geological feature, visiting the historic Fruita orchards, and hiking to viewpoints like Sunset Point.

Bryce Canyon National Park

Bryce Canyon is known for its extraordinary hoodoos and landscapes. Top activities include hiking the Navajo Loop and Queen’s Garden trails amidst the hoodoos, enjoying breathtaking views from Bryce Point, and stargazing under the park’s dark skies.

LEARN MORE: Zion – Bryce Canyon Itinerary

Zion National Park

Zion is famed for its stunning canyon views and hiking trails. Key activities include hiking Angel’s Landing for panoramic views, exploring The Narrows, a unique slot canyon experience, and taking scenic drives like the Zion Canyon Scenic Drive. For a quieter adventure, the Riverside Walk offers beautiful scenery.

LEARN MORE: Best Hikes in Zion National Park

2. Admire the Majestic Temple Square

Temple Square in the heart of Salt Lake City is one of Utah’s most visited and significant landmarks. This 10-acre complex is owned by The Church of Jesus Christ of Latter-day Saints (LDS Church) and serves as a spiritual, cultural, and historical center.

Even if you are not religious, this is an absolute must-see in Utah!

The square is famous for its stunning architecture, beautifully landscaped gardens, and historical and religious significance, making it a focal point of Salt Lake City for both members of the LDS Church and visitors from around the world.

At the center of Temple Square is the impressive Salt Lake Temple, a magnificent granite structure that took 40 years to build and was completed in 1893. While the temple itself is not open to the public, its imposing Gothic and Romanesque architecture, with six spires rising into the skyline, provides a striking image. 

Next to the temple, you’ll find the Tabernacle, home to the famous Mormon Tabernacle Choir. The Tabernacle is notable for its remarkable acoustics and the grand organ, which is one of the largest in the world. It’s absolutely impressive – a must-visit!

TIP: If you are in Salt Lake City, try to see Tabernacle Choir Performance . It’s a unique experience!

Good to know: Temple Square is particularly enchanting during the holiday season when it is decked out with thousands of lights and nativity scenes.

3. Stand Under the Iconic Delicate Arch

Delicate Arch in Arches National Park is one of the world’s most recognized geological landmarks. It is so iconic that is also pictured on the Utah license plate. So it definitely deserves a separate mention on any Utah bucket list!

The Arch can be reached by hiking one of the most popular trails in the park. The hike is about 3 miles round trip, with an elevation gain of about 480 feet. It’s a moderate hike but it can be done by most people, including children.

This trail begins at the Delicate Arch Trailhead, which is easily accessible by car. You’ll start on a well-defined path that winds through rugged terrain, offering glimpses of the park’s various rock formations.

The trail gradually ascends, leading you over slick rock and along a relatively exposed ledge for the final stretch. It requires some caution, especially with young children or those with a fear of heights.

Before you know it, you will reach Delicate Arch and be rewarded with an awe-inspiring view of the arch standing majestically against the backdrop of the La Sal Mountains. It’s hard to put into words just how incredible it is to see this arch in person! 

TIP: The best times to hike to Delicate Arch are in the early morning or late afternoon when temperatures are cooler. Summer months can bring extreme heat, making it essential to carry plenty of water, wear sunscreen, and wear appropriate hiking attire. 

LEARN MORE: Delicate Arch Hike Info

4. Walk Through the Belly of the Dragon

One of the most unique things you can do in Utah is wander through the Belly of the Dragon . Although it’s obviously not a dragon’s belly, it definitely resembles one! 

Located under Highway 89 near Kanab, Utah, this unique attraction is actually an old drainage tunnel. It received its name due to the erosion through the passageway, which resembles the inside ribcage of a dragon. 

Belly of the Dragon is part of a short 1.8-mile round-trip hike. The entrance to the tunnel is at the beginning of the trail and requires a small 4-5 foot scramble down into the ditch. Once you start through the tunnel, you will wind your way through until you reach the other end. 

Afterward, you can continue hiking through the sandy wash, or turn around and head back the same way you came. 

Good to know: Depending on the time of day when you visit, there is minimal light inside the tunnel, so be sure to pack a good flashlight. The terrain is rough and uneven in places, so watch your footing. 

This is a fun place to visit for kids and adults alike, and it’s also dog-friendly, which is a nice bonus. If you’re driving through the Kanab area, add a stop at Belly of the Dragon to your Utah bucket list. 

TIP: Plan your visit early in the morning or late in the evening to have Belly of the Dragon all to yourself. This is a popular stop and can become crowded very quickly. There is also free camping at this location. 

5. See Bison at Antelope Island State Park

The Great Salt Lake , the largest saltwater lake in the Western Hemisphere, is a must-see in Utah. The scenery is stunning and a swim in this lake is a unique experience in itself. Due to the high salinity of the water, you can effortlessly float at the surface of the lake. 

One of the bucket list destinations on the shores of the lake is Antelope Island State Park . This park is located northwest of Salt Lake City, just 45 minutes drive from downtown. It’s accessible via a causeway from Syracuse, UT. Despite the proximity to the city, it’s a serene getaway with open, grassy plains, rocky beaches, and the backdrop of the Wasatch Range.

Antelope Island is known for its wildlife, but it’s particularly famous for the herd of bison that call this state park home. The bison were first introduced to Antelope Island in 1893, with the initial herd consisting of just 12 animals. Since then, the population has flourished, becoming one of the largest and oldest publicly owned bison herds in the United States.

In addition to the bison, you’ll also have a chance to spot wild pronghorn antelope, bighorn sheep, and an abundant variety of birds. The island has hiking, biking, and horseback riding trails, and you can also camp here if you’d like. 

If you’re looking to photograph some of the best wildlife in Utah, then Antelope Island State Park needs to be on your bucket list! 

TIP: There is an annual bison roundup, typically held in the fall, when the bison are corralled and checked for health, allowing for the management and study of the herd. Plan your visit accordingly if you want to watch this fascinating event!

6. Brave the Heights of Angels Landing 

Angels Landing in Zion National Park is perhaps the most famous hike in the USA. This is one of the most thrilling hiking trails in the world, renowned for its stunning views and challenging terrain. 

Angels Landing is not for the faint-hearted or those with a fear of heights, but it offers an unforgettable experience for those who choose to take the challenge.

The round-trip hike is about 5 miles long, with the trail ascending approximately 1,488 feet. It typically takes 4 to 5 hours to complete, depending on fitness level and crowd conditions, and is rated as strenuous due to its steep and exposed sections.

The hike begins at The Grotto trailhead, accessible by the park’s shuttle bus. The first section is a well-maintained path that gradually ascends along the West Rim Trail. 

A series of 21 short, steep switchbacks known as Walter’s Wiggles significantly increase your hiking elevation. This section is physically demanding but manageable for most hikers in good condition.

After the switchbacks, you’ll reach Scout Lookout, a relatively flat area where you can take a break and enjoy the stunning views. This is also the decision point for many, as beyond here, the trail becomes more challenging and exposed.

The final half-mile is the most daunting, following a narrow spine with sheer drops on either side. Chains have been installed along this section for hikers to hold onto, providing stability and security. This section requires careful navigation and patience, especially when the trail is really crowded. Always stay focused, and hold onto the chains where provided.

TIP: Start early in the morning to avoid the crowds that can make the narrow trail more dangerous. Ensure you have enough water, wear sturdy hiking shoes, and check the weather forecast before starting. If you are afraid of heights, reconsider attempting the final spine to Angels Landing.

Good to know: Nowadays, you need a permit if you want to hike to Angels Landing. You can find more information about it here .

7. Hike Through a Slot Canyon

Utah boasts over 1,000 slot canyons so a trip to Utah wouldn’t be complete without hiking through one of them! Some of the best Utah slot canyons include Peek-A-Boo Slot Canyon, Wire Pass, and Crimson Slot Canyon. Some are technical canyons (requiring special equipment and training), and others are non-technical and can be easily visited by everyone.

If you are nervous about exploring a slot canyon on your own, you can hire a guide or a tour agency to take you through one. Some slot canyons are also hidden away and difficult to reach, making a guided tour even more appealing. 

The slot canyons in Utah are made up of various colors and sizes, so do some research to determine which one is most appealing to you. One of the best slot canyons you can easily add to your itinerary is Crimson Slot Canyon in East Zion, on the way to Bryce Canyon.

Good to know: Slot canyons can be very dangerous during flash floods. Make sure to check the weather before heading to a slot canyon, and never hike through one when any potential rain is in the forecast.

TIP: While not in Utah, the famous Antelope Canyon is located just over the border in Arizona. So a visit here can be easily added to any Utah itinerary.

The three most impressive slot canyons that you can visit here are the Lower Antelope Canyon, Upper Antelope Canyon, and Antelope Canyon X. Keep in mind that they can only be visited with a guide and are extremely popular. So it’s essential to plan and book ahead! Check here for availability and book as soon as you know your travel dates!

8. Touch Dinosaur Bones at Dinosaur National Monument 

Located on the Colorado and Utah border, Dinosaur National Monument is a paleontological treasure trove known for its well-preserved dinosaur fossils. The highlight is the Quarry Exhibit Hall , built over the Carnegie Dinosaur Quarry, where an array of dinosaur bones are still embedded in the rock wall.

Here you have a rare opportunity to see and even touch dinosaur fossils that date back to the Jurrasic period. Visitors can get up close to the remains of dinosaurs like Allosaurus, Apatosaurus, and Stegosaurus, among others. 

Educational exhibits and ranger-led programs provide deeper insights into the lives of these ancient creatures and the area’s natural history.

TIP: Don’t forget to explore the grounds outside of the Quarry Exhibit Hall as well! The scenery is very nice and quite different from the rest of Utah, plus, there are no crowds. Nearby, you can also find several sites with ancient petroglyphs, some just a few minutes drive from the visitor center. If you are lucky, you may even spot some wildlife like bighorn sheep and eagles.

9. Marvel at the Unique Scenery of Bonneville Salt Flats

The Bonneville Salt Flats is yet another famous natural landmark of Utah that’s well worth a detour. It’s located at the Nevada border, about a 1.5-hour drive west of SLC. So you can easily visit here on a (half) day trip from Salt Lake City.

Spanning over 30,000 acres, the salt pan is the result of a dried-up prehistoric saltwater lake that used to cover much of the Utah and Nevada desert. The surreal landscape captivates with seemingly endless white salt-crusted terrain that looks like a snow-covered desert. It’s somewhat comparable to the Badwater Basin in Death Valley National Park , but is much larger.

The Bonneville Salt Flats also attract adrenaline junkies and speed enthusiasts. The vast area of thick salt crust provides an ideal track for racing and is renowned worldwide as a high-speed haven. In fact, almost all the land-speed records in the world have been set or broken here!

Good to know: During the dry season (summer – early fall), the flats become a hardened, reflective surface due to the evaporation of rainwater. This creates a mirror-like illusion that merges the sky above with the ground below—a photographer’s dream.

When it’s dry, it’s possible to drive on the Bonneville Flats Speedway. However, the flats can occasionally be wet or impassable after rainfall, so be sure to check the conditions! It’s still worth visiting to admire the scenery and amazing reflections, but you are not allowed to drive on the salt pan when it’s wet. See here for more info.

TIP: If you just want to see the unique scenery, one of the best spots to go is a rest stop along I-80, about 10 miles east of Wendover. You can leave your car here and walk on the salt flats. There is even a place where you can wash the salt off your shoes after you come back.

Alternatively, you can visit here with this highly-rated private half-day tour from Salt Lake City. It also stops at a few other landmarks along the way.

10. Drive ATVs in Coral Pink Sand Dunes State Park

A fun bucket experience for the adventurous traveler is ATVing in Coral Pink Sand Dunes State Park ! This park is famous for the color of its coral-pink sand and is located in southern Utah, just east of Zion National Park.

Although you can enjoy the park on foot or even rent sandboards to take on the dunes, arguably the best way to enjoy this park is by ATV. There’s nothing else quite like racing over these pink sand dunes!

You can either choose to rent ATVs independently, or you can enjoy a guided ATV tour . Either option is great, but we recommend taking a tour, as the guides know the best dunes and are also there to help should you get stuck in the sand and need any extra assistance. 

TIP: This is a great activity to enjoy in the winter months when the heat is more bearable! Just make sure to wear layers, and have a blast taking on the dunes.

11. Discover Mystic Landscapes of Goblin Valley State Park

Goblin Valley State Park , located in southeastern Utah, is truly a hidden gem with otherworldly landscapes. The park is known for its thousands of hoodoos and mushroom-shaped rock pinnacles, known as “goblins”.

These unique formations create a surreal and almost alien environment that attracts visitors from all over the world.

The Valley of Goblins is the park’s main attraction. In this extensive area, you can wander among the hoodoos, enjoying an almost maze-like experience.

Photographers find this landscape particularly enchanting, especially during sunrise and sunset when the warm hues of the rocks are accentuated. Another great time to photograph the hoodoos is in the winter when the rocks are covered in a light dusting of snow.

Despite its remote location, the park has a campground, picnic areas, and restrooms, making it accessible for day trips and overnight stays. 

TIP: Goblin Valley is a very remote destination, with few amenities nearby and almost non-existent cell service. Bring everything that you need with you, including plenty of water and snacks, and don’t forget to fill your gas tank before reaching the area.

12. Meander Through Hoodoos at Bryce Canyon National Park

Goblin Valley State Park is not the only place to find other-worldly landscapes. Another great place to see hoodoos in Utah is Bryce Canyon National Park . The scenery here is phenomenal and should definitely be on your bucket list! 

These tall, thin spires of rock, formed by frost weathering and stream erosion, create a natural amphitheater of red, orange, and white hues that change with the light of day. You can admire the stunning scenery from various viewpoints on top of the canyon. But if you have the chance, be sure to take a hike and see the hoodoos up close!

Walking inside the Bryce Canyon is like stepping into another world. Trails like the Navajo Loop and Queen’s Garden descend into the canyon and offer easy access to get up close to these unique rock formations. 

As you explore the paths, the towering hoodoos rise around you, creating narrow passageways and sudden openings to reveal stunning vistas. The play of light and shadow through the corridors adds to the magic, especially during sunrise or sunset when the colors of the rocks are at their most vibrant.

Good to know: Wintertime offers an even more unique experience. The stunning contrast of white snow on the red and orange hoodoos is beyond gorgeous! Just beware that some roads might get temporarily closed during snowstorms.

13. Hit the Ski Slopes in Park City

While Utah is mostly known for its dry desert-like landscapes, the state also has some impressive mountains. And yes, in winter you can even go skiing in Utah!

One of the best and most popular destinations for winter sports enthusiasts is Park City, Utah. The charming and historic town transforms into a bustling hub of activity during the winter months.

Park City is known for its light, powdery snow, and extensive terrain. The area is home to two major ski resorts: Park City Mountain Resort and Deer Valley Resort.

Park City Mountain Resort is one of the largest ski resorts in North America. It provides a variety of runs suitable for all skill levels, from beginner to expert. Its interconnected trails and lifts offer plenty of areas to explore, and the resort is particularly known for its high-quality terrain parks and halfpipes. 

Deer Valley Resort is recognized for its luxury services and meticulously groomed runs and caters to a more upscale experience. It is a skiers-only resort known for its exceptional customer service, fine dining, and ski-in/ski-out accommodations.

Park City’s outstanding ski facilities and charming town atmosphere make it a top destination in Utah in the winter.

Good to know: The town also hosts various winter events, including the Sundance Film Festival, which brings a unique blend of art and culture to the snowy town.

14. Take a Drive Through Monument Valley 

And finally, no list of the best places to visit in Utah would be complete without the iconic Monument Valley . White technically in Arizona , it’s located right on the Utah border so we find that it’s well worth a mention here as you would not want to miss it when road-tripping in the area!

Monument Valley is one of the most recognizable landscapes in the American West. Its vast, open vistas and dramatic skyline have been featured in numerous films and advertisements, making it familiar even to those who have never visited.

Despite the name, it is not a valley in the conventional sense but rather a vast flat landscape interrupted by towering formations, sometimes rising to over 1,000 feet above the desert floor. These formations are made of de Chelly sandstone, which provides the red and orange hues that define the area’s distinct color palette. 

The Valley Drive, a 17-mile dirt road that runs through the park, allows visitors to experience the area’s beauty at their own pace, with many stops at popular viewpoints.

Good to know: Monument Valley is part of the Navajo Nation Reservation and holds deep cultural and historical significance for the Navajo people. The best way to support the local community and explore the area is with guided tours .

Tour options vary from scenic drives to more adventurous options like horseback riding and hiking. They offer insight into the cultural history and geology of the region from the Navajo perspective, plus, local guides can take you to places that are not accessible to the general public.

TIP: To replicate the famous picture from Forrest Gump, stop along the road at one of the provided pull-offs on the Utah side several miles before you reach the valley. Use caution and watch for approaching vehicles, as this is a busy road! 

LEARN MORE: How to Visit Monument Valley

As you can see, there are so many amazing places and experiences to add to your Utah bucket list.

From vast salt pans and deserts to canyons and mountains, and from prehistoric life and ancient rock art to contemporary landmarks, Utah has plenty to offer for all sorts of travelers and in any season.

This unique combination of natural beauty, cultural richness, and outdoor recreation opportunities makes Utah an unparalleled destination. One thing is certain – no matter where you decide to go on your first visit, you will want to return.

Have a great trip!

READ ALSO: Arizona Bucket List – Top Places to Visit

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Images: Janae McCormick of Adventures With TuckNae, Depositphotos.com, and personal collection.

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Peggy Harper

Monday 8th of January 2024

Great blog, but one Utah place you didn't mention is Dead Horse Point State Park. It's less crowded than the national parks, but well worth spending time hiking and touring. And, the final scene of Thelma and Louise was filmed there. Fun times!

Hi Peggy, you are absolutely right - Dead Horse Point State Park is a beautiful place and the sunsets there are amazing! In fact, we wrote about it in pretty much all our guides about Canyonlands National Park and the Moab area. The purpose of this Utah bucket list was not to showcase everything there is to see in the state but to highlight just some of the most special places and experiences. Otherwise, it could have easily been 74 spots or even more. :) But if more readers tell me that it deserves a place on this list, I might reconsider. ;) Thanks for reading and happy travels!

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Best places to visit in utah.

Utah is truly an outdoor lover's dream. With natural wonders – including five national parks – and small towns with outdoor activities galore, Utah offers ample opportunities to reconnect with nature. To help you decide where to go for your next getaway, U.S. News took into account factors like attractions, value and accessibility to determine the best places to visit in Utah. Vote for your favorite destination below to help decide next year's list.

Zion National Park

Arches national park, bryce canyon national park, monument valley, canyonlands national park, dinosaur national monument, dead horse point state park, capitol reef national park, grand staircase-escalante national monument, salt lake city.

More and more people are discovering the beauty of Zion National Park. Utah's first national park features more than 90 miles of backpacking and hiking trails, including The Narrows, a one-of-a-kind slot canyon that takes travelers through the slimmest section of the park. There are also easier paths like Canyon Overlook Trail and Pa'rus Trail, as well as more strenuous ones, such as Angels Landing (permits are required) and the Watchman Trail. If hiking doesn't present enough of a challenge, visitors can also go canyoneering down or rock climbing up Zion's 2,000-foot-tall sandstone cliffs.

With an array of jaw-dropping red rock formations, including 2,000-plus natural arches (the most you'll find in any area on Earth), Arches National Park delights more than 1.5 million visitors each year. Some of the park's most popular rock formations include Landscape Arch (the longest arch in North America), the Windows Section (one of the most picturesque locations in Arches) and Fiery Furnace (a challenging natural labyrinth between sandstone walls). Adventurous visitors can go hiking, rock climbing, canyoneering and more, while less-active travelers might prefer to see the park from the comfort of a vehicle or on horseback.

Bryce Canyon National Park is often described as otherworldly, and it's easy to see why. Its sunset-colored natural amphitheaters and hoodoos (Bryce Canyon has the highest concentration of these irregular rock columns in the world) are almost too perfect to be real. Hiking and horseback riding are great ways to see these natural beauties during the warmer months. Meanwhile, cold-weather pursuits like snowshoeing and cross-country skiing are available in winter. For an extra memorable experience, camp out at this International Dark Sky Park at night to enjoy a full moon hike.

Moab sits conveniently between Arches National Park and Canyonlands National Park, making it a great home base for travelers looking to visit both parks. Vacationers will find plenty to do in and around town, too, including outdoor activities like biking, hiking, off-roading and whitewater rafting. For a bird's-eye view of Moab's stunning red rock formations, visitors can go skydiving or enjoy a thrilling flight in a plane or hot air balloon. After an active day, head to a local restaurant to satisfy your appetite and listen to some live music.

Located in Utah and Arizona, Monument Valley features a red landscape that is easily recognizable. Here, you'll find Monument Valley Navajo Tribal Park, which houses sandstone towers and buttes that have appeared in movies like "Forrest Gump" and "Stagecoach." Must-do activities in the Utah section of the valley include hiking, horseback riding and stargazing. You'll want to also save time for learning more about the park's Navajo history, which you can do while admiring the scenery during a guided vehicle or horseback tour with a Navajo tour operator.

With a prime location near the Utah-Arizona border, the small desert town of Kanab is an excellent jumping-off point for outdoor explorers. Not only is Kanab surrounded by several must-see national parks, including Bryce Canyon, Zion and the Grand Canyon, but the town also provides access to lesser-known wonders like Coral Pink Sand Dunes State Park and the Sand Caves. What's more, Kanab is known as the gateway to The Wave, an iconic Arizona sandstone formation that is only accessible via an online lottery system. Save time for hiking Wire Pass Trail to the Buckskin Gulch, the longest and deepest slot canyon in the Southwest.

This Utah national park is divided into four districts, each of which offers a different experience. The most accessible district is Island in the Sky; it rises more than 1,000 feet above the ground and provides spectacular views of the area. In the southeast corner of the park lies The Needles, a region with colorful sandstone spires, a historic cowboy camp and prehistoric rock art. The Maze's challenging, remote roads and hiking trails are best attempted by those with experience. And in the last district – where the Colorado and Green rivers form – you can explore via canoe or kayak.

Dinosaur National Monument, a protected area on the Utah-Colorado border, is a must-visit destination for anyone interested in dinosaurs. Budding paleontologists can venture to the Utah side of the monument to see its array of fossils, many of which are on display inside the Quarry Exhibit Hall. After admiring the fossils, visitors can head to the Cub Creek Area, where several hiking paths – including the Fossil Discovery Trail – and pictographs and petroglyphs left behind by the Fremont people are located. The national monument also offers opportunities to camp, fish and go whitewater rafting.

Sitting about 30 miles outside of Moab, Dead Horse Point State Park is undeniably one of Utah's most magnificent travel destinations. There are ample ways to explore this state park, from mountain biking the Intrepid Trail System to traversing the park's eight miles of family-friendly hiking trails. Just don't leave without visiting Dead Horse Point's overlook, which towers 2,000 feet over the powerful Colorado River and provides panoramic views of Canyonlands National Park. In the evening, retreat to one of the park's campgrounds to admire the stars from this International Dark Sky Park .

While Capitol Reef National Park may not be as well known as Utah's other national parks, it is just as breathtaking. The park's main attraction is the nearly 100-mile-long Waterpocket Fold, a buckling of the Earth's surface. Capitol Reef is home to plenty of hiking trails and backcountry routes; just remember, backcountry routes here are not official maintained trails, so you'll need to obtain a backcountry permit and exercise caution. Other popular activities include biking, horseback riding, rock climbing and canyoneering. If you'd rather exert less energy during your visit, opt for a scenic drive.

Grand Staircase-Escalante National Monument is a natural wonder that took millions of years to create. Occupying nearly 2 million acres, this protected area is divided into three units. The Escalante Canyons section is a hiker's dream, with backcountry trails that travel past waterfalls, arches and narrow canyons. The remote Grand Staircase region is where visitors will find Utah's most extensive network of slot canyons, as well as the colorful cliffs that give the monument its name. Separating the two areas is the Kaiparowits Plateau, which contains an impressive collection of fossils that are sure to delight paleontology enthusiasts.

You may immediately think of The Church of Jesus Christ of Latter-day Saints when you think of Salt Lake City, but you would be remiss if you limited yourself to Temple Square. Utah's capital city is also home to interesting museums (the Natural History Museum of Utah is a popular option), multiple professional sports teams (attend events from rugby matches to motorsport competitions) and an exciting live music scene (catch an outdoor show at Red Butte Garden). Plus, Salt Lake City boasts proximity to a number of ski resorts and trail-filled Wasatch Mountain State Park, making it especially appealing to adventure seekers.

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7 Best Small Towns In Utah For A Weekend Retreat

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• Utah boasts small towns ideal for a weekend trip, with many perfect for hikers, winter sports lovers, and stargazers near stunning national parks.
• Springdale is ideal for visiting Zion National Park and hiking the Angels Landing Trail for scenic canyon views.
• Garden City offers water activities at Bear Lake in summer and skiing at Beaver Mountain Ski Area in winter.

Home to not one but five stunning national parks, Utah is a state where nature’s artistry is evident in almost every corner. As such, there are endless opportunities for outdoor adventures, and small towns are the perfect bases for a weekend retreat. Away from bustling cities, these small towns allow visitors to slow down and capture the beauty of Utah, often defined by unique red-rock formations, majestic mountains, and serene lakes.

Utah has small towns for every type of traveler , whether hikers looking to immerse its beauty along scenic trails, winter sports enthusiasts yearning to play on the powdery snow, or stargazers who want to stand in awe of the gorgeousness of distant stars and galaxies. Old West towns in Utah , through their abandoned and preserved structures, saloons, and museums with exhibits and photographs, also offer a great connection to the past.

Here are several beautiful small towns in Utah with unique experiences for a memorable weekend getaway.

7 Small Towns With The Best Hikes In Utah

Utah is full of great hiking. For less crowded trails, consider visiting one of these small Utah towns with some of our favorite hiking trails.

7 Springdale

A popular choice for those planning to visit zion national park.

Springdale is one of the most beautiful towns in Utah , located near the southern border of Zion National Park , one of the state's bucket-list destinations. This charming town makes a perfect base for visiting Zion, as hikers can access one of the country’s most famous but dangerous hikes: the Angels Landing Trail .

Despite its relatively short distance, this challenging route has technical sections and exposes hikers to sheer drop-offs and extremely hot weather conditions during summer. However, embarking on this trail comes with the reward of admiring scenic canyon vistas and a feeling of accomplishment.

Aside from its proximity to Zion, this town has a thriving art scene, best experienced by exploring some of the galleries along Park Boulevard. One of the must-visit galleries is Worthington Gallery , displaying and selling everything from wind sculptures to paintings and one-of-a-kind jewelry.

The Angels Landing Trail requires a permit via a lottery system in advance. However, it's one of the USA's most exclusive hikes for which a permit is extremely hard to get .

6 Garden City

A stunning small town situated on the banks of bear lake nicknamed the "caribbean of the rockies".

Known as the gateway to Bear Lake, Garden City is a small, picturesque town worth escaping to for a fun weekend retreat. Located near the Utah-Idaho border, this small town is a perfect base for travelers seeking endless outdoor adventures.

The town is home to Bear Lake State Park , featuring a namesake lake dubbed the Caribbean of the Rockies for its brilliant turquoise-hued waters. The lake is a popular summer destination as visitors enjoy boating, fishing, swimming, and lounging along Rendezvous Beach .

Outdoor adventures continue in the winter months as the town transforms into a snow-covered wonderland best explored at the Beaver Mountain Ski Area . This is the oldest family-owned ski resort in the country, boasting over 800 acres of pristine mountain terrain with runs ideal for beginner skiers and snowboarders.

7 Affordable Small Towns In Utah To Visit

Visit these affordable small Utah towns for their budget-friendly experiences, from Springdale near Zion National Park to Salina and more.

Worth visiting for its proximity to Capitol Reef National Park

Torrey is a tranquil town of less than 500 people established in the late 19th century as a farming community. This charming town draws travelers with its breathtaking red rock landscapes and proximity to some of Utah’s most stunning natural wonders.

Torrey sits approximately eight miles from the west entrance of the famed Capitol Reef National Park , making it one of the many scenic small towns in Utah near national parks . As a geology enthusiast’s haven, this park boasts geological wonders such as cliffs, canyons, and natural bridges explored via countless scenic hiking trails.

Some of the park’s most popular routes include the Hickman Bridge Trail and Cassidy Arch Trail , which both lead to striking natural arches. Besides hiking, travelers enjoy spending the night under clear star-studded skies, with Capitol Reef being a designated International Dark Sky Park.

4 Huntsville

A year-round destination with numerous outdoor opportunities in its fishing streams, reservoirs, and ski resorts.

Situated in the picturesque Ogden Valley, Huntsville is a small but adventurous town in Utah . Founded in the 1800s by Mormon settlers, Huntsville boasts a rich history reflected in its well-preserved 19th-century buildings.

One of them is the iconic Shooting Star Saloon , the oldest continuously operating saloon in Utah, serving delectable American fare. The town’s proximity to Pineview Reservoir also makes it a popular destination for water sports, fishing, and picnicking. For a weekend retreat, vacationers can spend a day boating or paddleboarding in the reservoir’s calm waters, surrounded by rolling hills and mountain peaks.

In winter, Huntsville transforms into a gateway to skiing as winter sports enthusiasts drive less than 10 miles to the Snowbasin Resort. Here, guests enjoy exploring world-class slopes ideal for beginner and experienced skiers.

An isolated town that offers access to the Grand Staircase-Escalante National Monument

Boulder is a serene mountain town worth visiting for its beautiful landscapes and rich Native American heritage. History buffs explore the town’s Native American roots at the Anasazi State Park Museum , renowned for its prehistoric Ancestral Puebloan village site.

Boulder also offers easy access to the Grand Staircase-Escalante National Monument , where visitors discover dramatic canyons, slickrock landscapes, and ancient petroglyphs. Adventurers embark on a scenic drive or cycling trip along the Boulder to Escalante Cycle Route, which boasts stunning vistas of the monument’s remote red rock landscape from various viewpoints.

Mountain Retreats: 10 Cozy & Scenic Small Towns To Visit In October In Utah

These scenic small towns in Utah to visit in October may be far from modernity, but they promise a mountain retreat like no other.

Located in Little Cottonwood Canyon, this town is best visited in winter for its perfectly powdered snow

Alta is a picturesque mountain town best known for its world-class skiing and alpine beauty located near the bustling Salt Lake City. Nestled in the Wasatch Mountains, this town is a winter sports paradise, offering some of the best powder skiing in the country at the Alta Ski Area .

While skiing is the main draw, the town is also a summer retreat for nature lovers itching to explore wildflower-covered meadows and breathe in the fresh mountain air. Travelers immerse themselves in the town’s natural splendor along the highly-rated Albion Basin Trail , which meanders through a pine forest and meadows decorated with colorful wildflowers.

After hiking, adventurers can take a scenic drive up Little Cottonwood Canyon as they admire the breathtaking vistas.

Offers access to ancient archeology sites and dramatic views of sandstones

Bluff is a small, beautiful town in southeastern Utah, worth visiting for its rich history, striking desert landscapes, and ample outdoor recreation opportunities. Founded by Mormon pioneers in the late 1800s, this town retains its old-western charm with historic buildings and a serene atmosphere.

The town is also a gateway to the Bears Ears National Monument , which covers over 1.3 million acres. The monument is home to ancient Ancestral Puebloan sites, including cliff dwellings and notable petroglyphs located on the fascinating Comb Ridge monocline. Besides exploring archeological finds, visitors enjoy rock climbing in the Indian Creek area and exploring miles of bike-friendly trails as they revel in the monument’s jaw-dropping beauty.

For those craving a thrilling weekend escapade in Bears Ears, the mighty San Juan River offers excellent opportunities for guided multi-day rafting trips.