Explore Utah’s Breathtaking Outdoor Destinations with iBestTravel

Utah is a premier destination for outdoor enthusiasts, offering some of the best hiking, mountain biking, and winter sports. With five national parks, seven national monuments, and countless state parks and public lands, it can be overwhelming to narrow down your must-see list. Below, we present the top activities you shouldn’t miss while experiencing the beauty of Utah.

1. Discover the World’s Largest Tree at Fish Lake

Located between Capitol Reef and Bryce Canyon national parks, Pando, the world’s largest known tree, awaits your visit. This massive grove of quaking aspens is interconnected by a single root system, with over 40,000 stems that virtually resemble individual trees. The best times to visit are in the fall when the leaves turn stunning golden yellow or in the summer for swimming and fishing at Fish Lake.

2. Navigate the Rock Maze at Arches National Park

While iconic Delicate Arch and Park Avenue are must-see spots, enhance your adventure with a ranger-led tour of the Fiery Furnace. This maze-like canyon features narrow passages, sandstone fins, and fascinating rock formations. Prepare for some physical exertion as you maneuver through tight spaces and climb over rocks.

3. Visit the Spiral Jetty at Great Salt Lake

A remarkable earthwork, the Spiral Jetty spirals out into Great Salt Lake, constructed from mud, salt, and basalt rocks. Created by artist Robert Smithson in 1970, this landmark provides a stunning backdrop for photography, especially around sunset when its colors reflect in the shallow waters.

4. Savor Unique Craft Spirits Inspired by Utah’s Landscape

Despite a reputation for strict liquor laws due to the predominant religion in Utah, a thriving craft beverage scene has emerged. Sample local beers like Polygamy Porter, crafted by Wasatch Brewery in Park City, or try High West Distillery’s Valley Tan, a whiskey reminiscent of pioneer recipes. Additionally, Etta Place Cidery in southern Utah offers flavorful craft cider made from red rock desert orchards.

5. Explore Zion National Park’s Subway

The Subway, a popular backcountry hike in Zion, is characterized by its slot canyon resembling a subway tunnel. This picturesque location requires a permit and some technical skills. Expect an exhilarating journey through waterfalls and deep emerald pools.

6. Discover LDS Church History at Temple Square

As the headquarters of the Church of Jesus Christ of Latter-Day Saints, Temple Square in Salt Lake City is the most frequented attraction in Utah. While the temple itself is not open to the public, the grounds offer informative exhibits, beautiful gardens, and the chance to enjoy a live performance by the Tabernacle Choir. For an exceptional view of downtown Salt Lake City, visit the top floor of the Joseph Smith Memorial Building.

7. Dive into a Geothermal Spring at Homestead Resort

Experience the unique Homestead Crater at the Homestead Resort in Midway. This geothermal spring, hidden beneath a limestone dome, is one of the few places in the U.S. where you can enjoy warm-water scuba diving. Swimming, paddleboarding, and geology tours are available for those who prefer to stay dry.

8. Unwind at Mystic Hot Springs

Indulge in a soak at Mystic Hot Springs in central Utah, where vintage clawfoot tubs are set against vibrant orange mineral formations. The pools are filled with pure mineral water sourced from nearby hot springs, offering a rejuvenating experience. For a unique stay, consider spending the night in one of the converted old school buses on-site.

9. Discover Dinosaur Fossils at Dinosaur National Monument

Witness the prehistoric past at Dinosaur National Monument, where the “Wall of Bones” showcases thousands of fossilized dinosaur bones preserved in their original resting place. This fascinating site offers a glimpse into the area’s ancient history.

10. Fruit-Picking at Capitol Reef National Park

Capitol Reef National Park boasts historic orchards planted by early settlers in the 1800s. Visitors can partake in the harvest of apples, peaches, and apricots during the season. Be sure to stop by the historic Gifford Homestead for delicious homemade pies and ice cream—a delightful way to cap off your fruit picking adventure.

11. Explore the Gilgal Sculpture Garden

Nestled amid urban development in Salt Lake City, the Gilgal Sculpture Garden is a peculiar park filled with quirky sculptures created by Thomas Battersby Child, Jr. in the mid-1900s. The garden features a sphinx with the head of Joseph Smith and stones engraved with enigmatic inscriptions, making it a fascinating stop for art lovers.

12. Hike Slot Canyons in Grand Staircase–Escalante National Monument

Discover the remote wilderness of Utah by hiking through its stunning slot canyons in Grand Staircase–Escalante National Monument. While many of the canyons require technical skills, family-friendly options like Spooky Gulch and Peek-a-boo Gulch allow visitors to experience the unique landscape without the need for special equipment.

13. Become an Olympian for a Day at Utah Olympic Park

Utah Olympic Park in Park City is a tribute to the excitement of the 2002 Salt Lake City Winter Games. Engage in thrilling activities such as bobsled rides, tubing down the ski jump landing hill, or taking a guided tour to learn about the legends of Olympic athletes.

14. Marvel at Views from Dead Horse Point State Park

For stunning red rock vistas without the crowds, head to Dead Horse Point State Park. With views reaching 2000 feet above the Colorado River, visitors can take in the mesmerizing landscape of winding canyons. The park features numerous hiking and biking trails that welcome your furry friends, unlike many national parks.

15. Experience the Unique Landscape of Goblin Valley State Park

Experience the otherworldly landscape of Goblin Valley State Park, filled with sandstone formations known as hoodoos. Eroded into peculiar goblin-like shapes over millions of years, the park offers a fun network of trails for exploring the whimsical terrain.

16. Enjoy Winter Sports at Brian Head Resort

While Park City and Salt Lake City claim the spotlight, Brian Head Resort offers an excellent alternative for winter sports enthusiasts. Positioned in Dixie National Forest near Zion National Park, this resort provides opportunities for downhill skiing, snowboarding, and cross-country skiing.

17. Tackle the Slickrock Mountain Biking Trail

In a state renowned for excellent mountain biking trails, Moab’s Slickrock is a favorite. This challenging 12-mile trail features stunning views of petrified sand dunes, making it ideal for experienced cyclists. If you’re keen on road trips, the Moab area offers an array of trails to suit all skill levels.

18. Discover Bryce Canyon’s Natural Ampitheater

Visit Bryce Canyon National Park, home to a massive natural amphitheater filled with incredible hoodoos. This unique park offers a spectacular landscape, especially in winter when cross-country skiing allows adventurers to access its stunning, snow-blanketed trails.

19. Zoom Down Dunes at Coral Pink Sand Dunes State Park

Add Coral Pink Sand Dunes State Park to your itinerary, where visitors can rent sandboards or sleds and race down stunning reddish-pink dunes. This unique experience adds excitement to your Southern Utah road trip, showcasing a different side of the state’s natural beauty.

Continue Planning Your Utah Adventure

Utah is brimming with outdoor wonders and unique attractions. Visiting these sites with iBestTravel will ensure you have an unforgettable experience.