Planning a trip to Utah? Awesome choice! In this article, I’ll guide you through the top 10 must-do things to do in Utah that’ll make your first visit unforgettable.
Utah is full of stunning landscapes and a vibrant cultural scene, with endless things to do just waiting to be explored.
From jaw-dropping national parks to historic landmarks, there’s adventure around every corner.
Whether you’re an outdoor enthusiast craving excitement or a history buff eager to dive into the past, Utah has something for everyone.
Ready to uncover the most exciting things to do in Utah? Let’s jump right in!
1. Chase the Sunrise at Bryce Point: One of the Best Things to Do in Utah
Bryce Canyon National Park is one of the most beautiful spots in the United States.
Sitting at 2,400 to 2,700 meters (8,000 to 9,000 feet) above sea level, it’s Utah’s highest park and is known for its unique hoodoos and stunning amphitheaters created by erosion. It attracts tons of visitors each year.
Make sure to explore the popular trails like Navajo Loop, Peekaboo Loop, Queen’s Garden, and Rim Trail. And don’t skip the sunrise at Bryce Point—the rock formations look incredible in the early morning light.
You’ll also want to check out the views from Inspiration Point, Sunset Point, and Sunrise Point for some amazing scenery.
If you’re into stargazing, Bryce Canyon is a fantastic place to do it, but be prepared for chilly nights since winter can stretch into spring. No matter when you visit, it’s a good idea to pack some warm clothes!
2. Hike to the Iconic Delicate Arch
Arches National Park in Utah is an incredible spot, known for its impressive collection of over 2,000 natural rock arches.
The highlight here is definitely the Delicate Arch, but there are so many other cool formations to see, like Double Arch, Landscape Arch, South Window, and Broken Arch. If you love nature and geology, you’ll be in heaven.
For those wanting to get active, the park offers a range of beautiful hikes.
The Delicate Arch trail is super popular, but you can also explore options like Devils Garden, Fiery Furnace, Park Avenue, and Windows Primitive Loop.
Keep in mind that if you plan to visit between April and October, you’ll need a reservation. If you want a more peaceful experience, aim for sunrise or sunset to avoid the crowds.
And don’t forget—summer temps can hit 40°C (104°F), so stay hydrated and protect yourself from the sun!
3. Cruise the Scenic Drive in Capitol Reef
Capitol Reef National Park is a hidden gem in Utah, known for its stunning rock formations, like the famous Waterpocket Fold.
This park is less crowded than some of the others, giving you a chance to enjoy nature in peace.
One of the best things to do is take the scenic drive, where you can see fascinating petroglyphs carved into the rocks.
If you’re up for a hike, check out the Hickman Bridge and Cassidy Arch trails, which lead to some impressive rock arches.
For a fun adventure, explore Grand Wash for a beautiful slot canyon or head to Cathedral Valley for some off-roading and views of the Temples of the Sun and Moon. Don’t miss Goosenecks for stunning bird’s-eye views of the canyon.
If you’re visiting in the summer or fall, definitely stop by the fruit orchards in the Fruita settlement.
Just keep in mind it can get pretty hot during the day, so it’s best to plan your hikes for the early morning.
Stay hydrated and protect yourself from the sun. And if you can, pair your trip to Capitol Reef with a visit to Bryce Canyon; it’s accessible via one of the most scenic routes around.
4. Trek Through the Narrows in Zion: One of the Exciting Things to Do in Utah
If you’re planning a trip to Utah, Zion National Park should definitely be on your list.
This amazing spot is perfect for nature lovers and climbers, offering an unforgettable landscape filled with stunning red rock canyons and scenic trails winding through deep valleys.
One of the highlights is The Narrows, a trail that takes you through the Virgin River, surrounded by impressive rock formations. It’s one of the best things to do in Utah, especially for those who love a good adventure.
And if you’re up for a challenge, hike up Angels Landing for breathtaking views of Zion Canyon and the surrounding rocks. The park also has other beautiful trails like Pa’rus, Grotto, and Watchman.
Zion can get pretty busy, so try to arrive early in the morning. Be ready for temperature changes from day to night. And if you plan on hiking Angels Landing, don’t forget to grab the necessary permits!
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5. Unleash Your Inner Adventurer at Goblin Valley
Goblin Valley in Utah is a must-see for adventure lovers and anyone looking for stunning landscapes.
This place is famous for its crazy rock formations that look like goblins and even create cool mazes.
The park features three valleys filled with these goblin-like rocks for you to explore at your own pace. The first two valleys are super easy to access, while the third one requires a bit more effort.
Hiking to The Three Sisters, a really interesting rock formation, is a highlight you won’t want to miss.
Goblin Valley is also a great spot to see pronghorns, North America’s fastest land animals, which can sprint up to 95 km/h (59 miles/h).
Plus, Goblin Valley is known for having some of the darkest night skies in the world, making it a perfect place for stargazing.
Spring and autumn are the best times to visit since summers can get really hot. Be sure to use sun protection and hit the trails early in the morning or later in the evening to avoid the heat.
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6. Witness the Sunrise at Mesa Arch
Canyonlands National Park in Utah is the state’s largest national park, showcasing some of the most breathtaking scenery in the western United States.
The highlight here is the Island in the Sky, featuring a variety of trails that lead to stunning views overlooking the Colorado River and the Green River.
Sunrise at Mesa Arch is a must-see, attracting photographers from all over the world. If you love off-roading, the beautiful White Rim Trail is perfect for you.
Another mesmerizing area is The Needles, known for its striking red rock spires that add to the park’s unique landscape. For adventurous souls, the more remote Maze district offers a haven for climbers and thrill-seekers.
The best times to visit Canyonlands are spring and autumn when the weather is milder, and nature is in full bloom. Nearby towns like Moab and Monticello make great bases for your park adventures.
7. Meet Bison at Antelope Island: One of the Unique Things to Do in Utah
Antelope Island in Utah is a paradise for nature lovers and photographers. Located just 1.5 hours from Salt Lake City, it’s the largest island in the Great Salt Lake.
It’s a haven for wildlife, especially the majestic bison, with a population ranging from 500 to 700. This is a fantastic chance to see these impressive creatures up close in their natural habitat.
But the island has more to offer. Antelope Island is also home to a variety of bird species, including pelicans, as well as pronghorns, mule deer, bobcats, and coyotes.
You can explore scenic hiking trails that provide stunning views of the Great Salt Lake. Plus, you can experience the unique feeling of floating on the lake’s surface due to its high salinity.
To dodge the peak mosquito season, try to visit during spring or autumn. While you’re there, don’t miss the chance to explore the history of the pioneer era at the historic Fielding Garr Ranch.
8. Mountain Biking in Red Canyon
Red Canyon in Utah is a captivating destination known for its striking red landscapes, located just a short 20-minute drive from Bryce Canyon.
It’s a perfect addition to a visit to Bryce Canyon National Park or can shine as its own fantastic getaway.
This spot is especially appealing to mountain biking enthusiasts and off-road adventurers looking for a more intimate, less crowded experience.
As you explore Red Canyon, you’ll find a variety of picturesque hiking trails that unveil breathtaking views of the iconic hoodoos.
Whether you opt for the short Buckhorn Trail, which leads to a scenic overlook, or tackle the more challenging Golden Wall Trail, there’s something for hikers of all skill levels.
One of the must-try experiences is the renowned Thunder Mountain Trail, winding through the stunning landscapes and providing an unforgettable adventure for both hikers and mountain bikers alike.
And don’t miss out on the 120-mile Scenic Byway 12, which takes you through awe-inspiring scenery, including unique rock tunnels.
9. Explore the Bonneville Salt Flats
The Bonneville Salt Flats in Utah are a super cool spot that mixes rich history with jaw-dropping views.
This huge salt desert, once a prehistoric lake, looks like it’s from another planet, featuring those cool honeycomb-like patterns. It pulls in photographers, thrill-seekers, and motorsports fans from all over.
The salt flats are famous for being a legendary place to set land-speed records, hosting tons of racing events every year. It’s even been featured in movies like the “Pirates of the Caribbean” series!
But there’s more to Bonneville than just the racing scene. You’ll find stunning mountain views that pop against the bright white landscape, making it a fantastic spot for catching amazing sunrises and sunsets.
The best time to visit is in the summer when the salt flats are usually dry, so you can explore without any hassle.
Just make sure to check the conditions, especially during the rainy season, because parts of the area can get flooded.
10. Marvel at Temple Square in Salt Lake City
Salt Lake City, the capital of Utah, is a spot you definitely don’t want to miss when exploring the state.
This lively city is famous for its bustling downtown, where you can enjoy cool architecture, munch on tasty food at tons of restaurants, and wander through a mix of shops and museums.
One of the highlights is Temple Square, an iconic place with beautiful historic buildings, lovely gardens, fancy fountains, and the famous Salt Lake Temple—a real symbol of the city.
But that’s not all! Salt Lake City is surrounded by stunning mountains, making it a haven for outdoor lovers. You’ll find some awesome ski resorts that draw winter sports fans from all over.
And let’s not forget the other attractions, like the Utah Museum of Natural History and the annual Sundance Film Festival. There’s always something happening here!
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10 Amazing Things to Do in Utah: Summary
To wrap it up, Utah is a state that beautifully combines nature and history. From stunning canyons to vast deserts, there’s something here to enchant every traveler.
The national parks offer breathtaking views, while the cultural and historical sites give you a glimpse into the area’s rich heritage.
I hope this list of unforgettable things to do in Utah has inspired you to explore the state. If it has, share your experiences in the comments!
And don’t forget to pass this article along to fellow adventurers.
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