Map Of United States Utah: Your Ultimate Travel Guide
If you’re planning a trip to Utah, this comprehensive travel guide will help you make the most of your visit. From the top attractions to hidden gems, we’ve got you covered.
Top Attractions
Utah is home to many incredible attractions, but some of the most popular include Bryce Canyon National Park, Zion National Park, Arches National Park, and Capitol Reef National Park. These parks offer stunning scenery and plenty of opportunities for outdoor adventures.
Bryce Canyon National Park
Bryce Canyon National Park is known for its unique geological formations called hoodoos. The park offers hiking trails, scenic drives, and stargazing opportunities.
Zion National Park
Zion National Park is a hiker’s paradise with trails that range from easy to strenuous. The park also offers rock climbing, canyoneering, and scenic drives.
Arches National Park
Arches National Park is home to over 2,000 natural sandstone arches and other unique geological formations. The park offers hiking trails, scenic drives, and stargazing opportunities.
Capitol Reef National Park
Capitol Reef National Park is known for its colorful sandstone cliffs, canyons, and rock formations. The park offers hiking trails, scenic drives, and stargazing opportunities.
Hidden Gems
While the national parks are certainly the main attractions in Utah, there are also plenty of hidden gems to explore. Here are a few of our favorites:
Goblin Valley State Park
Goblin Valley State Park is a unique landscape of mushroom-shaped rock formations that look like something out of a sci-fi movie. The park offers hiking trails and camping opportunities.
The Wave
The Wave is a stunning sandstone formation located in the Coyote Buttes area of the Paria Canyon-Vermilion Cliffs Wilderness. To visit The Wave, you’ll need to obtain a permit and be prepared for a challenging hike.
Bonneville Salt Flats
The Bonneville Salt Flats are a unique natural wonder with a perfectly flat surface that makes it a popular spot for land speed racing. The area also offers camping opportunities.
Food Scene
Utah is known for its unique cuisine, which is influenced by the state’s history and geography. Here are a few dishes you’ll want to try:
Fry Sauce
Fry sauce is a popular condiment in Utah made from a blend of ketchup and mayonnaise. It’s typically served with french fries, but you can also use it as a dip for other foods.
Jell-O
Utah is the top consumer of Jell-O in the United States, and it’s become a cultural icon in the state. You’ll find Jell-O salads on many restaurant menus, and it’s a popular dessert for potlucks and family gatherings.
Funeral Potatoes
Funeral potatoes are a cheesy potato casserole that’s a staple at Mormon funerals and potlucks. The dish typically includes hash browns, cheese, cream of chicken soup, and cornflakes.
Budget-Friendly Tips
Utah can be an expensive place to visit, especially if you’re planning to visit the national parks. Here are a few tips to help you save money:
Visit in the Off-Season
The national parks are busiest during the summer months, so consider visiting in the spring or fall when crowds are smaller and prices are lower.
Stay Outside the Parks
Accommodations inside the national parks can be expensive, so consider staying outside the parks in a nearby town. You’ll save money on lodging and have more dining options.
Pack Your Own Food
Food prices inside the national parks can be high, so consider packing your own food and snacks to save money. You can also bring refillable water bottles to save money on drinks.
Outdoor Adventures
Utah is a playground for outdoor enthusiasts, with plenty of opportunities for hiking, rock climbing, canyoneering, and more. Here are a few outdoor adventures you won’t want to miss:
Hiking
Utah has some of the best hiking trails in the country, with options for all skill levels. Some of the most popular hikes include Angels Landing in Zion National Park, Delicate Arch in Arches National Park, and the Narrows in Zion National Park.
Rock Climbing
Utah is a world-class destination for rock climbing, with routes for all skill levels. Some of the most popular climbing areas include Moab, Little Cottonwood Canyon, and Big Cottonwood Canyon.
Canyoneering
Canyoneering involves descending narrow slot canyons using a combination of hiking, rappelling, and swimming. Some of the best canyoneering routes in Utah include The Subway in Zion National Park and Keyhole Canyon in Escalante.
Historical Landmarks
Utah has a rich history, with many landmarks and sites that tell the story of the state’s past. Here are a few historical landmarks you won’t want to miss:
Temple Square
Temple Square is a 35-acre complex in the heart of Salt Lake City that includes the Salt Lake Temple, the Tabernacle, and other historic buildings. It’s the headquarters of the Church of Jesus Christ of Latter-day Saints and is open for tours.
Golden Spike National Historic Site
The Golden Spike National Historic Site in Promontory is where the first transcontinental railroad was completed in 1869. Visitors can see a replica of the Golden Spike and learn about the history of the railroad.
Fort Douglas
Fort Douglas was a U.S. Army post that played a key role in the settlement of the West. Today, it’s a museum that tells the story of the fort and its impact on Utah and the West.
Family-Friendly Activities
Utah is a great destination for families, with plenty of activities and attractions that kids will love. Here are a few family-friendly activities to consider:
Lagoon Amusement Park
Lagoon Amusement Park in Farmington is a popular destination for families, with roller coasters, water rides, and other attractions. The park also has a campground and a historic Pioneer Village.
Discovery Gateway Children’s Museum
The Discovery Gateway Children’s Museum in Salt Lake City is a hands-on museum that encourages learning through play. Kids can explore exhibits on science, art, and more.
Hogle Zoo
The Hogle Zoo in Salt Lake City is home to over 800 animals from around the world. The zoo offers interactive exhibits, animal encounters, and special events throughout the year.
Off-The-Beaten-Path Experiences
If you’re looking for something a little different, Utah has plenty of off-the-beaten-path experiences to offer. Here are a few to consider:
Crystal Geyser
Crystal Geyser is a natural geyser located in Green River that erupts with a beautiful spray of water and minerals. The geyser is located on private property, so be sure to get permission before visiting.
Burr Trail Scenic Drive
The Burr Trail Scenic Drive is a 68-mile drive that takes you through some of Utah’s most stunning landscapes. The road starts in Boulder and ends in Bullfrog, and offers plenty of opportunities for hiking and exploring along the way.
Salt Flats Speedway
The Bonneville Salt Flats are home to the fastest land speed racing in the world, and you can watch the action at the Salt Flats Speedway. The speedway hosts events throughout the year, including the World of Speed and the World Finals.
Natural Wonders
Utah is home to some of the most stunning natural wonders in the world. Here are a few to add to your itinerary:
Mighty 5 National Parks
The Mighty 5 National Parks in Utah include Zion, Bryce Canyon, Arches, Capitol Reef, and Canyonlands. Each park offers its own unique landscapes and opportunities for outdoor adventures.
Monument Valley
Monument Valley is a stunning landscape of sandstone buttes and mesas that have been featured in many western movies. Visitors can take guided tours of the area or explore on their own.
Bonneville Salt Flats
The Bonneville Salt Flats are not only a natural wonder, but also a popular spot for land speed racing. The perfectly flat surface provides ideal conditions for racing and attracts speed enthusiasts from around the world.
Vibrant Nightlife
While Utah