20 Places in Utah
Source:
@kelleyandcarlsadventures
20 places in Utah: Las Vegas, Salt Lake City, Bryce Canyon National Park, and 17 more. Every place is verified on Google Maps, featured in an Instagram post by Kelley & Carl | Travel Tips & Inspiration.
Las Vegas
Place
Start or end your national park adventure in this vibrant desert city, known for its entertainment, dining, and nightlife. It's a convenient hub for flights to the Southwest, offering a contrasting experience to the serene parks. Enjoy a show or gourmet meal before heading out to nature.
Salt Lake City
Place
Consider flying into Utah's capital for a northern gateway to the state's national parks, offering a different starting point for your road trip. Explore the city's historic sites, including Temple Square, and enjoy its growing culinary scene. It provides a cultural contrast to the natural wonders.
Bryce Canyon National Park
National park
4.9
Marvel at the vibrant amphitheater filled with unique hoodoos and geological spires. Descend into the canyon via the Navajo Loop and Queens Garden Trail for an immersive experience. The sunrise views here are truly magical and highly recommended.
Zion National Park
National park
4.8
Experience towering sandstone cliffs and lush riparian areas. Hike Angels Landing for an unforgettable challenge, or explore The Narrows by wading through a river. Don't miss the panoramic views from the Zion Canyon Overlook Trail.
Capitol Reef National Park
National park
4.8
Discover a hidden gem with diverse geological features and orchards. Hike to Hickman Bridge or explore Grand Wash to see ancient rock art and a natural arch. Pick fresh fruit in the historic Fruita Orchards during harvest season.
Arches National Park
National park
4.8
Witness over 2,000 natural sandstone arches carved by millennia of erosion. Hike to Delicate Arch for an iconic sunset view or explore the Windows section for impressive formations. Secure a timed entry reservation during peak season.
Canyonlands National Park
National park
4.8
Explore a vast, rugged landscape of canyons, mesas, and buttes, divided into distinct districts. Visit Mesa Arch for a stunning sunrise photo opportunity, or enjoy the expansive vistas from Green River Overlook. Consider a backcountry permit for a deeper exploration.
Angels Landing Trail
Hiking area
4.8
Embark on an exhilarating and challenging hike with chains fixed into the rock face. This iconic trail offers unparalleled panoramic views of Zion Canyon. A permit is required, so plan ahead and apply in advance.
Delicate Arch
Landmark
4.9
Hike to Utah's most iconic natural arch, a freestanding masterpiece framed by distant mountains. The sunset views here are legendary, painting the arch in fiery hues. Be prepared for a moderately strenuous hike and arrive early for a good viewing spot.
Green River Overlook
Landmark
4.8
Gaze upon a breathtaking panorama of the Green River winding through a deep canyon, showcasing the vastness of Canyonlands. This easily accessible viewpoint offers stunning vistas, especially at sunrise or sunset. It's a perfect spot to appreciate the sheer scale of the landscape.
Hickman Bridge Trail
Place
4.7
Hike to a magnificent natural bridge, a prominent feature of Capitol Reef's Waterpocket Fold. The trail offers scenic views and a glimpse into the park's geological history. It's a moderately easy hike, suitable for most fitness levels.
Canyon Overlook Trail
Place
4.9
Enjoy a relatively short and rewarding hike leading to a spectacular viewpoint of Zion Canyon. This trail offers stunning photographic opportunities, especially at sunrise or sunset. It's a great option for families or those seeking less strenuous but impactful views.
Cassidy Arch Trail
Place
Hike to a stunning natural arch that you can walk across, offering incredible views of the surrounding landscape. The trail is moderately strenuous but rewarding with its unique perspective. It's often combined with the Grand Wash for a longer day hike.
Grand Wash Trail
Place
5.0
Walk through a dramatic narrow canyon with towering walls, offering a cool respite from the desert heat. This flat, sandy trail provides an immersive experience into the park's geology. Combine it with the Cassidy Arch Trail for a more extensive adventure.
The Narrows
Hiking area
4.9
Experience a unique adventure by wading and sometimes swimming through the Virgin River in a narrow canyon. The towering walls create a surreal and refreshing environment, especially during hot weather. Rent appropriate gear like water shoes and hiking poles for comfort and safety.
Grand View Point Overlook
Landmark
4.9
Take in expansive, elevated views of the Island in the Sky district, with its intricate canyon systems and distant mountains. A relatively flat rim trail extends from the viewpoint, offering diverse perspectives. It's an excellent spot for photographers to capture the grand scale.
Mesa Arch Trail
Place
4.9
Witness the iconic sunrise view through Mesa Arch, as the rising sun illuminates the underside of the arch in a fiery glow. This short, easy hike is incredibly popular for photographers, so arrive very early to secure a good spot. The scene is truly unforgettable.
Navajo Loop Trail & Queens Garden Trail
Intersection
Descend into the heart of Bryce Canyon's amphitheater, winding through mesmerizing hoodoo formations. This popular loop offers close-up views of the unique geology and connects two iconic trails. Wear sturdy hiking shoes, as parts of the trail can be steep.
Turret Arch
Scenic spot
4.8
Discover this distinctive arch that resembles a castle turret, often visited in conjunction with The Windows section. A short, accessible trail leads to its base, offering unique photographic angles. It's a great spot to appreciate the intricate geological artistry.
The Windows Road
Place
Explore a majestic collection of large, iconic arches including North Window, South Window, and Turret Arch. This area offers relatively easy access and stunning views of several significant formations. It's a must-see for all visitors, suitable for all ages and abilities.
More featured places in Utah
16 Places in Utah
Bryce Canyon National Park, Zion National Park, Bryce Canyon National Park Sunset Point
4 Parks in Utah
Zion National Park, Red Cliffs National Conservation Area, Yant Flat Trailhead
2 Parks in Utah
Arches National Park, Canyonlands National Park
38 Attractions in Utah
Page, Salt Lake City, Horseshoe Bend
3 Attractions in Utah
Bryce Canyon National Park, Torrey, Grand Staircase-Escalante National Monument