Canyonlands National Park Canyonlands National Park is also a must-visit, especially since it’s easy to pair with Arches. The largest park by acreage, it is divided into four distinct districts: Island in the Sky, Needles, The Maze, and The Rivers. The Island in the Sky district offers the Grand View Point trail, an easy walk with breathtaking canyon views. For a truly magical experience, hike the Mesa Arch trail at sunrise. In the Needles district, the Druid Arch trail is a favorite, offering stunning scenery that’s worth every step. Up for a challenge? Test your skills in The Maze, the most remote district of them all. Or perhaps you’d rather enjoy the power and majestic beauty of The Rivers, where the Colorado and Green Rivers wind through sandstone to create deep canyons before converging at the Confluence. Capitol Reef National Park Capitol Reef, located near Torrey, is a hidden gem and the second-largest park by acreage. It gets its name from the striking white sandstone dome resembling the US Capitol building, visible as you head east from the visitor’s center. The “Reef” part of its name refers to the rugged Waterpocket Fold, a natural barrier reminiscent of ocean reefs. Exploring the park, you’ll find charming historic homes from Mormon pioneers who settled here in the late 1800s. Don’t miss the orchards scattered throughout, and stop by the Gifford Homestead for freshly baked pies made from the park’s fruit. It’s a delightful blend of natural beauty and rich history!
Shafer Canyon Road, Canyonlands National Park
Chimney Rock, Capitol Reef National Park
FUN FACT: APPROXIMATELY 75 MILLION YEARS AGO, UTAH WAS PART OF A LANDMASS CALLED LARAMIDIA. THIS LAND MASS WAS HOT, SWAMPY, AND FULL OF DINOSAURS, WHICH MAKES UTAH ONE OF THE BEST PLACES IN THE U.S. TO FIND DINOSAUR FOSSILS.
Bryce Canyon National Park Located near the small town of Bryce, Bryce Canyon National Park is a veritable wonderland of unique rock formations known as hoodoos — towering red rock spires sculpted by centuries of erosion. The park’s scenic drive is a pleasant introduction, but the real magic lies in the overlooks, like Bryce Point, Sunset Point, and Inspiration Point, where you can feast your eyes on thousands of hoodoos. While photos struggle to capture their grandeur, hiking down among these spires offers an unparalleled, up-close experience. Zion National Park Located near the charming town of Springdale, Zion National Park is Utah’s most popular and magnificent destination, attracting over five million visitors annually. Known as a hiker’s paradise, Zion boasts an array of trails for all levels of expertise. For an easy yet rewarding hike, try the Zion Canyon Overlook Trail — a one-mile round trip with breathtaking views. Scout’s Lookout is also a must-do, but it’s not for the faint of heart! Climbing concrete switchbacks, you’ll wind your way through Refrigerator Canyon’s cool, narrow walls and test your balance on the short but steep switchbacks of Walter’s Wiggles, leading to a stunning view at the top. One of the best ways to experience the grandeur of this park is to bike the scenic road, which is closed to vehicles. With countless opportunities to enjoy America’s beauty, Zion is a haven for nature enthusiasts.
Bryce Point, Bryce Canyon National Park
View from Scout’s Lookout Trail, Zion National Park
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