15 Best Things to Do in Utah

Utah is the world’s proof that there is ART on Earth. Your jaw will drop just by looking at the incredible rock formations, and it will surely leave you speechless. You must be wondering, “Is there more to Utah?” The answer is YES! Here are the best things to do in Utah:

1. Explore the Wide Array of Trails at Zion National Park

This park is a nature preserve with distinctive steep red cliffs. It is widely popular because of its impressive views and unique landscape that makes it a hiker’s park.

Some of the many different trails:

• Weeping Rock – 0.4 miles
• Emerald Pool Trail – 1.5 to 3 miles
• Canyon Overlook Trail – 1 mile
• Hidden Canyon – 3 miles
• Angel’s Landing – 5.4 miles
• Observation Point – 8 miles

2. Check out the Stone Arches at Arches National Park

There are more than 2,000 natural sandstone arches in this place that varies in landforms, colors, and textures. It’s safe to say that the Arches National Park is unlike any other in the world. The best time to visit this destination is from April through May or between mid-September and the end of October. Snap a photo of the Balanced Rock, the rock towering over the desert in the middle of the park.

3. Appreciate the Landscape at Bryce Canyon National Park

The stunning natural playground was carved by the waters millions of years ago. For instance, the Bryce Canyon National Park puts on display the stunning geology of southern Utah – a red-rock wonderland that’s forged by the wind, water, and snow. Unsurprisingly, this is one of the nation’s most photographed places and draws many hikers, rock climbers, as well as winter cross-country skiers. The best viewing times are said to be around sunup and sundown.

4. Watch a Tabernacle Choir Performance

One of the world’s most revered musical organizations is sure to give its listeners and the audience an uplifting and inspiring time they would like to return to every week! ‘Music and the Spoken Word,’ including the weekly choir rehearsals are open to the public as long as the choir is not on tour. For details, make sure to visit the information page at thetabernaclechoir.org

5. Raft the Colorado River in Moab

Ride the rapids at the lifeblood of the entire southwestern United States, Colorado River. You’ll be thrilled by the heart-pounding rapids followed by the soothing flows! Not to mention, the view from every twist and turn is beyond amazing. Moab Rafting will delight you on the beautiful stretch of the Colorado River while providing the views of red rock spires and soaring mountains.

6. Get an Incredible Photographic Opportunity at Hunts Mesa

This rock formation in Monument Valley is a popular place for tourists looking to experience the panoramic views of the sandstone formations. Obviously, none is as grand as this! The only way to reach this place is through an authorized tour guide and a 2-hour off-road drive around the backside of the mesa. There’s not much to do, so you better get your camera or phone ready to capture the beauty that is Hunts Mesa.

7. Visit the Mount Rushmore Replica at Trafalga Fun Center

Ah, of course, the famous Mount Rushmore – or at least, a good replica.

When visiting the Trafalga Fun Center, you just can’t miss the familiar sight that is part of the park’s main attraction, ‘Rush Coaster.’
The place may be about the thrilling rides, but that doesn’t mean you can’t strike a pose and capture the moment with the mini Mount Rushmore as your background!

8. Discover the Rugged Lands at Grand Staircase-Escalante National Monument

Check out the colorful sandstone cliffs, narrow slot canyons, prehistoric village sites, and even abandoned Western movie sets! The allure of the Grand Staircase-Escalante National Monument is already visible even when you’re just traveling along Highway 89, The All American Road, or the Scenic Byway 12. Just imagine how much more phenomenal it would be up close.

9. See the World’s Biggest Man-Made Hole

Utah is also home to the world’s largest copper mine and the biggest man-made hole. So, if you happen to be around the Oquirrh Mountains, make sure to check out the excavation that’s nearly three-quarters of a mile down and covers 1,900 acres. There is a visitor center you can go to if you just want to see and observe the Bingham Canyon Mine.

10. Go to the Movie Shooting Sites Filmed in Utah

Indeed, Utah is a picturesque place that’s too good not to be shared with avid film enthusiasts.

Check out these Utah locations that are featured in famous films:

• Lehi Roller Mills (Film: Footloose)
• LaCaille restaurant (Film: Dumb and Dumber)
• Pelican Point along Utah Lake (Film: Fletch)
• Liberty Park (Film: An Hour Behind)

11. Plan a Petroglyph Van Excursion With Your Friends

What do you know? The best Southern Utah sites are best explored from the comfort of off-road vans. Check out the spots most locals don’t even know about, including several geological and historic locations! The highlights of this excursion are the Petroglyphs, Glitter Mountain, Historical Fort, and Dinosaur Tracks.

12. Skii Down Beaver Mountain

One of the most popular destinations for locals is the Beaver Mountain Ski Resort tucked away in a beautifully remote part of northern Utah. It should also be noted that this is the oldest continuously owned family ski area in the US.

Terrain: 35% Beg, 40% Int, 25% Adv

• Open 9:00 am to 4:00 pm
• 664 Skiable Acres
• 30+ Runs

13. Conquer the Grand Staircase Llama Traverse

Yes, you’ve been to the Grand Staircase. But have you tried exploring the landscape with a llama? If not, now’s your chance to be with the best and low maintenance hiking companions. Let these wide-eyed, wooly wanderers accompany you as you cover 23 miles of Canyon Country in four days.

14. Play the Mountain Dell Golf Course

This premier Utah golf course is nestled in the beautiful landscape of Parley’s Canyon. Aside from the higher elevation that provides the ideal summer golfing condition, you can also drive for distance and find fairways through the thinner and cooler air.

15. Find Oasis in Paradise Village

What makes this place the perfect paradise is that it’s nothing short of the multicolored landscape. Look to the east and see the facade of Snow Canyon State Park; to the west, you’ll see the peaks of Utah Hill. Finally, look to the southwest and you’ll see the city of Santa Clara. Stay the night and experience a vacation you’ll always remember.

What do you think is the best activity?