So pretty, it’s featured on the cover of Washington County’s travel planner magazine. The canyons of the Red Cliffs Desert Reserve – best after rainfall – provide water, red rock and sky in unending combinations. Hike the canyons and see what you can explore and capture. more information
Two miles south of Rockville on a dirt road, catch this view of Zion, which you can’t see from the main canyon. more information
If not by Jeep, by foot still provides some stunning views from Sand Hollow, incorporating the red dunes, water, mountains and vast sky. more information
Draining the south side of Canaan Mountain near the Utah/Arizona border, Water Canyon provides some stunning scenery – red rocks, touched with green and reflections of the blue sky in the stunning mountain water. North of Hildale, Utah – close to Zion’s border, but found on BLM land. more information
A spur trail off the Red Mountain Trail, located north of Snow Canyon State Park on Hwy. 18, provides the spectacular vantage point and place to rest and take it all in. more information
― Mother Teresa
The Arapeen OHV Trail has over 600 miles of off-roading for Side-by-Sides and ATVs. The high-mountain trail summits at over 10,000’ in elevation. For a trail map visit: utahatvtrails.org
Maple Canyon is a rock climbers paradise, with hundreds of bolted routes to experience. The towering conglomerate canyons are also fun to explore. more information
Sanpitch OHV Trail: The 26 mile Sanpitch OHV Trail, named after the infamous Chief Sanpitch, is located just outside of Fountain Green, UT. For a trail map, visit: utahatvtrails.org
― Albert Einstein
A complex of carbonate hills about 5,500 feet tall, the striped dun and rose-colored hills were fancifully named by workers on the Denver and Rio Grande Railroad, one of whom, brakeman Harry McClintock, later composed a song by that title. Today It’s a resort with a restaurant, motel, Caboose Village, and an adventure park. more information
― John Muir
photo credit: Rachelle Ellis
Fish Lake is a Utah’s largest natural mountain lake; located in south central Utah. The impressive lake is six miles long and one mile wide. With an average depth of 85 feet, it sits at 8848 feet above sea level. The area is home to a colony of aspen trees covering over 100 acres. This colony has been named Pando by scientists who consider it to be one of the largest and oldest single living organisms on Earth! more information
―Eleonora Duse
Kane County/Lake Powell AreaThis sandy fountain of youth is the perfect place to ride, hike, sandboard, picnic or enjoy a quiet sunset and stay in the campground. 20 minutes from Kanab more information
Kane County/Lake Powell AreaThe mysterious and haunting beauty of Antelope Canyon (also known as “Corkscrew Canyon”) awaits the adventurous traveler who seeks to discover one of the most spectacular — yet little known attractions of the Lake Powell area. more information
Kane County/Lake Powell AreaEnjoy a gorgeous red-rock slot canyon without the crowds. This slot canyon just north of Kanab is accessible by 4WD. If you don’t have a 4WD, hire one of the expert local guides. This short slot canyon is perfect for visitors of all ages. – directions
Kane County/Lake Powell AreaClose by but far out! This short hike offers scenes that are otherworldly. It’s the perfect hike for the whole family. 40 minutes from Kanab – directions
―Jawaharlal Nehru
photo credit: Bob Wick, BLM
The Towering Pinnacles and wide open space in the Valley of the Gods seem to go on forever. Located in the Mexican hat area in Southeastern Utah, the 17-mile dirt and gravel road winds its way through the valley. It’s a great place to find solitude away from the pressures of day-to-day living. more information
photo credit: Oculus Media
This Arch is about 25 miles south of Moab in San Juan County. There’s a pull out on Highway 191 it’s well marked and the arch is visible from the road. If you have time time take the short scramble hike over red dirt and enjoy the view underneath Wilson Arch. more information
Welcome to the Navajo Nation’s Monument Valley Park. You are experiencing one of the most majestic – and most photographed – points on earth. This great valley boasts sandstone masterpieces that tower at heights of 400 to 1,000 feet, framed by scenic clouds casting shadows that graciously roam the desert floor. The angle of the sun accents these graceful formations, providing scenery that is simply spellbinding. more information
photo credit: Jacob W. Frank
Sipapu is the largest and most spectacular of the three bridges in the Monument. It is considered middle aged, older than Kachina but younger than Owachomo. Its rounded opening and smooth sides are mute evidence of countless floods bearing scouring rocks and sand. This bridge, whose opening would almost house the dome of the United States Capitol, has taken thousands of years to form but will someday collapse and erode as part of the endless cycles of time and change. more information
photo credit: Bob Wick, BLM
The San Juan River twists and turns through a distance of over six miles while advancing only one and half miles west on its way to Lake Powell. Gaze at the results of 300 million years of geological activity, where the San Juan River winds and carves its way through the desert 1,000 feet below. more information
Muley Point scenic overlook near Mexican Hat offers stunning panoramic vistas of sweeping desert landscape. Views of enormous boulders with cracks up to ten and even twenty feet deep make it a place where you can sit still and hear the wind blow. more information
―John Muir
photo credit: Chelsie Boehme
Bloomington Lake is a high Mountain Lake in Bloomington Canyon just over Utah’s state line in Idaho. This crystal clear lake is about a 12-mile drive up the canyon. From the parking lot it’s a 1/2 mile walk, making it easy to carry in paddle boards and kayaks. more information
Bear Lake’s turquoise blue water has earned it it’s nick name, “Caribbean of the Rockies”. A great place to enjoy your favorite water sports and beat the summer’s heat, the Bear Lake area has beautiful beaches and plenty of outdoor adventure opportunities. more information
photo credit: Monique Beeley
Years of wind and water have worn a delicate triple arch and natural cave into the limestone outcropping at the top of this 2-mile trail. Also known as Witch’s Castle, this fascinating formation provides a clear view of the China Wall formation as it winds through most of Logan Canyon’s midsection. The reward for this intermediate hike is definitely worth the challenge when you glimpse the view up and down the canyon. directions
photo credit: Dallas Holmes
Mother Nature puts on a spectacular show and tell every fall in Logan and Cache Valley. These aspens join the ranks with reds and oranges for an explosion of color that is especially impressive against the backdrop of dark green pine trees. more information
― Lord Byron
Utah’s largest freshwater lake. Recently named one of America’s 21st Century Parks, Utah Lake State Park provides many recreation opportunities for visitors. It is great for power boating, sailing, canoeing, kayaking, paddle boarding, and jet skiing. more information
― Frank Lloyd Wright
The cave system is well known for its colorful formations, unique helictites, fault-controlled passages, alpine surroundings, and rich history. HWY 92 (American Fork Canyon) more information
A beautiful natural waterfall in scenic Provo Canyon, this 600+ foot wonder is easily accessible via a short, paved trail that connects to the parking lot. Located in Provo Canyon (Hwy. 189) more information
7 million gallons of water a day flow through the Springs. This is a must-see for anyone driving the Alpine Loop. There are three walking loops that wind their way through on a combination of wood and paved paths. Plan on spending 45 minutes to an hour to see this charming wonder. more information
photo credit: Adam Barker
In the heat of the summer the refreshing waters of Deer Creek State Park beckon you to kayak, swim, boat, or just relax along the beach below the majestic skyline of Mount Timpanogos. more information: Mount Timpanogos / Deer Creek State Park
― John Lubbock
The Crystal Lake Picnic Site has picnic tables for visitors next to the creek and a short walk will take visitors up to the beautifully clear Crystal Lake. more information
The world’s largest periodic spring (cold water geyser) is located in Swift Creek Canyon just east of the Town of Afton, Wyoming. It is a rare geological feature where a natural spring flows discontinuously, ceasing entirely for a few minutes at regular intervals. Access Swift Creek Canyon by traveling east on Second Avenue in Afton. The trailhead is located at the end of the road. The hike to the spring is about a mile. Best viewing time: late summer and fall. more information
As the country’s only Aquarium in Stone, Fossil Butte is truly a wonder to behold. The area includes a visitor’s center, nature trails and the chance to dig for fossils in an ancient lake bed. Fossil Butte is located between Kemmerer and Cokeville in Lincoln County, Wyoming. more information
Cottonwood Lake in the Salt River Mountains sits at an elevation of 7,000 feet. The lake is located approximately 13 miles southeast of Afton, Wyoming. Trails for hiking, biking, horseback riding, and ATVs begin near the lake. more information
― Ralph Waldo Emerson
Devil’s Garden and Metate Arch is a fantastic natural wonder area located on the Hole in the Rock Road outside of Escalante, Utah along scenic Bwyay 12. To access the trailhead it is 11 miles south on the Hole-in-the-Rock Road (always check road conditions prior to exploring). Picnic tables and fire pits are available at the trailhead. This is a great location for families to explore and wander through arches, canyons and slick rock formations. more information
Roughly a six-mile moderate round trip hike, Lower Calf Creek Falls are 130 feet high with a deep swimming hole beneath the falls. The trail meanders through desert landscape of the Grand Staircase Escalante National Monument. The route is sandy and can be difficult for some, but make sure to watch for pictograph panels and Fremont granaries along the route. more information
We think in any other state, this would be a national Park. It is that spectacular. Kodachrome Basin State Park is located near Cannonville about 9 miles south of Scenic Byway 12. This is the perfect place to relax and beat the national park hustle and bustle with some incredible scenery. There are 67 monolithic stone spires that pop an incredible red color and showcase the reason the park was named after the popular color film make by Kodak. This area is a great place to hike, horseback ride or camp. more information
Don’t miss the extra special treat, ten miles south of Kodachrome is Grosvenor Arch, two sandstone arches towering 150 feet above the ground. The walk to the arch is .25 miles and is handicap accessible. more information
Mountain biking on the Thunder Mountain Trail
Red Canyon National Forest is often referred to as Bryce Canyon’s little brother. A lot of red canyon can be seen off of scenic byway 12 but it’s often overlooked from the road. Trails abound in Red Canyon and you can experience hiking, biking and horseback riding. The trails range from beginner to difficult, but the most popular include; Arches Trail, Cassidy Trail (yes, named for Butch Cassidy), Thunder Mountain Trail, Birdseye Trail and Casto and Lossee Canyons. more information
― Anne Frank
Home to some of the most UNIQUE geological features in the world, Fantasy Canyon will have you wondering if you have stepped out of this world and into another. Look for the Tea Cup or Flying Witch. You might even spot your friend Mickey Mouse; unique formations that have been created through erosion of water and wind for millions of years. Make sure to wear hiking shoes, bring water and a camera. more information
You’ve surely heard of Arches National Park. Well, Dinosaurland has its own massive natural arch and it’s hidden almost in plain sight; just a few miles from downtown Vernal and within view of Red Fleet reservoir. Plenty of cool shade once you get there but be sure to bring water and good footwear. more information
Enjoy splashing on the hot summer days and experience rafting the rapids and high cliffs of this majestic River. In fact, the Green River is one of the country’s world-class river rafting destinations to experience the true enjoyment of nature at its best. more information
Uintah Basin/Flaming Gorge AreaLocated halfway between Yellowstone and Utah’s Might Five, you’ll find America’s top trophy destination, miles of uncrowded trails, fun-loving guide services, world-class boating, incredible paddling adventures and epic scenery! more information
―Ralph Waldo Emerson
photo credit: Montana Office of Tourism & Business Development
Earthquake (Quake) Lake was formed bythe Hebgen Lake Earthquake of 1959. At 7.3, it measured as one of the largest in North American history. Find out more at the visitor center May-September. more information
West Yellowstone AreaWhether cruising the lake by boat or wading in to cast that last line, the lake and mountain views never disappoint. more information
photo credit: Ken Takata
Explore hundreds of miles of ATV/UTV and mountain bike trails with unparalleled mountain views. more information
―Henry David Thoreau
photo credit: Alex Santiago
Kanarra Creek offers a fun slot canyon hike in a very photogenic canyon just outside the Kolob Canyons section of Zion National Park. Access is easy. The hike is relatively short and the route can be customized to keep it easy or make it a little challenging. more information
photo credit: Visit Cedar City
Wind, water and sand carved out this natural passageway once used as a major thoroughfare by ancient Native Americans. Parowan Gap’s gallery of ancient American Indian rock carvings includes geometric designs, lizards, snakes, mountain sheep, bear claws and human figures. With over 90 panels and 1,500 figures, the Gap is believed to be one of the most concentrated collections of petroglyphs in the West – and one of the most accessible. more information
photo credit: Visit Cedar City
A short drive up Highway 143 from Parowan UT, Spring Creek slot canyon offers all the red rock, clear water, in a moderate to easy trail that’s perfect for the entire family. While visitors are able to enjoy the beautiful clear water, and the towering walls this trail offers all the beauty of a slot canyon without the strenuous nature of most slot canyon trails. more information
photo credit: Mike Saemisch
Hike, bike, or camp among towering pines and beautiful aspen trees in Dixie National Forest with views of Cedar Breaks in the background; lava flows, and waterfalls. more information
photo credit: Asher Swan
Spectacular views of Zion National Park and the Markagunt Plateau, ending at cascading falls from an underground lava tube.
―John Burroughs
photo courtesy: Moab Area Travel Council
The view from Dead Horse Point is one of the most photographed scenic vistas in the world. Towering 2,000 feet above the Colorado River, the overlook provides a breathtaking panorama of Canyonlands’ sculpted pinnacles and buttes. more information
photo credit: Marc Piscotty
Fisher Towers Recreation Site
One of the most scenic landscapes along the Colorado River. It is a popular destination for hikers and rock climbers and features a 4.4-mile roundtrip hiking trail that takes you along the base of the towers and spires to a scenic overlook of Professor Valley and the Colorado River.
photo courtesy: Moab Area Travel Council
Paleontologists have found a treasure trove of dinosaur remains in the rock formations of the Moab area. The record of dinosaurs and other ancient animals in the Moab area is one of the best in the country. The Mill Canyon Dinosaur Tracksite features a short walk with interpretive panels along the boardwalk.
photo courtesy: Moab Area Travel Council
The Sand Flats Recreation Area is a nationally significant public lands treasure at the heart of the Colorado Plateau. A high plain of slickrock domes, bowls and fins, it is popular for hiking, 4-wheel driving, and camping.
photo courtesy: Moab Area Travel Council
The Corona Arch Trail is a 3-mile roundtrip hike to one of the largest and most spectacular arches near Moab. Few hikes culminate with such wow as this trail! Corona Arch is your final destination but the trail also passes Bowtie Arch along the way.
―John Muir
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