Overview

Utah is a land of breathtaking red rock landscapes, towering mountains, and outdoor adventure at every turn. Known for its five iconic national parks and deep-rooted pioneer heritage, the Beehive State blends natural wonder with cultural richness. Whether you’re hiking through slot canyons, skiing world-class slopes, or stargazing in desert solitude, Utah is a playground for explorers.

  • Capital: Salt Lake City
  • Largest Cities: Salt Lake City, West Valley City, Provo, West Jordan, Orem
  • Population: ~3.4 million (2024 est.)
  • Time Zone: Mountain Standard Time (UTC−7) / MDT (Daylight Saving)
  • Climate: Arid to semi-arid — hot, dry summers and cold, snowy winters in the mountains

Top Destinations in Utah

Salt Lake City

A modern city framed by mountains, offering historic landmarks, world-class skiing access, and vibrant downtown life.

Moab

The gateway to Arches and Canyonlands National Parks, with endless opportunities for hiking, biking, and off-roading.

Zion National Park

One of the most visited national parks in the U.S., known for its dramatic sandstone cliffs and the famous Angels Landing hike.

Bryce Canyon National Park

Famed for its otherworldly hoodoos and amphitheater of colorful rock formations.

Park City

A chic mountain resort town offering skiing, shopping, art galleries, and the annual Sundance Film Festival.

Must-See Attractions

  • Zion National Park – Towering canyons, hiking trails, and red rock beauty
  • Arches National Park – Over 2,000 natural stone arches, including Delicate Arch
  • Bonneville Salt Flats – A surreal, flat expanse of shimmering salt
  • Great Salt Lake – The largest saltwater lake in the Western Hemisphere
  • Temple Square (Salt Lake City) – Historic and spiritual heart of the city

Things to Do

  • Hike and camp in Utah’s “Mighty Five” national parks
  • Ski or snowboard at resorts like Snowbird, Alta, and Deer Valley
  • Take a scenic drive on Highway 12 or through Monument Valley
  • Go canyoneering, rafting, or ATV riding in red rock country
  • Visit dinosaur museums and ancient petroglyph sites

Getting There & Around

Major Airports

  • Salt Lake City International (SLC), St. George Regional (SGU), Provo Airport (PVU)

Transport

  • Rental cars are essential for visiting national parks and rural areas
  • Public transit is available in the Salt Lake City area
  • Shuttles and guided tours operate in park towns like Moab and Springdale

Best Time to Visit

  • Spring (Mar–May): Wildflowers and ideal hiking weather
  • Summer (Jun–Aug): Peak for national parks but hot in desert areas
  • Fall (Sep–Oct): Cooler temps, fall colors, and fewer crowds
  • Winter (Dec–Feb): Perfect for skiing and snowboarding in the mountains

Local Food & Culture

  • Cuisine: Hearty, wholesome, and increasingly diverse with international flair
  • Specialties: Fry sauce, funeral potatoes, Navajo tacos, Jell-O salads, pastrami burgers
  • Drinks: Craft sodas, root beer, and a growing local beer and distillery scene
  • Events & Festivals:
  • Sundance Film Festival (Park City)
  • Utah Arts Festival (Salt Lake City)
  • Moab Jeep Safari
  • Utah Shakespeare Festival (Cedar City)
  • Days of ’47 Parade (Salt Lake City)

Souvenirs from Utah

  • Red rock or petrified wood jewelry
  • Utah honey or salt from the Great Salt Lake
  • Fry sauce or local jams and salsas
  • Native American crafts or pottery
  • National park posters or patches

Fun Facts

  • Utah is home to five national parks, nicknamed the “Mighty Five”
  • The Great Salt Lake is saltier than the ocean
  • Utah hosted the 2002 Winter Olympics
  • The state has the youngest population in the U.S. by median age
  • More dinosaur fossils have been found in Utah than almost anywhere else in the world

Suggested Itineraries

3-Day Red Rock Adventure

  • Day 1: Zion National Park – hike The Narrows or Angels Landing
  • Day 2: Bryce Canyon – explore hoodoos and scenic viewpoints
  • Day 3: Capitol Reef or Scenic Byway 12 drive

5-Day Mighty Five Road Trip

  • Day 1: Start in Moab – visit Arches and Canyonlands
  • Day 2: Drive to Capitol Reef – stop for scenic hikes and fruit orchards
  • Day 3: Bryce Canyon – explore the amphitheater and trails
  • Day 4: Zion – hike, bike, or shuttle through the canyon
  • Day 5: Return to Salt Lake City – stop at Kolob Canyons or Cedar Breaks

Cities

  • Salt Lake City