Curator’s statement
Having lived in Utah for nearly six years, I can confidently say that this place holds a special spot in my heart. The stunning landscapes, ranging from majestic mountains to breathtaking deserts, have become a part of my everyday life. Exploring the Mighty 5 national parks, like Arches and Bryce Canyon, has been an adventure-filled privilege. From hiking through canyons to skiing on powdery slopes, Utah's natural wonders never cease to amaze me. Utah truly is a hidden gem.
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Where to stay In Utah
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Things to do In Utah
Explore the Mighty 5 national parks: Arches, Bryce Canyon, Canyonlands, Capitol Reef and Zion.
Hike to the stunning Delicate Arch in Arches National Park.
Raft down the exhilarating rapids of the Colorado River.
Marvel at the surreal landscapes of Monument Valley.
Take a scenic drive through the dramatic landscapes of Scenic Byway 12.
Enjoy winter sports like skiing and snowboarding in Park City or other ski resorts.
Visit Salt Lake City and explore its rich history and vibrant cultural scene.
Take a dip and relax in the rejuvenating waters of the Bonneville Salt Flats.
Day Trips
Salt Lake City serves as a fantastic base for day trips to the national parks in Utah. Here's a quick overview of the approximate travel times from Salt Lake City to some popular national parks:
Arches National Park: Located in Moab, Arches is about a 3.5-hour drive southeast of Salt Lake City.
Bryce Canyon National Park: Situated in southern Utah, Bryce Canyon is roughly a 4-hour drive south of Salt Lake City.
Canyonlands National Park: Also situated near Moab, Canyonlands is approximately a 4-hour drive southeast of Salt Lake City.
Capitol Reef National Park: Located in south-central Utah, Capitol Reef is around a 3.5-hour drive south of Salt Lake City.
Zion National Park: Situated in southwestern Utah, Zion is roughly a 4-hour drive south of Salt Lake City.
These travel times are estimates and may vary depending on traffic and road conditions. It's recommended to plan your day trips accordingly, allowing ample time for exploration and to account for any unforeseen delays. Remember to check the park's operating hours and any entry requirements before embarking on your adventure.
Places to eat & drink In Utah
Red Iguana - Salt Lake City.
Station 22 - Provo.
The Copper Onion - Salt Lake City.
Takashi - Salt Lake City.
Cafe Diablo - Torrey.
Epic Brewing Company - Salt Lake City.
Pat's Barbecue - Salt Lake City.
The Pie Pizzeria - Multiple locations.
Black Sheep Cafe - Provo.
Uinta Brewing Company - Salt Lake City.
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Looking for more Utah travel tips? Check out our amazing advisor guides to this mountain state: Cheryl Cannon's Adventure & Hiking in Utah's Zion National Park, Sarah Entwistle's Eat, Drink & Explore the Outdoors in Salt Lake City, Utah and Gaya Vinay's Family Adventure in Moab, Utah.
This guide is part of our ongoing series on travel to Utah.