Although it is arguably one of the most breathtakingly beautiful of all US states, Utah is often overlooked as a vacation spot. It’s hard to understand if you’ve been there, but it’s good news for those that prefer to keep the tourists at bay. The fact is that Utah is home to some of the most beautiful natural wonders in the world, and no visit to the beehive state will be complete without visiting a few of them. If your idea of a vacation is to experience beauty, natural wonder, wild American spaces, and unique sights, then here are some of the best places to visit in Utah that might make you reevaluate exactly what beauty means.
1. Monument Valley
No trip to Utah is complete without a drive to Monument Valley. Technically it lies on the border between Utah and Arizona, but it’s so iconic that it can’t be missed. Go jeeping or hiking or just drive through for a taste of the real wild west.
2. Bryce Canyon
With its unique rock formations (called hoodoos) and it’s incredible stunning natural beauty, Bryce Canyon is a must-visit. Uniquely beautiful, there are also plenty of Activities in Bryce Canyon to keep all ages happy. Take the time to experience Bryce Canyon at your own pace and you might be inclined to stay there forever.
3. The Red Cliffs
45,000 acres of unique and glorious red sandstone cliffs are a great place to head to in the summer if you’re looking for a little shade. Although it is a conservation area, plenty of space has been made available for exploring. Get a guide if you want to check out the dinosaur tracks that date back to the Jurassic period.
4. Buckskin Gulch
A great day out, the longest slot canyon in the world is certainly one for the more adventurous. The towers of red stone are brilliant for climbers, and hikers have plenty of trails to choose from too. However, some of the trials can be exhausting, and even involve dark, tight passages and high water levels – not a destination for the faint-hearted!
5. Mirror Lake
With 22-acres of beautifully clear water and overlooked by the awe-inspiring Bald Mountain, a day at Mirror Lake is the perfect place to relax after a day of hiking. If you’ve still got the energy then you can go kayaking before setting up your tent. The surrounding forest makes it good for spotting wildlife as well.
6. The Arches
There’s something very surreal about Arches National Park. The stone arches that give it its name can be very strange to look at, but captivating and beautifully unique. The mystifying balancing rocks are something worth just contemplating as you relax. This is a real sense of the old western frontier and should be high on your list of places to check out if you’re looking for something a little stranger.
If you’re planning a trip to Utah then the main piece of advice is not to rush. Take your time and take it easy. Utah is packed with so much natural beauty that you might want to experience it all. Don’t try and cram in everything. Plan your vacation well and you might want to head back to the beauty of Utah sooner than you think.