For the majority of the country visiting a national park is a well-planned trip, that often requires booking flights, making itineraries, and carving out vacation days. Utahns? All we have to do is hit the snooze button a few times. Eventually, get out of bed, pick a direction, and drive. Where else can you wake up in the mountains, spend the afternoon in a red rock canyon, and watch the sunset over an alpine lake, all without crossing a single state line? Nowhere! Utah is truly unique. Places like arches, Zion, Yellowstone, Tetons, etc. are in our backyard. Utah spoils us geographically and ecologically, but Utahns aren’t fully rotten. We share a culture of deep respect and gratitude for our landscapes, which is why Utah has the most national parks relative to its overall size.
But that’s not all, our access goes beyond just the Big Five. Utah is also home to countless state parks, national monuments, and hidden gems that don’t make it onto postcards but are just as breathtaking. From the looming spires of Goblin Valley to the untouched solitude of the Uinta Mountains, there’s no shortage of places to get lost (and hopefully found). The real challenge isn’t finding somewhere to go, it’s deciding where to go first. Thats why we’ve put together a list of 25 unique activities for y’all to do! Whether you’re in it for some good ol’ competition with friends or family, or just looking to try something new, there’s an adventure waiting for you.
Not sure where to start? Well, it all depends on what you’re looking for! If you’re craving the vast desert landscapes and iconic rock formations, Arches National Park and Zion are the places to be. If deserts aren’t really your thing, and you’re looking for more grizzlies, geysers, and amazing dinner food, I’d go to Yellowstone. If you’re looking for unforgettable mountains, wildlife, and alpine lakes, head to the Tetons. For the lizards that love to sun soak Bryce Canyon is a more serene escape with towering hoodoos and stunning vistas.
Here at Wasatch, we want to encourage people to join in on the culture of Utah, by going out and exploring the Wild nature and national parks around us. Each park offers its own unforgettable experience, so try and visit as many as you can. Have fun with it, stay safe, and make some memories that will last you a lifetime!
Average Drive Times from Salt Lake City:
Arches National Park – 3.5 hours
Canyonlands National Park – 4 hours
Capitol Reef National Park – 4 hours
Bryce Canyon National Park – 4.5 hours
Grand Teton National Park (Wyoming) – 5 hours
Zion National Park – 5.5 hours
Yellowstone National Park (Wyoming) – 7 hours
*Drive times subject to number of cops on the road and the amount of lead in your foot* or * Drive times are based on Google Maps, not on your buddy who swears he can “make it in half that time.” *
