Unveiling Utah's Natural Treasures: 15 Must-Visit Parks
Whether you're seeking challenging hikes, breathtaking scenery, or tranquil escapes, Utah's parks have something for everyone. Let's dive into some of the most spectacular destinations, providing a glimpse into what makes each one so special.
To help you plan your adventure, we've compiled a table with essential information about each park:
Park Name Type Highlights Activities Best Time to Visit Zion National Park National Park The Narrows, Angels Landing, Virgin River Hiking, canyoneering, scenic drives, river tubing Spring & Fall (avoid summer crowds and heat) Bryce Canyon National Park National Park Hoodoos, amphitheaters, stunning sunsets Hiking, stargazing, scenic drives, ranger programs May-September Arches National Park National Park Delicate Arch, Landscape Arch, Balanced Rock Hiking, rock climbing, stargazing, ranger tours Spring & Fall (avoid summer heat) Canyonlands National Park National Park Island in the Sky, The Maze, The Needles Hiking, backpacking, four-wheel driving, stargazing Spring & Fall (avoid summer heat) Capitol Reef National Park National Park Waterpocket Fold, Fruita orchards, scenic drives Hiking, canyoneering, fruit picking, scenic drives Spring & Fall Dead Horse Point State Park State Park Dramatic views of the Colorado River canyons Hiking, mountain biking, scenic overlooks, camping Spring & Fall Goblin Valley State Park State Park Unique goblin-shaped rock formations Hiking, camping, stargazing, exploring the valley Spring & Fall (avoid summer heat) Kodachrome Basin State Park State Park Colorful sandstone chimneys and spires Hiking, camping, photography, horseback riding Spring & Fall Escalante Petrified Forest State Park State Park Petrified wood, hiking trails, Wide Hollow Reservoir Hiking, fishing, camping, boating Spring & Fall Snow Canyon State Park State Park Sandstone canyons, lava flows, petrified dunes Hiking, rock climbing, camping, horseback riding Spring & Fall (mild winters) Great Salt Lake State Park State Park The Great Salt Lake, Antelope Island Birdwatching, sailing, swimming (brine flies can be present), wildlife viewing Spring & Fall Bear Lake State Park State Park Turquoise-blue waters of Bear Lake Boating, fishing, swimming, camping Summer (for water activities) Antelope Island State Park State Park Free-ranging bison, pronghorn, and other wildlife Hiking, biking, wildlife viewing, horseback riding Spring & Fall Jordanelle State Park State Park Jordanelle Reservoir Boating, fishing, swimming, camping Summer Wasatch Mountain State Park State Park Beautiful mountain scenery, hiking trails Hiking, camping, golfing, cross-country skiing Year-round (depending on activity)