Planning a Trip to Utah? Use This Detailed Guide

If you’re planning a trip to Utah, you’re starting off on the right foot already. This state is an adventurer’s paradise, with some of the most impressive national parks across the United States.

The landscapes here are incredibly diverse. You can be in the desert among red rock canyons one day and in ankle-deep snow the next.

That’s the elevation, baby!

We’ve been on four different trips now with a long-term stay in Salt Lake City and there’s always more to explore. I want you to fall in love with this place just as we have, so let’s get into the only Utah trip planner you’ll need for an incredible vacation.

How to Plan a Trip to Utah

When planning a trip to Utah, start by deciding on travel dates and budget. Research the stops you’d like to make while you’re here.

If possible, book flights and accommodations well in advance, especially if you’re looking at summer travel or during holidays. That will give you a better chance at deals, especially if you’re looking for proximity to the state’s top attractions.

Here are a few more things you should know before visiting Utah:

• Utah’s weather can vary greatly depending on the region and time of year. Check forecasts before you pack and plan your route, especially if you’re visiting any high-elevation areas of the state.
• Speaking of elevations, altitudes in Utah can exceed 9,000 feet. Be prepared for thinner air and possible altitude sickness if you’re hiking in the mountains or doing the winter sports thing. Drink plenty of water and take time to acclimate.
• Utah’s wilderness is beautiful, but can be remote and rugged. Watch out for wildlife and be mindful of flash floods in canyon areas after heavy rains. Research trail conditions and safety guidelines for outdoor activities before you hike.
• The state’s alcohol regulations are quirky. Many restaurants have restrictions on when and how alcohol can be served. If you’re planning on drinking, familiarize yourself with these rules ahead of time.
• For the most efficient trip, you’ll need a car. Utah was made for road trips with its vast open spaces and incredible national parks.
• If you’re planning on that Utah national parks road trip itinerary, buy an America the Beautiful pass before you go to save some money on park fees. It pays for itself after just three parks and is good for the year.

How Many Days You Need to See Utah

If you’re visiting Salt Lake City on a city break, you only need a few days to see Utah. If you really want to dive in and see what makes this state so special, though, a week will give you a decent amount of time to see some of Utah’s best national parks.

Visiting the Five National Parks

You need a solid week to see the Mighty 5, Utah’s incredible national parks.

That’s how much time we were able to give them on our first visit through the state, although we’ve revisited our favorites since. I have a detailed guide to a full week on the road if the parks are your focus.

If you’re able to spend more than a day in each park, you’ll be rewarded with longer hikes and opportunities to escape the crowds.

Note: Pick up a national park pass if you’re visiting multiple Utah parks. It’ll pay for itself after just three of them, and it’s good for a full year from your first use.

If you have less time, you may just want to focus on one of the parks on your Utah visit. Choose from the following, and no, you can’t go wrong:

• Arches National Park
• Bryce Canyon National Park
• Canyonlands National Park
• Capitol Reef National Park
• Zion National Park

The Best Time to Visit Utah

The best time to go to Utah depends on your plans. Generally, Utah experiences all four seasons.

The best months to visit Utah overall fall in the shoulder months. April-May and September-October are excellent times to see the state if you want smaller crowds, but each stretch comes with the chance for inclement weather.

Let’s get into some specifics on what to expect throughout the year as far as Utah weather:

• Summer: Summers in Utah are generally hot and dry, but this doesn’t stop visitors from the state’s national parks. The parks are generally quite crowded, making early mornings essential to both escape the heat and the humans.
• Fall: Expect warm days and cool evenings in the autumn. The earlier you visit in September, though, the more potential you have for heavy rain. It’s the tail-end of monsoon season in Utah.
• Winter: Park City is in full swing, welcoming skiers and snowboarders. Even if you’re not into winter sports, Utah does have quite a bit of charm in the winter months. I’d advise against national parks due to road closures.
• Spring: You may still get snow in March, but that only means you’ll get some beautiful vistas of snow-capped hoodoos at Bryce Canyon. Our first visit to Utah was during spring break in March, and we had an excellent time.

How to Get to Utah

If you’re flying to Utah from outside of the state for a multi-day road trip, you’ll likely enter through Salt Lake City, home to the state’s only international airport.

Flying into Las Vegas is another option, especially if you’re looking to visit Kanab and Zion National Park.

Deals to both of those transportation hubs are fairly easy to come by, especially if you’re flying into Las Vegas.

How to Get Around Utah

Utah was made for national park road trips. We were able to hit all five parks in the state’s Mighty 5 in a little over a week of road-tripping on our first trip to the state.

That means you’ll need a car if you’re heading out into the vast desert wilderness that makes Utah so spectacular.

Otherwise, there isn’t really a system of trains and buses that will get you to everywhere you’re likely wanting to go while in Utah. The Amtrak will get to the major cities, like Salt Lake City and Provo, but you’ll likely still need a car once you get there.

Greyhound is really your only long-distance bus option.

Note: If Salt Lake City is your primary destination, you could get away with using the city’s system of public buses and light rail. If you want to get out of the city to take advantage of the many day-trip possibilities, you’ll do so most efficiently with a car.

Top Places to Visit in Utah

The prettiest part of Utah is Bryce Canyon National Park. Maybe it’s Moab, actually, since you’re within a short drive of Arches while you’re there.

Ah, but Monument Valley is pretty spectacular, too.

Utah has this way of making you feel quite small, with impressive attractions at every turn. Picking just a few top places to visit in the state was a pretty tall order.

Still, there are a few places you shouldn’t miss, especially if you’re planning a trip to Utah national parks.

Bryce Canyon National Park

Bryce Canyon National Park is named after Ebenezer Bryce, who famously said this about the park: It’s “a hell of a place to lose a cow.” Indeed, sir.

No matter when you visit, Bryce Canyon is breathtaking. Come after a fresh snow and you’ll see its tall pinnacles, known as hoodoos in this part of the world, covered in crisp, white sheets.

Visit in the summer months, and the red hues are even more pronounced. Braving the altitudes is worth it when it means access to some of the most beautiful viewpoints in Utah.

Hiking down into the canyon will give you that epic Bryce Canyon experience. I love the Queens Garden Trail for the archways you get to pass through at the very bottom.

READ MORE: Use my guide to help you plan the perfect day in Bryce Canyon.

If you prefer something guided while visiting Bryce Canyon National Park, I’ve got you there, too:

Moab

The Southeast city of Moab should be considered the base camp for Utah adventures. From here, you’re 10 minutes away from Arches National Park, home of the quintessential Utah attraction, the Delicate Arch.

You’re also just over half an hour away from Canyonlands National Park, with its expansive panoramas like Grand View Point and the aptly named Island in the Sky. Dead Horse Point State Park is just under 40 minutes from Moab.

This is outdoor recreation at its best.

If you’re here for the parks, check out my guide to Arches and then mosey over to the best of Canyonlands. I’ve got you covered.

Park City

This former mining town is now well-known for its winter sports offerings. This is a playground for skiers and snowboarders. If you’re looking for more adventure, head over to Utah Olympic Park, the site of the 2002 Olympic Winter Games.

Today, it functions as both a training facility and a place for you to try out your Olympic mettle with bobsled runs, extreme tubing, and other fun activities.

We visited in the summertime, which meant we couldn’t ignore some of the best hiking in the state while we were there.

Head to nearby Brighton and visit some of my favorite lakes: Mary, Catherine, and Martha. Expect some remnants of snow up here, even if you visit in the summer.

Park City is easy to enjoy on a self-guided tour. If you’re seeking guided experiences in and around Park City, though, check out a few options below:

Salt Lake City

Despite the alcohol laws that prevent too much of a good time in Utah, Salt Lake City has become a hub for craft beer, pouring award-winning brews.

The state capital is also delicious, with numerous options for inventive fare, whether you’re looking for casual eats or fine dining.

Yes, it’s basically Vatican City for those of the Mormon faith, but it’s also a big city that feels like a small town. If you do have more time, it’s an excellent base for Utah day trips.

The Great Salt Lake and its salt flats and Park City are both within a short drive of Salt Lake City.

Fun fact: In some parts, the Great Salt Lake is 10 times saltier than ocean water. If you visit, you may find that the water’s pink. That’s all of the little microbes swimming around in there. Cute, right?

READ MORE: We hung around Salt Lake City for a full month. Learn about what we found!

Zion National Park

If you’re looking for hikes with an adrenaline rush, look no further than Zion National Park.

Hike Angels Landing, which is known as one of the scariest hikes in the United States, thanks to the series of chains required to get to its spectacular views. Traipse through knee-deep water in the Virgin River on the Narrows and see the park from below.

Fun fact: The Virgin River has been carving its way through Zion Canyon for 18 million years. Just think about all that when you’re slipping and sliding on those rocks along your Narrows adventure.

Find your own personal slice of the park away from the crowds at Kolob Canyons, a supremely underrated region of Zion that’s just as impressive as Zion Canyon.

Zion is an otherworldly rush.

I have a full guide to our favorite Zion hikes and stops in the park if you’re sold.

More Places to Visit in Utah

We’ve seen a lot of Utah, so I wanted to offer you a few more suggestions if you’re on a longer trip through the state.

Here are a few more Utah destinations we’ve been to that I’d highly recommend in your trip planning:

• Antelope Island State Park: This place was a little stinky when we visited in the summertime, but it’s hard not to be impressed by the Great Salt Lake. Hike the Buffalo Point Trail for the best views.
• Capitol Reef National Park: I didn’t include this one in my top five despite the fact that it’s part of the “Mighty 5” because I wanted to give you more than parks. It’s not personal, especially once you hike the Grand Wash.
• Midway: This small town in the Heber Valley may not seem like much, but it quickly became one of my favorite stops thanks to Heber Valley Artisan Cheese. Once you’re done with that, see if you can still float at the Homestead Crater.
• Monument Valley: These iconic red rock formations on the Utah-Arizona border are famous for being featured in many Western films. They’re an easy addition if you’re already driving through the state to check out the national parks.
• Provo: Do the cursory stroll around Brigham Young University, one of the most conservative campuses in the country, but focus your energy on Bridal Veil Falls. The falls seem to flow right out of the rock, which seems like a miracle indeed.

Utah Travel Itineraries

One week in Utah will leave you wanting more, but that’s OK. You’ll be back.

Here are a few ideas for a full week’s worth of activities for Utah road trips:

Option 1: Utah National Parks

• Day 1: Arrive in Salt Lake City.
• Day 2: Arrive in Moab.
• Day 3: Explore Arches National Park from Moab.
• Day 4: Explore Canyonlands National Park, then drive to Torrey.
• Day 5: Explore Capitol Reef National Park from Torrey.
• Day 6: Explore Bryce Canyon National Park, then drive to Springdale.
• Day 7: Explore Zion National Park and depart from Las Vegas.

Option 2: Salt Lake City & Beyond

• Day 1: Arrive in Salt Lake City.
• Day 2: Explore Salt Lake City.
• Day 3: Take a day trip to Antelope Island State Park.
• Day 4: Drive to Park City.
• Day 5: Explore Park City before returning to Salt Lake City.
• Day 6: Explore Salt Lake City.
• Day 7: Depart via Salt Lake City.

Option 3: National Parks Deep Dive

• Day 1: Arrive in Las Vegas.
• Day 2: Explore Zion National Park.
• Day 3: Explore Zion National Park.
• Day 4: Drive to Bryce Canyon National Park.
• Day 5: Explore Bryce Canyon National Park.
• Day 6: Explore Grand Staircase-Escalante or Cedar Breaks national monuments.
• Day 7: Depart via Las Vegas.

Amazing Facts About Utah

Utah is otherworldly and unlike anywhere else you’ll visit in the United States. That makes it primed for fun facts. Check out a few of my favorites:

1. Utah has been calling its snow “The Greatest Snow on Earth” since 1985, when the slogan started appearing on the state’s license plates. Apparently, it has superior fluff to any other powder in the country.
2. Utah is no stranger to strange laws still on the books. It is illegal to fish on horseback in Utah. You also can’t walk the streets with a violin in a paper bag. A violin in a plastic bag would be environmentally irresponsible, but not illegal.
3. The Dutch oven is not only a state symbol in Utah but also a state cooking tool. Cast-iron pots were essential during pioneer times, way back when.
4. If you love tossing a Frisbee around, you have Utah native Walter Fredrick Morrison to thank for it. If you don’t, you have Utah native Walter Fredrick Morrison to thank for it.
5. The first Kentucky Fried Chicken opened in Salt Lake City in 1952. Sorry, Kentucky.

What to Pack to Utah

What you pack for Utah will depend on the kind of experience you’re after. Your packing list will look different if you’re taking a beach vacation vs. a hiking trip vs. a ski break.

Check out some ideas below on more general things you may need on your next trip to Utah:

• Hiking backpack: I hope you’re planning on visiting one of Utah’s beautiful national parks. If so, head out prepared with a good hiking backpack. We like Osprey packs these days.
• Hiking shoes: If you’re hitting up Utah’s Mighty 5, you’ll need a solid pair of hiking shoes or boots if you want more ankle support. Choose something that’s weather-proof, too, in case you run into those heavy rains possible in the summertime.
• Layered shell: If you’re traveling throughout the state at varied elevations, you may want to bring along a shell that offers warmth and a weather-proof layer. These usually come with a fleece liner that keeps you toasty when the wind is wild.
• Moisture-wicking clothing: There’s something magical about clothing that’s moisture-wicking. It’s lightweight and breathable when you’re out there in the summer heat, and when you do sweat, it won’t leave you clammy.
• Winter boots: Are you planning a ski trip to Utah? Pack some fuzzy booties for all of that snow you’ll encounter on your Utah trip, even if your ski trip involves fireside chats rather than hitting the slopes.

Famous Foods in Utah

Utah is famous for the following foods:

• Bear Lake raspberries
• Dutch oven dinners
• Fry sauce
• Green jello
• Green River melons
• Honey
• Ice cream milkshakes
• Pastrami burgers
• Peaches
• Utah scones

Special Dates & Events in Utah

If you’re planning a trip to Utah during a specific time of year, consider whether there are any festivals or holidays occurring. You may want to attend special events or avoid them, as holidays often mean business closures.

Here are a few notable Utah events:

• Sundance Film Festival: This annual event, organized by the Sundance Institute and founded by actor Robert Redford, is a celebration of independent filmmaking. The Park City festival sets the stage for buzz around new films.
• Utah Blues Festival: This event in Salt Lake City showcases both local blues artists and national headliners in support of the Utah Blues Society. The event is billed as family-friendly and continues to grow each year.
• Utah Arts Festival: The Salt Lake City Utah Arts Festival is held every Friday in June each year, and features live musical acts, visual artists, poets, and culinary artists. I need to learn more about that last part.
• Deer Valley Music Festival: This event in Park City is a series of outdoor performances by the Utah Symphony and Utah Opera each summer. Enjoy views of the mountains as you take in your classical tunes.
• Soldier Hollow Sheepdog Classic: This just sounds adorable, so I had to include it. It’s a gathering of sheepdogs who have been wowing spectators with all of their herding skills since 2003.

Where to Stay in Utah

Choosing efficiency and short driving times may mean you need to sacrifice some of that budget when deciding where to stay in Utah.

While Salt Lake City will offer plenty of options for you at a variety of price points, it gets more expensive the closer you get to Utah’s natural wonders.

The best advice I can give here is to book your accommodations as soon as you know when your trip is happening, especially if you’re traveling at peak times.

Browse Booking.com or Hotels.com for your options based on your itinerary. Vrbo is my Airbnb alternative if you want something with more amenities.

Is Utah worth visiting?

Utah is worth visiting for its parks alone, but spend a little more time here and you’ll get to know the quirks of Salt Lake City and Kanab and its Western vibes. You’ll be astounded by the imposing Monument Valley and holler on sleds in Park City.

I love the state and know I’m not done with it yet.