It was one of our bucket list destinations on our USA road trip in the American Southwest with our kids.

And with so many amazing things to do in Monument Valley Navajo Tribal Park, it certainly lived up to our expectations.

The valley is well known for its native American history, towering sandstone rock formations, mesas, buttes, dunes, and desert landscapes.

If you are looking for a way to spend a day in Monument Valley Navajo Tribal Park, then I recommend spending time with a local Navajo guide and visit all of these top Monument Valley Navajo Tribal Park attractions.

Where is Monument Valley?

Monument Valley is located in the south east corner of Utah, right on the Utah Arizona border.

So there is Monument Valley Utah and Monument Valley AZ. Most of what you will experience is on the Arizona side of the border.

Las Vegas to Monument Valley:

• Distance: 398 miles
• Time: approx 6.5 hours

Grand Canyon to Monument Valley:

• Distance: 156 miles
• Time: approx 2.5 hours

Moab to Monument Valley:

• Distance: 149 miles
• Time: approx  2.45 hours

Flagstaff to Monument Valley:

• Distance: 176 miles
• Time: approx 3 hours

There are many awesome places in the Southwest near Monument Valley. A trip to this region in the US is well worth your while.

Is Monument Valley Navajo Tribal Park Worth Visiting?

After visiting many national parks in the country and experiencing heavy crowds like at Yellowstone and Zion and the Grand Canyon (and not even in peak season) I was stunned to see the lack of crowds visiting Monument Valley.

Stunned, yet delighted. It meant I had space to enjoy and appreciate America’s greatest spiritual treasure.

Monument Valley Navajo Tribal Park reaches right into your soul and lifts you into the present moment and plops you right into wonder and awe.

You can’t help but stop, stare and contemplate a greatness that exists way beyond your small self.

It’s so much more than just a bunch of imposing sandstone buttes and mesas rising up out of the desert floor forming shapes such as mittens, camels, sisters, suns eyes, and wind’s ear.

This is the place where time stood still and has created a land of harmony and peace. For these reasons, it’s absolutely worth visiting.

What is Monument Valley Navajo Tribal Park?

Monument Valley Navajo Tribal Park is NOT a national park. It is the traditional spiritual homeland of the Navajo tribe and sits within the Navajo Nation Reservation.

They own, manage, take care of and invite us onto their lands to experience what they have known forever.

This is a spiritual place that nourishes all who enter.

In the native language, Monument Valley is called ‘Tse Bii’Ndzisgaii” and means Valley of the Rocks.

It covers about 91, 696 acres and extends into Arizona and Utah in the American west. The unique shapes of Monument Valley tribal park have been chiseled slowly over time by water, wind, and ice.

Monument Valley is made up of mesas (rock formation that looks like a table), buttes (a mesa eroded further into a smaller form) and a spire (final stage of erosion when a rock formation becomes narrow and free standing).

It’s a place that can be instantly recognized from a photo.

One of the Most Photographed and Filmed Locations in the USA

This is partly because it is one of the most photographed landscapes in the USA, and also because its valley of buttes and monoliths have been the backdrop for many Hollywood films.

After John Ford featured the park in its well-known western movies, more movie producers were using the site for their films.

Today, it has been featured in popular Hollywood blockbusters including Forrest Gump, Mission: Impossible II, 2001: A Space Odyssey, and the HBO series Westworld.

Not to mention the hundreds of westerns were filmed in this region such as The Searchers, Cheyenne Autumn and Stagecoach – the original John Wayne classic!

Even Metallica filmed a music video for the Mission Impossible song, I disappear where the band play together on top of a Monument Valley rock.

John Wayne is probably the most famous of all actors to have filmed a lot of movies here.

He called the wonders of this valley “Gods Treasure”

Things to Do in Monument Valley Navajo Tribal Park

Visiting Monument Valley is restricted and most of it is accessible by a private vehicle and by joining a guided tour on limited roads.

There is no backcountry hiking or biking allowed. Use your imagination for each of the monuments.

Some names were created by early settlers and other names portray a certain meaning to the Navajo nation of people.

1. Drive The Monument Valley Scenic Drive

The Monument Valley Drive (loop drive) is a 17-mile unpaved dirt road. It’s one of America’s most scenic drives.

You can either self-drive the 17-mile loop road through Monument Valley or join a guided tour with a Navajo Guide.

It starts past the visitor center and lips around Rain God Mesa. Allow at least 2 hours to complete the drive and enjoy all the stops along the way.

We visited the most notable sites on this Monument Valley road on our private guided tour (see down below).

This is the only road in Monument Valley you can go on in a private vehicle. Buses and RVs are not allowed.

2. Check Out The Mittens

The East and West Mitten Buttes are the most famous of all Monument Valley’s mesas and buttes.

When viewed from the south, these buttes look like hands, yet signify spiritual beings watching over the valley (and you)! You can feel their spiritual protection from the moment you see them.

Beyond the Mittens are Merrick Butte and Sentinel Mesa. Our guide pointed them out to us.

We never would have known what they were called otherwise as they are not noted on the valley drive map.

3. See the Camel Butte, Elephant Butte, Three Sisters

On the road heading down to the famous John Ford Point, you can stop off to take a look at Elephant Butte, Camel Butte, and the Catholic mum facing her two pupils at the three sisters.

This also looks like a large capital W.

Use your imagination to see these shapes and look closely at camel butte, it also looks like a giant Snoopy sleeping on his back.

4. Admire the Views from John Ford Point

John Ford Point is where you will get epic panoramic views of Monument Valley.

It’s named after the Hollywood director who made John Wayne famous through the western movies filmed here.

You can also get a classic photo of the kids on a famous horse for $5 who has featured in many movies and TV commercials such as the Marlboro man.

5. Check Out The “Rain God Mesa”

On the south side of this mesa are dark streaks on the rock. This is from the nature aquifer that seeps out of the base of the sandstone.

This is where Navajo Medicine men pray and give thanks to the Rain God for storing water for the people.

I loved seeing this in the distance on our private tour with a Navajo guide.

6. Marvel at the Totem Pole

Behind (or in front of when looking from the drive) is Totem Pole, which is a mythical or historical marker created by Northwestern tribes, typically out of wood.

Here in Monument Valley, Mother Nature has carved it from the rock. This is a spire monument which is an example of what erosion will do to a butte.

7. See The Bird and Sand Springs

At the bottom of the sand dune is a gorgeous spring area lined by cottonwood trees. It’s a natural aquifer that seeps out of the De Chelly and Navajo Sandstone.

This section of the tribal park was so different from the dry, barren landscape of the rest of Monument Valley.

On our private guided tour of Monument Valley, we could drive beside this spring.

If you drive the Valley Drive independently you will look over the sand dune from Bird Spring.

8. Take A Tous with a Navajo Guide

We typically recommend independent travel as the way to travel. But not when you visit Monument Valley!

We recommend joining one of the Monument Valley tours with a Navajo guide.

Craig and I did it on our own back in 2006 as that was all we could afford and manage. We absolutely loved our experience in Monument Valley driving the loop road ourselves.

But this time we joined a tour with our Airbnb host family and loved it on a whole new level.

The best thing about doing a guided tour is you get to go in restricted areas where only Navajo people are only allowed to go. You have permission to visit if you are with a guide.

Plus, the benefit of having a Navajo guide pointing out features you never would have noticed and explained the significance of different parts of the park is priceless!

If you are visiting Monument Valley with kids, I feel they will enjoy this experience more than just driving around in a car with you.

We jumped in our open-air jeep with 8 kids (and 6 adults), all of who chattered, giggled, whooped, and beamed for four hours.

They all said how much fun they had and I know this experience will be one of those special places that stay in their heart.

Apart from the stops above on the Valley Drive, here are the other things to do in Monument Valley we experienced with our Navajo guide.

9. See the “Indian Warrior”

I loved pulling off to the side of the road to see the mountain shaped like an Indian Warrior head.

He’s protectively looking down upon the valley and over the Navajo Hogan village, we could see in the distance.

There were a few rocks here the kids enjoyed scrambling over while we enjoyed the views.

10. Walk the Wildcat Nature Trail

The Wildcat Trail and Klee City Trail begin from the campground and follow a 3.3-mile scenic loop through washes and sandy slopes around West Mitten Butte.

We did not do these Monument Valley hikes, but it’s on my list of things to do in Monument Valley for when we return.

I’m pretty sure this is a place I’ll return to again and again.

You will need a hiking permit for the Wildcat Nature Trail. Be sure to stay on the trails and take plenty of water.

11. Explore Hogan Village

I especially loved this part of the tour.

It’s important to not only marvel at the extraordinary rock formations and spiritual nature, but to also marvel at how the people who live inside the valley have lived a simple, fulfilled life at one with spirit and nature.

Many Navajo people still live in traditional Hogan’s, although a bigger version of the original, and as our guide told us, many of them now have separated rooms inside.

Whereas a traditional Hogan is just one room that is shared by the family.

A Hogan is a simple sun-baked mud home shaped like a dome. The simple structure is perfectly made and lasts for hundreds of years – no steel needed.

We loved the craftsmanship of the cedar banded together inside the home giving it its frame.

The outside is made from sand bark and water. A simple fire retains heat inside the Hogan for long hours in the winter and it is 25% cooler inside a Hogan during the summer.

As the Navajo believe in balance they have a cone-shaped home, called a Male Hogan, which is more of a temporary home that can be built quickly and taken apart to use at another location.

The round-shaped home is called the Female Hogan and is more of a permanent structure and can accommodate more people.

We saw the sweatbox Hogan and went inside the ceremonial Hogan (the smaller cone-shaped male Hogan) and the sleeping Hogan (the round female Hogan).

Inside the female Hogan, we met a Navajo woman who gave us a blanket weaving demonstration and explanation of how they turn the sheep’s wool into the elaborately decorated and beautiful Navajo blankets.

We also learned more about some of the tools they use and the fascinating baby carrier, so purposefully created to ensure the baby didn’t fall out.

And her daughter was adorable. She was intent on picking up every item to come and show it to us.

Her grin and sprightly personality were infectious and charming.

12. Marvel at Big Hogan Arch

We laid back on the rock here in the cool amphitheater and looked up to the roof to see the giant eagle the hole in the rock above us created.

The kids had fun running up the sandhill and rock face while we rested. Another Navajo guide arrived and began singing Navajo songs in the cave. It was spine-tingling.

You’ll be able to hear that in our video when it is published. (subscribe here so you don’t miss it)

13. See the “Sun’s Eye”

Another stop off was to Sun’s Eye to see the hole above looking down upon us – what a cool eye you have Sun!

Plus. there were petroglyphs here on the wall that were incredibly old.

Life never ceases to amaze me. How on earth can they stay on the wall clearly telling a picture of some kind of hunt that many years later?

14. Check out “Ear of the Wind”

Again, Monument Valley Navajo Tribal Park surprised us with a very different and unique side of it.

Hidden at the end of a trail of mesas is a secluded section with a massive sand dune and a giant hole in the top of the rock that with your imagination you can see as being the Ear of the Wind.

Opposite it, an X marks the spot where when you stand on it and a tree is perfectly aligned in the center of the ear.

Under the Ear of the Wind is a massive sand dune that the kids had a blast running up and down. We had to drag them away from it. Be sure to climb to the top of the dune as the views out are gorgeous.

There was still more on the tour that we didn’t see.

We had already gone over time as our guide was so patient and allowed us time to enjoy every place we stopped off at. We had a big group, including many kids who were happy to play at each point of interest.

Having kids of his own, he understood how valuable this time was for kids. He also spent time taking group pictures of us all and our separate families.

I LOVED how he knew how to get the best picture at each of the spots.

He wanted to continue to show us more things on the tour, but as we were conscious of his time and it was getting late, we didn’t want to keep him from his family anymore, so we dropped the last couple of spots and went back to our Airbnb accommodation.

We first stopped off to enjoy Sand Springs mentioned above with views of Totem Pole. We fell in love with this pretty oasis and it was a side to the park I did not know existed.

Not without first enjoying a bumpy off-roading adventure back, which had the kids whooping and hollering.

Seeing the delight on their faces with the totem pole and other Monument Valley park structures behind them is a memory to last forever.

15. Visit the Monument Valley Visitor Center Museum

Pop into the Monument Valley Visitor Center to gain further insight into Navajo culture and history.

A series of displays and exhibits will share more about the nation’s largest Native American tribe.

For those also interested in the Navajo Code Talkers, there is an interesting exhibit and gallery rooms sharing more about this.

At the visitor center you can learn more about the various trails and tours on offer and purchase a memento from the trading Post to take home with you.

You can also dine at the View Restaurant.

The Visitor Center Museum is open from 6.00am – 8.00pm in the summer (May – Aug) and 8.00am – 5.00pm in the winter (September – April).

16. Highway 163 Monument Valley (Forrest Gump Point)

Want to reenact the famous running scene in Forrest Gump? Then head down Highway 163 to Forrest Gump Point.

The point is just before the Monument Valley overlook. It’s not really one of the park’s attractions, more a photo stop for those who love the movies.

17. See The Thumb

Another rock formation in the park to check out is The Thumb, which looks like a thumb sticking out of a hand.

It’s located along the scenic drive in the Monument Valley Navajo Tribal Park on the right hand side.

It’s not as impressive as the others, in fact, you may even drive past it, but if you happen to notice it on your drive it’s worth a stop for a photo.

18. Check out The North Window

The North Window is one of the most iconic photo spots of the whole park. It’s where the scenic drive passes through two rock formations, creating a gap that creates a window overlooking the rock formations in the distance.

It’s another monument you might pass through if you don’t keep your eyes open for it. I suggest picking up a map from the visitor center which details where all the monuments can be found.

FAQs About Visiting Monument Valley Navajo Tribal Park

Here’s what people usually ask us about visiting Monument Valley Navajo Tribal Park…

How much does it cost to visit Monument Valley Navajo Tribal Park?

The entrance fee for Monument Valley Navajo Tribal Park is $8 per day, per person to enter the to enter the 17 mile loop drive.

National Park passes are NOT accepted, but you do need a Backcountry Permit if you wish to hike or camp which can be obtained from the Visitor Center.

Navajo Parks and Recreation is not liable for any damage to vehicle while in loop drive or on Navajo Tribal Park land.

If you book a guided tour, your park entry fee will usually be separate to your guided tour price.

The park entry fee is good for two days. If you enter the park on a guided tour jeep with a group of people, ensure that you pay the correct amount as if you were going in the next day in your own vehicle.

We got caught out with this.

Going into the park on the jeep we paid for 6 adults as the kids were free.

However, the next day when we wanted to go into the park and visitor center in our separate vehicles, we could not use that ticket to get all of the six adults through.

Even though we paid our entry ticket, we were now in three separate vehicles and fees are charged per vehicle!

How long do you need to spend in Monument Valley?

You can visit Monument Valley easily in a day. But I recommend staying a little longer just to savor the experience.

We missed out on visiting a few places, most notably the famous sweeping views of Monument Valley from US163. This is the Forest Gump view that you’ve seen from the movie. It will be marked by a sign which reads Forest Gump Hill.

We didn’t drive in or out that way. Craig and I did that last time and captured the iconic Monument Valley photo.

To be honest, what I have heard now about the line ups and craziness about getting the perfect Instagram shot here now, I’m glad we missed it. I just can’t stand that world anymore!

Getting this shot tells a much better story for me. insert photo here

I don’t care if anyone even sees it, let alone who likes it.

I want life, not likes.

By all means, go and get that shot as it is spectacular. But don’t take that shot, upload it for likes and then leave this spiritual land saying that you experienced it. Go deeper!

When is the Best Time to Visit Monument Valley?

This area experiences four seasons, including snow during the winter. Can you imagine how pretty it would look then?

The dry desert climates of the Southwest amazes me with the precipitation they receive. It’s so different to the Australian deserts.

The best time to visit would be April/May and Sept/October when it’s not as hot and the summer crowds aren’t around.

Where to Stay in Monument Valley

We parked our RVs at a property owned by a Navajo Family. Here you can also sleep in a Navajo octagon earth Hogan, and Celia the host is lovely.

Our tour of Monument Valley was booked through her family, and at the end of the tour we enjoyed delicious Navajo tacos!

The location to the park entrance was very close, and a short walk from the property allowed us to we witness a magnificent Monument Valley sunrise and sunset!

The View Campground

Choose from RV sites or wilderness campsites or premium cabins at the View Campground:

• Tents start at $39.99
• RVs start at $59.95
• Cabins start at $99

Open: March 13 – November 27

The View Hotel

The View Hotel (Monument Valley Hotel) is the only hotel built within Monument Valley Navajo Tribal Park.

All rooms have a private balcony to enjoy those stunning views of the sun rising over the monuments. Bucket List moment.

The hotel also has a trading post with Navajo artisan wares such as jewelry, pottery, and hand-woven Navajo rugs.

The restaurant offers Navajo native dishes, and views of the mittens while you dine.

Historic Goulding’s Lodge

For hotels near Monument Valley, consider Goulding’s Lodge Monument Valley.

This place is one mile from the rim of Monument Valley and is known as western fort or the town setting for many John Wayne movies.

It offers accommodation and a campground as well as a restaurant, museum and grocery store.

Kayenta AZ is located 25 miles south of Monument Valley and contains a few hotels and motels for visitors to Monument Valley.

Monument Valley Video

Watch as we explore on a Navajo guided tour, experience sunrise with The Mittens and stay with a Navajo family.

Tours of Monument Valley

Horseback riding Monument Valley is a popular thing to do. You can also join Monument Valley Jeep Tours that go behind the restricted areas to Mystery Valley.

From my research, this valley and part of the tour goes more into the culture and history of the Navajo and ancient puebloans.

• Check out this half day Monument Valley guided tour here
• You can do a sunset tour or sunrise tour. That would be AWESOME!
• This three day tour incorporates Antelope Canyon, Monument Valley, and Horseshoe Bend

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Things To Do Near Monument Valley

Here are even more things you can do near Monument Valley, complete with places to stay and tons of pictures.

• Antelope Canyon
• Horseshoe bend
• Valley of the Gods and Mexican Hat Rock
• Goosenecks State Park

More Southwest USA Tips

Are you planning to visit other parts of the Southwest USA? Then you may find these other guides helpful…

• 14 amazing things to do in Southwest USA
• 20 incredible places to visit in Utah
• Ultimate Guide – Things To Do in Zion National Park
• 8 Tips for Planning a Trip to the Grand Canyon With Kids
• 11 best things to do in Arches National Park Utah
• 2 week Southwest USA road trip itinerary
• 3 Week American Southwest road trip itinerary
• 4 week desert southwest road trip itinerary

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One of the most thrilling experiences you can do in Utah, is an ATV experience in Sand Hollow State Park, bouncing over the sand dunes in St George.

Strap yourself in for a heart pounding experience, be amazed by the scenery, and create lasting memories with your loved ones and you ride around on this machine designed to give you an adrenaline rush!

If you’re looking for fun things to do in St George and not sure what to do, then be sure to add an ATV tour of Sand Hollow State Park to your list.

And here’s why…

About Sand Hollow State Park

You will not believe the colors of this State Park in Utah are real. If you’ve been to other state parks in Utah, such as Coral Pink Sand Dunes State Park, then maybe you will.

But if it’s your first stop on your Utah trip, then you’re in for a treat.

The clear blue of the man made lake surrounded by orange sand dunes, red rock formations and the snow peaked mountains in the background.

It is a feast for the eyes for sure and loads of good soul food for your chakras.

Sand Hollow State Park is just outside St George in Southern Utah on the Arizona border and is the perfect recreational area for ATV adventures as it offers some of the best Utah ATV trails around.

Inside the park, you will find Sand Hollow Reservoir which is known for having excellent fishing, and you might see a few people out doing watersports on the water.

Its Utah’s newest state park and already one of the most visited destinations in the Utah Division of State Parks system, with recreation opportunities for nearly every user from boaters to bikers, and OHV riders to equestrians.

What a place to cool down after a day of traversing the dunes on an ATV.

This 20,000 acre state park is well renowned for its ATV and OHV (off-highway vehicles) off-road trails that take you to 3,500ft in elevation.

You might even spot some sandboarding enthusiasts tackling the steep dunes.

It has 6,000 acres of off-road trails over sand dunes that are host to many rallies and competitions each year.

The trails cater to open riding as well as technical trails where you can test your skills off trail and you’ll see plenty of dune buggies zipping around.

The sand areas are divided by incredible rock formations in the upper areas and bounded by the blue man-made lake at the lower edges.

You could play in here all day and we enjoyed watching some motorbikes doing aerials off the dunes.

The ATV & Jeep Sunset Tour

Looking for adventure travel and fun things to do in Utah with kids? Well, this is one experience that every family member will enjoy!

ATV and Jeep Adventure Tours have been running tours through Sand Hollow State for 21 years and we had one of the most fun days yet on our one year USA road trip. 

We were hosted by the company on their 4 hour sunset tour which took us on a trail that had the perfect combination of red-rock formations, dunes and open desert.

The tour started by getting suited up in our helmets and protective gear and a safety run through by Bob our guide. We then had a practice drive around the dunes and over a small rock face.

Bob gave us the nod and we were off.

Our Experience On An ATV Tour of St George

“Show them what you’re made of Mum”

We were in St. George Utah and Kalyra screamed at me from the back of our ATV as I screamed.

I think an oh s*** even slipped out of my mouth as I pressed my foot down on the accelerator and roared up the sand dune.

Breathing was tight, possibly even held, as that old familiar fear from my youth arrived. It would take my breath and freeze me in the back seat of our car as my nervous mother attempted to drive up the vertical notorious Rampart.

As a child it felt so high and steep and I was convinced each time it wouldn’t be able to grip tight to the road and gravity would roll us back down.

Heading up that sand mountain to my friend’s birthday parties was literally the scariest thing of my childhood.

Now that feeling was overtaking me as I was the one attempting to get up the high and steep hill, except this one was made of sand and we were in a small ATV (all-terrain vehicle) with no sides.

Breathe and focus was my mantra as I wrestled control back from the demons to get up.

With two quad bikes behind me I had no other option.

I certainly couldn’t stop else we probably would roll back down. So it was foot down, squeals at the ready and push that thing up with will power – well maybe a little gasoline too.

Yes! Show em what you’re made of! I squealed rising up to the top “Nailed it!!”

There was no time to stop and revel in the glory.

I was showing those sand dunes and the world class off-roading trails what we were made of for the next four hours all the way to sunset.

We could see the petrified sand dunes and lava tubes of Snow Canyon State Park in the distance, which is just a 30-minute drive away from St George near Santa Clara.

We finished with one last drive up a hill – this time it was extra sandy –like full sand dunes without a whisper of dune grass to be seen and the wind shaping it as we approached.

It was short and steep with little run up for momentum.

These dunes had scared Kalyra for the past 30-minutes so she wasn’t screaming her confident motivational speech at me rather, “I don’t want to do this mum!’

Co-pilot Savannah, was comforting Kalyra and telling her it would all be okay, complete faith laid in her mum to get us up. Her other cries throughout the drive were to go faster.

“There’s no turning back now”.

I pressed my foot down, watching the ATV in front of me almost stall at the lip and slide out before just making it over the top.

This time I kept the Oh s*** to an inside scream and the panicked cry, I really don’t think I can do this one.

Breathe and focus.

Up we went following the ATV’s path of slip and slide and slow down. Oh no. We’re not going to make it.

Fear of stalling at the top and rolling back hit me just as the nose of the ATV pushed us up and over and we came to a grinding halt behind everyone.

This is our last stop. Let’s enjoy the sunset before heading back.

I handed the driving seat back to Craig and rolled out into the sand to watch the setting sun.

Like this area needed any more color or things that make you go, Wow! This adventure made our list of places to see in Utah that no one tells you about.

The Best ATV Trails in Sand Hollow State Park

If you think you’d like to do an ATV tour of Sand Hollow State Park in St George yourself, then we recommend the following trails.

Sand Trails with a View

The first part of the tour was spent whizzing around the easy sand trail area with the views of the lake and the snow peaked mountains the entire way.

It couldn’t help but enhance your joy.

We stopped to admire the views and learn more about the park’s flora and fauna.

The good thing with the ATV Jeep and Adventure tours is they give you time to get used to driving on the terrain and building your confidence before moving to the more difficult places.

There were a couple of easy rock crawls in this area and plenty of twists and turns through the hills and valleys.

Riding around the sand trails has its perks! There are lots of twist and turns, hills and valleys.

Box Canyon

The first steep hill that I mastered was the beginning of our little adventure into a box canyon.

As there is only one way in and out it was the perfect hiding spot for native American tribes to lie in wait for the new settlers coming through for surprise attacks.

On certain days a zip line is set up to fly across the canyon.

Jurassic Park

Jurassic Park is an amazing area where mother nature has crafted out the sandstone hills to look like various per-historic creatures, sculptures, faces and one hill even looks like a huge cruise ship.

It was fun driving between them.

We stopped for a break here and to climb over a few of the rock formations and experience stunning views over St George and Warner Valley 1,000ft below and far in the distance beyond the rugged cliffs, the Grand Canyon West.

Major Sand Dunes

The end of the trail took us to the area that had nothing else but a valley of rolling red sand dunes.

Nothing beats the rush of driving up and down the big sweeping dunes and feeling the ATV glide underneath you.

Phew. You’ll be relieved when it glides over the top and not slide back down!

We ended at the top of one of the dunes – the hardest to get up – to watch the sunset and to enjoy the views back over the lake.

The sunset itself wasn’t so spectacular as it’s still a little high in the sky and washed out as it slips behind the sand dunes. The colors you get looking back out over the lake however are.

It was a lovely way to end an epic adventure. We all decided we wanted to buy an ATV after it.

Definitely put this on your list of fun things to do in St. George Utah.

Things to Know About ATV and Jeep Adventure Tours

• You must wear long pants and closed toe shoes
• Cameras are okay as long as your arms don’t go outside the vehicle using them!
• Water and snacks are provided
• We recommend you go later in the day as there is minimal shade on the ATV trails.
• There are no restrooms or showers in the park, only at the campground.
• The best time of year to do the ATV tour is from October – April when the weather is cool. In June – September, you will experience hot days and potentially monsoon rain storms.
• Note there are park entrance fees. It costs $10 for day-use OHV access.

They have three vehicles available for their ATV tours:

1. ATV (All-Terrain Vehicle) or 4-wheelers.
2. ATV 2-UP (All-Terrain Vehicle built for 2 people). This is an ATV that is specially built for 2 people. Passengers must be 10 yrs old.
3. We rode in a Jeep-UTV (Utility Task Vehicle) also known as Side-X-Side. They hold 4 people, one driver and three passengers. The girls loved that they were able to sit in the front.

There are three general adventure tour lengths: 3, 4, or 5 hours offered by ATV Jeep and Adventures.

Tours operate year round.

FAQs About ATV Tours in Sand Hollow State Park

Where to Stay in St George

You can camp at the Sand Hollow State Park, which is what we wanted to do but it was booked out. I recommend you book your camping spot at Westside campground in advance if you choose to camp.

You can choose between powered sites and non-powered sites.

We stayed at KOA Hurricane St George, which we weren’t too impressed with, although it was close to Sand Hollow.

Some other great St. George hotels that come recommended are:

• The Best Western Abbey Inn is located in the middle of St George giving you easy access to restaurants and stories. Free breakfast, pool and hot tub.
• Wingate by Wyndham is also located near restaurants and shops. It also has free shuttle, complimentary bike rental, free breakfast, pool and is pet friendly.
• Inn on the Cliff is another resort option that often makes the Best of Lists! Gorgeous views, especially from the pool.

How to Get to St. George

St. George is just under two hours from Las Vegas. If driving from Las Vegas, you will want to drive for 119.3 miles (191km) via I-15 N. If you are driving from Salt Lake City it’s a 4.5 hour drive south (303.1 miles or 487 km) via I-15 S.

The park entrance is at 3351 South Sand Hollow Road, Hurricane, UT 84737.

You could visit Sand Hollow State Park on a day trip from Las Vegas, however we recommend spending longer in the St. George region as there are so many awesome things to do there.

Video: ATV adventure in St George Utah

More Utah Travel Tips

During our month long stay on this one year road trip we are seeking out all the fun things to do in Utah, including lots of outdoor activities in Southern Utah.

Don’t miss these adventures in Southern Utah. Pop your name in the box below to get access our free printable bucket list will help you plan the ultimate trip. As well as insider travel tips and stories as we continue to explore the world

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For more incredible places to visit near St George and Utah, check out the following resources…

• 14 best things to do in Zion National Park
• The Red Reef Trail, St George
• 5 Snow Canyon Hikes
• Adventurous things to do in Moab
• 11 amazing things to do in Arches NP
• 12 incredible things to do in Canyonlands NP
• 43 Fun Things to Do in Utah for your Utah Travel Bucket List
• 20 Incredible Places to Visit in Utah For Your Utah Road Trip
• 12 Don’t-Miss Things to Do in Capitol Reef National Park Utah
• Magical & Unique – Goblin Valley State Park, Utah Is Remote But Worth It

From the iconic arches and vibrant red rocks, to the expansive desert landscapes and sand dunes, the mountains, and the rivers, it has all the colors in God’s Art Studio that are just stunning to witness. Personally, we think the entire state should just be claimed as a US national park.

We spent 6 weeks in Utah as part of our one-year USA road trip, a state we previously visited in 2006, and will continue to return to.

We spent a lot of time in Southern Utah, but this list of the best places to visit in Utah covers every part of Utah, including the North and the ski resorts.

Getting Around Utah

If you’re looking for a base to explore all of these top Utah attractions and landmarks, then we recommend staying in the Great Salt Lake City.

From here you are within driving distance to many of the top places to see in Utah in the North, as well as some of the best ski resorts in the state.

As many of the places in this guide are national parks and in rural areas, you really do need a car when getting around Utah. You can rent a car from RentalCars.com, which is the world’s leading car rental booking service that compares brands like Hertz, Avis and Alamo.

Alternatively, you can explore these attractions on a road trip. If you want to save money on accommodation and take your vacation levels up a notch, then check RVShare to rent a unique RV or campervan.

Top Places to Visit in Utah for Nature Lovers

The state of Utah is all about nature. You won’t find many big cities with glitzy lights here. It’s all about being near to the outdoors and preserving the state’s natural beauty.

If you love nature, these are the places we suggest you visit.

1. Zion National Park

Zion National Park is one of the most beautiful National Parks in the USA, and also one of the most popular.

Receiving over 4 million visitors a year, it is the fourth most visited park, and you feel it at Zion as you’re in a narrow canyon.

With its immense red and white sandstone cliffs that reach out of the forested river bed to the brilliant blue of the sky, Zion Utah is a Southwest USA wonder. 

Its towering sandstone monoliths, slot canyons, rock formations, and hanging gardens makes it one of the most spectacular canyons in Utah and attracts outdoor adventures from all over the globe.

So not only will Zion’s beauty capture your heart, it’s epic adventures will give you memories to share around the campfire!

If you’re planning to visit Zion National Park in Southwestern Utah, the good news is it’s one of the best places to visit in Utah with kids as the majority of the hikes in Zion is family-friendly – except the Angeles Landing hike!

Our kids now say that visiting Zion National Park currently sits along the Grand Canyon as their favorite national park in the USA.

Highlights:

• Riverside Walk
• The Narrows Hike
• Angles Landing Hike
• Zion-Carmel Tunnel Scenic Drive
• Zion Canyon Scenic Drive
• Canyon Overlook Trail

2. Capitol Reef National Park

What a surprise Capitol Reef National Park was, and we now claim it as one of the most beautiful national parks in the USA we have visited.

It’s probably one of the most fantastic US national parks you may not have heard of, but after today, it will be top of your bucket list.

The colors of the massive domes, towering cliffs, twisting canyons, arches, and bridges change with the light, moving from deep reds to pastel pinks, sunburnt orange, soft yellows, and whites.

Capitol Reef NP is largely defined by the Waterpocket Fold, an enormous wrinkle in the earth’s crust forming the 100-mile backbone of the park.

Water has become the dominant erosive force shaping the beauty of the canyons, arches, cliffs, domes, and bridges of Capitol Reef National Park Utah.

We spent three days appreciating its beauty on its many hiking trails and scenic drives, and still missed out on many things to do.

Highlights:

• Cassidy Arch Hike
• Hickman Bridge Trail
• 8 Mile Scenic Drive
• Cathedral Valley
• Burr Trail Drive

3. Snow Canyon State Park

Of all the places to visit in Utah, I think Snow Canyon was the biggest surprise for us.

Located near St. George, this park is as beautiful and unique as any National Park and we likened it to a mini version of Zion NP.

High above the Navajo sandstone cliffs surrounded us in pinks, burnt orange, reds, yellows, and whites. And of, course up above a brilliant blue sky rounded it off.

We were blown away by the spectacular Snow Canyon hikes we did, particularly the Petrified Sand Dunes trail, and our kids got a good visual and understanding of how they were once sand and the wind ripples were soon frozen into rock.

And exploring the lava tubes that were created when a volcano erupted here 27,000 years ago was interesting as well.

Snow Canyon Utah is a true nature lover’s dream, and I have to say it’s almost as spectacular as the nearby Zion National Park.

If you want to see more sand dunes in Utah, then the Coral Pink Sand Dunes are also worth checking out if you have extra time.

Highlights:

• Hidden Pinyon Trail
• Petrified Dunes Trail

4. Canyonlands National Park

Canyonlands National Park is one of the four Utah national parks, with the closest town of Moab about 30 miles away.

We spent two days exploring this park including some of the best hikes and scenic drives.

In case you don’t know, Canyonlands is unique in that it is separated into three districts stretching across 527 square miles created by the Colorado and Green Rivers carving their way through the canyon.

The Green and Colorado Rivers form a Y through the national park creating:

• Islands in the Sky in the north
• the Needles District in the Southeast
• and the Maze District in the Southwest.

Canyonlands NP is a rugged, untamed land with mostly unpaved roads and primitive trails. If you seek adventure, you can find it in abundance here.

Highlights:

• Mesa Arch Trail
• Grand View Point Overlook Trail
• Shafer Trail

5. Dead Horse Point State Park

One of my favorite experiences in the USA is sunset at Dead Horse State Park, and we have done it twice now.

While it was busier during our recent visit in 2019 compared to when Caz and I visited in 2006, it’s one of those Utah tourist attractions that is still quite a hidden secret with only a few people around.

It’s close to the entrance of the Islands in the Sky district of Canyonlands and we incorporated it into our visit there whilst staying in Moab. 

Pack a picnic, find a comfy spot on the rim, pour yourself a glass of wine or two (non-drivers), and enjoy one of nature’s greatest gifts.

It’s an experience to remember!

6. Monument Valley Navajo Tribal Park

There are some places that stand above the others. They have this special magnetic pull that pulls you into their beauty.

Monument Valley Navajo Tribal Park is one of those must-see in Utah places!

You know when you’ve arrived even before you see it as you can feel its energy.

Monument Valley has similar spiritual energy to Uluru, one of our favorite places in Australia. And whilst most of Monument Valley is in Arizona as it straddles the border with Utah, we highly recommend you put it on your list of best places to visit in Utah, if not the world!

You can either self-drive the 17-mile loop road through Monument Valley or join a guided tour with a Navajo Guide.

The guided tour takes you to restricted areas you can only access with a Navajo guide. It was an incredible experience and one of the highlights of our USA road trip so far.

Our guide, Charles was very sweet and accommodating to our large group of 8 kids and 6 adults.

We rode around in an open jeep which made the experience loads of fun, especially some of the adventurous off-roading tracks we went on.

We visited a traditional Navajo home, a Hogan – and learned some of the traditions of the Navajo people.

7. Valley of the Gods

About an hour north of the above-mentioned Monument Valley is this gorgeous area called the Valley of the Gods.

With its isolated buttes, towering pinnacles, and wide open spaces it’s in a way similar to Monument Valley.

We found a little nook off the side of the road to free camp for a couple of nights, a stunning spot and besides resting around camp we did the Valley of the Gods Scenic Drive.

There is a 15-mile loop road through the Valley of the God which involves a few hills, washes, and bumpy dirt roads. It adds to the adventure and beauty of this drive.

There are loads of free camping spots, but you are better off entering from the east side, as the west could be pretty tough for some RVs to get through on that road.

The colors and rock formations are stunning. And whilst there are no real hiking trails here, we enjoyed just driving for a change.

Consider putting this destination on your Utah road trip itinerary!

8. Arches National Park

This is one of the most popular National Parks in Southern Utah and is appropriately named one of the best places to visit in Utah to see arches as it has more than 2,000 natural sandstone arches framing the park.

These natural arches have been created through over 100 million years of erosion.

The orange and red rock arches appear beside you as you drive along the scenic drive, and far into the distance, you get glimpses of the towering spires, pinnacles, and balanced rocks you can explore.

They range in size from just a three-foot opening to Landscape Arch – the longest at a span of 306 feet.

This landscape is constantly changing and new arches are being formed and old ones destroyed.

An 18-mile paved loop road will share with you a vibrant and colorful landscape filled with fins and pinnacles and hiking trails that wind under arches and windows.

Arches Park Utah is one of the best national parks for kids as many of the hikes are short, easy, and fun.

Highlights:

• Delicate Arch Trail
• Landscape Arch
• The Windows Arch
• Fiery Furnace trail

9. Bryce Canyon National Park

We visited Bryce Canyon National Park way back in 2006, unfortunately, we haven’t made it back again (yet), but it’s still one of our top 5 favorite USA national parks we have explored.

Bryce Canyon is one of the most famous places to visit in Utah and a fairy tale kingdom of dreams. A kingdom of bright orange and pink pastel spires and towers, archways, and paths leading into enchanted forests to get lost in.

We spent a day hiking and exploring the trails, nooks, and crannies, surrounded by a sea of orange.

But one of our most memorable travel experiences ever was horse riding into the canyon on the Fairy Trail with our cowboy guide Jake. Jake was a real cowboy complete with studs, leather pant protectors, a cowboy hat, and whiskey jokes spewing forth from a heavy cowboy western accent.

We trotted down into the canyon, in and out of ravines, and under naturally formed archways, in total awe at what we were seeing.

And it is totally worth getting up at sunrise and heading to the canyon – it’s one of the prettiest things to see in Utah.

10. Scenic Highway 12, Grand Escalante

Scenic Highway 12 is Utah’s only road that is recognized as An All American Road, which tells you how beautiful this scenic drive must be as there are incredible drives all over the state of Utah.

A highlight for us was the section from Torrey near Capitol Reef to Escalante.

We have done sections of Highway 12 twice now and continue to be blown away by the lunar-like landscape mixed in with every color of the rainbow and style of rock formation you can think of.

You’ll probably drive at least some of Hwy 12 during your Utah National Park road trip, and you won’t forget it.

11. Lower Creek Calf Falls, Escalante

What a wonderful surprise Lower Creek Calf Falls was. Can you believe this beautiful waterfall gushing down over the cliff in a tranquil, tropical feeling place?

This is a 6-mile heavily trafficked out and back trail is one of the most popular trails for hikers. It’s located 19 miles from the town of Escalante, Utah, and reminded us so much of hiking in the Kimberley region of Western Australia.

It was a big hike for us to do with the kids to get there, with an elevation gain of 500 ft. which wasn’t too bad.

And the views along the valley and rainbow-colored escarpment walls the entire way were beautiful. Most of it was a sandy track which made it a little more challenging.

But so worth it when we arrived.

Our kids contemplated swimming in the pools underneath the falls, until they felt the very chilly water!

12. Fisher Towers, Moab

A 25-mile scenic drive from Moab along the Colorado River brings you to Fishers Towers, which is a 4.4-mile return hike through rocky terrain, gullies, hoodoo spires, and towering cliffs.

Fisher Towers are a series of towers made of Cutler sandstone capped with Moenkopi sandstone and caked with stucco of red mud.

This is one of several Utah places to visit that has featured in many movies including mission Impossible and Geronimo.

We didn’t hike the full 4.4 miles but what we saw of the views over the valley was so rewarding.

On the way back to Moab consider stopping off at Castle Creek Winery for a little wine tasting. Utah has really strict drinking laws, and there are only three wineries in the entire state and this one was the first.

13. Sand Hollow State Park, St George

Looking for fun places to visit in Utah with family? Want to go on an ATV and quad-biking adventure? Look no further than Sand Hallow State Park!

This 20,000-acre state park is well renowned for its ATV and OHV off-road trails that take you to 3,500ft in elevation.

These world-class off-roading trails are just outside of St. George and it’s the perfect recreational area for ATV adventures as it offers some of the best Utah ATV trails around.

It’s Utah’s newest State Park and already one of the most visited destinations in the Utah State Park system, with recreation opportunities for nearly every user from boaters to bikers, and OHV riders to equestrians.

The clear blue of the man-made lake surrounded by orange sand dunes, red rock formations, and the snow peaked mountains in the background make this a feast for the eyes.

And there is no better way to explore it than in a side-by-side ATV or on a quad bike!

14. Goblin Valley State Park

Okay. This is Hidden Secret time. This is one of the most unique places to visit in Utah.

This is one of those Utah destinations most people haven’t heard of, including us, until we got into the RV community.

Goblin Valley State Park is a magical land of hobbit hiding places, goblins, and mythical creatures.

Our kids definitely enjoyed it as the playground that exists in their minds came to life with endless places to crawl, climb, and hide.

This is a small valley, but large enough for you to go on a few hikes and explore further afield.

We chose to let the kids run wild playing hide and seek and tag, and joined in or watched perched on top of a Goblin and enjoying a much-needed rest.

15. Natural Bridges National Monument

We visited the Natural Bridges National Monument in conjunction with our visit to the Valley of the Gods, 45 miles away.

Just getting there from the Valley of the Gods, the drive up the escarpment via a bunch of very tight switchbacks was incredible and a thrill we weren’t expecting – another reason to love Utah.

Natural Bridges Monument has three natural bridges, “Kachina,” “Owachomo” and “Sipapu charged by water.

You can visit by way of a 9-mile scenic drive with viewpoints, or, you can hike down to each one.

There is a loop walk (10 miles) you can do that connects each natural bridge – perhaps that’s one we can come back and do when our kids are a little older.

What we did do was hike down into the canyon to Sipapu bridge, which was a short adventurous hike that involved a few ladders and plenty of views along the way.

Sipapu Bridge is one of the top Utah landmarks as it’s the second largest natural bridge in the world, and in Hopi mythology Sipapu means the gateway entryway their ancestors came into this world.

16. Moab

Most people visit Moab as one of their Utah vacation spots to go off-roading (which we did), and to use Moab as a base two explore two of the most popular Utah parks, Arches NP and Canyonlands NP.

There’s an interesting vibe here with a decent amount of places to eat, and if you’re into RVing, there is a ton of boondocking (free camping) space.

We got a great group discount on jeep hire and knew it would be loads of fun exploring the backcountry roads of Moab – this area is famous for it – I’m sure Moab would have the highest number of jeeps in the world.

Our jeep adventure started pleasantly enough through the scenic La Sal Mountains, and then we hit the trail and our first rock. For the next 7 hours we learned how to be pros at managing our fears, enjoying our screams, and crawling up and down rock faces.

Who knew jeeps were so awesome and sturdy and flexible – we know now why it’s one of the most fun things to do in Utah!

The scenery was spectacular and reminded us of Sedona. We ended our day in the sand dunes having fun driving the jeeps up and over the hills.

Another favorite thing of ours in Moab was biking along the Colorado River, and we’d love to come back and go kayaking, mountain biking or stand-up paddle boarding!

17. Escalante Slot Canyons

Wow. This was one of the most incredible hiking adventures we’ve ever done!

Our kids had a blast and did not want this 3.5-mile-long adventure to end as they climbed and scrambled over rock faces, small holes, and boulders, and wiggled our way through the slots.

We started with the tough and super fun climb through the Peek-a-Boo slot canyon, and then we entered Spooky Canyon, which is named because of how deep and dark and narrow it gets – 11 inches wide.

It was backpacks off our backs, and bums and boobs tucked in.

We slid our way through the crack climbing down further into the canyon as we went.

If you want an Indiana Jones-type adventure, put this on your list of top things to do in Utah.

Keep in mind it gets very hot here in the summer and crowded, so get there early to avoid the crowds, and bring plenty of drinking water!

18. Corona Arch, Moab

Who knew you didn’t have to go into Arches National Park to see incredible arches.

Just a short drive from downtown Moab on Scenic Byway 279 brings you to the Corona Arch Trailhead, a 3-mile round trip hike to an impressive 140-foot by 105-foot opening arch.

Because of its close proximity to Arches NP and Canyonlands NP,  Corona Arch often gets overlooked as one of the best places to visit in Utah evidenced by the much smaller crowd we experienced here.

This was a fun hike for our kids, with the need to climb small ladders and use safety cables. But don’t worry, kids as young as five have done this trail without difficulty.

Even the short drive along the Colorado River from Moab to the trailhead was beautiful. Put this on your list of best hikes in Utah.

19. Glen Canyon National Recreation Area

We camped in our RV at Lone Rock Beach Campground in Glen Canyon National Recreation Area near Lake Powell for 5 nights.

Mostly just to relax in a gorgeous lake setting and catch up on blogging work.

It was the perfect playground for kids AND us adults. We spent the mornings working out followed by an icy dip in the lake – like a 2-second dip.

Our kids even did a half-day Survivor challenge over on Lone Rock. The kids kayaked over there and spent four hours playing and trying to stay there as long as possible. The hunger pangs drove them back into our arms.

I would love to return to this spot for more camping and to explore the Glen Canyon Recreation Area in-depth.

Although it’s one of the top places to visit in Utah for relaxation, we didn’t stay on the beach the entire time and did the following things in nearby Page, Arizona:

• Glen Canyon Dam
• Lower Antelope Canyon
• Horseshoe Bend
• Grand Staircase-Escalante National Monument

It’s worth stopping off at the Glen Canyon Dam. The visitor center there is free and there is a small museum to learn more about the construction of the dam and the importance of water.

There are great views of the dam and you can take a tour if you like. We skipped the tour.

20. Red Cliffs National Recreation Area

St George in southwestern Utah is one of those places in Utah that is a great jumping-off point for some outstanding natural beauty.

We didn’t even scratch the surface and would like to return another time to visit many other places in Southern Utah.

Our 7-year-old Savannah claimed the Red Cliffs Nature Trail in the Red Cliffs National Recreation Area as one of the most FUN hiking trails of our USA road trip.

This trail starts from the Red Cliffs Campground and hikes up to a slot canyon, the fun part scrambling up rocks beside the river and navigating around the small cliff side using the small footholds and a rope to stop you from plunging into the icy water.

We soon discovered how icy that was when we arrived at the slot canyon and had to wade through it. We didn’t get too far!

As you hike further the canyon narrows until it is just a few feet wide and a beautiful little waterfall blocks the trail.

All the conservation area’s 130 miles of non-motorized trails in Southwest Utah encompass two wilderness areas, the Red Cliffs Recreation Area, the Red Cliffs Campground, and over a hundred miles of non-motorized trails.

21. Park City Mountain Resort

If you’re looking for places to visit in Utah in winter, then you don’t want to miss Park City Mountain Resort. This is one of the best places to ski and snowboard in Utah.

The resort is just 32 miles east of Salt Lake City and is famous for containing several training courses for the U.S. Ski Team. It’s also home to the biggest lift-served ski resort in the U.S., so you’ll never run out of runs to explore.

The runs here are great for all levels of skier, you’ll find easy slopes and more adventurous terrain. The most exciting run of all is the 3.5-mile long Home Run, which is one of the longest green runs in the state, and is ideal for the more adventurous skier.

The town has a very family-friendly atmosphere, which makes it the ideal winter vacation spot in Utah.

22. Cedar Breaks National Monument

If you’re not tired of bright red rocks and jaw-dropping canyons yet, then make sure to check out Cedar Breaks National Monument.

It’s located just outside Cedar City and is considered a natural amphitheater. The canyon is similar to Bryce Canyon and Red Canyon, with its expansive gorges and red and yellow rock face, but you can see the rock is a little more eroded than other parks in Utah.

If you’re looking for stunning natural landscapes that are a bit further away from the main tourist trail, then definitely add this to your list.

In the winter, this area becomes a little more unique. Due to the high elevation, it has known to know here. This can be treacherous so the park is closed from October until May.

23. Dinosaur National Monument

Dinosaur National Monument is famous for being home to more than 1,500 dinosaur fossils, which have been embedded into the cliffs of the Carnegie Quarry.

To allow visitors a close up view of the fossils, a viewing station has been set up, allowing for visitors to have a close up view of the dinosaur bones and fossils.

The park is also known for its mountains, desert, and rivers that slow through the canyon, making it a great spot for hiking and rafting.

Whether you’re into science or adventure, this is one place in Utah not to be missed.

24. Antelope Island

Antelope Island is quite the contrast to what we’ve already shown you on this list so far. The island is known for its vast salt flats, reflective waters, and approximately 600 free-ranging bison, as well as many other desert animals.

The island lies in the Great Basin, which means is pretty much completely flat, but is surrounded by snow-capped mountains.

It’s one of the best places to see wildlife in the state, as millions of birds congregate here, as well as being home to antelope, deer, bobcats, coyotes, and waterfowl. Antelope Island is one of the best places to visit in Utah in fall because this is when the bison are most active.

The park is full of hiking and biking trails, and visitors often see wild animals on these trails. It’s also a great place to go to the beach (yes, you read that right). The water by Bridger Bay Beach is perfect for swimming, and there are even showers and a restaurant there so you can spend the whole day at the beach if you want to.

25. Bonneville Salt Flats

The Bonneville salt flats are so large you can almost see the curvature of the Earth. Stretching over 30,000 acres, its thick and crusty soil looks like a lake covered in snow. The land is so salty, that no vegetation grows in the area.

If you visit on a hot day, you will see heat waves rise from the soil and create mirages that make the desert look like it’s covered in water.

One of the best places to see the salt flats is from the I-80. Drive for 10 miles east of Wendover and you’ll find a rest stop. The rest area is where you’ll see perfectly flat land that looks like the image I’ve described for you above.

For photographers, this is one natural site you cannot miss.

Before You Go

So there you have it, the top 25 places to visit in Utah! As you can see, there is a lot of nature to explore. Whether you’re on the hunt for canyons or mountains, or glistening rivers and lakes, you’ll find it all in Utah.

But before you go, make sure you plan ahead and book your accommodation. Booking.com has thousands of hotels in Utah to choose from at every price point. Plus, you get free cancellation on most rooms and the best price guarantee.

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Lone Rock Beach in Lake Powell, Utah was that ultimate dream.

It was possibly my favorite campsite on our entire 12 month RV trip of West USA. It was also our first time using our own solar power and water.

Why not camp here for a few days while you set up your solar panels properly and get used to how this boondocking thing works?

Lone Rock Beach, Lake Powell

The view from your camp chair is dominated by the massive, monolithic rock, known as Lone Rock.

This free-standing sandstone rock is what this beach, of one of the most popular beaches in the Glen Canyon National Recreation Area is named after.

It’s one of the few spots in this massive protected area that you can actually drive up to the water’s edge and camp for a cheap price.

Lone Rock Beach is on Lake Powell in the Glen Canyon Recreation Area, the heart of the “Grand Circle” of Southwest national parks. It offers 1.25 million acres of golden cliffs, lush hanging gardens, narrow slot canyons, and the brilliant blue waters of Lake Powell.

Even better is its location – only 12 miles from Page, Arizona, which means you get access to two of Arizona’s top things to do, if not Southwest USA highlights. (more on Horseshoe Bend and Antelope Canyon below)

Lone Rock Beach is one of those places you can park your RV and settle in for some time.

Wake up to watch the beautiful soft light of sunrise illuminating Lone Rock, grab your paddle board or kayak and explore the crystal blue waters, spend the day swimming, and the evening watching the golden and red light of sunset, roasting marshmallows over the campfire with friends, and gazing at the shimmering stars at night.

It’s true paradise.

We visited in winter as we were exploring the Southwest USA in-depth and on our way to Monument Valley. I’d love to return to Lake Powell and the Glen Canyon Recreation area to explore it more in-depth.

The water was freezing at this time, but I was still happy for a quick wake up swim each morning.

The kids also kayaked over to Lone Rock and spent the day over there (with supplies) playing a Survivor Challenge game! this is such a family friendly campsite.

Lone Rock Beach Campground

Lone Rock Beach campground was the perfect playground for kids AND adults. After my icy morning dip, I’d do a workout on the beach followed catching up on stuff – work, organization, fixing the RV, adding in solar panels, relaxing, and playing.

The evenings were spent playing cards and chatting around a campfire. Isn’t that bliss?

What added to the bliss was that the girls had friends to play with.

We had pretend weddings, 24 hour tent challenges and sleep overs.

It was off the grid though,not completely free. There was a fee as we were camping in the Glen Canyon Recreation Area. But it was only $14 a night.

Drive up and find your perfect spot on the beach. It’s first come first served. There are no amenities here – just portable toilets – so you’ll need to be prepared.

There is a dump station on the way into Lone Rock Beach campground. The views as you come in from there are sensational!

Arrive during the day so you can be sure you find a good spot and set up in an area that is not too soft. It gets very dark here which makes it tough to set up and see what you are doing.

Things to do near Lone Rock Beach, Lake Powell

We stayed in Glen Canyon Recreation Area for 5 nights, which gave us time to do some of the nearby attractions. There is a lot more to do in the area.

Antelope Canyon, Arizona

We were debating whether to go to Antelope Canyon as we heard people say it was overrated. They complained about the crowds and having to wait in a line just to take a photo.

I’m so glad we decided to go. It was awesome and unlike anything I’ve ever seen.

There’s a tiny crack in the ground and below is this wonderful slot canyon that changes color throughout the day thanks to the light filtering in through the narrow opening.

It was busy, although not busy season. We had plenty of time to wander the 430 meter path through the canyon taking photographs and marveling at the smooth polished rock that appeared as red, orange, yellow and purple for us.

We highly recommend it! Read our full review of the Lower and Upper Antelope Canyon here.

Horseshoe Bend, Arizona

You’ve probably seen plenty of images of this famous bend in the Colorado River as it winds through Page in Arizona.

I loved the emerald green of the river below and we saw many boats cruising by. It was spectacular and you only need a short amount of time there.

We were quite taken aback by the number of people going close to the edge for photos in Horseshoe Bend. PLEASE don’t do it. It’s not worth it. Anything can happen in a split second and too many people have been falling off cliff edges dying recently.

There is no photo or number of likes worth it.

My heart was dying watching a young boy walking tentatively towards the edge braving himself to go forward. I’m not sure where his parents were but I took on the village raises the child thing and told him to come on back that it was too dangerous for him to do that.

It makes my stomach turn watching it. Read our full review of Horseshoe Bend with tips

Glen Canyon Dam

It’s worth stopping off to the Glen Canyon Dam.

The visitor center there is free and there is a small museum to learn more about the construction of the dam and the importance of water.

Glen Canyon Recreation Area would have cost us $30 for a 7-day pass. We have a National Parks Pass which gives unlimited access to federal lands. It costs $80 a year. It’s absolutely worth it for a trip like ours and saves us hundreds of dollars.

Rainbow Bridge National Monument, Glen Canyon

Sadly, we did not get time to do Rainbow Bridge, but it is high on my Utah bucket list for when we return.

Rainbow Bridge National Monument is the tallest natural bridge in the world. It is roughly the sixth longest and a popular thing to do in Utah for those who want to go off the beaten path.

It’s a scared bridge of the Navajo culture for its symbol of deities responsible for creating clouds, rainbows and rain – the essence of life in the desert.

The bridge can be reached by boat (50 miles) and then an easy 0.75-mile trail up the twisting canyon to a spectacular overlook near the bridge Intrepid travelers can hike strenuous backcountry trails (17 miles) from Navajo Mountain.

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Best of Utah Tips

Tips for road tripping through Utah and a few itinerary ideas.

• 20 Incredible Places to visit in Utah on your road trip
• 14 Epic Adventures in the American Southwest
• 13 Places to see in Utah that no one tells you about
• 45 Unique and Fun things to do in Utah

Don’t miss these places near Lake Powell

Welcome 4×4 scenic drives, hidden waterfalls, undulating waves of colorful rocks, and adventurous hikes through narrow slot canyons, endless slick rock and rainbow colored valleys.

The spectacular All-American Road: Scenic Byway 12 runs through here as well as the more rugged Burr Trail and many hidden surprises. It made our cool places to visit in the USA for 2020 list and both of these drives made our list of best scenic drives in America!

Where is Grand Staircase-Escalante National Monument?

The Grand Staircase Escalante National Monument in Southern Utah and bordered by Bryce Canyon to the northwest, Glen Canyon National Recreation area to the east, and Capitol Reef National Park to the northeast. 

It’s an easy area to include on your Utah road trip.

Many visitors to Utah drive through it quickly thinking it only encompasses a scenic drive, eager to get the Big 5 Utah national parks on either side of it.

Don’t make the same hurried mistake as you’ll find just as much to be in awe of in this region as the national parks. In fact, It’s double the combined land of Utah’s five national parks.

Grand Staircase-Escalante National Monument is 1.9 million acres of canyons, cliffs and rugged landscapes offering an abundance of adventures like hiking, off-roading, camping, and scenic drives.

Intrepid travelers will love to know that much of the sweeping Grand Staircase region is quite remote. Very few trailheads can be reached on paved roads.

Be sure to plan for those off-the-beaten path experiences well. Carry plenty of water (at least one gallon — 4 liters — per person, per day)

Summer temperatures can range over 100° F (38°C) and winters can drop well below freezing at night. Sudden heavy rains can make this road impassable — even for high-clearance, 4WD vehicles.

We visited in April/ May and the weather was very pleasant and perfect for the many wonderful hikes in the Grand Staircase-Escalante region.

Grand Staircase Escalante Hiking

There are many hiking trails to hidden secrets in Grand Staircase Escalante. Unfortunately, we only had time for two, which we’ll share below. Let us know in the comments any other great hikes you know of for our return trip.

Hike to Lower Creek Calf Falls

What a wonderful surprise Lower Creek Calf Falls was!!

Can you believe this beautiful waterfall gushing down over the cliff in a tranquil, tropical feeling place?

This reminded me so much of Emma’s Gorge in the Kimberley region of Western Australia.

It was a big hike for us to do with the kids to get here. It was six miles return with an elevation gain of 500 ft. which wasn’t too bad.

The views along the valley and rainbow colored escarpment walls the entire way were beautiful. Most of it was a sandy track which made it a little more challenging.

Along the hike you’ll see some ancient pictographs on the wall , walk along sandy beach tracks, through bamboo forests and beside crystal clear creeks.

At the end you’ll reach a gorgeous oasis with the Lower Calf Creek Falls plumetting 126ft over the rock face in a Y-formation.

Swim right up under it if it’s not too chilly! It’s the perfect spot for a picnic and a rest before gathering your strength to walk back. It’s one of the best things to do in Utah.

The Lower Calf Creek Falls trailhead is located at the Calf Creek Campground on Highway 12, 11 miles south of the town of Boulder, and 15 miles east of the town of Escalante.

There is a 13-site campground here and a day use picnic area. The campsite looks gorgeous an I’d love to stay here under the shade of the trees nestled along side Calf Creek. Its’ a first come first served basis so good luck!

Read More: Lower Calf Creek Falls Hike

Video: Lower Calf Creek Falls and Highway 12

Hike Peek-a-Boo and Spooky Gulch Slot Canyon

When were so happy our friends Mike and Anne from Honeytrek visited us while in Grand Escalante and recommend we hike Peek-a-boo and Spooky Canyon together.

We had a blast and it was the best hike we did on our USA road trip. None of us wanted this 3.5 mile long adventure climbing over rock faces, through small holes and over boulders to end.

It was full of explosive moves which pounded my head and body.

After the tough climb through Peek-a-Boo we entered into Spooky Canyon, called that for how deep and dark and narrow it gets – 11 inches wide.

It was backpacks off backs, and bums and boobs tucked in.

We donned our Flat Stanley personas and slid our way through the crack climbing down further into the canyon as we went.

What a way to spend it with our friends! It’s a must not thing to do in Grand Staircase- Escalante National Monument.

Peek-a-Boo and Spooky Canyon are located in the Dry Fork Canyon area on the Hole-in-the-Rock road. (see below for that scenic drive)

Read more in-depth tips on this hike in our post on the Peek-a-Boo and Spooky Canyon hike.

Video: Peek-a-Boo Hike and Burr Trail Drive

Scenic Drives in Grand Staircase – Escalante National Monument

Start your engine, and get ready to cruise. There are many different scenic drives in Grand Staircase Escalante that will blow your mind. And we didn’t even go too far off the beaten path! Here are some easy don’t miss drives!

Drive Scenic HWY 12: All American Road

Scenic Highway 12 is Utah’s only road recognized as An All American Road, a title only given to a third of America’s scenic byways.

It’s given to roads that offer unique features that you can’t find elsewhere. They become tourist destinations in themselves. You can only imagine how beautiful this scenic drive is when almost every road in Utah is a scenic one.

Hwy 12 has pretty much earned the title of the most colorful of the nation’s 31 All-American Roads. It connects U.S. 89 near Panguitch on the west with S.R. 24 near Torrey on the northeast winding 124 miles through some of the most diverse and ruggedly beautiful landscapes anywhere.

You’ll drive past red rock cliffs, through slickrock canyons, pine and aspen forests, national and state parks, a national monument and several quaint rural towns. mixed in with every color of the rainbow and style of rock formation you can think of.

The road at times is embedded into the slickrock helping you feel a deeper connection to the lunar like landscape and rainbow colored rocks of all sizes, shapes and formations.

Most people drive through Scenic Byway 12 in a day – us included on a previous Utah road trip.

However we recommend you stay longer to explore all it has to offer not just on the road but off.

We did that on our last trip spending about a week in the Escalante Region and coming in and off the road. It’s a great jumping off point to explore Bryce Canyon National Park, Kodachrome Basin State Park, the Dixie National Forest’s Red Canyon and Capitol Reef.

We started from Torrey driving up into the Dixie National Forest with beautiful viewpoints showcasing the contrasting world of subalpine fir and aspen, the red rock of Capitol Reef, the green of the valley and surrounding mountains. Boulder Mountain Pass is the highest point on Scenic Drive 12 at 9,606ft so be prepared for some steep climbs.

The byway crosses a vast expanse of slick-rock canyon country encompassing Grand Staircase-Escalante National Monument. It looks like an ocean of swelling colorful rocks. Stop at the many viewpoints – it is spectacular.

Plan a pit stop for coffee with a view at Kiva Koffee house.

Continue on.

Hairpin turns will have you on the edge of the seat as you look down into deep red Escalante canyons, the most popular section of the monument for its active waterfalls, arches, riparian oases, sculpted slickrock and narrow canyons.

The drive finishes near Bryce Canyon driving through two beautiful red arches in Red Canyon.

Beauty like this can never be understated nor underappreciated. It’s definitely one of the best road trips in the USA.

If you need pretty good coffee at the end of your Highway 12 scenic drive pull up to Wanderlust Cowgirl Coffee Panguitch, on the road from Escalante to St. George.

Hole-in-the-Rock Scenic Drive

Hole-in-the-Rock is a 62-mile drive one way, and follows the general route of of the pioneer Hole-in-the-Rock Expedition to search for a route across the river, what is now Lake Powell.

Most of the road is in Grand Staircase-Escalante National Monument, however the last 5 miles are within the boundaries of Glen Canyon NRA where you’ll find the actual hole in the rock by the Colorado River!

Most visitors travel the 11 miles to Devil’s Garden and 26 miles to the turnoff for Peek-a-boo and Spooky Gulch. We missed the Devil’s Garden as our hike into Peek-a-boo (see below) wiped us out!

Hole-in-the-Rock a popular drive for the scenery – it was beautiful on the way into the slot canyons – and the various points of interest.

Hell’s Backbone Drive

After our two intensive hikes in a row, a much needed rest day was had sitting in the car and enjoying the stunning scenery of the Hell’s Backbone from our window.

The 38-mile dirt road was constructed by Depression-Era Civilian Conservation Corps to serve as an alternate route between Boulder and Escalante.

The road forks from All American Highway 12 near the town of Boulder and climbs west halfway up Boulder Mountain to connect with the Posey Lake/Pine Creek Road. 

It winds through the Pine Creek Drainage of the Dixie National Forest starting in juniper desert up into the lush pine and aspen forest.

The road crosses the historic old, wooden Hells Backbone Bridge just above the Box/Death Hollow Wilderness Area. The Box doesn’t see a lot of tourist traffic, but it’s a mysterious, multicolored sandstone canyon carved by water into the rocks. It reminded me of Bryce Canyon.

Before reaching here, I didn’t think the drive was all that spectacular. But was saved here by these outstanding views over the rugged canyons.

There are several trailheads here to access various parts of the wilderness.

This was where we turned around as snow had cut off the rest of the road.

We combined this drive with the Burr Trail, which made it a very long day for us. If you have time, split it into two days, add in some hikes, and enjoy it from a slower, deeper perspective.

Burr Trail Scenic Byway

The 64 mile Burr Trail Scenic Byway winds through a deep red slickrock canyon and rolling desert forest of orange and green. It starts near Boulder in the Grand Staircase Escalante National Monument and goes into the southern section of Capitol Reef National Park.

We knew immediately we had arrived back into Capitol Reef NP as the colors turned into the rainbow and the water pocket fold appeared.

This follows the Waterpocket fold and the colors as you look back on the rocks are extraordinary: pink, grey, chocolate, orange, yellow, and white.

It was one of my favorite drives and views in the American Southwest.

The Burr Trail Scenic Backway was originally developed as a cattle trail blazed by stockman John Atlantic Burr. It’s paved and graded in sections and gravel and dirt in others.

At the bottom of the switchbacks it meets with the Notom Road, which is a gravel road that runs from Highway 24 along the east side of Capitol Reef Utah.

You can follow it for as far as you like.

There are different hiking trails along the road. The Surprise Canyon was recommended to us but after our two massive hikes the previous days we decided to just have a resting scenic drive.

You can get into it coming from Highway 12 on the west and then go north on Notom Bullfrog road or come down from highway 24 in the north.

Camping in Grand Staircase-Escalante National Monument

You’re in Utah, there are plenty of free camping places on BLM land. Since Grand Staircase is managed by BLM land you’ll have lots of options.

Hole in the Rock Escalante Boondocking Spot

This was one of our favorite boondocking spots on our RV trip, especially all that greenery after months camping on red dirt.

This boondocking spot is right off the beginning of Hole in the Rock scenic drive with easy access to the nearby town of Escalante and its amenities.

It’s a huge area with plenty of grass, open spaces and decent sized trees for shade. The best spots are those along the cliff edge with beautiful views. They were all taken, but our spot was more than adequate.

We also had great internet service here, which was much appreciated after going 4 days offline.

Boondocking spot near Capitol Reef

Just outside the Capitol Reef National Park and only five minutes from the town of Torrey was our boondocking spot for Capitol Reef National Park.

It was off the side of the road and right near the beginning of Highway 12.

Again, the kids were happy with the nearby cliffs to scramble over and go on exploratory hikes.

There was no Verizon phone or internet service here, but there was Sprint.

Other Places to stay Grand Escalante

Escalante Hotel

Slot Canyons Inn Bed and Breakfast: Check here for current prices

VRBO Escalante

From cowboy cabins, to wild west retreats and vacation homeshere are 56 rentals available on VRBO in Escalante. Check availability and prices here.

Car & RV Rental

• If you don’t have your own car, check here for rental car options from various Utah locations
• You may wish to rent your own RV, campervan or motorhome.  Check out RV share

Tours for Grand Staircase-Escalante Region

• 3 hour Peek-a-Boo and Spooky Slot Canyon guided hike. 
• G Adventures: Hiking Utah’s Big 5 includes Grand Escalante
• G Adventures: Hiking the best of the West’s National Park includes Grand Escalante

Places to Visit near Grand Staircase Escalante National Monument

• 12 Don’t-Miss Things to Do in Capitol Reef National Park Utah
• Ultimate Guide – 14 Things To Do in Zion National Park (+ How To Plan a Visit)
• Hike the Exciting Red Reef Trail St George (there’s a waterfall climb)
• 16 Brilliant Things to do in Moab, Utah (Adventure + Natural Beauty)
• Magical & Unique – Goblin Valley State Park, Utah Is Remote But Worth It

More tips on Utah & American Southwest

• 20 Incredible Places to Visit in Utah For Your Utah Road Trip
• Don’t Miss These 11 Amazing Things to do in Arches National Park Utah (for 1st time visitors)
• 14 Epic Adventures in the American Southwest Not To Miss On Your USA Travels!
• 8 Helpful Tips for Planning a Trip to the Grand Canyon With Kids
• 36 Hour Itinerary – What to Do in Tucson, Arizona (+ where to eat, drink, and stay!

When we first visited Utah in 2006, we called it God’s Art Studio. We couldn’t get over its sculptured beauty. It was like nothing we’d seen before, and it captured our hearts.

Exploring Utah on that two-month road trip across the USA was the highlight and the moment when I decided – I must come back to this country and explore more.

And here we are 14 years later with a Green Card in hand living in Raleigh and exploring the USA in-depth.

Getting around Utah

Last year we went on a 12 month RV trip of Western USA and spent about 6 weeks in Southern Utah exploring a little deeper.

It’s a fantastic road trip destination and we recommend you explore it this way. You can either do a long road trip (we recommend at least 4 weeks) or keep coming back on shorter road trips.

Utah is one of the best states in the country for free camping so you might want to consider traveling in an RV (if it’s self-sufficient) or camping. We have done both.

• Check RV rentals via RVShare (if you don’t want the hassle of owning your own)
• Check Rentalcars.com for other car rental
• See our tips on RV travel and camping

We have a few printable southwest itineraries to help you which you can get when you join our email community (its free and full of good tips and insider secrets.

We still have a few things to do in Utah on our bucket list which we have included in our list below. We haven’t had a chance to visit yet but did not want this comprehensive list to not include great places to visit in Northern Utah. 

These are places we’ve heard about, been inspired to visit via Instagram or friends who have visited.

• 2 week Southwest USA road trip itinerary
• 3 Week American Southwest road trip itinerary
• 4 Week Desert Southwest USA road trip itinerary

In this Utah travel tips post, you’ll find links to more in-depth articles on each place in Utah and activity mentioned. I’ve split them into regions to make it easier for you to plan.

Best Things to Do in Utah (in the Moab Region)

The Moab region is one of the most popular places to visit in Utah. Known as the adventure capitol of the Southwest due to its incredible red rock country surroundings and easy access to some of Utah’s best national and state parks.

1. Drive the Shafer Trail (4WD), Canyonlands National Park

Clutch your seat belts as you hit the frightening switchbacks of the Shafer trail in Canyonlands National Park in Moab.

It looks scarier from the lookout point above then when you’re on it. Driving down the switchbacks of Shafer Trail switchbacks to the quiet canyon floor was a highlight of this Utah national park.

You can take the trail all the way back into Moab, which we recommend, especially getting close to the Colorado River at Horseshoe Bend.

2. Mesa Arch Trail, Canyonlands National Park

One of the best things to do in Canyonlands National Park Island in the Sky is the Mesa Arch hike. It’s only 0.5 miles return and is beautiful, interesting and easy!

I loved the arch and the view behind it into the canyon and towards the La Sal Mountains. Being popular, you may need to line up to get your photo taken in front of the arch – it’s one of the most popular Canyonlands hikes!

Be sure to safely lean over the rock for a sheer drop view into the canyon. To the right sits a large rock I recommend climbing up for views above and over Mesa Arch.

Sunrise at Mesa Arch is meant to be the thing to do. If you are camping at Canyonlands it will make sunrise at Mesa Arch easier.

Read More: Things to do in Canyonlands National Park (includes The Needles)

3. Sunset at Dead Horse State Park

Utah keeps hitting it out of the park with their superlative experiences.

One of the best sunset experiences in the USA is at Dead Horse State Park just outside of Islands of the Sky region of Canyonlands National Park.

Dead Horse Point is one of the most photographed scenic vistas in the USA. The overlook towers 2,000 feet above the Colorado River, providing a breathtaking panorama of Canyonlands’ sculpted pinnacles and buttes.

Pack a picnic and find a spot on the edge of the mesa and enjoy the magic of the setting sun lighting up the spectacular horseshoe bend in the Colorado River as it carves out the surrounding canyonlands.

You can even camp there or spend more time exploring the state park and the many hikes and biking trails that are meant to be awesome. It’s on our Utah bucket list for when we return.

4. Jeep Rock Crawling, Moab

Are you ready for one the best Utah adventures you can find? How does crawling over vertical rock faces in a jeep sound?

We screamed, we cried, we laughed, sometimes all it once. This was one of those epic family experiences we’ll never forget and are stunned that we had the bravery to do it.

The ever-changing Moab Red Rock country scenery only enhanced the experience.

Our drive took us through the alpine forests of the La Sal Mountains, up and over the steep red rocks and giant boulders and finished with fun driving up and down sand dunes.

Read More: Jeep adventures in Moab

5. Delicate Arch, Arches National Park

Of course, you are going to see way more Arches in the national park. An 18-mile paved loop road will share with you a vibrant and colorful landscape filled with fins and pinnacles and hiking trails that wind under arches and windows.

Delicate Arch is the one arch you don’t want to skip out on. It’s a three mile return hike, slightly challenging but worth it.

Sitting at the edge of the surrounding cliffs looking over Delicate Arch and across the bowl it sits at the edge of, I felt like I was in an ancient Roman amphitheater.

Stand under the arch (look at me below for a scale of how big this thing is) and then stand on the brink of the canon, with the dramatic La Sal Mountains in the background (snow capped when we visited in April) making for a contrasting desert image.

Read More – 11 amazing things to do in Arches National Park

6. North and South Window Arches

The shorter hike to North and South Window Arches are another do not miss in Arches National Park. It’s only a 1 mile round trip and probably my favorite view in Arches National Park.

7. Corona Arch Hike, Moab

Most people visit Moab and head into Arches National Park to see impressive arches.

Here’s a hidden secret, one of the best arches in Moab is located outside the national park on Scenic Byway 279.

 A 3-mile round trip hike brings you to Corona Arch, to an impressive 140 foot by 105-foot opening arch.

This was a fun family friendly hike climbing small ladders and scrambling over rocks and finding small caves to hide in.

Even the short drive along the Colorado River from Moab to the trailhead was beautiful. Put this on your list of best hikes in Utah.

Read more: Top 16 things to do in Moab

8. Scenic Highway 128, Moab

Utah State Route 128 (U-128) is a 44.6-mile-long (71.7 km) state highway north of Moab that follows the Colorado River. This road also forms part of the Dinosaur Diamond Prehistoric Highway, a National Scenic Byway.

The drive through the gorge offers incredible scenery with green valleys, red rock monoliths and the Sal Mountains. 

You might also want to bike part of it.

9. Bike ride along the Colorado River, Moab

For a gentle and tranquil experience jump on your bike and ride along the Colorado River just outside Moab on the U-128 scenic drive.

You will follow the Colorado River and wind past the border of Arches National Park. The scenery is spectacular. You will pass a campsite amongst the cotton trees on the edge of the river and eventually come to the end of the bike path. It’s about 4 miles return.

10. Fishers Towers Hike

Dark red sandstone carved into spires, minarets, soaring fins, gargoyles and strange rock formations capture your imagination along this Southern Utah hike.  Rock climbers love it here.

It’s a 5.2-mile round trip trail that does through canyons, beneath sheer vertical cliffs and through the towers. The Fisher Towers are photogenic rock formations eroded into interesting shapes. 

We didn’t make it as far as the towers but were more than satisfied with the dramatic scenery and outdoor adventure. This is one of several Utah places to visit that has featured in many movies including mission Impossible and Geronimo.

The stunning U-128 Scenic Byway takes you there and back.

11. Wine Tasting at Castle Creek Winery

I know. Utah? Wine tasting?

In a state that seemed to have the strictest drinking laws ever, you’d be shocked to learn you can taste wine in this arid environment. It’s a unique Utah thing to do.

 Castle Creek Winery for a little wine tasting Is located on the U-128 Scenic Byway and is one of only three wineries in the entire state.

You’ll enjoy that glass of wine with those views over the Colorado River and valley after your hike.

Best Things to do in Utah (Highway 12 & Escalante Region)

This is the region that incorporates many places along Highway 24 and 12, including Grand Staircase-Escalante National Monument and Capitol Reef and Bryce Canyon National Park.

12. Goblin Valley State Park

If you’re looking for unique things to do in Utah, you do not want to miss Goblin Valley State Park, especially if you are visiting Utah with kids.

You only need an hour or two to explore this land filled with mushroom, gnome, and goblin shaped orange and yellow rocks.

It’s perfect for games of hide and seek and tag. You can also do a few short hikes here. We loved boondocking nearby at Little Horse Canyon. Another addition to your Utah bucket list would be exploring this area and hiking through the canyon which is said to be extraordinary.

Read more: The magical and unique Goblin Valley State Park

13. Lower Calf Creek Falls, Grand Escalante National Monument

I had no idea such a dramatic waterfall existed in Utah until we took the winding 6 mile return trail to Lower Calf Creek Falls in the Grand Staircase-Escalante National Monument in Southern Utah.

The trail winds a valley enclosed by towering cliffs of red, pink, orange and yellow, through a shady low scrub bamboo forest sandy track beside a shallow creek before opening up to this stunning waterfall, It’s an iconic Utah attraction.

Read more: The extraordinary Lower Calf Creek Falls in Utah

14. Peek-a-Boo and Spooky Slot Canyons, Grand Escalante

Are you ready for one of the best hiking adventures we’ve ever done?

3.5 miles of rock face scrambling, crawling through small holes and over boulders, and wiggling your way through 11-inch-wide slots.

Peek-a-Boo and Spooky Canyon is in the Dry Forks region of the Grand Staircase-Escalante National Monument

Take off your backpacks and tuck in your boobs and bums!

If you want an Indiana Jones type adventure, put this on your list of top things to do in Utah.

Keep in mind it gets extremely hot here in the summer, and crowded, so get there early to avoid the crowds, and bring plenty of drinking water!

Read more: An exhilarating adventure through Peek-a-Boo and Spooky Canyon, Utah

15. Highway 12 Scenic Drive

One of the most beautiful scenic drives in the USA is Scenic Highway 12 in Utah.  It’s the only road in Utah recognized as An All-American Road. Since every road in Utah is stunning, this tells you just how dramatic this highway is.

It’s a must not miss thing to do in Utah.

A highlight for us was the section from Torrey near Capitol Reef to Escalante.

We have done sections of Highway 12 twice now and continue to be blown away by the lunar like landscape mixed in with every color of the rainbow and style of rock formation you can think of.

Read More: Stunning Adventures to have in Grand Staircase Escalante National Monument

16. Horse riding, Bryce Canyon

Bryce Canyon is one of the most famous places to visit in Utah and a fairy tale kingdom of dreams. A kingdom of bright orange and pink pastel spires and towers, archways and paths leading into enchanted forests to get lost in.

We spent a day hiking and exploring the trails, nooks, and crannies, surrounded by a sea of orange.

One of our most memorable global travel experiences was horse riding into the canyon on the Fairy Trail with our cowboy guide Jake. Jake was a real cowboy complete with studs, leather pant protectors, a cowboy hat and whiskey jokes spewing forth from a heavy cowboy western accent.

We trotted down into the canyon, in and out of ravines, and under natural formed archways, in total awe at what we were seeing.

17. Sunrise and Sunset Bryce Canyon

While we’re in one of my favorite national parks in the USA, be sure to get yourself out of bed for sunrise over the canyon. It’s one of the prettiest things to see in Utah. Stay the night too as sunset is equally beautiful.

18. Queen’s Garden/Navajo Loop Combination Trail

Go deep into Bryce Canyon on the 2.75-mile Queens Garden and Navajo Loop Trail.

Combining these two will give you the best experience of the orange and pink hoodoos, canyons, arches, and pine tree forests. Wall Street is the most popular section on the Navajo Trail so be sure not to miss it.

19. Cassidy Arch Trail, Capitol Reef National Park

The Cassidy Arch Trail in Capitol Reef National Park follows the edge of the canyon over slick rock to a natural arch and gorgeous views of the rainbow rock.

The 3.4 miles return hike can be strenuous at times but the views are spectacular and you get to stand on top of the arch – one of the few in Utah in which you are allowed to!

20. Hickman Bridge Trail, Capitol Reef National Park

The 1.8-mile Hickman Bridge hike is perfect for any kind of traveler offering a colorful, unique and diverse landscape.

It begins at the river and climbs up a scrubby mountain, before dipping into a sandy ravine with trees offering shade and little caves and waterfold pockets to climb over.

You then scramble over rocky terrain to views of 133-foot natural Hickman Bridge.

A loop trail runs underneath the bridge with incredibly beautiful views over the valley and creek lined with green cottonwoods.

21. Scenic Drive Highway 24, Capitol Reef National Park

While Highway 12 starts just outside Capitol Reef NP and gets all the accolades as an All American Road, Highway 24 is also very good.

Take it slow, enjoy the views, and pull over for any of the many trails and attractions that begin off this highway.

It goes all the way through the national park and out to the nearest town of Torrey.

The landscape changes dramatically from one end to the other moving from mauve and white cliffs, to domes and towering peaks of yellow and pink, to deep red canyons walls.

22. Raspberry white cookies, Fruita District Capital Reef National Park

Yes. These cookies were that good! We returned each day to stock up and they are gluten free.

The historic Fruita District and Griffith Homestead was one of my favorite places to visit in Capitol Reef park and just sit and relax

 under gigantic trees and lush green grass near horses. This area makes Capitol Reef even more enticing and beautiful.

23. Burr Trail Scenic Byway

The Burr Trail Road in the southern part of the park is spectacular!

This follows the Waterpocket fold and the colors as you look back on the rocks are extraordinary: pink, grey, chocolate, orange, yellow, and white

The Burr Trail Scenic Byway winds through a deep red slickrock canyon and rolling desert forest of orange and green. It goes through the eastern portion off Grand-Staircase Escalante National Monument before reaching Capitol Reef National Park.

You’ll know when you’ve reached it you’ll see the jagged outcropping of bright rainbow colored rock that is so recognizable as the Waterpocket fold and the stunning Capitol Reef.

Read more: Things to do in Capitol Reef National Park

Both the Burr Trail Road and Highway 12 made our list of top scenic drives in the USA.

What to do in Utah (St George Region)

Another popular region in Southern Utah, and a fantastic base, is St George Hurricane. It’s the closest region to those driving in from Las Vegas. (and if you are driving in from there don’t miss Valley of Fire State Park and the North Road in Lake Mead.)

24. Angels Landing Hike, Zion National Park

Angels Landing is one of the most legendary hikes in Southwestern USA, and one of the best things to do in Zion National Park.

It’s also terrifying, especially with kids. We only made it to Scouts Landing, which is a common turning around point for those not wanting to take the scary last narrow ascent to the top.

The views are just as beautiful from there. The hike involves crazy switchbacks and narrow sections with hand chains preventing a steep drop off down to your death.

What makes it most dangerous are the intense crowds. In 2006, it was empty when Craig and I did it. In 2019 it was wall to wall people.

25. Hike the Narrows, Zion National Park

Another incredible thing to do in Utah, and possibly as dangerous if you don’t time it right, is Hiking the Narrows in Zion National Park.

Craig and I did it in 2006 but could not with the girls as the water levels were too high, and it was closed.

Flash flooding can easily occur here, and trap (or drown) hikers so pay attention to weather conditions and advisories.

the Narrows is the narrowest section of Zion Canyon and for much of it, involves wading through the Virgin river. Be prepared to get wet and walk across unstable ground, but it is so worth it for the unique adventure and spectacular scenery through the narrow gorge. 

Here is an in-depth guide on hiking The Narrows.

26. Lower and Upper Emerald Pools, Zion National Park

One of the easiest hikes to do in Zion National Park and uniquely beautiful is The Lower Emerald Pool trail. It leads to the Lower Emerald Pool and bottom of the waterfalls.

The Upper Emerald Pool Trail was closed when we visited due to rock fall.

This trail is great for families.

27. Enjoy a Pint of Springdale IPA, Zion National Park

This migh seem like an unsual thing to include on a list of what to do in Utah, but drinking beer is usually not a Utah thing to do!

Here it’s all about the view. Perhaps one of the best you could have hope for drinking a craft brew. The local IPA from nearby Springdale was actually delicious and perfect after an intense Zion hike. .

There is a large grassed area with a gorgeous gigantic tree in the middle of it. Bring your own picnic lunch and enjoy the sunshine and views of the canyon walls. There is also a cafeteria here and a restaurant with an outside deck overlooking the canyon.

We had quite a lovely veggie burger here.

28. Canyon Overlook, Zion National Park

If you want the best views in Zion (IMO so far) then do the lessor known Canyon Overlook trail.

The one-mile return trail ends at the extraordinary view point of Pine Creek Canyon and lower Zion Canyon Utah.

The trail is rocky most of the way but is super cool as it passes through a couple of caves and you have a good chance of seeing Bighorn Sheep – one of the famous Zion National Park wildlife!

Plus, you get to drive through the mile-long Zion-Carmel Tunnel Drive, a popular scenic area of the park.

Read more: Things to do in Zion National Park

29. ATV adventure, Sand Hollow State Park

One of the most beautiful places in Utah, possibly the US, is Sand Hollow State Park. I could not believe I had never heard of it before. It epitomizes the colorful nature of this state– snow peaked mountains, vivid orange and red dirt surrounding an aqua blue lake.

This 20,000-acre state park is Utah’s newest and well renowned for its 6,000 acres of ATV and OHV off-road trails that take you to 3,500 ft in elevation.

It’s WOW at every airborne turn and one of the best things to do in Utah.

Jump in the ATV with your family and zip squealing up and down sand dunes and in and out dinosaur carved rock formations. We recommend you do the sunset tour and end it with a fiery sun set over the dunes.

Sand Hollow State Park is just outside St George in Southern Utah and is the perfect recreational area for ATV adventures as it offers some of the best Utah ATV trails around.

Read more: ATV adventures in St George, Utah

Book your ATV tour here.

30. Petrified Dunes (with viewpoint), Snow Canyon State Park

Snow Canyon is a 7,400-acre scenic park located just outside of St George in Southwestern Utah. It is a fantastic alternative to the much busier nearby Zion National Park.

This park is comprised of volcanic cinder cone, sand dunes, deep red, burnt orange, yellow and white sandstone cliffs, and twisted layers of rock. It’s also a popular place in Utah for rock climbing.

The best hike to experience the beauty of it is the Petrified Sand Dunes being sure to turn left just after you join from hidden pinyon trail and take the very short trail up to red rock mounds.

Do a 360 degree turn and blow out your Utah travel dreams. It will surpass it all.

You can find all the details in our post sharing 5 hikes in Snow Canyon State Park, St George

31. Red Reef Hike, Red Cliffs Recreation Area, St George

The Red Reef hiking trail was the girls first introduction to adventurous hiking climbing up a steep rock face next to a waterfall with only a rope to hold on. Bravery to remember.

This trail starts from the Red Cliffs Campground and hikes up to a slot canyon, the fun part scrambling up rocks beside the river and navigating around the small cliff side using the small footholds and a rope to stop you from plunging into the icy water.

As you hike further the canyon narrows, wading through icy water until it is just a few feet wide and a beautiful little waterfall blocks the trail.

Read More: Hike the Exciting Red Reef Trail, St George

32. Coral Pink Sand Dunes State Park

Every time I see a photo of someone sand boarding the beautiful pink dunes of this Utah State Park I kick myself for not going! We were so close when we stayed in St George and had all intention of visiting.

But then we got distracted by all the other St George adventures and somehow forgot!! It’s only small and easy to visit in half a day.

Things to do in the Southeast Region

This region is close to the Arizona, Colorado border, which makes it an easy place to explore on a longer Southwest road trip. There is so much in this area we did not get to explore. Here are some highlights.

33. Monument Valley Tour with Navajo Guide

You can either self-drive the 17 mile loop road through Monument Valley or join a guided tour with a Navajo Guide.

The guided tour takes you to restricted areas you can only access with a Navajo guide. It was an incredible experience and one of the highlights of our USA road trip so far.

Our guide, Charles was very sweet and accommodating for our large group of 8 kids and 6 adults.

We rode around in an open jeep which made the experience loads of fun especially some of the adventurous off-roading tracks we went on.

We visited a traditional Navajo home, a Hogan – and learned some of the traditions of the Navajo people.

Read More: 15 Amazing Things to do in Monument Valley Navajo Trial Park

34. Valley of the Gods Scenic Drive

Another cool place to visit in Utah is the Valley of the Gods. It’s more of a serene adventure as it’s mostly just a scenic drive and stunning views.

With its isolated buttes, towering pinnacles and wide open spaces it’s in a way similar to Monument Valley.

There is a 15-mile loop road through the Valley of the God which involves a few hills, washes and bumpy dirt roads. It adds to the adventure and the beauty of this drive.

We highly recommend you free camp in this area It’s quite and stunning. Our views of Monument Valley in the distance were spectacular.

35. Sipapu Trail, National Bridges National Monument

The drive up the escarpment to National Bridges Monument via tight switchbacks was a Utah thrilling adventure.

You can explore all three natural bridges,  “Kachina,” “Owachomo” and “Sipapu on a 9-mile scenic drive with view points, or, you can hike down to each one individually or a 10 mile loop walk that connects each natural bridge.

We hiked into the canyon down a few ladders to Sipapu bridge, on of the top Utah landmarks as it’s the second largest natural bridge in the world. In Hopi mythology Sipapu means the gateway entryway their ancestors came into this world.

Read More: Going off the beaten path at Valley of the Gods and Natural Bridges

36. Lone Rock Beach, Lake Powell

One of the most stunning boondocking locations in Utah we camped at was Lone Rock Beach, Lake Powell. Look at all that space we had on the expansive flat beach. The views out to the escarpment and Lone Rock was stunning. Grab your paddle board and kayak and go explore.

Lone Rock Beach is on Lake Powell in the Glen Canyon Recreation Area, the heart of the “Grand Circle” of Southwest national parks. It offers 1.25 million acres of golden cliffs, lush hanging gardens, narrow slot canyons, and the brilliant blue waters of Lake Powell. I’d love to come back and explore it more in-depth.

Although it’s one of the top places to visit in Utah for relaxation, we didn’t stay on the beach the entire time and did the following things in nearby Page, Arizona:

• Glen Canyon Dam
• Lower Antelope Canyon
• Horseshoe Bend

It’s worth stopping off to the Glen Canyon Dam for great views. The visitor center there is free and there is a small museum to learn more about the construction of the dam and the importance of water.

Read more: Lone Rock Beach, Lake Powell

The rest of this Utah Bucket List post will share highlights and attractions we have not yet done, but is high on our list of things to do in Utah.

37. Rainbow Bridge National Monument, Glen Canyon

Rainbow Bridge National Monument is the tallest natural bridge in the world. It is roughly the sixth longes and a popular thing to do in Utah for those who want to go off the beaten path.

It’s a scared bridge of the Navajo culture for its symbol of deities responsible for creating clouds, rainbows and rain – the essence of life in the desert.

The bridge can be reached by boat (50 miles) and then an easy 0.75-mile trail up the twisting canyon to a spectacular overlook near the bridge Intrepid travelers can hike strenuous backcountry trails (17 miles) from Navajo Mountain.

38. Four Corners National Monument

The Four Corners Monument marks the location in the Southwest of America where four states meet: Arizona, Colorado, New Mexico, and Utah.

It’s a legendary thing to do in the Southwest as it’s only place in America where four states meet in such a way. The spot also marks the boundary between the Navajo and Ute Mountain Ute Tribe governments, making it an excellent location to learn about the indigenous culture and history of the region.

Things to do in Northern Utah

We don’t know a lot about this region as we have not yet explored it, but we certainly intend to. If it’s anything like its neighbour Idaho, then we know spectacular beauty and outdoor adventures await.

This is what is on our bucket list now. Let us know in the comments what else to include.

39. Great Salt Lake

The Great Salt Lake is the largest lake between the Great Lakes and the Pacific Ocean, and largest saltwater lake in the Western Hemisphere. IT’s also one of the most popular tourist destinations in Utah.

It’s popular for floating like you’re on the dead Sea, swimming off its white sand beaches, sailing its torquoie beaches and just enjoying lake life. You know we love lake life! Can’t wait to come here for a summer!

40. Antelope Island, Great Salt Lake

Antelope Island is the largest island on the great Salt Lake and one of the most popular places to visit in the area. The island is a haven for wildlife including its namesake antelope, as well as bison, sheep, coyotes, and water birds, which visitors live to see.

Its craggy mountains attract hikers and mountain bikers and the island has several natural springs. The island features several mountains and natural springs. 

41. The Bonneville Salt Flats

Near the Utah Nevada border you’ll find one of the most unique natural attractions of the state. The Bonnville Salt Flats stretches over 30,000 acres.

Fancy driving over them? We’ve driven over salt flats before in Namibia, Africa and its fun.

The famous Bonneville Speedway has a perfectly flat, thick crusty salty soil for you to drive over. It looks like a frzone lake of snow. The area also has low mountains and hills adding a little contrasting beauty to the salt plains.

42. Dinosaur National Monument

located on the Utah border with Colorado, Dinosaur National Monument offers a treasure trove of fossils in a land that has been tilted, warped, and eroded by natural forces.

You can tour the dinosaur quarry, see ancient petroglyphs, take scenic drives through the park, hike many nature trails, and go white water rafting on the Green River and the Yampa River .

It’s also been designated an International Dark Sky Park so stay the night and gaze at the sky in wonder. Imagine what those dinosaurs must have bene thinking.

43. Skiing at Salt Lake City (Park City)

Skiing in Salt Lake City has been on our USA list of things to do since forever. Not only have we heard the powder is phenomenal but the Wasatch Mountains proximity to Utah’s largest city is a huge drawcard.

It’s nicknamed “Ski City”for a reason. Sip on a warm mug of coffee in the morning and wave hello the jagged snow-topped peaks before you jump in your car to ski them.

Downtown Salt Lake City is only one hour from Powder Mountain, the largest ski resort in the United States and 30 minutes from Park City Mountain Resort, the second biggest.

How cool is that? Utah we love you!

Best of Utah Tips

Tips for road tripping through Utah and a few itinerary ideas.

• 20 Incredible Places to visit in Utah on your road trip
• 14 Epic Adventures in the American Southwest
• 13 Places to see in Utah that no one tells you about

Popular Utah Tours

Utah videos

We have several videos on the best things to do in Utah. Click play below to start watching the playlist. Click the grid icon in the bottom right to choose specific videos.

Booking Utah Accommodation

Each of the posts below have accommodation recommendations specific to the destination and from our personal experiences + ones we have thoroughly reviewed.

We recommend the following two booking sites (it’s the ones we use the most)

• Utah accommodation on Booking.com (includes apartments, villas, hotels)

What are your favorite things to do in Utah?

As you can see from the comments, we already have so many wonderful tips on places to visit in UT. Please shares yours as well!

We think you should. They are incredible national parks in the United States.

But, there are so many other cool places to visit in Utah off-the-beaten-path you may not have even heard of.

They are just as spectacular as the main attractions in Utah and often involve greater adventure – mostly because there is a significant less amount of people to share it with.

We spent six weeks on our recent USA trip exploring Southern Utah.

As we always prefer to write from experience – not desk research or collabs – we only recommend what we’ve done, so we only have Southern Utah recommendations in this post. Hopefully we can return to Utah to find more cool places near Salt Lake City. (Here is a bucket list of 43 things to do in Utah that includes some North Utah attractions)

These are the hidden gems in Utah and lessor known adventures.

We have in-depth posts and videos on all the places to see in Utah mentioned below. Click each link to read the post and the Utah Hidden Gem Destinations video playlist is at the end of the post.

Podcast: Adventures & Places to See in Southern Utah

We also recorded this information in podcast form, if you prefer to hear us chatting about it and sharing our stories! Don’t forget to share it with your friends.

With space, red dirt and plenty of fresh air, Utah is one of the most attractive destinations in the US during these current challenging times.

In fact, we think you’ll find it enhances your physical strength, immunity and mental well being.

1. ATV adventures in Sand Hollow, St George

The colors of Sand Hollow State Park are out of this world – snow peaked mountains, vivid orange and red dirt, aqua blue lake.

You have to see it to believe it, and there is no better way than via the adventure of an ATV ride up and down the sand dunes, and in and out dinosaur carved rock formations. The sunset tour is a dream!

It’s a thrilling Utah adventure for families and one of our favorite places to see in Utah that absolutely no one told us about!

Sand Hollow State Park is just outside St George in Southern Utah and is the perfect recreational area for ATV adventures as it offers some of the best Utah ATV trails around.

This 20,000 acre state park is Utah’s newest and well renowned for its 6,000 acres of ATV and OHV off-road trails that take you to 3,500 ft in elevation. It’s WOW at every airborne turn!

Read more:

• ATV adventures in St George, Utah
• Book your ATV tour here.

2. Snow Canyon State Park, St George

A wonderful alternative to nearby Zion National Park, Snow Canyon is a a 7,400 acre scenic park located just outside of St George in Southwestern Utah.

Our hike took us on a diverse adventure through a forested area, gorge area, petrified sand dunes, and lava tubes.

This park is comprised of volcanic cinder cone, sand dunes, deep red, burnt orange, yellow and white sandstone cliffs, and twisted layers of rock.

It’s also a popular place in Utah for rock climbing.

Read More:

• 5 Spectacular hikes in Snow Canyon State Park, St George
• Undara Lava Tubes, Savannah Way, Outback Queensland (mentioned in the podcast)

3. Red Reef Trail, St George

The Red Reef Recreation Area is probably one of the places to see in Utah you have never heard of.

I think I found a little paragraph about it in a brochure and thought it looked cool. Thankfully, it was across the road from our campsite in Hurricane so we decided to pop over and check it out.

The Red Reef hiking trail was the girls first introduction to adventurous hiking. They fell in love. I’ll never forget the fear and excitement on their faces as they climbed up a steep rock face next to a waterfall with only a rope to hold on. Their bravery was amazing

This stunning hike will take you through

Read more: Hike the Exciting Red Reef Trail in St George, Utah

4. Spooky and Peek-a-Boo, Grand Escalante

We rate this Utah adventure as our favorite hike on our USA road trip (so far). The girls still rave about how much fun this was.

Peek-a-boo and Spooky Canyon are slot canyons deep within Grand Staircase-Escalante National Monument.

It’s intense – filled with holes to climb up and crawl through. The adventure only gets better with a 12 inch narrow space to slide through at the very end.

Read More: Peek-A-Boo and Spooky Slot Canyons – an amazing Utah Adventure

5. Lower Calf Creek Falls, Highway Scenic 12, Utah

The Lower Calf Creek Falls is in the Grand Staircase-Escalante National Monument in Southern Utah.

The trail winds a valley enclosed by towering cliffs of red, pink, orange and yellow – that is oh so typical of Utah, the most colorful place in the world.

It then passes through a shady low scrub and bamboo forest sandy track beside a shallow creek before opening up to this stunning waterfall – an iconic Utah attraction

Read more: The extraordinary Lower Calf Creek Falls in Utah

Podcast mentions:

• 12 awesome things to do on Fraser Island – water purity similar to here
• 12 Coolest Things to do in North Cascades National Park – the 15 mile hike mentioned

6. Capitol Reef National Park, Southern Utah

The only Utah national park we’ve included on this hidden gems in Utah list, because it is so much quieter and lessor known than the other four national parks in Utah.

It’s exquisite. Actually, its one of my favorite national parks in the country and made our list of US national parks you may not have heard of list.

Within this national park is one of the few natural arches in Utah you can walk on top of. Capitol Reef is also filled with scenic drives, verdant valleys, beautiful views and adventurous hiking trails.

Read more: 12 Don’t miss things to do in Capitol Reef National Park, Utah

7. Goblin Valley State Park

If you’re looking for cool places to see in Utah, you do not want to miss Goblin Valley State Park, especially if you are visiting Utah with kids.

You only need an hour or two to explore this land filled with mushroom, gnome, and goblin shaped orange and yellow rocks.

It’s perfect for games of hide and seek and tag. You can also do a few short hikes here. It’s a fun thing to see in Utah.

Read more: Goblin Valley State Park Utah – one of the most fun places to go in Utah

8. Corona Arch, Moab

The drive into the Corona Arch trail is an indication of the natural beauty ahead. This hidden gem is one of the best things to do in Utah.

This is a great Moab hike with kids as it’s relatively easy, and with ladders to climb, slick rocks to maneuver with cables, caves to explore and cairns to build they’ll be thoroughly entertained.

The 3-mile round trip hike starts in the parking lot across from the Colorado River and goes up a short hill, across the railroad tracks and then up into the canyon.

Corona Arch, with an opening of 140 by 105 feet, is also known as Little Rainbow because of its resemblance to Rainbow Bridge at Lake Powell.

We enjoyed this arch just as much as, if not more than, the famous arches in Arches National Park

9. Fisher Towers, Moab

The Fisher Towers are photogenic rock formations eroded into interesting shapes. 

Dark red sandstone has been carved into spires, minarets, soaring fins, gargoyles and strange rock formations. Rock climbers love it here.

It’s a 5.2 mile round trip trail that does through canyons, beneath sheer vertical cliffs and through the towers. We didn’t make it as far as the towers, but were more than satisfied with the dramatic scenery and outdoor adventure.

The stunning U-128 Scenic Byway takes you there and back. Be sure to stop in at the Winery on the drive back. You’ll enjoy that glass of wine with those views over the Colorado River and valley after your hike.

Believe it or not, drinking wine in Utah is a unique thing to do as the state has strict drinking laws.

Read More: 16 Things to do in Moab (includes Fishers Towers and Corona Arch)

10. Jeep Off Roading in Moab

Are you ready for one the best Utah adventures you can find? I think by now you’re getting that Moab is a pretty cool Utah destination.

Rock crawling in a jeep takes it to a whole other level. As mentioned on the podcast, insane fun was had taking on vertical rock faces that had us squealing, screaming and laughing at the same time.

What a fun family activity to do in Utah! The ever changing Red Rock country scenery only enhanced the experience.

Our drive took us through the alpine forests of the La Sal Mountains, up and over the steep red rocks and giant boulders and finished with fun driving up and down sand dunes.

Read More: Jeep adventures in Moab

11. Shafer Trail Drive, Canyonlands National Park

Get ready to hold on to your seat belts as you hit the frightening switchbacks of the Shafer trail in Canyonlands National Park in Moab.

Driving down the Shafer Trail switchbacks into the quiet of the canyon floor was an incredible experience.

Check conditions at the Visitor Center as you may need a 4WD. You could at least drive the switchbacks in a 2WD down to the bottom. I wouldn’t recommend taking the rest of the trail back to Moab in a 2WD though.

I loved driving this road and coming out to Dead Horse Bend where only a couple of days before we sat above watching the sunset here. It’s a magnificent spot.

It can get pretty rough.

Read More: Things to do in Canyonlands National Park (includes The Needles)

Watch Video:

12. Sunset at Dead Horse Point State Park

A Utah highlight to add to your Utah bucket list. Actually we think it’s one of the best sunset experience in the USA.

Dead Horse Point is one of the most photographed scenic vistas in the USA. The overlook towers 2,000 feet above the Colorado River, providing a breathtaking panorama of Canyonlands’ sculpted pinnacles and buttes.

Pack a picnic and find a spot on the edge of the mesa and enjoy the magic of the setting sun lighting up the spectacular horseshoe bend in the Colorado River as it carves out the surrounding canyonlands.

Time your visit after a day exploring Islands of the Sky nearby in Canyonlands.

You can even camp there or spend more time exploring the state park and the many hikes and biking trails that are meant to be awesome.

Podcast mention: Tips for visiting Horseshoe Bend in Arizona

13. Valley of the Gods + Natural Bridges Monument

Another cool place to visit in Utah is the Valley of the Gods. It’s more of a serene adventure as it’s mostly just a scenic drive and stunning views.

We highly recommend you free camp in this area It’s quite and stunning. Our views of Monument Valley in the distance were spectacular.

It’s also close to Natural Bridges Monument, which is easy to explore in a day. You can take short trails down to any of the three natural bridges, or do the longer 10 mile hike that passes by all three.

We hiked to Sepiku which was probably the most fun hike to do especially with kids.

Read More:

• Valley of Gods and Natural Bridges – two Utah off the beaten path adventures
• 16 inspiring things to do in Monument Valley Utah

3 Week Southwest USA itinerary + Utah Bucket List

You can also access our Southwest itinerary (10 day, 2 week, 3 week and 4 week ideas for you) and our Utah bucket list when you join our Free VIP email tribe! Click to grab your free itinerary!

Hidden Gems in Utah Video Playlist

Getting to Utah

Car hire from Vegas

For RV Rentals, check RVShare if you want to rent a unique RV or campervan and explore California.

RentalCars.com is the world’s biggest car rental booking service that compares all the major brands like Hertz, Avis, Alamo, and Europcar.

More Southwest USA travel tips

What other cool places in Utah would you add to this list?

If I had known it was 6 miles return with an elevation of 500 feet, we may not have reconsidered the Lower Calf Creek Falls with the kids. I read that it was mostly flat and only 5 miles return.

500 feet is not a great deal in elevation, but it’s enough when hiking with kids for 6 miles.

And since this adventure, those same 6 kids completed a 15 mile hike with an elevation of over 4,000 feet in North Cascades National Park!!! This was when the world of possibility began to open up for them.

So don’t let that 500m elevation gain turn you away.

Strap on your hiking shoes and pack your swimmers, this is one of the best hikes in Utah and 100% worth the effort. It’s on our list of places to see in Utah that no one tells you about.

Where is Upper Calf Creek Falls

The Upper and Lower Lower Calf Creek Falls is in the Grand Staircase-Escalante National Monument in Southern Utah between Escalante and Boulder.

Grand Escalante is 1.9 million acres of canyons, cliffs and rugged landscapes offering an abundance of adventures like hiking, off-roading, camping, and scenic drives.

It’s east of Bryce Canyon and southwest of Moab. We definitely recommend incorporating this region into your Utah road trip. It was one of our favorite places we visited in Utah. 

The famous scenic byway Highway 12 runs through here and is spectacular, which is where you will find the Calf Creek Falls trailhead for the Lower Calf Creek Falls, one of the best things to do in Grand Staircase Escalante.

There is a sign for Bureau of Land Management (BLM) Calf Creek Recreation Area.

Lower and Upper Calf Creek Falls

Calf Creek flows from north to south through Grand Staircase Escalante, cascading over two waterfalls before joining the Escalante River.

The two falls, Upper Calf Creek Falls and Lower Calf Creek Falls, only a few miles from each other, but you can’t access both via the same trail.

Lower Calf Creek Falls is more popular, as it is easier to access and features a larger drop than the Upper Falls. We only visited the Lower Falls.

Calf Creek has carved a deep canyon into the Navajo Sandstone and Kayenta Formations, making the hike in just as beautiful as the 126-foot waterfall at the end.

The Lower Calf Creek Falls trail is not your typical Utah hike.

For most of the journey it is.

You’ll follow the trail through the valley, which is enclosed by towering canyon walls of red, pink, orange and yellow – that is oh so typical of Utah, the most colorful place in the world.

Be sure to look down and see how the sand changes from deep red, to purple, magenta, orange and yellow and look up to the towering cliff faces.

There are several points of interest along the way. I think at marker number six you’ll see some ancient pictographs on the wall – three huge figurines that look like warriors guarding you as you walk.

The trail turns from hardened sand to soft beach sand as you walk, adding an extra layer of challenge to the walk. It’s not that bad, you probably won’t notice it on the way there, but you will on the way back once those legs start to tire at about mile 4.

At times on the hike you’ll walk through shady low scrub forest beside the creek, which you don’t get too much of a view of until near the end of the walk as it comes closer to the trail.

The creek is shallow and narrow but has some of the clearest water you’ll ever seen.

It reminded me so much of Fraser Island, an island in Australia which is said to have the cleanest water in the world.

Apart from the small bamboo forest you walk through, the last part of this walk reminded me so much of Australia. It felt like I was walking down a beach track surrounded by bush greenery!

Lower Calf Creek Falls, Utah

Then we walked into the gorgeous oasis at the end, surrounded by giant canyon walls where the Lower Calf Creek Falls plummets 126-foot down over the rock face into a pool of crystal clear water down below in an upside down Y formation.

A sandy beach framed it and the creek began off to the side with lovely green trees covering it giving it almost a tropical feel.

Allow yourself plenty of time for this walk so you can sit for awhile and soak up the tranquility of this cool green sandstone alcove, surrounded by giant canyon walls in the middle of the Utah desert.

We had to get back as our friends were coming to meet us at our boondocking spot for the evening. But I’d recommend allowing for time here to enjoy the base of the waterfall. Hikers should aim to make this an all day experience!

Lower Calf Creek Falls reminded me so much of Emma’s Gorge in the Kimberley Region of Western Australia. It too was reached by a long and interesting hike.

The water was equally freezing, but at Emma’s Gorge the outside temperatures baking enough to encourage us to get some relief.

There was a breeze blowing at Lower Calf Creek Falls and the absence of the sun made it so much colder than what we experienced walking in.

I was impressed with how well the kids handled the Lower Calf Creek Falls hike. They even spent most of the walk back chasing each other and wresting, their boundless energy inspiring.

I was wiped out but on cloud nine as it was such a pretty and inspirational walk and by far one of my favorite hikes in Utah, if not the USA.

The tired legs did not know what they were in for the day after this adventure, when we found ourselves in Spooky and Peek-a-Boo canyon, another hike and adventure in Grand Staircase Escalante National Monument and Utah you don’t want to miss.

Calf Creek Campground

There is a 13-site campground here with minimal facilities in the Calf Creek Canyon. The campsite looks gorgeous an I’d love to stay here under the shade of the trees nestled along side Calf Creek.

Camping i available for $10 on a first-come first-served basis — it’s recommended that you arrive early on the day you want to camp

Park at the designated parking lot by the restrooms just before entering the campground. (there are also picnic sites here) Follow the signs to the trailhead. There is a $5 per vehicle fee.

Lower Calf Creek Falls was featured in our Best Waterfalls in the US list.

Video Lower Calf Creek Falls

Be sure to subscribe to our YouTube channel. You’ll find more videos there on Utah and the USA! We have loads more adventures to come.

Where to stay in Grand Staircase-Escalante

The town of Escalante is nearby for most of your accommodation needs if you are not camping.

Boondocking

We camped for free at the beginning of the Hole-in-the-road. There was loads of space and beautiful scenery.

Escalante Hotel

Slot Canyons Inn Bed and Breakfast: Check here for current prices

Short term Rentals Escalante

From cowboy cabins, to wild west retreats and vacation homes, there are short term rentals available in Escalante. Check availability and prices here.

Car & RV Rental

If you don’t have your own car, check here for rental car options from various Utah locations

• You may wish to rent your own RV, campervan or motorhome.  Check out RV share

Places to visit near Grand Staircase Escalante National Monument

• 12 Don’t-Miss Things to Do in Capitol Reef National Park Utah
• Ultimate Guide – 14 Things To Do in Zion National Park (+ How To Plan a Visit
• Hike the Exciting Red Reef Trail St George (there’s a waterfall climb)
• 16 Brilliant Things to do in Moab, Utah (Adventure + Natural Beauty)
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• Peek-a-Boo and Spooky Canyons, Grand Escalante – our favorite US road trip hike

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Peek-A-Boo and Spooky Canyons in the Grand Staircase Escalante National Monument is a Utah hidden secret and well worth the hour drive down a gravel washboard Hole-in-the-Rock road.

Grand Staircase-Escalante National Monument is 1.9 million acres of canyons, cliffs and rugged landscapes in Southern Utah.

From hiking, off-roading, camping, and scenic drives, there are endless opportunities for outdoor fun here. The famous scenic byway Highway 12 runs through here and is spectacular.

It’s east of Bryce Canyon and southwest of Moab. We definitely recommend incorporating this region into your Utah road trip. It was one of our favorite places we visited in Utah. 

Well traveled friends of our friends, Mike and Anne labelled it as their favorite hike in Utah. We held out hope as we bounced around in the car.

Peek-a-Boo and Spooky Canyon is noted in a tourist brochure as being moderate to strenuous hike, but I felt completely beat up after it, and I am an experienced hiker and pretty fit.

Although, one important thing to note, I was hungover on this walk. Not a smart idea at all.

Mike and Anne Howard from Honeytrek fame were passing by and spent the night before with us at our boondocking spot on Hole in the Road. Of course we were going to have a few too many wines and excellent conversations.

As much of the hike involves short explosive movements to climb up rocks my heart, lungs and stomach were in bits trying to cope!!

Dry Fork Canyon Trail

The trail head starts from the parking lot and already you know you’re in for a treat. The views are spectacular and in keeping with Utah being the most colorful place in the world.

You hike down into the valley and for as short moment walk under the shade of a rock overhang and pretty trees

It gets confusing as you pop out here. The cairns mark the spot for two different direction with no instructions as to what path goes where.

We went left and ended up in a quiet canyon that went form a wide sandy path to a narrow slot canyon.

We did a bit of spider walking on the walls over some water to explore further in until we reached a stop. We thought this was a fun adventure, but we hadn’t even made to Peek-a-Boo and Spooky yet.

This was just some unnamed and probably ignored slot canyon. We only passed one couple on the way in who told us what it was and to keep walking as it was pretty cool.

If you are short on time you can skip this as it’s nowhere near adventurous as the other ones. Or, if you want a more sedate slot canyon hiking experience, this would be the one for you. So turn left.

Otherwise turn right to go to the start of the Peek-a-Boo loop trail.

Peek-A-Boo Canyon

Peek-a-boo was the canyon that had a lot of the high rock scrambling.

We needed the help of everyone in our group to push and pull each other up and over walls and water hole barriers.

It started with a steep climb up a rock face and into the canyon. Thankfully, some steps were carved into the rock face to help, but it was slick rock so slippery and it required a large leg span and burst of energy from deep within to get up.

I knew as soon as I was up there was no way I was going back down that way.

Even though a lady told us how narrow Spooky Canyon was on the loop walk out, I knew I’d rather take on the 12 inch narrow space than try to get back down that if we chickened out of Spooky and turned around to return the same way we came.

After we finished with several of the rock scrambles we came to a narrow section, which we thought at the time must have been the 12 inch part!

Clearly our measurement skills were out as the really 12 inch narrow part was still to come. This was claustrophobic and tiring enough.

Thankfully, we came to a section separating the two canyons that opened up to a wide open spaces and spectacular scenery.

Spooky Slot Canyon

The path began to get narrower again as we found Spooky Canyon.

To be honest, I don’t even know where the Peek-A-Boo Canyon finished and Spooky began. But, we think it was about this point.

Just when we thought the tight canyons were done with our short Spooky Canyon we came upon another section of the canyon. Now we had reached the true spooky part.

A crowd of people gathered around what looked like boulders to scramble over. Except the boulders were coveting a drop down into the canyon. You could either drop down or climb up to spider walk between the canyon openings.

That just wasn’t an option for us so we waited for the crew of people coming the other way to climb up and push their dogs up and then we got to work to crawl on down

Craig went first to help the kids. How he got down on his own without help, I don’t know.

He picked the hardest part to go down. While I was helping get Kalyra down and Craig caught her and pulled her down the others worked out a passage down that was better as it had a ledge halfway down you could step on down.

It was too late for me, I had already started the slide down, Anne was wondering if my way was better, until I shouted out,

“Don’t come this way Anne. I’m currently sitting on Craig’s head trying to get down.”

We finally all made it down and entered the most narrow part of the canyon. This must be the spooky part. It was bums and boobs in to sneak our way through. We were twisting our bodies, climbing down into tight spaces, and then, the worst happened – two people came from the other direction.

There’s no way they can pass us. Except on their end, there was no way they could pass us.

It gets deeper and tighter from here on end, they told us. And you have about another 1/4 mile to go.

I felt the already tight walls closing in on me. The fear of going deeper into tighter spaces and having little air to breathe churned my stomach and I felt I was going to throw up in the narrow little canyon at one stage.,

The kids bravely whispered that they too felt scared. But, we all pulled together with deep breaths, and

“We’ve got this! We’ve come this far. Turning back will be worse. Let’s push on.”

We found a little nook where we could squish our bodies up against to give the guys space to slide through – hugs on the way past.

One had to climb over our friends ducked head just to make it through. This was a journey for sitting on people’s heads!

That was possibly the narrowest part of the canyon and didn’t last for too long. It widened a little and the light started to brighten as we made our way though.

It was a relief when we finally all made it out back into the light and wide open spaces of the wash. We counted our bruises and scrapes and gathered together for a group photo of victory.

What about that mad adventure! We survived Peek-a-Boo and Spooky Canyon

Things to Know About the Dry Fork Slot Canyons

• We don’t think it’s a good idea to take dogs on this trail. We saw quite a few dogs and all of them looked quite distressed. It’s not easy even for humans who can reason and evaluate what is happening and why.
• If you can get away with hiking without a backpack, it’s a good idea. These canyons are narrow and have no room for bags on your back. You’ll be carrying it by your side. We did it and it worked fine, but if you want one less stress this will help.
• Forget the AWESOME Kelty baby hiking carriers. We used these all the time with our girls and loved them. I don’t even know how you’d get that through the canyon. We saw a baby being carried in one as we were walking out of the trail. Oh boy. We knew their hike would be limited.
• It is best to start the canyon hike from the left hand side. It’s confusing when you first come out of the trail down to the canyon beginning. You can go immediate left to an unnamed canyon which is pretty cool. Or you can go right to the entrance to Peek-a-Boo. That’s the beginning of the loop trail which will come back out to the right of that. It’s best that you turn left and start at the beginning of Peek-a-Boo. It’s where you climb up. You’ll probably see people doing it. Do not go right. That takes you to the end of Spooky Canyon – the narrowest part and against the majority of traffic. There is a section that is impossible for people to pass one another,. I don’t know why they don’t have a sign directing everyone the one way.
• Keep an eye on the weather. Flash Flooding can occur and if it does say your prayers because you aren’t going anywhere but under.
• It’s lovely and cool in the canyons, but the hike in and out is exposed and it gets HOT. Take plenty of water, sunscreen and a hat. You can find our favorite hiking gear here

Hole in the Rock Scenic Byway Road

The 57 mile long Hole-in-the-Rock is a gravel and dirt road that follows the route taken by Mormon pioneers in 1879-80.

They were attempting to find a short cut across the Colorado River between community sin the center of the state of Utah and the Four Corners area.

It’s a popular drive for the scenery – it was beautiful on the way into the slot canyons – and the various points of interest.

Most notable are the Dance Hall Rock and the Hole-in-the-Rock at the end of the road in the Glen Canyon recreational area and by the Colorado River.

Devil’s Garden is also popular,which we intended to visit, but were too wiped out after the slot canyons.

The Dry Forks Trailhead is where you will find the Peek-a-Boo and Spooky canyon. It’s about 26 miles down Hole-in-the-Road.

The last mile of the road to the trailhead is recommended for 4WD high clearance. Our friends made it through with their 2WD van and we saw loads of other 2WD, and even an RV that made it through. Be sure to scope it out beforehand.

You can always walk that mile in if need be or hitch a ride. It will add quite a bit to the already 3.5 mile strenuous adventure.

Video: Spooky and Peek-a-Boo Canyon:

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Map of Grand Staircase Escalante

Where to stay in Grand Staircase-Escalante

Boondocking

We camped for free at the beginning of the Hole-in-the-road. There was loads of space and beautiful scenery.

Escalante Hotel

Slot Canyons Inn Bed and Breakfast: Check here for current prices

VRBO Escalante

From cowboy cabins, to wild west retreats and vacation homeshere are 56 rentals available on VRBO in Escalante. Check availability and prices here.

Car & RV Rental

• If you don’t have your own car, check here for rental car options from various Utah locations

• You may wish to rent your own RV, campervan or motorhome.  Check out RV share

Tours for Grand Staircase-Escalante Region

• 3 hour Peek-a-Boo and Spooky Slot Canyon guided hike. 
• G Adventures: Hiking Utah’s Big 5 includes Grand Escalante
• G Adventures: Hiking the best of the West’s National Park includes Grand Escalante

Places to Visit near Grand Staircase Escalante National Monument

• 12 Don’t-Miss Things to Do in Capitol Reef National Park Utah
• Ultimate Guide – 14 Things To Do in Zion National Park (+ How To Plan a Visit
• Hike the Exciting Red Reef Trail St George (there’s a waterfall climb)
• 16 Brilliant Things to do in Moab, Utah (Adventure + Natural Beauty)
• Magical & Unique – Goblin Valley State Park, Utah Is Remote But Worth It

More tips on Utah & American Southwest

• 20 Incredible Places to Visit in Utah For Your Utah Road Trip
• Don’t Miss These 11 Amazing Things to do in Arches National Park Utah (for 1st time visitors)
• 14 Epic Adventures in the American Southwest Not To Miss On Your USA Travels!
• 8 Helpful Tips for Planning a Trip to the Grand Canyon With Kids
• 36 Hour Itinerary – What to Do in Tucson, Arizona (+ where to eat, drink, and stay!