Utah is all about outdoor recreation and is well known for its many outdoor activities. If you’re seeking a weekend of hiking or backpacking, Utah has countless options. You could spend years exploring the nooks and crannies of the five national parks, 44 state parks, nine national monuments and five national forests.  

National Parks 

Utah has an abundance of gorgeous national parks to explore, each with its own type of landscape and beauty. Zion National Park in southern Utah has countless hiking trails, and if you’re feeling adventurous, an overnight hiking trip through The Narrows, where you’ll find yourself up to waist deep in water. 

Arches National Park, just north of Moab, is known for over 2,000 unique, natural rock arches and other interesting rock formations. Thanks to the fact Arches is relatively small, you can explore it in just a day or two. These aren’t the only two national parks in Utah worth seeing, though, there are countless more. 

Rock Climbing 

Without a doubt, when it comes to climbing, Utah rocks. Whether it’s just a short scramble over a boulder field or a full day on a super technical route, Utah offers challenges climbers won’t find many other places. 

Logan Canyon is known to have some of the best climbing in the state, boasting over 400 routes. These routes range from novice climbs to one of Utah’s highest-rated climbs. St. George offers access to some of Utah’s more challenging climbing and bouldering routes. With more than 1,500 routes and at least two dozen different steep, rocky cliffs, St. George attracts climbers from all over the country. 

Mountain Biking 

For many, mountain biking in Utah brings images of Moab’s classic trails to mind, each earning their place in the Mountain Biking Hall of Fame. Although Moab boasts excellent mountain biking trails, there’s much more around the state. 

Over the past few years and because of the efforts of multiple Eagle Scout projects, Mantua is home to the Eagle Rise trail system. Surrounded by lush, green trees and a beautiful reservoir, it makes for a peaceful ride while you enjoy the scenery. 

The desert highlands on the northern edge of the Uintah Basin are home to pronghorn, wind and the mountain bike track network called McCoy Flats. The path was originally cut down by cows wandering through and has now expanded to nine different trails. 

Hiking 

Utah is widely known for its abundance of hiking opportunities for any level of hiker. Utah holds thousands of miles of great trails for families looking for a nice stroll to experts looking for a challenge. Some trails are well-suited for overnight, backpacking trips while many others are just “loops” that spit you right back out at the beginning when you’re done. 

Each and every national park in Utah boasts incredible hiking trails, but if you’re looking for something a little more off the beaten path, you’re at the right place. Lower Calf Creek Falls in southern Utah is a three mile hike into the desert and often culminates in imaginative formations. At the end of the hike is a stunning 126-foot waterfall with a plunge pool oasis in the desert. Dinosaur Tracks Trail in Moab is excellent for dinosaur enthusiasts, as it will take you through a short hike to a boulder with dinosaur tracks in it.

Slot Canyons 

Slot canyons are narrow gorges in soft rocks like Utah’s sedimentary deposits. They’re named for their narrow widths, often squeezing down to just a sliver of an opening. It’s said Utah has the largest concentration of slot canyons in the world, and many of them are easily accessible. 

Buckskin Gulch is a classic trail in Utah, swerving through a subterranean paradise for the senses. You can attempt this stunning walk in just a day, or walk the entire 20 miles over the course of four days. Located near Kanab, Buckskin Gulch trail is the longest and deepest slot canyon in the southwest and offers obstacles like rock jams, pools, quicksand and the potential for flash floods.  

Snowshoeing 

When people think of winter in Utah, they mainly think of Utah’s world class ski resorts. However, if you’re searching for a more affordable way to experience the “Greatest Snow on Earth,” snowshoeing is highly recommended. 

Several parks and resorts offer snowshoeing to those not wanting to spend an arm and a leg on skis or snowboards. The Alta Ski Area has an open road for snowshoeing. Ruby’s Inn Winter Activity Center offers a unique way to connect with the beauty of Bryce Canyon and the surrounding national forest on snowshoes. It’s a great starting point for many trails, and snowshoe rentals are offered. 

Skiing/Snowboarding 

Now, if there’s no way you can’t enjoy the winter without ripping it down the slopes, there is no need to fret. Utah is home to several world class ski resorts that are ready to welcome you in. 

Ten of Utah’s ski resorts are within an hour drive of the Salt Lake City International Airport. Brighton Ski Resort is known for its terrain park, accessible backcountry, snow totals and family discounts. More southern, Brian Head boasts the highest base among Utah’s resorts. It is the only ski and snowboard resort to showcase snow-dusted red rock hoodoos from the nearby Cedar Breaks National Monument. 

There is a never-ending list of fun things to do in the great Utah outdoors. Just pick a direction and start driving, you’ll run into something amazing sooner than you think. Whether it’s in the red rock covered southern portion of Utah, or the vibrant green of northern Utah, you’re sure to find something you and your family will love.