Experience the natural beauty of the West in Utah

Utah is a must for anybody wishing to experience the natural beauty of the West. Showcasing a variety of landscapes from snow-topped mountains to amazing red rock formations, Utah is a photographer's dream. The state boasts five national parks, seven national monuments, and over forty state parks, all offering breath-taking views, brilliant red rock sunsets and adventure-filled walking trails. You can spend several days exploring one of Utah's national parks and never see all of its wonders. There are countless other outdoor pursuits throughout the state, including biking, rafting, hiking, climbing, horse riding, golf, skiing and snowboarding, or try a guided jeep or ATV tour. Here’s a few activity suggestions:

Stargazing

With the addition of Bryce and Zion's designation, all five of Utah's national parks are now certified Dark Sky destinations in some capacity. There are currently 24 designated Dark Sky Places across the state. Between national parks, state parks, national monuments, and county parks, that means more than any other state in the country.

International Dark Sky Sites are only certified after a rigorous evaluation process that takes into consideration the darkness of the site in question’s night sky, of course, but also the steps park custodians have taken for example to install “night-sky friendly” lighting that’s environmentally sustainable and also cuts down on glare.

The best time of year for stargazing in Utah’s national parks is the winter. In the months ahead, the dry desert air above Utah’s Dark Sky parks will hold even less moisture than it does the rest of the year, which makes stars easier to see with the naked eye, and also easier to photograph.

The only question is - do you go to bed early to ensure ample energy for tomorrow's adventures, or stay up late to peer into light tens of thousands of years old?

Rafting

A rafting or kayaking trip in Utah offers an opportunity for an exciting adventure that will open your eyes to the irreplaceable beauty of some of the world's wildest places. Set out on the Green River either on a self-guided expedition or go with a guide. This 44 mile trip takes you through the Gates of Lodore and Dinosaur National Monument. Set foot on history-enriched trails and exchange stories by firelight at tucked-away campsites. Hungry adventurers will help cook and taste ever-so-satisfying meals and be encouraged to soak in the quiet, yet paintbrush worthy scenic overlooks. Along the way, you’ll also be educated in the history of the river itself, see remnants of dinosaur bones in Dinosaur National Monument, hear a guide’s personal connection to your surroundings, and learn how to “leave no trace” by respecting nature’s desired and needed permanence.

E-bike Antelope Island

Hike, mountain bike or horseback ride the park’s backcountry trails for spectacular views of lake and island scenery. Alternatively, rent a fat tyred e-bike for a fun advenutre. Go at your own pace or join a sunset, afternoon or sundown guided tour. Spend a star-filled night in one of several basic campsites, stroll along sandy beaches and take a dip in the lake’s salty waters or step back in time with a visit to the historic Fielding Garr Ranch.

Antelope Island is home to free-ranging bison, mule deer, bighorn sheep, pronghorn (antelope), and many other desert animals. Millions of birds congregate along the shores surrounding the island, offering unparalleled opportunities for birding. Year-round interpretive opportunities round out the Antelope Island experience.

Utah Olympic Park

Built for the Salt Lake 2002 Olympic Winter Games, Utah Olympic Park is located in Park City, just 25 miles east of Salt Lake City. The nearly 400 acre venue houses six Nordic ski jumps, a 2002 Winter Games museum, and a multitude of adventure activities including one of only four sliding tracks in North America.

During the winter guests can ride the traditional bobsleigh on ice and during the summer the sleigh transitions onto wheels for an all-year-round experience. Families can also enjoy the Summit Adventure course, a maze of ropes and ziplines with great aerial views.

Guided Tour of Peekaboo Canyon

The Peekaboo Slot Canyon Tour takes you through some of the most unique terrain in Southern Utah. You will go through pink sand, see a section of the Grand Staircase, and end up in the beautiful Peekaboo Slot Canyon. This isolated area is very rarely visited, giving you plenty of room to hike, take pictures, and enjoy the unique shapes of the canyon. The tour leaves from the centre of Kanab, also known as ‘Little Hollywood’ for its movie heritage. From there you leave in a comfortable H2 Hummer and drive north on Highway 89 travelling through Kanab Canyon, where you will see the World Famous Best Friends Animal Society. This popular tour takes around three hours. You can expect a very easy hike when you get to Peekaboo Slot Canyon that is suitable for all ages. The total hiking distance is under one mile.

Monument Valley Sunrise Tour

Originally a trading post built in the 1920s, Goulding’s Lodge in southern Utah is unique in its proximity to Monument Valley. Goulding’s offers a variety of exclusive tours through Monument Valley Tribal Park and beyond.

Learn from the local Navajos throughout the tours and enjoy access to trails and paths not open to the public and a rare insight into the incredible Valley.

During your tour, you will have the opportunity to stop and gaze at the panorama where John Ford, John Wayne, and countless other historical figures of the Southwest have left their footprints. All tours include the entry fee to Monument Valley Tribal Park, a map, water, tickets to Earth Spirit Theater and traditional Navajo cultural demonstration. Don’t forget your camera! Especially if you decide to take a sunrise tour.

Wake up to the morning majesty of Monument Valley, start in front of the world-famous Mitten rock formations and make your way through the Valley as the sun casts its light upon the mesas and buttes.