Utah is a Land of Adventure. Utah’s location at the crossroads means travelers have access to The Greatest Snow On Earth®, Mighty Five® National Parks, and everything in between. It also provides easy transportation across varied landscapes that range from high desert plateaus to alpine meadows and snow-covered peaks to bird-filled wetlands. Across the varied terrain, you’ll find different monuments, cities, restaurants, and cultural and historical activities. The possibilities are endless, but where do you start?
Head to Utah’s cities for a variety of Art and History museums and vibrant art, theater, film, and music scenes. These artistic and cultural offerings culminate in signature annual festivals, the Sundance Film Festival in Park City, the Utah Shakespeare Festival in Cedar City, the Living Traditions Festival in Salt Lake City, and the Moab Music Festival.
Salt Lake City is the urban heart of Northern Utah’s Wasatch Front. Known for its thriving downtown and backyard mountain range, it offers cosmopolitan amenities in an easy-to-navigate urban setting.
If you’re looking for less populated escapes, explore picturesque Brigham City and Vernal, also known as “Dinosaurland.” Park City is a popular destination and mountain town with activities for all seasons, including skiing, hiking, biking trails, golfing, and white water rafting.
Bryce Canyon National Park will always be recognized for geologic wonders formed by erosion, and it is also one of the best places in the world to see the night skies because of its high elevation. Two other Utah National Park Service units, Capitol Reef National Park and Natural Bridges National Monument, are also among the top stargazing spots. Avid mountain bikers from around the country travel to Moab’s famous Slickrock Bike Trail, but those looking for a different biking experience will find plenty of opportunities along the 100-mile White Rim Trail into Canyonlands National Park. Explore Arches National Park, and after a day of exploring some of the world’s greatest natural wonders — the park has over 2,000 documented arches — hang out around the campfire to keep the magic moments coming. As the fire dies and the night sky lights up, you will find a way to stay awake just a little longer.
Utah is well-known for its excellent skiing and snowboarding, and for a good reason. If you don’t believe it, ask state officials who trademarked the phrase “The Greatest Snow on Earth” — seriously, legally trademarked it. The state’s snow is consistently ranked as some of the best in the world, and the 15 resort areas offer a variety of challenges for skiers and snowboarders of all levels. Utah offers something, whether you’re looking for a family-friendly resort or a backcountry adventure. And if you’re feeling ambitious, you can even attempt to ski all 7 of the state’s iconic peaks in one day! With so much to do, it’s no wonder that Utah is a mecca for winter sports lovers.
