Utah is home to some of the most beautiful national parks in the country. If you’re an outdoor enthusiast, a visit to Utah should definitely be on your bucket list. In this article, we’re going to take a look at the “Mighty 5.” This is how many people commonly refer to the 5 Utah national parks.
Each of Utah’s National Parks has its own unique beauty and array of activities to offer visitors, so let’s dive in and explore what each one has to offer.
What IS SO SPECIAL ABOUT Utah National Parks?
Each park in Utah has something unique to offer. Arches National Park has many unique rock formations from arches to stacked rocks. Bryce Canyon National Park has otherworldly landscapes and lookouts. Zion National Park is filled with rugged and awe-inspiring beauty. You are sure to find something you love in one of these national parks. And for those who want to explore the lesser-known national parks, Capitol Reef National Park and Canyonlands National Park are fantastic and beautiful destinations as well. The good news is, the National Parks in Utah are in fairly close proximity to each other in Southern Utah. That means you can see many of them (if not all) in one road trip.
So with that being said, let’s jump in and find out what each of Utah’s National Parks has to offer.
Arches National Park
We’ll start with Arches National Park. This park is known for its stunning red rock formations and over 2,000 natural sandstone arches. Visitors can take a scenic drive through the park and stop at various viewpoint to take in the views. Some of the most popular activities include hiking the Delicate Arch Trail and exploring the Windows Section. Delicate arch is a quick and easy hike on a well maintained trail. Definitely worth the short hike to see this beautiful landmark.
If you’re visiting Bryce, you’ll be just outside Moab. So check out the top activities to do on a weekend trip to Moab, while you’re in the area.
Bryce Canyon National Park
Next, we have Bryce Canyon National Park, which is famous for its hoodoos, which are tall, thin spires of rock that tower above the surrounding landscape. The park offers several hiking trails that take visitors deep into the hoodoos, and the park’s Rim Trail offers breathtaking views of the hoodoos and the surrounding landscape.
Canyonlands National Park
Canyonlands National Park is a vast and rugged park that offers visitors the chance to explore canyons, mesas, and buttes. The park is divided into four districts, each with its own unique features. The Island in the Sky district offers great views and easy hikes, while the Needles district is known for its rugged backcountry hiking and rock climbing.
Capitol Reef National Park
Capitol Reef National Park is a hidden gem that’s often overlooked by visitors. The park is known for its colorful cliffs, narrow canyons, and unique geology. Some popular activities in the park include hiking the Hickman Bridge Trail, visiting the Fruita Historic District, and taking a scenic drive on the Capitol Reef Scenic Drive.
Zion National Park
Last but not least, we have my personal favorite, Zion National Park. Zion is known for its towering red cliffs, narrow canyons, and cascading waterfalls. The park offers a variety of activities for visitors, including hiking on the Angels Landing Trail (pictured above), exploring the Narrows, and taking a scenic drive on the Zion-Mt. Carmel Highway.
Tips for Visiting Utah National Parks
Plan ahead and give yourself plenty of time:
To truly experience the beauty of Utah’s National Parks, it is best to plan ahead and give yourself plenty of time to explore. Some of the popular activities include hiking, camping, and scenic drives.
Check the rules and regulations:
Don’t forget that each national park has its own specific rules and regulations, so be sure to check before your visit.
Please keep in mind that due to the COVID-19 Pandemic, the park service may have closed some trails or put some restrictions. Please check the official Utah National Park Service website for the most recent and accurate information about trail closures or restrictions.
My Personal Recommendations:
As someone who has spent a lot of time exploring Utah’s National Parks, here is my personal recommendation if you can only visit one National Park in Utah.
First and foremost, I highly recommend visiting Zion National Park. This park is truly one of the most beautiful and awe-inspiring places I have ever been to. The towering red cliffs and narrow canyons are something that you have to see in person to truly appreciate.
One of my highest recommended activities in Zion is hiking the Angels Landing Trail. It is a somewhat strenuous hike, but the views from the top are absolutely worth it. If you’re up for the challenge, I promise you will not be disappointed.
Zion is by far my favorite park among the five. Its unique beauty, the contrast of colors and the feeling of being small in the middle of huge nature will leave you in awe. There are also plenty of activities, like hiking into the Narrows for beautiful canyon views. This is a great way to cool off in the summertime. Lastly the town of Zion has a hip vibe, and some cool little restaurants to check out. There is also plenty of accommodation if you want to stay close to the park.
Final THOUGHTS
In conclusion, you can’t go wrong visiting any of these beautiful National Parks in Utah. Utah’s “Mighty 5” national parks – Arches, Bryce Canyon, Canyonlands, Capitol Reef, and Zion – offer visitors a wide variety of activities and sights to see. With their unique landscapes, outdoor recreational opportunities, and historical and cultural importance, visiting Utah’s National Parks is a must-do for anyone who loves nature and outdoor activities.
So don’t wait, plan your next trip to Utah and experience the beauty of these national parks for yourself. Pack your bags, grab your hiking boots, and get ready to explore the beauty and wonder of Utah’s National Parks.