The Mighty Five Utah Map: Your Ultimate Travel Guide
If you’re planning a trip to Utah, you won’t want to miss the “Mighty Five” national parks: Zion, Bryce Canyon, Capitol Reef, Arches, and Canyonlands. But Utah has so much more to offer than just these popular destinations. To help you make the most of your visit, we’ve put together a comprehensive travel guide that covers everything from top attractions to off-the-beaten-path experiences.
Top Attractions
Of course, the “Mighty Five” are at the top of many visitors’ lists, and for good reason. Each park has its own unique beauty and offers a range of activities, from hiking and rock climbing to scenic drives and wildlife watching. But there are plenty of other must-see attractions in Utah, too.
Bryce Canyon National Park
Known for its distinctive red rock formations, Bryce Canyon is a photographer’s dream. The park’s main attraction is the Bryce Amphitheater, a horseshoe-shaped valley filled with towering hoodoos, spires, and fins.
Zion National Park
Zion is one of the most visited national parks in the country, and for good reason. Its towering cliffs, narrow slot canyons, and emerald pools are a hiker’s paradise. The park’s most famous hike is the Narrows, a trek through the Virgin River that takes you through towering walls of rock.
Capitol Reef National Park
Capitol Reef is often overlooked by visitors to Utah, but it shouldn’t be. The park’s unique rock formations and stunning vistas are a photographer’s dream, and there are plenty of hiking trails for all skill levels.
Arches National Park
Arches is home to over 2,000 natural sandstone arches, as well as a variety of other unique rock formations. The park’s most famous arch is Delicate Arch, which is featured on Utah’s license plates.
Canyonlands National Park
Canyonlands is one of the largest national parks in the country, and it’s known for its rugged canyons, towering mesas, and sweeping vistas. The park is divided into four districts, each with its own unique character and attractions.
Hidden Gems
While the “Mighty Five” are undoubtedly the stars of Utah’s national park system, there are plenty of other hidden gems to discover. Here are a few of our favorites:
Goblin Valley State Park
Goblin Valley is known for its otherworldly rock formations, which look like something out of a sci-fi movie. The park is a great place to explore and take photos, and there are plenty of hiking trails for all skill levels.
Grand Staircase-Escalante National Monument
Grand Staircase-Escalante is a vast wilderness area that’s perfect for outdoor adventurers. The monument is home to slot canyons, waterfalls, and some of the best stargazing in the country.
Monument Valley
Monument Valley is one of the most iconic landscapes in the American West. The valley is home to towering sandstone buttes and spires, and it’s a popular spot for photography and hiking.
Food Scene
Utah might not be known for its cuisine, but there are plenty of delicious and unique dishes to try. Here are a few of our favorites:
Fry Sauce
Fry sauce is a Utah classic. It’s a mixture of ketchup and mayonnaise (sometimes with other ingredients like barbecue sauce or pickle juice added in) that’s perfect for dipping fries or onion rings.
Jell-O
Believe it or not, Utah has the highest per capita consumption of Jell-O in the country. It’s a staple at family gatherings and church potlucks, and there are even Jell-O-themed events and festivals.
Fry Bread
Fry bread is a Native American dish that’s popular in Utah. It’s a simple dough that’s fried until it’s crispy on the outside and soft on the inside. It’s often topped with honey, powdered sugar, or savory ingredients like beans and cheese.
Budget-Friendly Tips
Traveling on a budget? Utah has plenty of options for frugal travelers. Here are a few tips:
Campgrounds
Utah has some of the most beautiful campgrounds in the country, and they’re often much cheaper than hotels or vacation rentals. Many of the state’s parks and national forests have campgrounds with a range of amenities.
Free Activities
There are plenty of free things to do in Utah, from hiking to exploring the state’s historic sites. Check out the Utah Office of Tourism’s website for a list of free activities and events.
Travel Off-Season
If you’re able to travel in the shoulder season (spring or fall), you can often find cheaper rates on lodging and activities. Plus, you’ll avoid the crowds that flock to Utah in the summer.
Outdoor Adventures
Utah is a playground for outdoor enthusiasts. Here are a few of the best activities:
Hiking
Utah has some of the most scenic hiking trails in the country, from the steep switchbacks of Angels Landing in Zion to the otherworldly landscapes of Bryce Canyon.
Rock Climbing
Utah has some of the best rock climbing in the world, with routes to suit all skill levels. Moab and Zion are popular destinations for climbers.
Mountain Biking
Utah’s rugged terrain is perfect for mountain biking. There are plenty of trails to explore, from the slickrock trails of Moab to the high-altitude routes of Park City.
Family-Friendly Activities
Utah is a great destination for families, with plenty of activities that kids (and adults) will love. Here are a few ideas:
Utah’s Hogle Zoo
The Hogle Zoo in Salt Lake City is home to over 800 animals from around the world. It’s a great place to spend an afternoon with the family.
Discovery Gateway Children’s Museum
The Discovery Gateway Children’s Museum in Salt Lake City is a hands-on museum that’s perfect for kids. There are plenty of exhibits and activities to keep them entertained for hours.
Thanksgiving Point
Thanksgiving Point is a massive complex in Lehi that includes a museum, gardens, and a farm. There are plenty of activities for kids, including a butterfly biosphere and a dinosaur museum.
Off-the-Beaten-Path Experiences
If you’re looking for something a little more unique, here are a few off-the-beaten-path experiences to try:
Antelope Island State Park
Antelope Island is the largest island in the Great Salt Lake, and it’s home to a herd of bison that roam free. The island is also a great place to hike and birdwatch.
Bear Lake
Bear Lake is a stunning turquoise lake that straddles the Utah-Idaho border. It’s a popular spot for boating and fishing, and there are plenty of hiking trails to explore.
Golden Spike National Historic Site
The Golden Spike National Historic Site commemorates the completion of the transcontinental railroad. Visitors can see the spot where the railroad was joined in 1869, as well as historic locomotives and other artifacts.
Natural Wonders
Utah is home to some of the most stunning natural wonders in the world. Here are a few to add to your itinerary:
Delicate Arch
Delicate Arch is one of Utah’s most iconic landmarks. The arch is a 65-foot-tall natural sandstone arch that’s become a symbol of the state.
The Wave
The Wave is a sandstone rock formation in the Coyote Buttes area of the Paria Canyon-Vermilion Cliffs Wilderness. The Wave is a popular spot for photographers, but access is limited and permits are required.
The Great Salt Lake
The Great Salt Lake is the largest saltwater lake in the Western Hemisphere. The lake’s unique ecosystem is home to a variety of birds and other wildlife.
Vibrant Nightlife
If you’re looking for a night out, Utah has plenty of options. Here are a few of the best:
Park City
Park City is known for its world-class ski resorts, but it’s also a great spot for nightlife. There are plenty of bars, restaurants, and clubs to choose from.
Salt Lake City
Salt Lake City might not have the reputation of other big cities when it comes to nightlife, but