Sandwiched between Nevada and Colorado, Utah, in the United States, offers a huge range of outdoor activities. If visiting this state is not at the top of your travel to-do list then it should be.
From awesome ski slopes with abundant snow to impressive sandstone climbing spots and much more, you'll find a real diversity of activities here. Not just that but the scenery you see along the way will be breathtakingly beautiful. The state of Utah is actually home to five US National Parks. The fact that there are so many is a testament to the natural beauty you can find there.
To get you excited about Utah and to inspire your trip planning, we pulled together six excellent trip ideas. Keep reading to learn more.
1. Learn the basics of canyoning in Big Cottonwood Canyon
Eroded over centuries by glaciers and streams, the Big Cottonwood Canyon is a large part of Utah's rich geographical history. It’s also a great place for a number of different activities, particularly climbing and canyoning. Whether you’re an experienced climber or a complete novice, you’ll be able to have a lot of fun here.
A one-day canyoning course is ideal if you’re a beginner. You’ll get to learn the basics from a certified guide and have time to play around in a safe environment. There are lots of different surfaces here so if you're looking for something that's more advanced, your guide will help you find that too.
In brief
Best starting point: Salt Lake City
When to go there: April through August
Difficulty level: Easy
Explore the world of canyoning, book your climbing experience in Big Cottonwood Canyon today
2. Go off-piste in the Wasatch Mountains
The Wasatch Mountains dominate the Utah landscape. They get awesome snowfall every year, and snow quality is very good in Utah making it great for deep-powder skiing. Utah is home to some great ski resorts. These include Park City, Alta, Deer Valley, Powder Mountain and more. We reckon the real magic lies beyond the resorts in the backcountry though.
With a certified guide who has insider knowledge, you can get access to some of the best spots in the backcountry. They'll tailor your trip according to your level. Then, all that’s left to do is enjoy the perfect powder and secluded snowscapes.
In brief
Best starting point: Salt Lake City
When to go there: December through May
Difficulty level: Intermediate
Experience the snowy wilderness of Utah, book your 1-day ski adventure today
3. Explore the epic mountain bike trails of Moab
The city of Moab may be small, but, it does mountain biking on a big scale. Moab is home to the Arches National Park and the Canyonlands National Park, both of which have awesome mountain bike trails, some have said the best in the country.
On a half-day mountain bike tour, you'll explore these trails. There's lots of variety, from intense downhills to tricky twists and turns. No matter your experience, your guide will be able to find the perfect spot for you to get your mountain biking hit.
In brief
Best starting point: Moab
When to go there: October, November, February, and March.
Difficulty level: Intermediate
Hit Utah’s best mountain bike trails on an epic half day tour
4. Explore the beauty of the Wasatch Mountains in the summer months
Make the most of the snow-free summer months and hike through this beautiful mountain range. There are a number of different trails you can choose from, like the Brighton Lakes Loop or the Cecret Lake hike which starts out at the lovely town of Alta. On most of these hikes, you get to enjoy awesome views of the Wasatch Mountains.
Your guide will show you all the best spots. Hikes in this area do not tend to be technical, so you don’t need any experience to take a hiking trip here. Just a good level of fitness and enthusiasm.
In brief
Best starting point: Salt Lake City
When to go there: June through October
Difficulty level: Easy
Make the most of the beautiful Utah summer, book your hiking adventure today
5. Scale the sandstone rocks of Utah
Not only does Moab have excellent bike trails, but it also has awesome sandstone rocks to climb. With its dramatic gorges and wild rock formations, climbing here provides endless fun and challenges. It’s also stunning to look at and it doesn’t tend to get too crowded.
Keep Reading: These Are the Best Rock Climbing Spots in the United States
This area goes on for miles and there are literally thousands of climbing options here. On a trip to Moab, your guide will help you narrow down those options and choose spots according to your abilities and your goals.
In brief
Best starting point: Moab
When to go there: All year round
Difficulty level: Easy to difficult
Experience the beautiful wilderness and great climbing of Moab on a mountain climbing trip
6. Reach the awesome heights of Mount Superior's summit
If you’re looking for a summer mountaineering adventure, then look no further than Mount Superior. It's is free of snow from June to October and you can ascend and descend in one day. It’s not an easy climb though, the summit sits at 3,393 meters and there are a few exposed sections that require ropes. You'll need technical climbing skills.
This climb will begin early in the morning and is always done in small groups, that way you have more of your guides time and attention. The views from the top are worth the effort alone, however, you’ll also get an awesome sense of achievement when you reach the summit.
In brief
Best starting point: Salt Lake City
When to go there: June through October
Difficulty level: Intermediate
Book your ultimate Utah alpine climb experience climbing Mount Superior
All this and more awaits you in the adventure playground that is Utah. Now, all that's left to do is to book your trips.
