26 Essential Utah Experiences to Plan for 2026

The days are long, but the years are short. For 2026, I'm setting the goal to get outside more and explore new areas. From world-class hikes to hidden-gem accommodations, here are 26 things I still can't wait to do in Utah in 2026—who's with me?

1. Explore Bryce Canyon National Park

From its crimson-colored hoodoos to its epic dark skies, you can’t go wrong with a visit to Bryce Canyon National Park in 2026. Whether you’re fascinated by geological formations or ready to embark on an epic full moon hike, there’s a reason this is one of the most visited National Parks in the country. 

2. Take a Soak at Crystal Hot Springs

I’m a sucker for soaking in a hot spring, and Northern Utah’s Crystal Hot Springs are the best in my opinion. Known for having the highest mineral content in the world, a soak in these relaxing waters will rejuvenate your soul. 

3. Experience Arches National Park

Home to more than 2,000 natural sandstone arches, Arches National Park is unlike anything you’ve ever seen. Whether it's your first time or your fifth visit, you can always find something to do—one of the many reasons I love this place. Grab a National Parks pass so you can check out all of the incredible national parks in Utah for a reasonable price.

4. Visit Zion National Park

Boasting incredible rock arches, spectacular hiking trails, and diverse topography, there’s a reason folks flock to Zion National Park from all across the globe. Angels Landing is easily one of the most famous attractions at Zion National Park—and it’s a challenging hike for even the most experienced hikers. If you want to add this epic hiking trail to your bucket list in 2026, make sure you get a permit for Angels Landing first. 

5. Sightsee in Temple Square

Visiting Temple Square is one of those must-dos when you’re visiting Salt Lake City. This 10-acre, five-block historic district in downtown Salt Lake City is filled with beautiful gardens, mesmerizing architecture, and plenty of engaging exhibits centered around The Church of Jesus Christ of Latter-day Saints.

6. Sip on a Pint at Some Utah Breweries

Utah may not have the most drinkers per capita, but there are still plenty of breweries in Utah that are worth checking out. They feel a bit like a hidden gem! Moab Brewery is a favorite for bikers and hikers for a reason—they’ve consistently put out some of the best brews since they opened in 1996. Swing by and sip on!

7. Hike the Narrows

Hiking the Narrows is one of the most popular trails in Zion National Park, and I think 2026 is going to be the year I finally complete it. This epic canyon hike is only 20 to 30 feet wide and 2,000 feet deep. It’s a hike you’d want to plan in the summer or early fall since a good chunk of it involves walking through the Virgin River. Who wants to join me?

8. Check Out the Tulip Festival

You can catch me at the Tulip Festival this year, for sure. I’ll be stopping to admire every one of these beautiful blooms from mid-April 10 to mid-May at Ashton Gardens in Thanksgiving Point, Lehi. Thanksgiving Point’s Tulip Festival has more than 900,000 spring flowers that will be blooming throughout Ashton Gardens’ 50 acres, and it’s an incredible sight to see. And if you missed the spring festival, fret not! Ashton Gardens is open year-round for an impressive array of family-friendly activities and beautiful blooms to admire. (And don't forget to see the largest manmade waterfall in the West—another bucket-list must!)

9. Go Zip Lining on the World's Longest Zip Line Over Water

If I see a zip line, I’m going to get on it. When there’s an opportunity to zip line across an incredible landscape, it’s a no-brainer for me. This zip line in Deer Creek State Park spans 3,900 feet, and it’s overflowing with beautiful sights. The pros will be with you every step of the way to ensure you’re safe and comfortable so you can enjoy soaring over Utah's glorious Rainbow Bay. 

10. See the Dinah “Soar” Days Hot Air Balloon Festival 

The 2026 dates for the Dinah “Soar” Days Balloon Festival are August 28 to August 30, 2026. Enjoy three days of hot air balloon launches, a special night glow on Friday and Saturday nights, and all the best live music, car shows, food, and more. The balloon launch takes place at Vernal Middle School, but there are events peppered all around. Check out the festival website to see a map and more information.

11. Take a Trip to Lake Powell

Sitting pretty in the heat of the Glen Canyon National Recreation Area, Lake Powell is the ultimate vacation destination. With nearly 2,000 miles of shoreline that stretch from northern Arizona to southern Utah, you can be sure to find a little slice of paradise in these waters. Whether you want to rent a houseboat or set up camp, there are plenty of places to stay around Lake Powell to ensure you have an incredible time. 

12. Hit the Slopes

If you plan on staying in Park City, you can’t go wrong with booking a few nights at the Chateaux Deer Valley. This luxury hotel in Park City offers several booking options, plus has provided a special Utah resident rate in the past. You'll also find plenty of stunning vacation rentals if you prefer something with a more homey vibe. Park City is a year-round destination, but it’s certainly the place to be in the winter. From snowshoeing and skiing to the world-famous Sundance Film Festival, winter in Park City might be my favorite place of all. 

13. Explore Capitol Reef National Park

Tucked away in the heart of Red Rock Country, Capitol Reef National Park is another bucket list-worthy destination in Utah. Be sure to check out the park’s most famous sights, including the Chimney Rock pillar, the Hickman Bridge arch, and of course… Capitol Dome. Those beautiful white sandstone domes will leave you speechless.

14. Hike in Canyonlands National Park

Known for its dramatic desert landscape carved out by the Colorado River, nature lovers like me will thoroughly enjoy visiting Canyonlands National Park. The Mesa Arch Trail is a short and sweet scenic hike that’s a great introduction to the area, but if you’re looking for something a little more challenging, try the 10-mile Chesler Park Loop.

15. Go Snowmobiling in the Uinta Mountains

I do love adventures that require a helmet. There are plenty of snowmobiling tours here in and around the cozy town of Park City that lead you through the Uinta National Forest. While you're there, you can view the beauty of Lily and Lost Lake, Bald Mountain, and Hayden Peak. Here, you'll find tours for both beginners and experienced snowmobilers, so all skill levels can partake.

16. Take an ATV Adventure on the Paiute ATV Trail

Sticking with the helmet theme, I’m very interested in this sprawling ATV trail in Utah. The Paiute ATV Trail might be the most extensive single trail system for ATV driving in the U.S., with more than 2,000 miles of adventurous trail to explore. You'll find plenty of ATV companies in the surrounding area to provide you with an adrenaline-pumping experience from start to finish as you traverse through Utah’s backcountry. Multiple trailheads can be found in the charming nearby towns of Richfield and Marysvale, as well as great lodgings and good eats.

17. Attend the Bryce Canyon Winter Festival

I love winter festivals, and I’m certainly making plans to attend the Bryce Canyon Winter Festival this year. Held at Ruby's Inn next to Bryce Canyon National Park, activities include snowshoe walks, cross-country ski tours, programs at the national park, kids' crafts, and much more. The 2026 dates are February 14 through 16, so mark your calendars. Check out the Bryce Canyon Winter Festival website for more information.

18. Act Like a Kid Again at Flynn’s Retrocade

Ever wish you could shirk your adult duties and return to those carefree days of childhood? Well—at Flynn’s Retrocade and Soda Bar in Roy, Utah—you can. This nostalgic, 80s-themed arcade is filled to the brim with old-school arcade games and pinball machines. Here you can sip on a specialty soda and indulge in vintage arcade classics like Ms. Pac-Man, Asteroids, and Centipede—just like folks did in the days of yore.

19. Spend a Night Under the Stars

One of my goals this year has been to embrace simplicity. Not every vacation needs to be an adrenaline-packed adventure, so this year, I’m making the promise to myself to chill out. This luxury camp in Virgin is right up my alley—it’s only a 30-minute drive from Zion National Park and it boasts some offensively beautiful views. Stargazing is one of my favorite pastimes, and this is the ultimate spot to enjoy Utah’s dark skies.

20. Sleep in a Dark Sky House

For those who aren't fans of glamping, dark sky homes are a great alternative. Not far from Capitol Reef National Park, this dark sky house in Torrey is the ticket to tranquility. The two-bedroom dwelling sits on four acres with dreamy views in every direction, and there’s even a telescope to take your stargazing to new levels. Torrey was the first Dark Sky Community in Utah, and on a clear night—wow. Just wow.

21. Take a Hot Air Balloon Ride

There’s nothing that can compare to taking in Utah’s breathtaking landscape from the air. You'll find many cities offer hot air balloon rides over this state's stunning geography, from aerial adventures in Park City to those over Zion and Moab. Zion Balloons offers a hot air balloon ride over southern Utah at sunrise, and it’s truly an incredible experience. Make sure your camera batteries are charged, because you’ll be snapping shots the entire time!

22. Stop by the Snowbird Oktoberfest

Regarded as one of the best Oktoberfests in America, Snowbird Oktoberfest is one of my favorite fall festivals in Utah. Bring the whole squad out for this family-friendly festival—there’s something for everyone! This epic festival goes from mid-August through mid-October, and it attracts thousands of visitors each year. 

23. Try the Mole at Red Iguana in Salt Lake City

Red Iguana offers some of the best Mexican food in Utah, and the mole is worth a road trip from any corner of the state. This family-owned restaurant has three locations in Salt Lake City, so you’re never too far away from delicious, authentic Mexican cuisine. 

24. Enjoy Italian Cuisine at Tuscany Restaurant in Salt Lake City

For a more upscale evening, head over to Tuscany Restaurant. This restaurant may be in Salt Lake City, but you’ll feel like you’ve been transported to the Italian Alps. From the food to the atmosphere, it’s easy to see why this is one of the most popular restaurants in Salt Lake City. 

25. Spend the Night at The Grand America Hotel

This luxury hotel in downtown Salt Lake City is on my bucket list this year. I want to wake up in a luxury room and enjoy a freshly baked French patisserie while gazing out onto the perfectly landscaped grounds. And nothing says luxury like a five-star hotel.

26. Wander Through One of Utah’s Ghost Towns

The Beehive State holds several ghost towns, from the old railroad town of Cisco to the most photographed ghost town in Utah: Grafton. There’s also the eerie little community of Verdure, Utah, a town with a pioneer history and abandoned buildings left behind decades ago. They’re wondrous places for snapping photos, especially if you appreciate desolate places and relics of the past. Just be sure to be respectful of these forgotten spaces and steer clear of trespassing.

Are you planning on adding any of these ideas to your to-do list for 2026? Share this article with someone you'd like to go on your next adventure with. Once you've settled on a destination, you can use Only In Your State’s itinerary planner to help build your trip with the power of AI.