The 5 Most Colorful Places You Can Find in Utah

It's difficult to narrow down the most colorful places in Utah because there are so many. From the vivid red rock spires of Bryce Canyon to the swirling sandstone formations of The Wave, the Beehive State is full of otherworldly destinations that are almost too breathtaking to be real. These are five of my favorites, although it was hard to choose!

1. Bentonite Hills, Near Capitol Reef National Park

Located just outside Capitol Reef National Park, the Bentonite Hills are a unique area featuring colorful, layered geologic formations made of bentonite clay, or weathered volcanic ash. The rocks date back to the Jurassic period, and the different colors indicate variations in mineral content and oxygen saturation. There are no trails in the Bentonite Hills; however, Hartnet Road runs through the area (though it's only suitable for high-clearance vehicles). Visitors are asked to hike only on previously trafficked wash bottoms to avoid disturbing the fragile landscape. Entrance is free because the hills are on Bureau of Land Management land.

2. Bryce Canyon National Park

Any list of colorful places to visit in Utah has to mention Bryce Canyon. One of Utah's iconic "Mighty Five," Bryce Canyon is known for its distinctive spire-shaped red rock formations, called hoodoos. Sunrise and sunset are the best times to visit the park, as the colorful sky makes the crimson landscape appear even more striking. Several lookout points are located along the park's main road, so you can enjoy the breathtaking scenery without a strenuous hike. The park entrance fee is $35 per vehicle.

3. The Wave, Kanab

Straddling the Utah-Arizona border, The Wave is arguably one of the most photographed places in the country—so much so, in fact, that prospective visitors must enter a lottery system. Tucked away in the Coyote Buttes North area of the Colorado Plateau, this otherworldly destination features swirling, multicolored sandstone formations that resemble ocean waves. A six-mile round-trip hike is required to access The Wave, and there are no marked trails, so it's wise to bring a GPS and/or compass (the BLM provides maps). Only 64 people are allowed in each day, with April, May, September, and October being the most in-demand months due to photography opportunities. If you manage to snag a permit, mid-morning to early afternoon is the best time to visit, as there are no shadows obscuring the vivid color palette.

4. Bonneville Salt Flats, Salt Lake City

One of many salt flats west of the Great Salt Lake, the Bonneville Salt Flats are one of Utah's most surreal natural wonders. Formed when the ancient Lake Bonneville dried up, this 30,000-acre barren landscape harbors no life. The best view is from the Salt Flats Rest Area near milepost 10; however, visitors are welcome to walk out onto the flats. When the colors of the setting sun illuminate the gleaming white terrain, you'll swear you're on another planet.

5. Cedar Breaks National Monument, Brian Head

Cedar Breaks National Monument, located near Cedar City, is a natural amphitheater over 2,000 feet deep. It's surrounded by rugged cliffs dotted with lush greenery, their colorful rock layers shaped over millennia. This magical place is best visited at sunrise or sunset, when pink clouds on the horizon make the landscape stand out even more. Entrance passes for the park range from $15 to $25 per vehicle.

What Makes Utah So Colorful

Are you wondering what makes Utah so colorful? The short answer: rocks. Utah's fiery red rock landscape is otherworldly, featuring layers of striking hues that will take your breath away.

The Most Colorful Places to Visit in Utah

More colorful places to visit in Utah include the Blue Hill Badlands, Kodachrome Basin State Park, Goblin Valley State Park, and Buckskin Gulch. Road trips and scenic drives are great opportunities to enjoy the Beehive State's colorful scenery.

Have you visited all of the most colorful places in Utah? What other destinations would you add to the list?

If you're feeling inspired to plan your own trip to experience Utah in color, Only In Your State’s itinerary planner can help.