11 Out Of This World Summer Day Trips To Take In Utah

Summer is the best time for adventures, and now's the time to plan some fun summer day trips. Here are 11 of the best day trips in Utah that are perfect for just about everyone. Get out there and make some great summer memories in the Beehive State!

1. Take Scenic Byway 12 for a real slice of Utah beauty.

Scenic Byway 12 stretches for 124 miles from Bryce Canyon National Park to Capitol Reef National Park. You'll drive through some adorable small towns, and see some incredible Utah scenery.

2. Explore Big Cottonwood Canyon.

If you are wondering, "Where are the day trips near me?" Big Cottonwood Canyon is easily accessible from the Salt Lake Valley, and it's a great place to visit to escape the heat. You'll find tons of hiking trails here, along with several lakes and two ski resorts that offer fun summer activities.

3. Play all day at Jordanelle State Park.

Jordanelle State Park has tons of fun recreational opportunities to keep you busy all day. Get out on the lake in your boat, try your hand at fishing, or simply laze on the beach. You'll also want to check out the Aqua X Zone!

4. Discover Snow Canyon State Park.

Snow Canyon State Park is located near St. George, and it's an often-overlooked gem. You'll love the red-rock scenery here, and you can easily spend an entire day exploring some of the 38 miles of hiking trails. Check out the lava tubes, too

5. Cool off in Deer Creek Reservoir.

Deer Creek Reservoir is one of Utah's most underrated lakes. Spend the day here basking on the beach, boating, fishing, and even ride a zip line right over the lake.

6. Take a surreal hike across a field of goblins.

The Goblin's Lair Trail in Goblin Valley State Park is one of the unique things to do around Utah. This trail takes you across a valley of goblins to a hidden slot canyon. The trail is just 3.5 miles, round trip, but it is a little strenuous, especially near the end. It's well worth your effort, though!

7. Get acquainted with Utah's very first residents.

Visit the Museum of Ancient Life at Thanksgiving Point for an afternoon of fun and exploration. The museum has the largest collection of full dinosaur skeletons in the world, and you can watch paleontologists at work.

8. Hop aboard the Heber Valley Railroad.

This scenic train ride is perfect for just about everyone. You can choose from a few different scenic routes, and you'll want to watch for special events.

9. Drive the Energy Loop Scenic Byway.

The Energy Loop Scenic Byway takes you through a less-visited part of the state. You'll drive from Fairview to Huntington, cutting through the gorgeous Manti-La Sal National Forest along the way. Take an entire day to see this pretty area.

10. Drive the Hell's Backbone Road and cross one of Utah's scariest bridges.

The 38-mile-long Hell's Backbone Road takes you from Escalante to Boulder. Along the way, you'll cross Hell's Backbone Bridge - a white-knuckle bridge with thousand-foot drops on either side. Finish your day with a meal at Hell's Backbone Grill.

11. Drive to Bear Lake and indulge in a tasty treat.

Bear Lake is on everyone's list of "Getaway Spots Near Me". Utah's most beautiful lake, with plenty to do, including swimming, fishing, boating, and relaxing on the beach. One of Bear Lake's most popular activities? Indulging in a delicious raspberry shake, of course.

When you are looking for the best day trip in Utah it's really hard to pick just one! Which of these summer day trips are you planning to take?