12 Unforgettable Utah Day Trips, One For Each Month Of The Year
Utah is one of the most beautiful states in the nation, and there’s so much to see and do here that it often feels impossible to see it all! This year, plan to take a day trip every month to make some memories and experience the majesty of the Beehive State. Here are 12 that we recommend – but don’t think you have to limit yourself to just one day trip adventure per month!
Of course, depending on where in Utah you reside, these might be overnight trips instead of day trips. We’ve offered suggestions in all parts of the state.
Every winter, around 500 elk migrate down from the mountains to Hardware Ranch, where they hang out and munch of hay. From the end of November to the first part of March, you can take a sleigh ride out to the pasture to see the elk up close!
Bryce is beautiful year-round, but during winter months, it's particularly beautiful, and the crowds are much, much smaller. Bring some snow shoes and your camera, and wake up early to catch the sunrise.
Southern Utah is gorgeous in late winter/early spring, and the weather starts warming up. Zion National Park is pretty, but crowded, so head to nearby Snow Canyon State Park instead.
The tulips at Thanksgiving Point are one of the first signs of spring. Bring your camera and wander through the gardens to see these brilliant blooms.
Visit Golden Spike National Historic Park on or near its completion anniversary (May 10th) for special activities, then make your way to Spiral Jetty, just 16 miles to the south. Created by artist Robert Smithson in 1970, this piece of landscape art is a must-see.
The Sun Tunnels were created by Nancy Holt in 1976, and together, they're an incredible outdoor art installation. Go during the summer solstice to see the sun line up perfectly with them.
Snow often lingers along the Mirror Lake Scenic Byway until July or August, but the road is open, and the fish are biting! Visit several of the little lakes along the way, and spend the day fishing and hiking.
They say that "The plays, the thing" and we agree! The Utah Shakespeare Festival is an award-winning festival, and the plays offered here are top-quality productions. Don't miss the Green Show!
By the end of Labor Day weekend, many of the tourists have left Moab to the locals. The park is always fairly crowded, but it's particularly beautiful in the fall. Hike to Delicate Arch.
The best fall foliage spot in the Beehive State can be seen along the 20-mile-long Alpine Loop. Drive up American Fork Canyon, and loop around and down Provo Canyon to see the brilliant hues of yellow, orange, and red.
Before the frenzy of the holidays sets in, head up to Crystal Hot Springs to soak in the warm waters. It's even better when it snows!
Your calendar is probably pretty full in December, but take the time to head up to Park City at some point during the month. It's one of Utah's most charming Main Streets this time of year, and you can also ski and take a ride on the bobsled track!
What other day trips do you think our readers should take? Tell us in the comments!
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Address: Hyrum, UT 84319, USA
Address: Bryce Canyon National Park, Utah, USA
Address: Snow Canyon State Park, 1002 Snow Canyon Dr, Ivins, UT 84738, USA
Address: Thanksgiving Point, 3003 N Thanksgiving Way, Lehi, UT 84043, USA
Address: 6200 N 22300 W, Promontory, UT 84307, USA
Address: Great Salt Lake, UT, USA
Address: Sun Tunnels, Wendover, UT 84083, USA
Address: Utah 150, UT-150, Kamas, UT, USA
Address: 195 W Center St, Cedar City, UT 84720, USA
Address: Arches National Park, Utah, USA
Address: Alpine Loop Scenic Byway, Provo, UT, USA
Address: Crystal Hot Springs, 8215 UT-38, Honeyville, UT 84314, USA
Address: Main St, Park City, UT 84060, USA
