10 Incredible Hidden Gems In Utah You’ll Want To Discover This Year
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Courtnie Erickson
Author
Having lived in Utah for the vast majority of my life, I feel like I know the state pretty well. I have explored its incredible national parks, visited its most popular lakes, and enjoyed many of its best restaurants, businesses, and attractions. But, I’m quickly realizing that there are countless hidden gems located all around the state that are just waiting to be discovered. These are some of the best kept secrets in Utah and places that will quickly make you fall in love with this great state. The following are just 10 hidden gems in Utah that I suggest placing at the top of your bucket list this year.
1. Red Hills Desert Garden, St. George
Red Hills Desert Garden, 375 Red Hills Pkwy, St. George, UT 84770, USA
Red Hills Desert Garden is a botanical garden tucked away on Red Hills Parkway in St. George. Here, you will find multiple themed gardens, a 1,150-foot stream, a replica slot canyon, dinosaur tracks, and even wildlife. It’s one day trip destination in southern Utah that will quickly bring a smile to your face.
2. Ogden Nature Center, Ogden
Ogden Nature Center, 966 W 12th St, Ogden, UT 84404, USA
One of our favorite hidden gems in Weber County is the Ogden Nature Center. This 152-acre preserve is located right off I-15 and is home to walking trails, a visitor center, and all types of animals. Spend the day checking out the ponds, a natural playground, observation towers, and so much more.
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3. Posey Lake, Near Escalante
Posey Lake Campground, Dixie National Forest, Forest Rd 154, Escalante, UT 84726, USA
One of my favorite non-touristy things to do in Utah is spend some time at Posey Lake. Tucked up in the mountains near Escalante, this beautiful lake is the perfect place for fishing or just enjoying the gorgeous views. It is also home to one of our favorite campgrounds in Utah and a bucket-list-worthy hiking trail.
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4. Cascade Falls, near Duck Creek Village
Cascade Falls, Utah 84762, USA
Cascade Falls is an unexpected natural wonder hiding in southern Utah. This waterfall seems to pop out of a hole in the Pink Cliffs above the Virgin River Rim — it's a fascinating sight. You will have to hike to see this hidden wonder but the views along your trek are just as impressive as the waterfall.
5. Sun Tunnels, Near Wendover
Sun Tunnels, Little Pigeon Rd, Wendover, UT 84083, USA
One of the most unique places to visit in Utah is found in the middle of nowhere — it is the sun tunnels. Approximately 200 miles west of Salt Lake City and near the Utah and Nevada state line is a massive art installation featuring four large concrete cylinders. These cylinders are large enough that you can walk through them, and they are arranged to align with the sunrise and sunset on both the summer and winter solstices. Plus, they feature numerous small holes that represent constellations.
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6. Veyo Pies, Veyo
Veyo Pies, 24 S Main St, Veyo, UT 84782, USA
No list of hidden gems in Utah is complete without including Veyo Pies. Located in the teeny tiny town of Veyo, this is one of the best pie shops in Utah. Here, you’ll find an incredible selection of flavors and crust made to perfection.
7. Twenty Mile Dinosaur Trackway, Grand Staircase-Escalante National Monument
Twenty mile dinosaur trackway, Escalante, UT 84726, USA
Utah is known for dinosaurs and while there are many places around the state where you can see fossils and learn about these creatures, at Twenty Mile Dinosaur Trackway, you can actually walk with them. This is one of the largest dinosaur trackways in the world and it consists of a short and easy 1.2-mile trail. This is one of the cool places to visit in Utah that your entire family will enjoy.
8. Parowan Gap, Near Parowan
Parowan Gap Petroglyphs, Iron County, UT 84714, USA
History buffs and nature lovers may consider the Parowan Gap as one of the most unique places to visit in Utah. Here, you will find a natural gap made out of sandstone, which was once a passageway for Native Americans. Today, you can walk through and not only learn about the geology of the area but also view the many petroglyphs on the rock walls.
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9. Fantasy Canyon, South of Vernal
Fantasy Canyon, Vernal, UT 84078, USA
Off the beaten path in Utah is one hidden gem you’ll be grateful to discover — Fantasy Canyon. This unusual canyon is only 10 acres in size but it will leave a big impression during your visit. It consists of naturally-weathered sandstone that creates the most mesmerizing rock formations. Walk around the formations — just don’t touch! They are extremely fragile.
10. Red Hollow Slot Canyon, Orderville
Red Hollow Canyon Trailhead, Orderville, UT 84758, USA
Orderville is near multiple slot canyons but Red Hollow may be one of our favorites. This is a great beginner slot canyon as it is short, easy, and absolutely breathtaking. Be prepared for a sandy trek and unforgettable views. This may become one of your favorite hidden gems in Utah.
What other hidden gems in Utah would you add to this list? Do you have any favorite secret getaways in Utah? We’d love to hear your thoughts in the comments. And, of course, if you are looking for even more inspiration and unique experiences in Utah, check out Viator for inspiration.
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