Utah is mostly famous among Americans for its Great Salt Lake and its large population of Mormons. This high-altitude, landlocked desert state is found in the western region of America. In the summer, the state has scorching hot canyons and deserts, while the winter brings deep snow and some of the best skiing in the country. I’ve been to Utah multiple times and am pretty happy with my experiences there so far, but there is always so much more to see! On my return I’d like to visit some more national parks in the south and perhaps climb Utah’s King’s Peak at over 13,000 feet (4,000 meters).
Explore Salt Lake City
Founded by Mormon pioneers led by Brigham Young in the 19th century, Salt Lake City is known today for being the heart of the Mormon religion. In the center of the city you’ll find Temple Square, which holds some of the religion’s most sacred buildings and churches built over 100 years ago. Despite being less than two hundred years old, the city has an interesting past, drawing in millions of visitors each year.
Explore the Great Salt Lake
With the Pacific Ocean over 1,000 miles away (1,600 kilometers), locals come to the Great Salt Lake when summer temperatures reach over 100 degrees (40°C). Most people seem to enjoy boating and other activities more than swimming. The Great Salt Lake has an extremely high level of salinity and has earned the name the “Dead Sea of the West.” Like the Dead Sea in the Middle East, the salt content is so high that there are no fish in the Great Salt Lake.
Explore Arches National Park
Millions of years of erosion and other natural processes carved out over 2,000 natural arches in Utah’s eastern desert. Natural arches occur in other parts of the world, but nowhere else comes close to the thousands that exist in this national park. In addition to the unique arches, the land itself has some spectacular colors that make the park beautiful and distinct from the rest of the state. Arches National Park can be scorching hot during the summer, yet snow-covered in the winter.
Explore Zion National Park
Zion National Park holds some of America’s most beautiful desert scenery and adventures. Hiking, camping, canyoneering, rock climbing, and several other outdoor activities can be done here against some of the most breathtaking scenery in the country.
Explore Bryce Canyon
Bryce Canyon is close to Zion National Park, and their proximity makes it easy to visit both places on the same trip. Bryce doesn’t have as many true adventures as Zion, but still has an equal amount of spectacular scenery. The higher altitude also means there is likely to be a lot more snow here during the winter months, which can provide some amazing views.
Explore the Uinta Mountains
Just east of Salt Lake City, the Uinta Mountains hold the state’s highest peaks, excellent hiking trails, and plenty of opportunities for outdoor adventure. Utah’s highest mountain is King’s Peak, which stands at 13,528 feet (4,123 meters). The established routes leading to the summit make it an achievable climb for fit hikers, although the distance and high altitude still make it a serious undertaking.
